Happy New Year! I’m hoping that 2010 will be a great year of breakthrough on a lot of levels. I’m pumped about the first sermon series that starts this weekend. It’s called, “Hello.” Yeah, yeah, I know….I know every person from every decade has a song or a quote. The whole series is going to focus us, as within our lives we intentionality strive to imitate Christ. We’ll be in the book of John looking at the way Jesus interacted with people. He was/is the best at interacting with people on all levels. We’re going to grow to become like him.
This Sunday is going to be “Name Tag Sunday.” “What does that mean?” you may ask. We’re all going to wear name tags this Sunday to help us as we meet and greet one another. You’ll see and experience the connection this weekend. We’ll also be giving out wristbands for everyone for this series. We’re going to grow together in purposeful interaction with people throughout this series. Again, you’ll see the connection this Sunday.
I want to thank Bradley Williams for preaching in first service and at north campus. Bradley is a student at Central and is an exceptional young man. Bradley will be interning with us this year as he prepares for his graduation. We’ve been very, very blessed with an excellent staff and while, on the whole, it is a younger staff than is the norm, this is a staff that loves Jesus, that loves to serve and that strives to uplift Jesus in all areas of their lives. I also want to thank specifically those who helped figure out how to make church happen on both campuses this past Sunday. It was a challenge – but in the end – God was honored.
Our family attended a wedding in Knoxville, TN and while there one of the newer couples to Forum came up to me and asked, “Aren’t you the pastor of Forum Christian Church?” Long story short, the wife and my niece had known one another in middle school. So we visited awhile about church and our interconnection, etc. Small world? Coincidence? Providence? All I know is this – it doesn’t matter where any one of us is, someone is watching and the Lord would encourage you to let your light shine for Him.
Can’t wait to talk about it with you this Sunday.
See you then — Scott
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
e-news for week of 12/20/09
As shepherds entered their familiar place
An uncommon sight arose
A mother and newborn
Occupying a space for sheep
With Mystic Awe we kneel at your manger
An uncommon throne in a common place
Wonder and Majesty became a baby
Light and Life intertwine
We worship You oh stable King
We enter your presence on bended knee
Mystery and Paradox communicate the simple complexity of who you are
There is none like you
Friends, I want to take a moment and encourage you to pause right now and worship with wonder and awe this stable King. He is our King of kings and Lord of lords.
I truly want to say a corporate “Thank You” to every person who helped us all to worship and experience Christ this past weekend in the production “Christmas at The Forum.” Tarry and Poppy, you are incredible lovers of the Lord and it radiates. As I said verbally Sunday, this was one of the best productions I’ve ever encountered – what a great blessing.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas.
Christmas Eve services at 5 and 6:30. Invite someone to one of our 4 Sunday morning services as well. Be the light of the world!
Scott
An uncommon sight arose
A mother and newborn
Occupying a space for sheep
With Mystic Awe we kneel at your manger
An uncommon throne in a common place
Wonder and Majesty became a baby
Light and Life intertwine
We worship You oh stable King
We enter your presence on bended knee
Mystery and Paradox communicate the simple complexity of who you are
There is none like you
Friends, I want to take a moment and encourage you to pause right now and worship with wonder and awe this stable King. He is our King of kings and Lord of lords.
I truly want to say a corporate “Thank You” to every person who helped us all to worship and experience Christ this past weekend in the production “Christmas at The Forum.” Tarry and Poppy, you are incredible lovers of the Lord and it radiates. As I said verbally Sunday, this was one of the best productions I’ve ever encountered – what a great blessing.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas.
Christmas Eve services at 5 and 6:30. Invite someone to one of our 4 Sunday morning services as well. Be the light of the world!
Scott
Friday, December 18, 2009
e-news for 12/13/09
“Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace and goodwill toward men.” “for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
It never gets old. The hearing and telling of the Greatest Story Ever Told breathes new life into our lives.
As a ministry, we have crafted multiple venues to tell the story. This weekend invite someone to the Christmas extravaganza “Christmas at the Forum” on Saturday at 7 or Sunday at 5 p.m. It’s going to be a great telling of Jesus. Invite someone to one of our Sunday morning services at the north or south campuses. Or invite a friend to one of the Christmas Eve services at 5 or 6:30.
As we talked about this last Sunday, be one who carries the light of Jesus.
Looking forward to worshiping our Lord with you over this next week.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas season. — Scott
It never gets old. The hearing and telling of the Greatest Story Ever Told breathes new life into our lives.
As a ministry, we have crafted multiple venues to tell the story. This weekend invite someone to the Christmas extravaganza “Christmas at the Forum” on Saturday at 7 or Sunday at 5 p.m. It’s going to be a great telling of Jesus. Invite someone to one of our Sunday morning services at the north or south campuses. Or invite a friend to one of the Christmas Eve services at 5 or 6:30.
As we talked about this last Sunday, be one who carries the light of Jesus.
Looking forward to worshiping our Lord with you over this next week.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas season. — Scott
Thursday, December 10, 2009
e-news for 12/06/09
An old song says, “Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate.”
When do we see God and God’s agents celebrating?
We see the celebration of the angels with the shepherds celebrating the birth of our Lord.
We see celebration in heaven as the angels circle the throne of God.
We see God and the angels celebrating when one sinner turns to God and gives their life to the Lord.
Once again, I share a Christmas lyric:
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
You know this is no fable;
Godhead and manhood became one.
We see He’s more than able,
And so we live to God the Son.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Firstborn of creation,
Lamb and Lion, God and Man.
The author of salvation.
Almighty wrapped in swaddling bands.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light. (Celebrate the Child. Music and Lyrics by Michael Card)
During this joyous season, I’d encourage you to radiate the Light that lives within you.
This week, light up someone’s world with an invitation to:
Church — South Campus 8:15, 9:30 & 11; North Campus 11
The Christmas production (Christmas at the Forum) — Saturday, December 19 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 20 at 5 p.m.
The Christmas Eve service — 5 and 6:30 p.m.
Looking forward to celebrating the Mystery of Christmas with you this Sunday. — Scott.
When do we see God and God’s agents celebrating?
We see the celebration of the angels with the shepherds celebrating the birth of our Lord.
We see celebration in heaven as the angels circle the throne of God.
We see God and the angels celebrating when one sinner turns to God and gives their life to the Lord.
Once again, I share a Christmas lyric:
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
You know this is no fable;
Godhead and manhood became one.
We see He’s more than able,
And so we live to God the Son.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Firstborn of creation,
Lamb and Lion, God and Man.
The author of salvation.
Almighty wrapped in swaddling bands.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light.
Now the darkness is over.
No more wandering in the night.
Celebrate the Child who is the Light. (Celebrate the Child. Music and Lyrics by Michael Card)
During this joyous season, I’d encourage you to radiate the Light that lives within you.
This week, light up someone’s world with an invitation to:
Church — South Campus 8:15, 9:30 & 11; North Campus 11
The Christmas production (Christmas at the Forum) — Saturday, December 19 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 20 at 5 p.m.
The Christmas Eve service — 5 and 6:30 p.m.
Looking forward to celebrating the Mystery of Christmas with you this Sunday. — Scott.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
e-news for week of 11/29/09
I’m ever in bewildered awe and wonder when I contemplate the mystery of Christ. As we move into a season where we focus on the incarnation – God becoming flesh – let me encourage you to, as did Mary his mother, meditate on and treasure these things in your heart. The Mystery is huge. Michael Card wrote these lyrics that help to etch the depth of the Mystery onto my soul:
When the Father longed to show
A love He wanted us to know,
He sent His only Son and so
Become a holy embryo.
That is the Mystery!
More than you can see.
Give up on your pondering
And fall down on your knees.
No fiction as fantastic and wild
A mother made by her own child.
The helpless babe who cried
Was God incarnate and man deified.
That is the Mystery!
More than you can see.
Give up on your pondering
And fall down on your knees.
Because the fall did devastate
Creator must now re-create.
And so to take our sin
Was made like us so we could be like Him.
That is the Mystery!
As we continue on in “First Chair Faith” the goal for the next leg of this series is for you and your family to have a “First Chair Christmas.” For you to be able to celebrate the reality of Christ’s entry onto this planet in a personal way. This Sunday we’ll be in Luke 1 looking at the first and second chair experiences of the primary players in this event.
Couple of things – we want feedback on the family Sunday. I’ve received some but need more for a wider sampling. Simply email me at scott@forumchristian.org . Thanks.
Also, this Sunday night is the Pizza with the Pastors at 5 p.m.
Mark your calendars for Christmas at the Forum on Saturday, December 19 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 20 at 5 p.m. This program is for the entire family so come and enjoy the evening.
Also, the Christmas Eve service will occur at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Looking forward to all of us sitting in that first chair this Christmas. — Scott
When the Father longed to show
A love He wanted us to know,
He sent His only Son and so
Become a holy embryo.
That is the Mystery!
More than you can see.
Give up on your pondering
And fall down on your knees.
No fiction as fantastic and wild
A mother made by her own child.
The helpless babe who cried
Was God incarnate and man deified.
That is the Mystery!
More than you can see.
Give up on your pondering
And fall down on your knees.
Because the fall did devastate
Creator must now re-create.
And so to take our sin
Was made like us so we could be like Him.
That is the Mystery!
As we continue on in “First Chair Faith” the goal for the next leg of this series is for you and your family to have a “First Chair Christmas.” For you to be able to celebrate the reality of Christ’s entry onto this planet in a personal way. This Sunday we’ll be in Luke 1 looking at the first and second chair experiences of the primary players in this event.
Couple of things – we want feedback on the family Sunday. I’ve received some but need more for a wider sampling. Simply email me at scott@forumchristian.org . Thanks.
Also, this Sunday night is the Pizza with the Pastors at 5 p.m.
Mark your calendars for Christmas at the Forum on Saturday, December 19 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 20 at 5 p.m. This program is for the entire family so come and enjoy the evening.
Also, the Christmas Eve service will occur at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Looking forward to all of us sitting in that first chair this Christmas. — Scott
Thursday, November 19, 2009
e-news for week of 11/15/09
As we head toward Thanksgiving I’ve had a lot of ongoing reflection and thankfulness.
Top ten things I love about Forum:
10. The fascinatingly gifted/talented/quirky/and at times – outright goofy staff. Everyone on this team loves the Lord and loves serving Him.
9. All the incredible worship leaders we have. This past Sunday, as Becca led at the south campus and was talking about Forum being a “piece of heaven as we worship together” reminded me of both the presence of God and the joy it is as we come together. We literally have several of my personal favorite worship leaders. (BTW - Thanks to all of you – you all are the BEST!)
8. We have a truly intergenerational, multiethnic, socially diverse church body.
7. I love the commitment to God’s word.
6. I love the intentional strategy to take Christ to Columbia and the world.
5. I love that we try new stuff. I love that we’ve started a campus on the north end of town to help connect people to Jesus.
4. I love it that we intentionally connect people to Jesus. I think about this past Sunday night as Kay Matney was baptized.
3.
2.
(I’m going to ask you all to help fill in this list – I can keep going – but I’d love to hear from you all. I’m making my list and checking it twice and will add to it in next week’s email)
1. God is the center. That’s not a platitude – it’s what is.
I’m very pleased to communicate that Paxton Spencer came through surgery well. When talking about first hand/chair faith I cannot communicate the level of faith Freddy and Jessica have displayed throughout this journey. Let’s continue to lift Paxton up in prayer.
I also want to ask for your prayers as I do the memorial service for Om Sehgal this Saturday morning at 11 a.m. Om was a Hindu throughout his life and due to the prayer efforts of many people and especially his son, Om confessed Christ as Lord about 3 weeks before he passed. This funeral will have a lot of opportunity for respectfully sharing the gospel with his friends and family. Please pray for right words and the Spirit to lead and guide as Christ is lifted up.
Next Sunday (November 29) will be a family worship day. As a ministry, we perpetually strive to do new things to best help families come together around Christ. We’re trying this so that those children who are over two years old can worship with you as parents. The service will be designed that morning for the entire family. Our nursery will operate as usual.
This Sunday we continue in the First Hand Faith Series looking into the generational cycle and faith patterns of King David, Solomon, and Rehoboam.
See you Sunday. — Scott
Top ten things I love about Forum:
10. The fascinatingly gifted/talented/quirky/and at times – outright goofy staff. Everyone on this team loves the Lord and loves serving Him.
9. All the incredible worship leaders we have. This past Sunday, as Becca led at the south campus and was talking about Forum being a “piece of heaven as we worship together” reminded me of both the presence of God and the joy it is as we come together. We literally have several of my personal favorite worship leaders. (BTW - Thanks to all of you – you all are the BEST!)
8. We have a truly intergenerational, multiethnic, socially diverse church body.
7. I love the commitment to God’s word.
6. I love the intentional strategy to take Christ to Columbia and the world.
5. I love that we try new stuff. I love that we’ve started a campus on the north end of town to help connect people to Jesus.
4. I love it that we intentionally connect people to Jesus. I think about this past Sunday night as Kay Matney was baptized.
3.
2.
(I’m going to ask you all to help fill in this list – I can keep going – but I’d love to hear from you all. I’m making my list and checking it twice and will add to it in next week’s email)
1. God is the center. That’s not a platitude – it’s what is.
I’m very pleased to communicate that Paxton Spencer came through surgery well. When talking about first hand/chair faith I cannot communicate the level of faith Freddy and Jessica have displayed throughout this journey. Let’s continue to lift Paxton up in prayer.
I also want to ask for your prayers as I do the memorial service for Om Sehgal this Saturday morning at 11 a.m. Om was a Hindu throughout his life and due to the prayer efforts of many people and especially his son, Om confessed Christ as Lord about 3 weeks before he passed. This funeral will have a lot of opportunity for respectfully sharing the gospel with his friends and family. Please pray for right words and the Spirit to lead and guide as Christ is lifted up.
Next Sunday (November 29) will be a family worship day. As a ministry, we perpetually strive to do new things to best help families come together around Christ. We’re trying this so that those children who are over two years old can worship with you as parents. The service will be designed that morning for the entire family. Our nursery will operate as usual.
This Sunday we continue in the First Hand Faith Series looking into the generational cycle and faith patterns of King David, Solomon, and Rehoboam.
See you Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, November 12, 2009
e-news for week of 11/8/09
William Strauss and Neil Howe wrote a series of demographical studies that chart cyclical patterns within America tracing back patterns of cultural morays all the way back to before our nation was formed. Generations, The Fourth Turning, Millennials Rising would all be part of their repartee. Strauss and Howe would advance the theory of patterns of cyclical behaviors. Frankly, these types of patterns predate life on this continent and can be seen in God’s word very clearly. This Sunday we start into a sermon series called, “First Chair Faith.” From a conceptual (different texts/sermons) standpoint, we did this series a little over two years ago. As a ministry, we need a refresher course. This will be the one of the series that will be repeated (conceptually) every couple of years because of the impact it has on people. This is a great series to invite friends to experience.
As a ministry, it’s thrilling to be a part of the sending and commissioning of Caleb and Jackie Sellers this Sunday. Just a reminder – bring a couple of side dishes for a church fellowship dinner immediately after third service.
This Sunday is also the time of affirmation for elders and deacons. Please take the time to affirm them. The voting stations will be in the lobbies at both campuses.
Let me encourage the entire church body to be praying for Freddy, Jessica, Emma, and Paxton Spencer this entire weekend. Paxton goes for a big surgery on Monday at Cardinal Glennon in St. Louis.
Let me encourage you to mark these dates over the next month so that you can plan accordingly. The Christmas season can really jam up quickly so here are some dates you’ll want to save:
Christmas production – You won’t want to miss this year’s Christmas program at South Campus. So, it will be offered twice, first on Saturday, December 19 and again on Sunday, December 20. More details will follow soon.
Christmas Eve service – Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. at South Campus
It’s a great season of ministry at Forum. Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. – Scott
As a ministry, it’s thrilling to be a part of the sending and commissioning of Caleb and Jackie Sellers this Sunday. Just a reminder – bring a couple of side dishes for a church fellowship dinner immediately after third service.
This Sunday is also the time of affirmation for elders and deacons. Please take the time to affirm them. The voting stations will be in the lobbies at both campuses.
Let me encourage the entire church body to be praying for Freddy, Jessica, Emma, and Paxton Spencer this entire weekend. Paxton goes for a big surgery on Monday at Cardinal Glennon in St. Louis.
Let me encourage you to mark these dates over the next month so that you can plan accordingly. The Christmas season can really jam up quickly so here are some dates you’ll want to save:
Christmas production – You won’t want to miss this year’s Christmas program at South Campus. So, it will be offered twice, first on Saturday, December 19 and again on Sunday, December 20. More details will follow soon.
Christmas Eve service – Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. at South Campus
It’s a great season of ministry at Forum. Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. – Scott
Thursday, November 5, 2009
e-news for 11/1/09
We exist to intentionally connect people to Jesus.
The challenge before all of us is to be intentional with our lives in Christ Jesus. God has you on His mission where you are. Use the time the Lord gives you to His glory. Use the gifts the Lord gave you to His glory. Love one another. Serve one another. Spur one another on in good deeds.
We’ve been in this short series called, “The Sweet Spot” for the past couple of weeks and we finish it this Sunday. The goal for every one of us is to connect with God and dial into “the zone.” It’s great when that begins to happen in your life.
Recently God started raising up one of the people within our ministry to possibly lead a “Celebrate Recovery” ministry that we hope to kick off in January. Watch the bulletin and this article for details. But the big picture is – here is a man who God is raising up and honing. I know that is happening in that some have stepped up to work in various areas of the ministry for the first time. I know this is ongoing because many of you have faithfully served for years. Serve one another.
Simple childlike faith coupled with simple obedience puts you into the sweet spot of God’s will and design.
Over the next couple of weeks, let me encourage you to lift up Paxton Spencer in prayer. Paxton will undergo another surgery on November 16 at Cardinal Glennon in St. Louis. Freddy and Jessica along with their daughter Emma definitely need us to exert all the “one another” elements of the New Testament during this critical time period.
Remember that next week, November 15, the Forum eldership will be commissioning Caleb and Jackie Sellers to the mission field. The Sellers are in their final language training phase and will soon be in West Africa, as Bible translators for Bible-less people of that area. There will also be a luncheon for the Sellers after third service that Sunday. Please bring a covered dish and join us.
Also on Sunday, November 15, you will have the opportunity to affirm the men who have answered the call to serve God and Forum for the year 2010 as elders and deacons. These men have been screened by our current elders and they are presenting them to you for your affirmation. Please pray for these men and for God’s guidance as you consider them.
Looking forward to Sunday worship. – Scott
The challenge before all of us is to be intentional with our lives in Christ Jesus. God has you on His mission where you are. Use the time the Lord gives you to His glory. Use the gifts the Lord gave you to His glory. Love one another. Serve one another. Spur one another on in good deeds.
We’ve been in this short series called, “The Sweet Spot” for the past couple of weeks and we finish it this Sunday. The goal for every one of us is to connect with God and dial into “the zone.” It’s great when that begins to happen in your life.
Recently God started raising up one of the people within our ministry to possibly lead a “Celebrate Recovery” ministry that we hope to kick off in January. Watch the bulletin and this article for details. But the big picture is – here is a man who God is raising up and honing. I know that is happening in that some have stepped up to work in various areas of the ministry for the first time. I know this is ongoing because many of you have faithfully served for years. Serve one another.
Simple childlike faith coupled with simple obedience puts you into the sweet spot of God’s will and design.
Over the next couple of weeks, let me encourage you to lift up Paxton Spencer in prayer. Paxton will undergo another surgery on November 16 at Cardinal Glennon in St. Louis. Freddy and Jessica along with their daughter Emma definitely need us to exert all the “one another” elements of the New Testament during this critical time period.
Remember that next week, November 15, the Forum eldership will be commissioning Caleb and Jackie Sellers to the mission field. The Sellers are in their final language training phase and will soon be in West Africa, as Bible translators for Bible-less people of that area. There will also be a luncheon for the Sellers after third service that Sunday. Please bring a covered dish and join us.
Also on Sunday, November 15, you will have the opportunity to affirm the men who have answered the call to serve God and Forum for the year 2010 as elders and deacons. These men have been screened by our current elders and they are presenting them to you for your affirmation. Please pray for these men and for God’s guidance as you consider them.
Looking forward to Sunday worship. – Scott
Friday, October 30, 2009
E-news for week of 10/25/09
The Sweet Spot. Are you hitting it this week? Just a reminder: spend one minute in prayer with your spouse, your children, spend one minute in prayer for a coworker, a friend, or even an acquaintance. Spent one minute in Proverbs – let me help for today: “A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly destroyed – without remedy.” (Proverbs 29:1) [Okay, maybe not the most uplifting verse in the world – however, it sure is fair warning to lower pride and not be resistant to God’s word, eh?]
This week we’ll explore maximizing who God designed us to be. Once again, what would happen if we all “click” at one moment? If we are all dialed into God’s will for one single moment? One minute? One hour?
Elder and Deacon Affirmation will be Sunday, November 15, 2009. Men that have answered the call to serve in 2010: elders - Jim Ferneau, Dan Howell and Ken Sears; deacons - David Abbott, Jim Abernathy, Jeff Bilbro, Jeff Brawley, Brandon Campbell, Chris Collier, Steve Cowan, Tim Crockett, Ted Fletcher, Jeff Hemme, Roger Higginbotham, Jim Jackson, Jeremy McBee, and John Wilhoit. The elders have screened these men and present them for your affirmation. Please pray for these men and God’s guidance as you consider them. If for some scriptural reason you believe any of these men are not suitable for service, contact an elder.
The eldership at Forum will be commissioning Caleb and Jackie Sellers to the mission field on November 15. The Sellers are in their final language training phase and will soon be in West Africa, as Bible translators for Bible-less people of that area. The eldership invites you to bring a covered dish and join them in a sending luncheon for the Sellers family after the third service.
Ready, Set, Snow! Women’s event to raise awareness and money for Missions. Thursday, November 5 in the FLC at 6:30 p.m. Bundle up and enjoy the warmth of friendship and help us raise some cold cash for Forum Missions. Register today at the Information Center.
Looking forward to a great day of worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
This week we’ll explore maximizing who God designed us to be. Once again, what would happen if we all “click” at one moment? If we are all dialed into God’s will for one single moment? One minute? One hour?
Elder and Deacon Affirmation will be Sunday, November 15, 2009. Men that have answered the call to serve in 2010: elders - Jim Ferneau, Dan Howell and Ken Sears; deacons - David Abbott, Jim Abernathy, Jeff Bilbro, Jeff Brawley, Brandon Campbell, Chris Collier, Steve Cowan, Tim Crockett, Ted Fletcher, Jeff Hemme, Roger Higginbotham, Jim Jackson, Jeremy McBee, and John Wilhoit. The elders have screened these men and present them for your affirmation. Please pray for these men and God’s guidance as you consider them. If for some scriptural reason you believe any of these men are not suitable for service, contact an elder.
The eldership at Forum will be commissioning Caleb and Jackie Sellers to the mission field on November 15. The Sellers are in their final language training phase and will soon be in West Africa, as Bible translators for Bible-less people of that area. The eldership invites you to bring a covered dish and join them in a sending luncheon for the Sellers family after the third service.
Ready, Set, Snow! Women’s event to raise awareness and money for Missions. Thursday, November 5 in the FLC at 6:30 p.m. Bundle up and enjoy the warmth of friendship and help us raise some cold cash for Forum Missions. Register today at the Information Center.
Looking forward to a great day of worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, October 22, 2009
e-news for 11/18/09
Have you ever experienced a day where everything just clicked? Where life, work, family, connection to God, service to others, marriage, and everything just seems to synch up into place? This week we start a three-week series called, “The Sweet Spot” and we’re going to explore our partnership with God.
This series deals with stewardship and the partnership God has called us into. This is going to come at you from a completely different angle than you’ve probably ever experienced. I believe Jesus. I take him at his word. While there is internal friction in my life with that type of simple obedience and faith (I’ve been very transparent about my personal cynicism), I still land at believing Jesus and following his precepts wholeheartedly. I believe Jesus when he spoke the words, “I have come that they might have life and life to the full.” Hitting the sweet spot in life is found in Jesus. Let’s start with him this weekend and check out how to live in the sweet spot both as an individual and as a church.
This is coming out earlier in the week to remind you of the family event taking place at Shryock’s Callaway Farms Corn Maze, 2927 County Road 253. We will meet there at 5:45 p.m. (If you need a ride be at the church by 5 p.m.) The cost is $6 per person, and children 3 years and younger get in free. We will provide S’mores at the campfire. You might want to bring a flashlight and a bottle of water. 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Bring the family and join the fun!
Looking forward to worshipping with you this Sunday. — Scott
This series deals with stewardship and the partnership God has called us into. This is going to come at you from a completely different angle than you’ve probably ever experienced. I believe Jesus. I take him at his word. While there is internal friction in my life with that type of simple obedience and faith (I’ve been very transparent about my personal cynicism), I still land at believing Jesus and following his precepts wholeheartedly. I believe Jesus when he spoke the words, “I have come that they might have life and life to the full.” Hitting the sweet spot in life is found in Jesus. Let’s start with him this weekend and check out how to live in the sweet spot both as an individual and as a church.
This is coming out earlier in the week to remind you of the family event taking place at Shryock’s Callaway Farms Corn Maze, 2927 County Road 253. We will meet there at 5:45 p.m. (If you need a ride be at the church by 5 p.m.) The cost is $6 per person, and children 3 years and younger get in free. We will provide S’mores at the campfire. You might want to bring a flashlight and a bottle of water. 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Bring the family and join the fun!
Looking forward to worshipping with you this Sunday. — Scott
Friday, October 16, 2009
e-news for 10/11/09
As we finish VIII this Sunday, I’m so glad you’ve been encouraged and uplifted during this series. Friends, our country and our world are enduring some dark and shaky times. As ever, I’m hopeful; hopeful because of Jesus Christ. Not hopeful because of the lifestyle I live in because I’m a citizen of the United States, but hopeful because of my kingdom citizenship. Hopeful because Jesus conquered the grave and He lives. Hopeful because Christ saved me from my sins. Don’t lose sight of your true hope. All other hopes and dreams for your life, for your family, for your friends pale in comparison to the hope of heaven. My friends, God is with you.
Several things on the horizon:
We’ll be going through the process of affirming elders and deacons over the next month. We’ll be posting names, pictures and brief bios over the next couple of weeks.
I want to thank the security team at church for the continued advancement and improvement helping Forum as a ministry to perpetually move forward. About half the staff and several deacons were trained this week in CPR and defibrillators and we’ll have a defibrillator on site in the near future. Safety is a high priority for our children, youth, and you.
I also want to highlight the great job the ministry to children and youth are doing this fall. Some of the learning and innovations both in the morning elements and the evening have helped to inspire and connect your kids to Jesus.
As Tarry Koutz has laid out the vision for the Christmas season, I get very thrilled because it’s a wonderful thing to see a ministry unify around a ministry opportunity. The skill and vision Tarry brings to the table are phenomenal, but he needs every age group with all kinds of skill sets for this to come together. It will be a great blessing and will help to connect people to Jesus. Check out the Sunday bulletin for the details.
This Saturday is a Habitat for Humanity day starting at 8 a.m. at 2703 McClure. Current building site: Vandiver, then north on Oakland Gravel Rd., left onto Thomas Dr. into Norbury Hills - you will see us off of Thomas Dr. You can't miss it!
On Friday, October 23 families of K – Jr. High are invited to a fun evening at Shryock’s Callaway Farms Corn Maze, 2927 County Road 253 . Meet at the Corn Maze at 5:45 (if you need a ride, be at the South Campus by 5). Cost is $6 per person, and children 3 years and younger get in free. We will provide S’mores at the campfire. It is advised to bring a flashlight and bottle of water. 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Visit their Web site for info and directions: www.callawayfarms.com. Bring the family and enjoy the evening.
As always, looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. — Scott
Several things on the horizon:
We’ll be going through the process of affirming elders and deacons over the next month. We’ll be posting names, pictures and brief bios over the next couple of weeks.
I want to thank the security team at church for the continued advancement and improvement helping Forum as a ministry to perpetually move forward. About half the staff and several deacons were trained this week in CPR and defibrillators and we’ll have a defibrillator on site in the near future. Safety is a high priority for our children, youth, and you.
I also want to highlight the great job the ministry to children and youth are doing this fall. Some of the learning and innovations both in the morning elements and the evening have helped to inspire and connect your kids to Jesus.
As Tarry Koutz has laid out the vision for the Christmas season, I get very thrilled because it’s a wonderful thing to see a ministry unify around a ministry opportunity. The skill and vision Tarry brings to the table are phenomenal, but he needs every age group with all kinds of skill sets for this to come together. It will be a great blessing and will help to connect people to Jesus. Check out the Sunday bulletin for the details.
This Saturday is a Habitat for Humanity day starting at 8 a.m. at 2703 McClure. Current building site: Vandiver, then north on Oakland Gravel Rd., left onto Thomas Dr. into Norbury Hills - you will see us off of Thomas Dr. You can't miss it!
On Friday, October 23 families of K – Jr. High are invited to a fun evening at Shryock’s Callaway Farms Corn Maze, 2927 County Road 253 . Meet at the Corn Maze at 5:45 (if you need a ride, be at the South Campus by 5). Cost is $6 per person, and children 3 years and younger get in free. We will provide S’mores at the campfire. It is advised to bring a flashlight and bottle of water. 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Visit their Web site for info and directions: www.callawayfarms.com. Bring the family and enjoy the evening.
As always, looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. — Scott
Friday, October 9, 2009
e-news2 for week of 10/4/09
Thanks for the great feedback connected to this teaching series “VIII.” If you thought last week’s message came at a good time for you, make sure you don’t miss this Sunday as we continue in this series. This one is a message of great hope.
It’s really been another fun month of ministry. It was fun working with 60 or so of you around the facility doing grounds maintenance. Biggest group of volunteers the chairman of our deacons has ever utilized. Thank you all for serving, especially our deacons who are in my estimation some of the greatest deacons in the world.
It was fun connecting up at the picnic at Twin Lakes with 300 of you. Food was awesome – the time to connect up with one another was great. God continues to pull us together as a church body.
Thanks also for the solid giving that occurred last week. My encouragement is for all of us to continue to be faithful in giving and trusting God.
Over the next couple of months, we’ll be putting in front of you, as the corporate church body, some of the continued operational changes that we continue to implement for the purpose of intentionally connecting people to Jesus.
Seven of our members are leaving in the morning for a mission trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry in Globe, Arizona. Please pray for their safety and for their witness to those they meet.
As ever, I’m looking forward to worshipping our great God with you this Sunday. See you then, Scott
It’s really been another fun month of ministry. It was fun working with 60 or so of you around the facility doing grounds maintenance. Biggest group of volunteers the chairman of our deacons has ever utilized. Thank you all for serving, especially our deacons who are in my estimation some of the greatest deacons in the world.
It was fun connecting up at the picnic at Twin Lakes with 300 of you. Food was awesome – the time to connect up with one another was great. God continues to pull us together as a church body.
Thanks also for the solid giving that occurred last week. My encouragement is for all of us to continue to be faithful in giving and trusting God.
Over the next couple of months, we’ll be putting in front of you, as the corporate church body, some of the continued operational changes that we continue to implement for the purpose of intentionally connecting people to Jesus.
Seven of our members are leaving in the morning for a mission trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry in Globe, Arizona. Please pray for their safety and for their witness to those they meet.
As ever, I’m looking forward to worshipping our great God with you this Sunday. See you then, Scott
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
I’m going to have 2 weekly e-news this week – one connected to the world we live in – one connected to Forum and what God is doing. For those of you who attend regularly, you know that this is the first time I’ve done this. If you are new to Forum, don’t worry, I won’t over saturate your inbox.
We live in complex times. This email arises because I’ve had a heightened “angst” being expressed both in conversations and in emails I’m receiving. What I know about the span of history is while our technology and invention continue to accelerate – who we are as humans and our nature remains the same. As a nation we are facing unparalleled changes and challenges:
• The way our health care systems are administered (just for your own sake, I would encourage you to stay abreast of this national debate and contact our elected officials via their websites. Also, track “HR3200” in that – in theory – legislation will be passed over the next two weeks)
• Mounting debt within our nation
• Another mounting military buildup in Afghanistan
• Natural disasters
• The possibility of a nuclear Iran
This list could go on and on connected to our nation and the world. But here’s the real deal – this world, my friends, is not our home. That doesn’t mean we turn our backs on the world. It doesn’t mean we cloister. It doesn’t mean we retreat. It means just the opposite.
Friends, you are part of an unshakeable kingdom. You are a citizen of heaven. God called you, He justified you. He demonstrates His glory in your life. You walk in His victory every day of your life. While there are challenges, guess what; there have always been challenges (Christians tortured, the plague, the collapse of currency – e.g. – Confederate money, etc.). Yet, the world continues to turn and God’s mission for the church doesn’t change.
The words of Jesus apply the same today as they did when he spoke them to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14: 1-2)
Friends – be hopeful, diligent, alert, vigilant, faithful, holy, righteous, and walk in the triumph of Jesus Christ. We (the church) are the hope of the world! — Scott
We live in complex times. This email arises because I’ve had a heightened “angst” being expressed both in conversations and in emails I’m receiving. What I know about the span of history is while our technology and invention continue to accelerate – who we are as humans and our nature remains the same. As a nation we are facing unparalleled changes and challenges:
• The way our health care systems are administered (just for your own sake, I would encourage you to stay abreast of this national debate and contact our elected officials via their websites. Also, track “HR3200” in that – in theory – legislation will be passed over the next two weeks)
• Mounting debt within our nation
• Another mounting military buildup in Afghanistan
• Natural disasters
• The possibility of a nuclear Iran
This list could go on and on connected to our nation and the world. But here’s the real deal – this world, my friends, is not our home. That doesn’t mean we turn our backs on the world. It doesn’t mean we cloister. It doesn’t mean we retreat. It means just the opposite.
Friends, you are part of an unshakeable kingdom. You are a citizen of heaven. God called you, He justified you. He demonstrates His glory in your life. You walk in His victory every day of your life. While there are challenges, guess what; there have always been challenges (Christians tortured, the plague, the collapse of currency – e.g. – Confederate money, etc.). Yet, the world continues to turn and God’s mission for the church doesn’t change.
The words of Jesus apply the same today as they did when he spoke them to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14: 1-2)
Friends – be hopeful, diligent, alert, vigilant, faithful, holy, righteous, and walk in the triumph of Jesus Christ. We (the church) are the hope of the world! — Scott
Friday, October 2, 2009
e-news for week of 9/27/09
God continues to do great things here at Forum.
Good — We just got approval from the city to do our ministry makeover. We had an initial “fleece” financial marker of $20,000 before we started. This past Sunday, giving toward that project crested over $20,000. We’ll keep you informed as to the steps/progress/changes and the timing of the whole endeavor.
Better — We continue to have new people coming to both campuses each week. As a ministry, we continue to expand outreach and connect people to Jesus. Our life groups continue to expand. North campus continues to run 80-100 people. South campus continues to reach out as well. Our youth and children’s areas have experienced significant growth as well.
Best — Recently these people have made decisions for Christ – either to connect with Forum as their church or being baptized into Christ: Kelsey Maddox, Blake Ballard, Steven Bermudez, Caroline Abbott, Spencer Hockman, Steve and Marilyn Roberts. Still others are praying and considering making decisions.
Challenge — Throughout the year our finances have been dead on all year and then, for the first time this year in September we didn’t fully hit budget needs. While we pray it’s not the economy catching up with us, I would put in front of you the importance of consistent and faithful giving. I do thank you for your ongoing faithfulness so that these types of encouragements are rare.
This Sunday you’ll get great encouragement from God’s word as we continue in the VIII series. Romans 8:28 is in the mix for this Sunday – one of my personal faves when it comes to the promises of God.
Make plans to be part of the workday on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m., and the picnic on Sunday afternoon beginning at 4 p.m. at Twin Lakes. Website has details.
Looking so forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. — Scott
Good — We just got approval from the city to do our ministry makeover. We had an initial “fleece” financial marker of $20,000 before we started. This past Sunday, giving toward that project crested over $20,000. We’ll keep you informed as to the steps/progress/changes and the timing of the whole endeavor.
Better — We continue to have new people coming to both campuses each week. As a ministry, we continue to expand outreach and connect people to Jesus. Our life groups continue to expand. North campus continues to run 80-100 people. South campus continues to reach out as well. Our youth and children’s areas have experienced significant growth as well.
Best — Recently these people have made decisions for Christ – either to connect with Forum as their church or being baptized into Christ: Kelsey Maddox, Blake Ballard, Steven Bermudez, Caroline Abbott, Spencer Hockman, Steve and Marilyn Roberts. Still others are praying and considering making decisions.
Challenge — Throughout the year our finances have been dead on all year and then, for the first time this year in September we didn’t fully hit budget needs. While we pray it’s not the economy catching up with us, I would put in front of you the importance of consistent and faithful giving. I do thank you for your ongoing faithfulness so that these types of encouragements are rare.
This Sunday you’ll get great encouragement from God’s word as we continue in the VIII series. Romans 8:28 is in the mix for this Sunday – one of my personal faves when it comes to the promises of God.
Make plans to be part of the workday on Saturday beginning at 7 a.m., and the picnic on Sunday afternoon beginning at 4 p.m. at Twin Lakes. Website has details.
Looking so forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. — Scott
Friday, September 25, 2009
e-news for week of 9/20/09
As we continue in the VIII series, I’ve been reminded so many times just this week how important this section of scripture is.
What do you do when you don’t know how to pray?
What do you do when life circumstances are beyond your control?
What do you do when the world – from a human perspective – seems to be unraveling?
Within our church body, I steer people to Romans 8 and the truth of hope and assurance:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (8:26)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (8:28)
This week we’ll talk about the good life in the here and now and the hope of the great life God has in store for us in eternity. I love this world – it is not our home. I love my family – we’ll spend forever together. I love worshiping with you as a segment of the church – we’ll do it in heaven in God’s presence throughout eternity. Let’s get a taste and glimpse of that this Sunday. Look forward to being with you this Sunday.
Here are some upcoming opportunities:
There’s a men’s retreat beginning this evening – keep those who are part of it in prayer.
Church Workday — On Saturday, October 3 we need lots of willing workers to help with our South Campus. The work will be mostly outside but there will be things for everyone to do. We will begin at 7 a.m. with donuts. Bring some yard tools and come join us.
Annual Church Picnic — On Sunday, October 4 we will have our annual church picnic at Twin Lakes. We will meet at 4 p.m. and dinner will begin around 5. We are asking that each family bring a couple of dishes to share. Meat and drinks will be provided. Bring your lawn chairs and games and enjoy the afternoon.
Great Communion Service — On Sunday, October 4 at 6 p.m. there will be a special communion service at Blue Ridge Christian Church, 2400 Blue Ridge Road. This service is to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the writing of the Declaration and Address by Thomas Campbell, one of the founders of the Restoration Movement. This will be a great opportunity to learn some of the history of our church.
Looking forward to Sunday. — Scott
What do you do when you don’t know how to pray?
What do you do when life circumstances are beyond your control?
What do you do when the world – from a human perspective – seems to be unraveling?
Within our church body, I steer people to Romans 8 and the truth of hope and assurance:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (8:26)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (8:28)
This week we’ll talk about the good life in the here and now and the hope of the great life God has in store for us in eternity. I love this world – it is not our home. I love my family – we’ll spend forever together. I love worshiping with you as a segment of the church – we’ll do it in heaven in God’s presence throughout eternity. Let’s get a taste and glimpse of that this Sunday. Look forward to being with you this Sunday.
Here are some upcoming opportunities:
There’s a men’s retreat beginning this evening – keep those who are part of it in prayer.
Church Workday — On Saturday, October 3 we need lots of willing workers to help with our South Campus. The work will be mostly outside but there will be things for everyone to do. We will begin at 7 a.m. with donuts. Bring some yard tools and come join us.
Annual Church Picnic — On Sunday, October 4 we will have our annual church picnic at Twin Lakes. We will meet at 4 p.m. and dinner will begin around 5. We are asking that each family bring a couple of dishes to share. Meat and drinks will be provided. Bring your lawn chairs and games and enjoy the afternoon.
Great Communion Service — On Sunday, October 4 at 6 p.m. there will be a special communion service at Blue Ridge Christian Church, 2400 Blue Ridge Road. This service is to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the writing of the Declaration and Address by Thomas Campbell, one of the founders of the Restoration Movement. This will be a great opportunity to learn some of the history of our church.
Looking forward to Sunday. — Scott
Friday, September 18, 2009
e-news for week of 9/13/09
Being filled with the Spirit of God stands at the core of “8”. As I read deeper, I become vividly reminded and alerted that God’s Spirit is alive and well. God transacts the business of life with us on a daily basis via His Spirit. We have more power than we realize. Often that power goes untapped. The element that gives me the greatest pause is this: how often do I (you, us, everybody on the planet for that matter) miss opportunities that God places right in front of us?
One of my friends and I have recently been intentionally making eye contact with people, saying, “Hi,” “Hello,” etc., and then watching reactions of people. As cars pass us, as we are in a visible place, we’ll wave to see reactions. It’s kind of a social experiment on levels of friendliness. It’s turned quite humorous for a lot of reasons. The main reason, I believe, is people don’t know what to do with an unexpected encounter (either that or we are freak shows). So…let’s say God nudges you with His Spirit – it’s an unexpected gesture, push, leap of faith, or challenge to, “Talk to him/her…ask them what’s going on in their lives…see if there’s a need you can pray about…tell them you’ll pray for them….” But your mind and your flesh say, “Nooooooo….that’s embarrassing…you’ll overstep a boundary…this isn’t for you.” Growing in the ability to discern and follow God’s Spirit will occur as we interact together in Romans 8.
Thanks for the great feedback connected to the beginning of “8.” This section of scripture is going to truly energize you. I also want to give a shout out to Tarry Koutz and Stephen Walton for all the work they did in getting the stage ready for this series. It looks great at both campuses.
Got some great opportunities coming up:
Workday – October 3rd, begins with donuts at 7 a.m. then we’ll work outside to get our south campus read for winter. Bring your yard tools and join us as we mulch, trim, weed, etc. We’ll have jobs for everyone.
Parables – This new series for 4-year-olds through 5th grade meets at South Campus on Sunday nights, September 20, October 11, 18, and 25, and November 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Synergy – Synergy Sunday for Jr. High meets Sundays from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at South Campus. High School Synergy meets on Wednesdays from 7 – 9 p.m. at South Campus.
Picnic – Sunday, October 4 at 4 p.m. we meet at Twin Lakes for our annual all-church picnic. Bring your lawn games and chairs and spend some time getting to know your church family. Dinner will be around 5 p.m. Bring a couple of side dishes to share. Meat and drinks will be provided.
Can’t wait to connect with God and you this Sunday - Scott
One of my friends and I have recently been intentionally making eye contact with people, saying, “Hi,” “Hello,” etc., and then watching reactions of people. As cars pass us, as we are in a visible place, we’ll wave to see reactions. It’s kind of a social experiment on levels of friendliness. It’s turned quite humorous for a lot of reasons. The main reason, I believe, is people don’t know what to do with an unexpected encounter (either that or we are freak shows). So…let’s say God nudges you with His Spirit – it’s an unexpected gesture, push, leap of faith, or challenge to, “Talk to him/her…ask them what’s going on in their lives…see if there’s a need you can pray about…tell them you’ll pray for them….” But your mind and your flesh say, “Nooooooo….that’s embarrassing…you’ll overstep a boundary…this isn’t for you.” Growing in the ability to discern and follow God’s Spirit will occur as we interact together in Romans 8.
Thanks for the great feedback connected to the beginning of “8.” This section of scripture is going to truly energize you. I also want to give a shout out to Tarry Koutz and Stephen Walton for all the work they did in getting the stage ready for this series. It looks great at both campuses.
Got some great opportunities coming up:
Workday – October 3rd, begins with donuts at 7 a.m. then we’ll work outside to get our south campus read for winter. Bring your yard tools and join us as we mulch, trim, weed, etc. We’ll have jobs for everyone.
Parables – This new series for 4-year-olds through 5th grade meets at South Campus on Sunday nights, September 20, October 11, 18, and 25, and November 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Synergy – Synergy Sunday for Jr. High meets Sundays from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at South Campus. High School Synergy meets on Wednesdays from 7 – 9 p.m. at South Campus.
Picnic – Sunday, October 4 at 4 p.m. we meet at Twin Lakes for our annual all-church picnic. Bring your lawn games and chairs and spend some time getting to know your church family. Dinner will be around 5 p.m. Bring a couple of side dishes to share. Meat and drinks will be provided.
Can’t wait to connect with God and you this Sunday - Scott
Thursday, September 10, 2009
e-news for week of 9/6/09
What God is doing at Forum continues to excite me very much. The new series we begin on Sunday — “VIII” — is truly going to bless and inspire you. If you want to get a head start, we will camp out in Romans 8 over the next several weeks. This passage explores the heights and depths of Christ’s love and liberation. Invite friends, acquaintances, relatives, even total strangers. They need Jesus and you have been placed in their lives to help them connect to Him.
Once again, I truly want to commend our staff for the excellent day we had at the tailgate party. I’ve run in to a lot of people within our community who know I’m the minister here and they have asked me what was going on, etc. It’s great to be a part of a church that values relationships and interaction, isn’t it?
I had a “drop in” from out of state this morning. He works for a Christian College. He wanted to talk to me about Forum, about Columbia, about ministry, etc. As we talked, his passion broke through. He said, “Do you realize the United States is now the third largest mission field on our planet?”
It doesn’t shock or surprise me. I’m not going to diatribe about why. I’m not going to cast blame on previous generations. I’m not going to throw stones at the upcoming generations.
But I will acknowledge it. Within any problem/solution scenario, there has to be an identification and admission of the problem. While none of us can solve this on a national level, we can do something about it in our back yard and in Columbia, MO. At the core of this challenge is our willingness to live like Jesus – lives of love, sacrifice, elevation, and purpose. I realize that many sign on with Jesus as almost a “fire insurance policy” – a get out of jail free card if you will. That will not define the type of disciple making and imitation of Christ that we are about here at Forum. Christ lives in you. You are not defined by who you were in the flesh. You are defined by who you are in Christ. We’ll touch on this Sunday as we challenge one another to grow in love and good deeds.
Sunday:
• Pizza with the Pastors happens at 5 in rooms 104/106
• Parables for 4-year-olds - 5th grade starts from 6-7:30
• Synergy Sunday happens for our Jr. High students starting at 5:30-7:30
Looking forward to a great day of worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
Once again, I truly want to commend our staff for the excellent day we had at the tailgate party. I’ve run in to a lot of people within our community who know I’m the minister here and they have asked me what was going on, etc. It’s great to be a part of a church that values relationships and interaction, isn’t it?
I had a “drop in” from out of state this morning. He works for a Christian College. He wanted to talk to me about Forum, about Columbia, about ministry, etc. As we talked, his passion broke through. He said, “Do you realize the United States is now the third largest mission field on our planet?”
It doesn’t shock or surprise me. I’m not going to diatribe about why. I’m not going to cast blame on previous generations. I’m not going to throw stones at the upcoming generations.
But I will acknowledge it. Within any problem/solution scenario, there has to be an identification and admission of the problem. While none of us can solve this on a national level, we can do something about it in our back yard and in Columbia, MO. At the core of this challenge is our willingness to live like Jesus – lives of love, sacrifice, elevation, and purpose. I realize that many sign on with Jesus as almost a “fire insurance policy” – a get out of jail free card if you will. That will not define the type of disciple making and imitation of Christ that we are about here at Forum. Christ lives in you. You are not defined by who you were in the flesh. You are defined by who you are in Christ. We’ll touch on this Sunday as we challenge one another to grow in love and good deeds.
Sunday:
• Pizza with the Pastors happens at 5 in rooms 104/106
• Parables for 4-year-olds - 5th grade starts from 6-7:30
• Synergy Sunday happens for our Jr. High students starting at 5:30-7:30
Looking forward to a great day of worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
Friday, September 4, 2009
e-news for week of 8/30/09
I don’t like looking back – but I don’t know that three days ago constitutes “past.” Last Sunday, Forum had its first ever tail-gate party on the grounds. To Jody Riley and Katelyn Morris, to our great support staff of Carolyn, Marlowe, and Melanie, and to our phenomenal deacons (I’ll leave someone off – so I’m saying it collectively) let me say, “Thanks so much for making Sunday a huge success.” With this being the first time we’ve ever done this (so there’s a learning curve) I think everything was just excellent. It’s hard to get a full feel/count for an event like that but I’m sure there were nearly (or over) 400 people from both campuses that came and enjoyed the day.
As a ministry, we’ve got a great vibe going on right now. Hard to define, but God’s work here continues to propel us forward in reaching and growing people. Toward that end, this Sunday we’ll dialogue a second time about “What kind of a church is this?” I’ve had many conversations this week connected to this very concept. Frankly, it’s exhilarating to talk about the kingdom of God and the way God creates this eclectic, multi-ethnic, very diverse body of believers. That’s exciting because that is how God reaches the whole world. Doesn’t it excite you to think about Columbia as a town where everyone knows the Lord? What an elevated place that will be!
Oh Lord, raise us up so that all may see Your glory revealed!
We’ve got some great ministry opportunities happening in the immediate future:
• We could still use a couple of people, who we will supply materials and training for, to teach in our K and 1 grades.
• A new Bible Study that is a marriage development class will occur during the 11 a.m. hour in room 212. Ted Fletcher will be leading this group.
• Our ministry to Loaves and Fishes (a downtown ministry that feeds people who are financially at risk). Available dates are: Sept. 17, Oct. 29, Nov. 19, and Dec. 17 & 31. This is a great project for your life group or Bible study group. Contact Brenda Wilson at bossybj@aol.com or 573-864-2784 and dive into service.
• Women’s studies and life groups are ramping up for the fall. You can sign up for these studies online at the Forum site: www.forumchristian.org
• The men’s campout retreat, Heart Focus, will be September 25 and 26 at Camp Hickory Hill just northwest of Columbia. You can register this Sunday at either campus.
Starting September 13 we start a new series called, “VIII.” Friends, I can say will full confidence you will be blessed, encouraged, and challenged beyond measure. This one will rock all of our worlds in a great way. Why the title? Make plans to be there (with friends and family along for the ride) and find out.
Looking forward to another great day of worship this Sunday. — Scott
As a ministry, we’ve got a great vibe going on right now. Hard to define, but God’s work here continues to propel us forward in reaching and growing people. Toward that end, this Sunday we’ll dialogue a second time about “What kind of a church is this?” I’ve had many conversations this week connected to this very concept. Frankly, it’s exhilarating to talk about the kingdom of God and the way God creates this eclectic, multi-ethnic, very diverse body of believers. That’s exciting because that is how God reaches the whole world. Doesn’t it excite you to think about Columbia as a town where everyone knows the Lord? What an elevated place that will be!
Oh Lord, raise us up so that all may see Your glory revealed!
We’ve got some great ministry opportunities happening in the immediate future:
• We could still use a couple of people, who we will supply materials and training for, to teach in our K and 1 grades.
• A new Bible Study that is a marriage development class will occur during the 11 a.m. hour in room 212. Ted Fletcher will be leading this group.
• Our ministry to Loaves and Fishes (a downtown ministry that feeds people who are financially at risk). Available dates are: Sept. 17, Oct. 29, Nov. 19, and Dec. 17 & 31. This is a great project for your life group or Bible study group. Contact Brenda Wilson at bossybj@aol.com or 573-864-2784 and dive into service.
• Women’s studies and life groups are ramping up for the fall. You can sign up for these studies online at the Forum site: www.forumchristian.org
• The men’s campout retreat, Heart Focus, will be September 25 and 26 at Camp Hickory Hill just northwest of Columbia. You can register this Sunday at either campus.
Starting September 13 we start a new series called, “VIII.” Friends, I can say will full confidence you will be blessed, encouraged, and challenged beyond measure. This one will rock all of our worlds in a great way. Why the title? Make plans to be there (with friends and family along for the ride) and find out.
Looking forward to another great day of worship this Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, August 20, 2009
e-news for week of 8/16/09
Let me be painstakingly honest: I knew that the second campus would stretch us significantly during the summer. From an “optimum time” I think that fall would have been a better start time from a growth/consistency standpoint. Here’s the deal – we gutted it out this summer. I know that many of you as volunteers have been strained. I know we’ve stretched and strained as a staff. Is it worth it? While numbers don’t drive us as a ministry, this past Sunday we had 130 more people in attendance than we did the same Sunday last year. Since starting the second campus, we have continued to connect more people to Jesus.
We’ve also seen a lot of people stepping up in serving. With that said, we do need more children’s workers in the elementary areas for the fall. This is such an important age bracket within our ministry and we need you to step up to help serve and teach. Please contact Katelyn Morris to help.
Also, I am very pleased to announce that Dr. Tarry Koutz is rejoining the Forum staff in the role of Performing Arts Director. Tarry served Forum for many years before moving to being a full time professor at Central Christian College. Frankly, there is no one in Mid-Missouri who has advanced worship ministry within churches more than Tarry and I feel blessed and lucky that he has come on board. He will be working with our choirs, fine arts elements, music within first service, helping with hospital visits, helping with sound, lighting, etc., training, and bringing a new level of quality to Forum in these areas. On top of Tarry being on board, Stephen Walton (who’s been our worship intern) will continue to serve at Forum as we search for our next primary leader in the worship area.
Having mentioned the stretching that 2nd campus has done to us – we do need help in all areas of worship: sound, music, lighting, instrumentalists, singers, etc. If you are willing and able, please contact either Stephen or Tarry. Also, we need more help with set up and tear down at the north campus. If you can help one Sunday a month, give Jeff Bilbro or Jim Abernathy a call.
We’ve been talking about multiple choice decisions driven by the word of God and while convenience, ease, and comforts are at times prized – they are usually not kingdom driven or driving values. Do I think we made a kingdom oriented decision? Yes, absolutely. Do I think it stretched us? Oh yeah. Do I think God is honoring our step of faith? I do. This Sunday we’ll continue in our Multiple Choice series talking about how to become the very best CEO you can be. I know some of you are thinking, “I’m not a CEO." But the reality is, oh yes, you are.
Recently these people have joined Forum as their church home: Sean & Shanna Garrett transferred their membership and these people have been baptized: Rod & Kim Petersen, Sadi Turnbull, Hannah, Andrew, and Grant Paten, Kevin Sharon, Susae Griffith, Bailey Turner, Josh & Julie Hawley, Emily Miller, Emily Connon, and Roxanne Muchow.
Sunday night at 6:00 p.m. kids from the Show-Me Christian Children’s Home will be with us to share some of what is happening in their ministry.
Sunday, August 30th we will have a tail gate party right after church. It will also be a family worship Sunday in all the services. What does that mean? It means that those children who are 4 and up will be with their family in the worship service. The service will be more family friendly and the topic of the day will be, “What kind of a church is this?” While it’s an experiment, I think it has a great potential to be a fun Sunday.
Friends, I think God has put us in a great position to intentionally connect people to Jesus. I cannot say how much I appreciate the “Can Do” Forum attitudes – kind of reminds me of Jesus. Can’t wait to worship with you Sunday - Scott
We’ve also seen a lot of people stepping up in serving. With that said, we do need more children’s workers in the elementary areas for the fall. This is such an important age bracket within our ministry and we need you to step up to help serve and teach. Please contact Katelyn Morris to help.
Also, I am very pleased to announce that Dr. Tarry Koutz is rejoining the Forum staff in the role of Performing Arts Director. Tarry served Forum for many years before moving to being a full time professor at Central Christian College. Frankly, there is no one in Mid-Missouri who has advanced worship ministry within churches more than Tarry and I feel blessed and lucky that he has come on board. He will be working with our choirs, fine arts elements, music within first service, helping with hospital visits, helping with sound, lighting, etc., training, and bringing a new level of quality to Forum in these areas. On top of Tarry being on board, Stephen Walton (who’s been our worship intern) will continue to serve at Forum as we search for our next primary leader in the worship area.
Having mentioned the stretching that 2nd campus has done to us – we do need help in all areas of worship: sound, music, lighting, instrumentalists, singers, etc. If you are willing and able, please contact either Stephen or Tarry. Also, we need more help with set up and tear down at the north campus. If you can help one Sunday a month, give Jeff Bilbro or Jim Abernathy a call.
We’ve been talking about multiple choice decisions driven by the word of God and while convenience, ease, and comforts are at times prized – they are usually not kingdom driven or driving values. Do I think we made a kingdom oriented decision? Yes, absolutely. Do I think it stretched us? Oh yeah. Do I think God is honoring our step of faith? I do. This Sunday we’ll continue in our Multiple Choice series talking about how to become the very best CEO you can be. I know some of you are thinking, “I’m not a CEO." But the reality is, oh yes, you are.
Recently these people have joined Forum as their church home: Sean & Shanna Garrett transferred their membership and these people have been baptized: Rod & Kim Petersen, Sadi Turnbull, Hannah, Andrew, and Grant Paten, Kevin Sharon, Susae Griffith, Bailey Turner, Josh & Julie Hawley, Emily Miller, Emily Connon, and Roxanne Muchow.
Sunday night at 6:00 p.m. kids from the Show-Me Christian Children’s Home will be with us to share some of what is happening in their ministry.
Sunday, August 30th we will have a tail gate party right after church. It will also be a family worship Sunday in all the services. What does that mean? It means that those children who are 4 and up will be with their family in the worship service. The service will be more family friendly and the topic of the day will be, “What kind of a church is this?” While it’s an experiment, I think it has a great potential to be a fun Sunday.
Friends, I think God has put us in a great position to intentionally connect people to Jesus. I cannot say how much I appreciate the “Can Do” Forum attitudes – kind of reminds me of Jesus. Can’t wait to worship with you Sunday - Scott
Friday, August 14, 2009
e-news for week of 8/9/09
Multiple Choice
This Sunday, I’ll:
Ο a. blow off church
Ο b. run into church 10 minutes late, scoot out fast, not encounter or interact with anyone, and go home unchanged/unaffected
Ο c. purpose to become a better decision maker by being at a worship service, come with my heart and head ready to worship and encounter God, and strive to be a vibrant part of this thriving church
Ο d. rotate the golf and fishing channels all day long
This week, in my decision making I’ve asked:
Ο a. Is it written? (What does God’s word say about it?)
Ο b. Is it borne out of love? (Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love your neighbor as yourself)
Ο c. a, b, and d
Ο d. Is it on God’s agenda? (Thy will not mine be done)
As you communicate the life change and even some of the ways you have changed/are changing your decision processes I can tell that God’s word is impacting Forum deeply. Let me encourage you in that every one of us can grow to the image of Jesus. I know some of you think, “No way – I way too bad – It will never happen.” It can and this series is designed to help all of us move into making decisions that are inspired by God.
We’ve got some really fun things on the horizon starting with a “first.”
On August 30 we’d like to try an all church tail gate party out in the parking lot and the grounds immediately following third service. Let’s make this a “casual day” and dress like you would for a picnic (because there is a tailgate party afterwards). If you’d want to bring anything – bring a side dish – but we’ll provide hotdogs and brats, tea and lemonade. We have no idea if this will work – but we’ll have fun trying. It would be a great Sunday to invite a friend in that the message that day is “What kind of a church is this?”
Don’t forget, this Saturday is also a Habitat day. Hope to see you there.
Looking forward to a great day this Sunday. You all are the best. See you then, Scott
This Sunday, I’ll:
Ο a. blow off church
Ο b. run into church 10 minutes late, scoot out fast, not encounter or interact with anyone, and go home unchanged/unaffected
Ο c. purpose to become a better decision maker by being at a worship service, come with my heart and head ready to worship and encounter God, and strive to be a vibrant part of this thriving church
Ο d. rotate the golf and fishing channels all day long
This week, in my decision making I’ve asked:
Ο a. Is it written? (What does God’s word say about it?)
Ο b. Is it borne out of love? (Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love your neighbor as yourself)
Ο c. a, b, and d
Ο d. Is it on God’s agenda? (Thy will not mine be done)
As you communicate the life change and even some of the ways you have changed/are changing your decision processes I can tell that God’s word is impacting Forum deeply. Let me encourage you in that every one of us can grow to the image of Jesus. I know some of you think, “No way – I way too bad – It will never happen.” It can and this series is designed to help all of us move into making decisions that are inspired by God.
We’ve got some really fun things on the horizon starting with a “first.”
On August 30 we’d like to try an all church tail gate party out in the parking lot and the grounds immediately following third service. Let’s make this a “casual day” and dress like you would for a picnic (because there is a tailgate party afterwards). If you’d want to bring anything – bring a side dish – but we’ll provide hotdogs and brats, tea and lemonade. We have no idea if this will work – but we’ll have fun trying. It would be a great Sunday to invite a friend in that the message that day is “What kind of a church is this?”
Don’t forget, this Saturday is also a Habitat day. Hope to see you there.
Looking forward to a great day this Sunday. You all are the best. See you then, Scott
Friday, August 7, 2009
e-news for week of 8/2/09
Thanks for the great response to this Multiple Choice series so far. God wants you to be the very best decision maker you can be. I would encourage you to pick out one great decision you’ve made within your life and analyze it. What thoughts were you thinking? What did you weigh into that decision? What were the multiple paths you saw in front of you at that moment? How did God and his word come into play?
Please, keep in front of you this great decision template:
Is it written?
Is it on God’s agenda?
Is it born out of love?
If you want to get a jumpstart on Sunday – 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 12: 1, 2, and Philippians 1:9-11 will give you a quick glimpse. I want to remind you one more time – you have access – back stage, direct access to the greatest decision maker this planet has ever known. As a church, as church leaders, and on an individual basis – as a pastor, husband, father, Rotarian, board member of some institutions, etc. we all have the ability to pray – to seek out insight from the word of God – to view our decisions in light of love. I don’t know about you, but it elevates me for sure. God is so very good and His promises and precepts are always in our best interest.
Some ultra cool stuff coming up for the fall that I want you to note:
Casual Sunday Tailgate Party – On August 30 everyone is invited to wear casual clothes and stay for a tailgate party after 3rd service at South Campus. Forum will provide hotdogs and brats. Please bring side dishes and drinks. If you want other meat you can bring a grill and cook it here.
High School Synergy begins on August 26 from 7 – 9 p.m. Join us for food, games, giveaways, fellowship, worship and devotion.
Jr. High Synergy Sunday begins on September 13 from 6 – 8 p.m. Watch “The Forum” or see Jody for more details.
4-year-olds – 5th grade will start on Sunday, September 13 from 6 – 8 p.m. with a series on the Parables. More information will be coming in your mailbox.
Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
Please, keep in front of you this great decision template:
Is it written?
Is it on God’s agenda?
Is it born out of love?
If you want to get a jumpstart on Sunday – 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 12: 1, 2, and Philippians 1:9-11 will give you a quick glimpse. I want to remind you one more time – you have access – back stage, direct access to the greatest decision maker this planet has ever known. As a church, as church leaders, and on an individual basis – as a pastor, husband, father, Rotarian, board member of some institutions, etc. we all have the ability to pray – to seek out insight from the word of God – to view our decisions in light of love. I don’t know about you, but it elevates me for sure. God is so very good and His promises and precepts are always in our best interest.
Some ultra cool stuff coming up for the fall that I want you to note:
Casual Sunday Tailgate Party – On August 30 everyone is invited to wear casual clothes and stay for a tailgate party after 3rd service at South Campus. Forum will provide hotdogs and brats. Please bring side dishes and drinks. If you want other meat you can bring a grill and cook it here.
High School Synergy begins on August 26 from 7 – 9 p.m. Join us for food, games, giveaways, fellowship, worship and devotion.
Jr. High Synergy Sunday begins on September 13 from 6 – 8 p.m. Watch “The Forum” or see Jody for more details.
4-year-olds – 5th grade will start on Sunday, September 13 from 6 – 8 p.m. with a series on the Parables. More information will be coming in your mailbox.
Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, July 30, 2009
e-news for week of 7/26/09
I hope that you have all had a great week and that you have been making all kinds of good choices! This week we will be looking at the book of Proverbs as we discuss how we should go about making intense decisions in our lives.
We are also excited to have Brice and Amanda Wurdeman with us this weekend. At the beginning of each service at South and North, Brice will share a little bit about some of the tough choices that he and his family have made during their mission work in Haiti. Also, we hope that you will come back to South Campus for an ice cream social with Brice and Amanda at 6 p.m. — Scott
Upcoming Events:
On August 1 at 8 a.m., you have the opportunity to participate in a bike ride on the Katy Trail. This scenic ride will be a slow paced trip and will take approximately 3 hours total time. Don’t have a bike? Not a problem. An anonymous donor will provide one for those who need it. Contact Tom Dresser 445.6000 or sign up on the web: http://www.ForumChristian.org/401459.ihtml.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Aug. 23, when we’ll host Show- Me Christian Youth Home at the Forum South Campus. You can pick up a name in the foyer and purchase new school clothes for children in need. The purchases, which should be returned to the church by Aug. 16, will be given to the kids when they visit Forum on Aug. 23.
On August 28 and 29 Christian Fellowship Church is hosting a Living Proof Live Simulcast featuring Beth Moore. Tickets are $20 and include admission to both days. Limited tickets are available at the Forum Christian Church office. You can also pick them up on Sunday mornings in August at the Information Center while supplies last.
We are also excited to have Brice and Amanda Wurdeman with us this weekend. At the beginning of each service at South and North, Brice will share a little bit about some of the tough choices that he and his family have made during their mission work in Haiti. Also, we hope that you will come back to South Campus for an ice cream social with Brice and Amanda at 6 p.m. — Scott
Upcoming Events:
On August 1 at 8 a.m., you have the opportunity to participate in a bike ride on the Katy Trail. This scenic ride will be a slow paced trip and will take approximately 3 hours total time. Don’t have a bike? Not a problem. An anonymous donor will provide one for those who need it. Contact Tom Dresser 445.6000 or sign up on the web: http://www.ForumChristian.org/401459.ihtml.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Aug. 23, when we’ll host Show- Me Christian Youth Home at the Forum South Campus. You can pick up a name in the foyer and purchase new school clothes for children in need. The purchases, which should be returned to the church by Aug. 16, will be given to the kids when they visit Forum on Aug. 23.
On August 28 and 29 Christian Fellowship Church is hosting a Living Proof Live Simulcast featuring Beth Moore. Tickets are $20 and include admission to both days. Limited tickets are available at the Forum Christian Church office. You can also pick them up on Sunday mornings in August at the Information Center while supplies last.
Friday, July 24, 2009
e-news for week of 7/19/09
Another level of cool.
This past Sunday and this week, there seems to be a great movement from the Lord. We received emails from the Miller family letting us know that Clint (he’s chairman of our elders) baptized his daughter Emily at Truman Lake. We also got word that Marty Paten baptized his children: Hannah, Andrew, and Grant in Hinkson Creek Sunday as well. My oldest son Parker called from the Christ in Youth event and he communicated that two of the teens were making decisions to give their lives to Christ. Please continue to pray for a revival within Columbia and for these young people as they grow in the Lord.
Thank you for your prayers for Paxton Spencer. I spoke to Freddy Spencer tonight (Thursday) and Paxton has had a good week. He had his second heart surgery on Monday. Lord willing, he’ll move to a regular room soon.
This Sunday we start a brand new sermon series called “Multiple Choice.” Friends, this is going to be an off the chart series on godly decision making. Do you realize that Jesus was the smartest person that ever set foot on the planet? Taking our cues from God when it comes to decision making is in our best interest.
I’m also happy to communicate that we are currently at $11,275 toward the ministry makeover project. As a ministry, we will wait on the Lord, His timing, and not rush/force things. Waiting on the Lord is constantly talked about through the scriptures. Initiating his own timing rather than waiting on God got Abraham into intense trouble (and us too for that matter) with the birth of Ishmael. Very frankly, our country needs to see this type of patience/perseverance/and “let’s not get in a rush and thoughtfully and prayerfully make wise choices” types of decision making, (sounds kind of like a sermon, eh?).
I also want to both highlight Stephen Walton, our worship intern, for the excellent job he is doing in the short run, in terms of keeping us on track/focused in the area of worship ministry, and to encourage you to pray for Stephen. Also, pray for us as leaders as we seek God’s lead for this area of ministry.
Upcoming Events:
On August 1 at 8 a.m., you have the opportunity to participate in a bike ride on the Katy Trail. This scenic ride will be a slow paced trip and will take approximately 3 hours total time. Don’t have a bike? Not a problem. An anonymous donor will provide one for those who need it. Contact Tom Dresser 445.6000 or sign up on the web: http://www.ForumChristian.org/401459.ihtml.
On August 2 we are having an Ice Cream Social at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Brice and Amanda Wurdeman will be our special guests. This will be a great opportunity to meet them and learn more about their mission work in Haiti.
On August 23 at 6 p.m., we will be hosting Show-Me Christian Youth Home. Each year we have names available in foyer of the children so that you can “adopt” a child and purchase new school clothes for them. The names will be available next week, August 2. Purchases should be returned to the church by August 16 and will be given to the children on Sunday night, August 23.
On August 28 and 29 Christian Fellowship Church is hosting a Living Proof Live Simulcast featuring Beth Moore. Tickets are $20 and include admission to both days. Limited tickets are available at the Forum Christian Church office. You can also pick them up on Sunday mornings in August at the Information Center while supplies last.
Let’s continue to pray for the advance of God’s kingdom. Forum people are kingdom people striving to intentionally connect people to Jesus. — Scott
This past Sunday and this week, there seems to be a great movement from the Lord. We received emails from the Miller family letting us know that Clint (he’s chairman of our elders) baptized his daughter Emily at Truman Lake. We also got word that Marty Paten baptized his children: Hannah, Andrew, and Grant in Hinkson Creek Sunday as well. My oldest son Parker called from the Christ in Youth event and he communicated that two of the teens were making decisions to give their lives to Christ. Please continue to pray for a revival within Columbia and for these young people as they grow in the Lord.
Thank you for your prayers for Paxton Spencer. I spoke to Freddy Spencer tonight (Thursday) and Paxton has had a good week. He had his second heart surgery on Monday. Lord willing, he’ll move to a regular room soon.
This Sunday we start a brand new sermon series called “Multiple Choice.” Friends, this is going to be an off the chart series on godly decision making. Do you realize that Jesus was the smartest person that ever set foot on the planet? Taking our cues from God when it comes to decision making is in our best interest.
I’m also happy to communicate that we are currently at $11,275 toward the ministry makeover project. As a ministry, we will wait on the Lord, His timing, and not rush/force things. Waiting on the Lord is constantly talked about through the scriptures. Initiating his own timing rather than waiting on God got Abraham into intense trouble (and us too for that matter) with the birth of Ishmael. Very frankly, our country needs to see this type of patience/perseverance/and “let’s not get in a rush and thoughtfully and prayerfully make wise choices” types of decision making, (sounds kind of like a sermon, eh?).
I also want to both highlight Stephen Walton, our worship intern, for the excellent job he is doing in the short run, in terms of keeping us on track/focused in the area of worship ministry, and to encourage you to pray for Stephen. Also, pray for us as leaders as we seek God’s lead for this area of ministry.
Upcoming Events:
On August 1 at 8 a.m., you have the opportunity to participate in a bike ride on the Katy Trail. This scenic ride will be a slow paced trip and will take approximately 3 hours total time. Don’t have a bike? Not a problem. An anonymous donor will provide one for those who need it. Contact Tom Dresser 445.6000 or sign up on the web: http://www.ForumChristian.org/401459.ihtml.
On August 2 we are having an Ice Cream Social at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Brice and Amanda Wurdeman will be our special guests. This will be a great opportunity to meet them and learn more about their mission work in Haiti.
On August 23 at 6 p.m., we will be hosting Show-Me Christian Youth Home. Each year we have names available in foyer of the children so that you can “adopt” a child and purchase new school clothes for them. The names will be available next week, August 2. Purchases should be returned to the church by August 16 and will be given to the children on Sunday night, August 23.
On August 28 and 29 Christian Fellowship Church is hosting a Living Proof Live Simulcast featuring Beth Moore. Tickets are $20 and include admission to both days. Limited tickets are available at the Forum Christian Church office. You can also pick them up on Sunday mornings in August at the Information Center while supplies last.
Let’s continue to pray for the advance of God’s kingdom. Forum people are kingdom people striving to intentionally connect people to Jesus. — Scott
Thursday, July 16, 2009
e-news for 7/12/09
The Cool Continues.
During third service one of our teens, Tony Bradshaw, baptized Bailey Turner into Christ. After the service, Susae Griffith came forward and confessed Jesus as Lord and was baptized (fully in her clothes). Tuesday Josh and Julie Hawley were baptized by Ted Mountjoy.
Thanks for the great feedback from this series. God’s word challenges and liberates. This Sunday we’ll all be challenged toward new levels of being like Christ. We finish out the real life, real people, real answers series. Study James 5: 13-20 if you want to read ahead (Matthew 18: 15-20, and Luke 17: 1-4 will give you some additional background). Giving you the heads up – this Sunday in second and third services – please be on time.
Some important details:
1. During our search period connected to the worship ministry – we’ll continue to focus on Jesus. Stephen Walton – who is our summer intern – will be helping to coordinate and orchestrate details. Stephen is an exceptional young man. Last Tuesday in staff meeting I turned to him and said, “So.... welcome to your internship.” As a church body, let’s lift Stephen up as he helps each of us intentionally connect to God during our times of worship together.
2. This Saturday we’ll continue working on the Habitat for Humanity project. You can sign up on the church website, forumchristian.org
3. Need to give a plug for the remodeling project – we’ve received around $3500 so far. We’ll plan a designated giving Sunday in September to help jumpstart this project. We’ll keep you updated as we strive together toward this.
It’s a joy to serve you as a church body. Please keep the elders and staff in prayer as we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus. — Scott
During third service one of our teens, Tony Bradshaw, baptized Bailey Turner into Christ. After the service, Susae Griffith came forward and confessed Jesus as Lord and was baptized (fully in her clothes). Tuesday Josh and Julie Hawley were baptized by Ted Mountjoy.
Thanks for the great feedback from this series. God’s word challenges and liberates. This Sunday we’ll all be challenged toward new levels of being like Christ. We finish out the real life, real people, real answers series. Study James 5: 13-20 if you want to read ahead (Matthew 18: 15-20, and Luke 17: 1-4 will give you some additional background). Giving you the heads up – this Sunday in second and third services – please be on time.
Some important details:
1. During our search period connected to the worship ministry – we’ll continue to focus on Jesus. Stephen Walton – who is our summer intern – will be helping to coordinate and orchestrate details. Stephen is an exceptional young man. Last Tuesday in staff meeting I turned to him and said, “So.... welcome to your internship.” As a church body, let’s lift Stephen up as he helps each of us intentionally connect to God during our times of worship together.
2. This Saturday we’ll continue working on the Habitat for Humanity project. You can sign up on the church website, forumchristian.org
3. Need to give a plug for the remodeling project – we’ve received around $3500 so far. We’ll plan a designated giving Sunday in September to help jumpstart this project. We’ll keep you updated as we strive together toward this.
It’s a joy to serve you as a church body. Please keep the elders and staff in prayer as we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus. — Scott
Friday, July 10, 2009
e-news for week of 7/5/09
This past week we had a couple passing through town on their way to Colorado. As I introduced myself to him, he said, “Do you want to know why we are at your church?” Frankly, I’m always all ears in terms of hearing why people choose Forum. He said, “We saw your group of teenagers working so hard in that hot Memphis weather a couple of weeks ago, and we knew we were coming through, so we got your information off of the church van and we came today.” He went on, “You’ve sure got a friendly church.”
I couldn’t agree more.
It was also thrilling that Kevin Shearon was baptized in Bass Pro Lake last Sunday. We’ll try to share footage of that this Sunday.
We strive to be a church that Jesus would want to attend. A church that resembles his body. A church that intentionally connects people to him. A church filled with the teaching of Jesus. A church filled with praise. A church comprised of all ethnicities, all societal backgrounds A church where a CEO and a janitor could worship together, know one another, love one another, and encourage one another.
As we continue in the real life, real people, real answers series, I’d encourage you to read James 5: 1-12 as we look at balancing our lives.
My friends, it’s been a very hard week. The elders received and accepted a resignation letter from Bill Fussner. This decision is best both for Bill and the ministry of Forum. There’s not a bigger fan of Bill than this minister. His contribution to this ministry has been invaluable.
Here’s the deal, our goal this Sunday (and every Sunday for that matter) is to worship Christ. Frankly, we need to put the book of James into practice and control our tongues, not ask curiosity question, and stay focused on Christ. I’m encouraging all to arrive this Sunday ready to worship, ready to hear from God, and ready to be that friendly church that people go out of their way to attend on their way to Colorado.
I can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. - Scott
I couldn’t agree more.
It was also thrilling that Kevin Shearon was baptized in Bass Pro Lake last Sunday. We’ll try to share footage of that this Sunday.
We strive to be a church that Jesus would want to attend. A church that resembles his body. A church that intentionally connects people to him. A church filled with the teaching of Jesus. A church filled with praise. A church comprised of all ethnicities, all societal backgrounds A church where a CEO and a janitor could worship together, know one another, love one another, and encourage one another.
As we continue in the real life, real people, real answers series, I’d encourage you to read James 5: 1-12 as we look at balancing our lives.
My friends, it’s been a very hard week. The elders received and accepted a resignation letter from Bill Fussner. This decision is best both for Bill and the ministry of Forum. There’s not a bigger fan of Bill than this minister. His contribution to this ministry has been invaluable.
Here’s the deal, our goal this Sunday (and every Sunday for that matter) is to worship Christ. Frankly, we need to put the book of James into practice and control our tongues, not ask curiosity question, and stay focused on Christ. I’m encouraging all to arrive this Sunday ready to worship, ready to hear from God, and ready to be that friendly church that people go out of their way to attend on their way to Colorado.
I can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. - Scott
Thursday, July 2, 2009
e-news for week of 6/28/09
The Temptations sang, “It was just my imagination….running away with me…”
Paul wrote, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3: 20, 21)
When the founders of our nation came here seeking religious liberty and freedom – do you think they imagined this great nation? A nation – where at the heart of the architecture – the concept of the freedom God intended for us drove the founders. I recognize and acknowledge many strive to remove God from our country as well as our world – but I have good news to share – He’s here to stay whether anyone wants to acknowledge Him or not. He’s the Eternal King of kings and the Lord of lords. He’s on the throne of the universe, and quite frankly, He’s there to stay. Whether you bend your knee to Him or yield your heart to Him is up to you.
When we started the north campus 4 months ago – some imagination, prayer, and dreaming had gone into it. What, Lord willing, is going to happen Sunday is something our elders, staff, and I believe our Lord imagined and intended. Last week, Kevin Shearon stepped forward during the last song to say, “Yes” to Jesus Christ. This Sunday, with the permission of Bass Pro, we’ll baptize Kevin in the lake there next to the Hilton at 11 to begin the morning of worship. If you attend north campus, park and just take cues from people near the lake and let’s celebrate this together.
Seeds of the gospel sown in faith yielding a harvest. Are you sowing? Are you imagining? Are you praying?
There’s a lot of exciting, Spirit-driven things going on all over the place within you as a church body. Let me encourage you to dial in to God and sow seeds of faith. I wish I had 5 or 6 pages to write of some of the great things God is doing in this church body.
This Sunday we continue in the “Real life…real people…real answers” series talking about God’s will within your life. I can’t wait.
Celebrate the 4th in fashion – pray for our troops – pray for our country and our elected leaders – then come and celebrate real freedom on Sunday. — Scott
Paul wrote, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3: 20, 21)
When the founders of our nation came here seeking religious liberty and freedom – do you think they imagined this great nation? A nation – where at the heart of the architecture – the concept of the freedom God intended for us drove the founders. I recognize and acknowledge many strive to remove God from our country as well as our world – but I have good news to share – He’s here to stay whether anyone wants to acknowledge Him or not. He’s the Eternal King of kings and the Lord of lords. He’s on the throne of the universe, and quite frankly, He’s there to stay. Whether you bend your knee to Him or yield your heart to Him is up to you.
When we started the north campus 4 months ago – some imagination, prayer, and dreaming had gone into it. What, Lord willing, is going to happen Sunday is something our elders, staff, and I believe our Lord imagined and intended. Last week, Kevin Shearon stepped forward during the last song to say, “Yes” to Jesus Christ. This Sunday, with the permission of Bass Pro, we’ll baptize Kevin in the lake there next to the Hilton at 11 to begin the morning of worship. If you attend north campus, park and just take cues from people near the lake and let’s celebrate this together.
Seeds of the gospel sown in faith yielding a harvest. Are you sowing? Are you imagining? Are you praying?
There’s a lot of exciting, Spirit-driven things going on all over the place within you as a church body. Let me encourage you to dial in to God and sow seeds of faith. I wish I had 5 or 6 pages to write of some of the great things God is doing in this church body.
This Sunday we continue in the “Real life…real people…real answers” series talking about God’s will within your life. I can’t wait.
Celebrate the 4th in fashion – pray for our troops – pray for our country and our elected leaders – then come and celebrate real freedom on Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, June 25, 2009
e-news for week of 6/21/09
Revival.
This simple word conjures up many images for people. For some, the image draws to mind a big tent - a lot of heat - with lots of sweat and hellfire. For others it may cause you to think of “fill a pew night.” Still some may think of a specific evangelist.
But true revivals were not events - they were much deeper than that. True revivals happen when people humble themselves before the Lord. A stirring occurs in hearts - conviction takes place - and lives are fully yielded to God.
This weekend has the potential to be a mini-revival for you if you allow the word of the Lord to sink in and penetrate your heart. I hope a stirring occurs in your heart and the word of God will compel you to a new level in your walk with Christ.
I want to continue to praise our youth ministry team this summer. From what I can tell, our children and youth are having a great summer so far. Let me encourage you to lift up our staff, especially the youth and children’s ministers, in prayer.
Saturday, June 27 - Habitat for Humanity work day. We will be carpooling from the church. Meet at 7:45 a.m. and we will leave at 8:00 a.m. If you want to drive directly to the job site, the address is 2703 McClure Rd. You do not need to bring tools, they will be provided.
See you Sunday. — Scott
This simple word conjures up many images for people. For some, the image draws to mind a big tent - a lot of heat - with lots of sweat and hellfire. For others it may cause you to think of “fill a pew night.” Still some may think of a specific evangelist.
But true revivals were not events - they were much deeper than that. True revivals happen when people humble themselves before the Lord. A stirring occurs in hearts - conviction takes place - and lives are fully yielded to God.
This weekend has the potential to be a mini-revival for you if you allow the word of the Lord to sink in and penetrate your heart. I hope a stirring occurs in your heart and the word of God will compel you to a new level in your walk with Christ.
I want to continue to praise our youth ministry team this summer. From what I can tell, our children and youth are having a great summer so far. Let me encourage you to lift up our staff, especially the youth and children’s ministers, in prayer.
Saturday, June 27 - Habitat for Humanity work day. We will be carpooling from the church. Meet at 7:45 a.m. and we will leave at 8:00 a.m. If you want to drive directly to the job site, the address is 2703 McClure Rd. You do not need to bring tools, they will be provided.
See you Sunday. — Scott
Thursday, June 18, 2009
e-news for week of 6/14/09
As I write this, I’m with our teenagers in Memphis where they are on a trip with a mission. They are serving with Union Mission and Mid-South Christian College. Let me tell you how proud I am of our teens in that they are just flat-out hard workers.
I am really wrestling with words, thoughts, and emotions right now. Let me share with you my positive thoughts:
Forum Rocks!
Over the past two weeks the ministry of Forum has given thousands of pounds of food, clothing, laundry soap, etc. to the Salvation Army and the Missouri Food Bank. We have given money to Central India Christian Mission (over $2500) and to our youth ministry for the mission trip to Memphis (almost $2000). We have had Vacation Bible School, the youth mission trip to Memphis, multiple Junior High events, as well as continuing to have worship on 2 campuses.
This week, we’ll put in front of you our “Ministry Makeover” plan. This is an important element geared for growth for our church.
We’ll continue our partnering with Habitat for Humanity and serve on June 27th.
We’ll help provide volunteers for the “Show-Me” State games.
Now let me share with you my only concern:
Here’s why I wrestle with my thoughts and mixed emotions – I get a little concerned that we fall into an activity trap with lots of great things that we are striving to do and lose sight of the main thing: to intentionally connect people to Jesus. Personally, I can get so busy “doing” (a good thing – a thing that the book of James encourages) that I lose sight of “Why am I doing this?” I know it’s subtle – but life is subtle. A plane being just one degree off course will miss the airport.
This Sunday, we’ll continue in our “Real life…” series talking about having a “Smart life.” Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
SHOW-ME STATE GAMES Volunteers
July 16-19, July 24-26, July 31 - August 2
It’s not too late to volunteer. Sign-up forms are available at www.smsg.org/volunteer/volunteer.php or the sign-up center. Return completed forms to the sign-up center Sunday. Contact Marlowe Schlegel, marlowe@forumchristian.org or 489-0105 for further info.
I am really wrestling with words, thoughts, and emotions right now. Let me share with you my positive thoughts:
Forum Rocks!
Over the past two weeks the ministry of Forum has given thousands of pounds of food, clothing, laundry soap, etc. to the Salvation Army and the Missouri Food Bank. We have given money to Central India Christian Mission (over $2500) and to our youth ministry for the mission trip to Memphis (almost $2000). We have had Vacation Bible School, the youth mission trip to Memphis, multiple Junior High events, as well as continuing to have worship on 2 campuses.
This week, we’ll put in front of you our “Ministry Makeover” plan. This is an important element geared for growth for our church.
We’ll continue our partnering with Habitat for Humanity and serve on June 27th.
We’ll help provide volunteers for the “Show-Me” State games.
Now let me share with you my only concern:
Here’s why I wrestle with my thoughts and mixed emotions – I get a little concerned that we fall into an activity trap with lots of great things that we are striving to do and lose sight of the main thing: to intentionally connect people to Jesus. Personally, I can get so busy “doing” (a good thing – a thing that the book of James encourages) that I lose sight of “Why am I doing this?” I know it’s subtle – but life is subtle. A plane being just one degree off course will miss the airport.
This Sunday, we’ll continue in our “Real life…” series talking about having a “Smart life.” Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. — Scott
SHOW-ME STATE GAMES Volunteers
July 16-19, July 24-26, July 31 - August 2
It’s not too late to volunteer. Sign-up forms are available at www.smsg.org/volunteer/volunteer.php or the sign-up center. Return completed forms to the sign-up center Sunday. Contact Marlowe Schlegel, marlowe@forumchristian.org or 489-0105 for further info.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
e-news for week of 6/7/09
The longer I’m at Forum – the more I fall in love with this church body for a lot of reasons. I realize that I get to see elements of this church that no one else sees – but in many cases – that can be a blessing or a curse, right? In this case, it’s a huge blessing. I see service rendered by servants who love Jesus. I see leaders leading to intentionally connect people to Jesus. I see people growing as disciples of Jesus. I see people pouring their lives into children in the name of Jesus. I see Life Groups ministering to and growing one another. We hear about the results of the missionaries we support globally. That’s just the short list.
I’m not a hindsight kind of a guy – but as I wrote this article and saved it as “June 11, 2009” I noticed an article named “June 11, 2008” and thought, “Hmmm…wonder what we were talking about last year – here’s a portion:
…in a nutshell, let me give you a quick update: the second campus is targeted to start on March 1, 2008. There is a team of people who are working on finding and securing a site on the northern end of town where the campus will meet. We will have an over and above sacrificial giving effort this fall that will go toward funding this aggressive step to intentionally connect people to Jesus. There will be a brochure coming out in the very near future that will address some of the questions you might have. In the fall, we will have an intense time of focus, prayer, mobilization, training for those who are moved to serve at the new campus and – hopefully –one great worship opportunity where all of the nearly 1200 members of Forum can gather under one roof at one moment.
I realize and know that is a lot of information – people continue to ask me right now – what is the best thing I can do right now? Very simply – you can pray. I don’t mean that tritely. This is a God sized project that I believe God has led us toward. I believe this is one step toward making a significant kingdom of God impact in Columbia. I was telling our staff – right now the key is for all of us as a staff, as a body, as leaders, etc. to strive to “peak” at the right time. If we peak too early – when it comes time for the launch – we’ll be all ready to go in the middle of winter with the launch 3 months away. If we dawdle, lag, and foot drag – it’ll be March of 2009 and we’ll not be fully prepared. Our simple prayer needs to be: God, we want to be in step with you – not out in front of you, not lagging behind, but Lord – may we be in step, in sync with You.
Does God answer prayer? Both campuses continue to intentionally connect people to Jesus. Let us be faithful to His vision and orchestration.
Thanks for the ongoing response to this sermon series. It’s challenging all of us to become like Christ. Let me encourage you – look in the mirror. Isn’t it great to know though that God knows us so well that He identifies our common “Real life” issues and gives us “Real Life” answers? This week will be no exception. Don’t wear open toed shoes (spiritually and emotionally speaking) in that this section of scripture can really step on toes. I hope to preach in sandals so that you know that it’s a self inflicted toe stomping going on. You may want to attend a different service than your spouse or your children. I would also encourage you not to miss this week in that the potential for personal growth is great.
Here’s the deal – if we allow this to sink in, to germinate, to cause change, and for each of us to implement it – I promise you – your life will soar. Big promise, right? Many of our greatest accomplishments arise out of our greatest challenges, don’t they?
I want to thank Katelyn Morris (our Children’s Director), Jessie Spellman (our Preschool Director) and Jody Riley (our Jr. High Minister) for putting together a great Vacation Bible school. The kids seem to really be having a great time as well as deepening their lives in Christ. And don’t forget that Friday night at 6:15 will be the Seeds Family Worship concert to finish off a great week. So even if you haven’t been able to make it to VBS this week, don’t miss this great family worship time.
Next week we’re going to roll out brochures and information connected to our “Ministry Makeover” within our preschool, children’s, youth, and adult areas within the building. Keep this project in your thoughts and prayers.
See you Sunday. — Scott
I’m not a hindsight kind of a guy – but as I wrote this article and saved it as “June 11, 2009” I noticed an article named “June 11, 2008” and thought, “Hmmm…wonder what we were talking about last year – here’s a portion:
…in a nutshell, let me give you a quick update: the second campus is targeted to start on March 1, 2008. There is a team of people who are working on finding and securing a site on the northern end of town where the campus will meet. We will have an over and above sacrificial giving effort this fall that will go toward funding this aggressive step to intentionally connect people to Jesus. There will be a brochure coming out in the very near future that will address some of the questions you might have. In the fall, we will have an intense time of focus, prayer, mobilization, training for those who are moved to serve at the new campus and – hopefully –one great worship opportunity where all of the nearly 1200 members of Forum can gather under one roof at one moment.
I realize and know that is a lot of information – people continue to ask me right now – what is the best thing I can do right now? Very simply – you can pray. I don’t mean that tritely. This is a God sized project that I believe God has led us toward. I believe this is one step toward making a significant kingdom of God impact in Columbia. I was telling our staff – right now the key is for all of us as a staff, as a body, as leaders, etc. to strive to “peak” at the right time. If we peak too early – when it comes time for the launch – we’ll be all ready to go in the middle of winter with the launch 3 months away. If we dawdle, lag, and foot drag – it’ll be March of 2009 and we’ll not be fully prepared. Our simple prayer needs to be: God, we want to be in step with you – not out in front of you, not lagging behind, but Lord – may we be in step, in sync with You.
Does God answer prayer? Both campuses continue to intentionally connect people to Jesus. Let us be faithful to His vision and orchestration.
Thanks for the ongoing response to this sermon series. It’s challenging all of us to become like Christ. Let me encourage you – look in the mirror. Isn’t it great to know though that God knows us so well that He identifies our common “Real life” issues and gives us “Real Life” answers? This week will be no exception. Don’t wear open toed shoes (spiritually and emotionally speaking) in that this section of scripture can really step on toes. I hope to preach in sandals so that you know that it’s a self inflicted toe stomping going on. You may want to attend a different service than your spouse or your children. I would also encourage you not to miss this week in that the potential for personal growth is great.
Here’s the deal – if we allow this to sink in, to germinate, to cause change, and for each of us to implement it – I promise you – your life will soar. Big promise, right? Many of our greatest accomplishments arise out of our greatest challenges, don’t they?
I want to thank Katelyn Morris (our Children’s Director), Jessie Spellman (our Preschool Director) and Jody Riley (our Jr. High Minister) for putting together a great Vacation Bible school. The kids seem to really be having a great time as well as deepening their lives in Christ. And don’t forget that Friday night at 6:15 will be the Seeds Family Worship concert to finish off a great week. So even if you haven’t been able to make it to VBS this week, don’t miss this great family worship time.
Next week we’re going to roll out brochures and information connected to our “Ministry Makeover” within our preschool, children’s, youth, and adult areas within the building. Keep this project in your thoughts and prayers.
See you Sunday. — Scott
Friday, June 5, 2009
e-news for week of 5/31/09
You’re going to hear this a lot from me. It shouldn’t be a new concept – but for whatever reason, it struck me fresh. Jesus is the smartest person that ever lived. I’m not talking about just the wisest – but rather – the smartest. Whatever field of study you are in – he’s first in your field. Smartest person that ever lived and ever will live.
Think about it.
The smartest.
His body of knowledge is unparallel and unexcelled. Smartest person who ever lived.
Get this: the smartest person invites you to be his apprentice and learn life from him. Are you going to take him up on it?
As we continue in the Real Life…Real People…Real Answers we continue on in James 2: 14-26 this week. We have a homework assignment for you this week – clear out clothes you are no longer using and give them away to the Salvation Army. We will be helping Harbor House (a family shelter) with clothing, laundry soap, and adult bikes. We will have collection locations at both campuses. Friends – this completely aligns with God’s word for us for the day – go ahead and read it ahead of time.
Over the next month, you’ll receive detailed information about internal facility changes and upgrades that need to be made to better facilitate ministry. Facilities facilitate. We want to help our facility better facilitate ministry especially to our children. With utmost clarity – the primary reason we are doing this is to help our children’s and youth ministry to do better ministry. We have good facilities now – we want to take it up a notch. Overall, this project will cost about $50,000. The elders decided that when the first $20,000 comes in, we will then begin the upgrades.
Next Tuesday starts our Vacation Bible School program. Katelyn and Jessie have an outstanding program planned for 4 year olds through 5th grade. They are encouraging family participation as they study different aspects of worship. The theme for the week is Worship Is… We will finish on Friday with a special concert by Seeds Family Worship. You won’t want to miss this!
Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday – see you then. Scott
Think about it.
The smartest.
His body of knowledge is unparallel and unexcelled. Smartest person who ever lived.
Get this: the smartest person invites you to be his apprentice and learn life from him. Are you going to take him up on it?
As we continue in the Real Life…Real People…Real Answers we continue on in James 2: 14-26 this week. We have a homework assignment for you this week – clear out clothes you are no longer using and give them away to the Salvation Army. We will be helping Harbor House (a family shelter) with clothing, laundry soap, and adult bikes. We will have collection locations at both campuses. Friends – this completely aligns with God’s word for us for the day – go ahead and read it ahead of time.
Over the next month, you’ll receive detailed information about internal facility changes and upgrades that need to be made to better facilitate ministry. Facilities facilitate. We want to help our facility better facilitate ministry especially to our children. With utmost clarity – the primary reason we are doing this is to help our children’s and youth ministry to do better ministry. We have good facilities now – we want to take it up a notch. Overall, this project will cost about $50,000. The elders decided that when the first $20,000 comes in, we will then begin the upgrades.
Next Tuesday starts our Vacation Bible School program. Katelyn and Jessie have an outstanding program planned for 4 year olds through 5th grade. They are encouraging family participation as they study different aspects of worship. The theme for the week is Worship Is… We will finish on Friday with a special concert by Seeds Family Worship. You won’t want to miss this!
Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday – see you then. Scott
Friday, May 29, 2009
e-news for week of 5/24/09
I recently read this statement from one of our mega-church pastors out west from his monthly article in connection to our efforts toward world evangelism:
“I’m wondering who will reach Post-Christian America…will the American Church be able to carry out its mission on its own soil?”
Coming from a minister in what most would consider a thriving, growing ministry – this is quite a haunting question. The American church stands at a multicultural, pluralistic, non-propositional truth crossroads. As an individual within the church, let me help you to know what you can do about it on a personal level:
You can live intentionally for Jesus Christ. Here’s an example of some of our church body who are living intentionally for Jesus: I spoke at the north campus on May 24. A woman attended for the first time on that Sunday. She recently relocated with Menards. When asked how she found Forum she said, “Well, I just work right there and 3 different people invited me to come to this church. Sometimes it takes God hitting me upside the head, but I said to Him, ‘Okay, I get it – I’ll be there Sunday.’” Way to go gang – that’s intentionally helping connect someone.
As a church, we are striving to be more and more intentional. It’s one of the reasons we will upgrade our children’s and youth areas in the facility. We will continue to improve, upgrade, reach out, get more connected to our community, and strive to get more people connected to God and connected to one another. We want to live the verse, “Love God…Love one another.” That defines the intentional connection we work toward.
Some great things happening this summer. Here are some upcoming options:
Salvation Army Day – June 7th at both campuses. We will be helping Harbor House (a family shelter) by collecting clothes, laundry soap, and adult bikes. There will be collection locations at both campuses. Here’s a great opportunity for a late spring cleaning and helping others at the same time!
Vacation Bible School — June 9 – 12 from 6:15 to 8:30 each night at the South Campus. This is a family event for ages 4 through 5th grade. The theme is Worship Is… and each night will focus on a different form of worship. Friday will close with Seeds Family Worship. You won’t want to miss this great opportunity to learn and sing songs straight from scripture. You can preregister on our Web site or at either of our campuses.
Youth Mission Trip luncheon — June 14 right after 3rd service at the South Campus. This annual spaghetti dinner helps provide our youth with the needed funds to make a trip to Memphis to help out with Mid-South Bible College and with Memphis Union Mission homeless shelter. Please support this mission trip and enjoy a delicious spaghetti dinner as well.
Adult Mission Trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry — June 14 right after 3rd service at South Campus there will be an informational meeting in room 212 concerning this trip. The trip is scheduled for October 10 – 23. If you would like to participate in the mission trip, please make it a point to attend this meeting.
Habitat for Humanity work day — June 20. If you would like to help out, you can go to our Web site and register.
Summer Life Groups — We have several opportunities for summer life groups. You can pick up a information card at the Information Center at South Campus or in the fellowship area at North Campus. You can also register on our Web site.
Outdoor Movie Family Night for K – 5th Grade — Friday, June 26, 7 p.m. at South Campus. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and plenty of bug spray! Contact Katelyn if you have any questions.
A lot of great options – throw in and get involved when you can. We know summer is busy but simultaneously, serving the Lord is not a chore. It’s a joy when you do things out of choice – not compulsion.
This Sunday we continue in the “Real life…” series talking about the ability to see and have the vision of God. What a great opportunity to grow to be like Jesus. Hope you are here — Scott
“I’m wondering who will reach Post-Christian America…will the American Church be able to carry out its mission on its own soil?”
Coming from a minister in what most would consider a thriving, growing ministry – this is quite a haunting question. The American church stands at a multicultural, pluralistic, non-propositional truth crossroads. As an individual within the church, let me help you to know what you can do about it on a personal level:
You can live intentionally for Jesus Christ. Here’s an example of some of our church body who are living intentionally for Jesus: I spoke at the north campus on May 24. A woman attended for the first time on that Sunday. She recently relocated with Menards. When asked how she found Forum she said, “Well, I just work right there and 3 different people invited me to come to this church. Sometimes it takes God hitting me upside the head, but I said to Him, ‘Okay, I get it – I’ll be there Sunday.’” Way to go gang – that’s intentionally helping connect someone.
As a church, we are striving to be more and more intentional. It’s one of the reasons we will upgrade our children’s and youth areas in the facility. We will continue to improve, upgrade, reach out, get more connected to our community, and strive to get more people connected to God and connected to one another. We want to live the verse, “Love God…Love one another.” That defines the intentional connection we work toward.
Some great things happening this summer. Here are some upcoming options:
Salvation Army Day – June 7th at both campuses. We will be helping Harbor House (a family shelter) by collecting clothes, laundry soap, and adult bikes. There will be collection locations at both campuses. Here’s a great opportunity for a late spring cleaning and helping others at the same time!
Vacation Bible School — June 9 – 12 from 6:15 to 8:30 each night at the South Campus. This is a family event for ages 4 through 5th grade. The theme is Worship Is… and each night will focus on a different form of worship. Friday will close with Seeds Family Worship. You won’t want to miss this great opportunity to learn and sing songs straight from scripture. You can preregister on our Web site or at either of our campuses.
Youth Mission Trip luncheon — June 14 right after 3rd service at the South Campus. This annual spaghetti dinner helps provide our youth with the needed funds to make a trip to Memphis to help out with Mid-South Bible College and with Memphis Union Mission homeless shelter. Please support this mission trip and enjoy a delicious spaghetti dinner as well.
Adult Mission Trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry — June 14 right after 3rd service at South Campus there will be an informational meeting in room 212 concerning this trip. The trip is scheduled for October 10 – 23. If you would like to participate in the mission trip, please make it a point to attend this meeting.
Habitat for Humanity work day — June 20. If you would like to help out, you can go to our Web site and register.
Summer Life Groups — We have several opportunities for summer life groups. You can pick up a information card at the Information Center at South Campus or in the fellowship area at North Campus. You can also register on our Web site.
Outdoor Movie Family Night for K – 5th Grade — Friday, June 26, 7 p.m. at South Campus. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and plenty of bug spray! Contact Katelyn if you have any questions.
A lot of great options – throw in and get involved when you can. We know summer is busy but simultaneously, serving the Lord is not a chore. It’s a joy when you do things out of choice – not compulsion.
This Sunday we continue in the “Real life…” series talking about the ability to see and have the vision of God. What a great opportunity to grow to be like Jesus. Hope you are here — Scott
Thursday, May 21, 2009
e-news for week of 5/17
Thanks for the response so far to the new series, “Real life…” As you look in the mirror each morning, I would encourage you to take a moment of silence right then to reflect on the day ahead of you and how you will live it for Jesus. We continue this week finishing out the first chapter of James focusing on having faith that leaps into action.
Toward that end, as a ministry we are striving to intentionally do more within the community of Columbia, striving to live for God’s glory. On June 7 in conjunction with the sermon that day that will look at the scripture in James 2 that says: Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? The Salvation Army will be here that day for a soap, soup, and clothes drive at both campuses. As we get closer to the day we’ll get you more details.
We are at some of those pivot points as a ministry with our youth about to go through promotion time the first Sunday in June as well. Our elementary through high school children move up into the grade they are going into next year. Each year, when this happens many parents will “promote” with their children in terms of teaching, serving, and helping leaving us with opportunities for new parents to step up into these roles. If you are interested in serving, please contact Katelyn Morris or Jessie Spellman to help serve.
I would encourage you to check out the Forum Connection that came online yesterday for some of the summer options available for you. Check it out on the website, ForumChristian.org, under resources.
I’m looking forward to a great summer. Here are some of the ministry options that are coming up:
Camp Wallaballa - Our K - 5th grade choir has been hard at work on this musical presentation. Join us Sunday, May 31 at 6 p.m. at south campus auditorium for their premier performance.
Worship Is... - Vacation Bible School will be held, June 9 - 12, from 6:15 - 8 p.m. at the south campus. This year, VBS is taking on a new “look.” It is geared for the whole family. We will learn different ways of worshiping our Lord and have a great time doing it. The four days will end with a special concert presented by “Seeds Family Worship.” Katelyn and Jessie would love to have your help with this exciting event.
Summer Bible Study - Women’s Bible Study will be June 17 - July 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. in room 104/106. Childcare will be provided. The series, by Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, and Beth Moore is: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed. It is a study on David.
See you Sunday — Scott
Toward that end, as a ministry we are striving to intentionally do more within the community of Columbia, striving to live for God’s glory. On June 7 in conjunction with the sermon that day that will look at the scripture in James 2 that says: Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? The Salvation Army will be here that day for a soap, soup, and clothes drive at both campuses. As we get closer to the day we’ll get you more details.
We are at some of those pivot points as a ministry with our youth about to go through promotion time the first Sunday in June as well. Our elementary through high school children move up into the grade they are going into next year. Each year, when this happens many parents will “promote” with their children in terms of teaching, serving, and helping leaving us with opportunities for new parents to step up into these roles. If you are interested in serving, please contact Katelyn Morris or Jessie Spellman to help serve.
I would encourage you to check out the Forum Connection that came online yesterday for some of the summer options available for you. Check it out on the website, ForumChristian.org, under resources.
I’m looking forward to a great summer. Here are some of the ministry options that are coming up:
Camp Wallaballa - Our K - 5th grade choir has been hard at work on this musical presentation. Join us Sunday, May 31 at 6 p.m. at south campus auditorium for their premier performance.
Worship Is... - Vacation Bible School will be held, June 9 - 12, from 6:15 - 8 p.m. at the south campus. This year, VBS is taking on a new “look.” It is geared for the whole family. We will learn different ways of worshiping our Lord and have a great time doing it. The four days will end with a special concert presented by “Seeds Family Worship.” Katelyn and Jessie would love to have your help with this exciting event.
Summer Bible Study - Women’s Bible Study will be June 17 - July 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. in room 104/106. Childcare will be provided. The series, by Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, and Beth Moore is: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed. It is a study on David.
See you Sunday — Scott
Friday, May 15, 2009
e-news for week of 5/10/09
I’m writing this article as food for thought.
A couple of weeks ago, a very dear saint - one of the best - Linda Fletcher - went to be with the Lord. That following Sunday, the sermon was on heaven. Many people asked if we altered the sermon due to the circumstances within the church. The answer was, “No.” Honestly, that sermon had been put into place at least since October of 2008.
This past week I announced that we were going to start work on renovation of the facility with the primary changes/alterations happening to benefit the children’s areas. This past weekend, I did the funeral for James Dudley. I communicated that we, as leaders, were moving forward by faith with this project and, while we are working on the time line we know we will need around $60,000 to accomplish this. Providentially, Mr. Dudley had asked that all memorial gifts received go to the children’s ministry area of Forum.
Friends, to me, these things are just reminders that God is in control. There’s no way on the planet that I could plan that far in advance a sermon that is that timely. There’s no way any of us could plan on a bequest being the very first gifts to come in for this project. It is just a very encouraging reminder that God is in control. That’s not just some platitude or cliché, but it is the gospel truth.
We start a new series this Sunday called, “Real life, Real people, Real answers.” I’m stoked about this series for a lot of reasons. Among the chief reasons is that the Holy Spirit of God will drive us toward Christ-likeness. Friends, as a ministry we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus. That’s what we want to occur in your life this weekend. I’m really looking forward to this series and think we have an excellent opportunity to grow together.
See you Sunday. - Scott
Here are some things that are upcoming that I would encourage you to carve out time for:
Adult Mission Trip Meeting - Sunday, right after 3rd service in room 212, there will be an informational meeting about the mission trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry in Globe, AZ., October 10-23.
Young at Heart Convention - This annual Seniors’ Convention will meet at Capital City Christian Church in Jefferson City on Thursday, May 21. Cost is $12. Contact Bill Paten if you would like to attend. Will leave south campus at 8 a.m. and return around 4 p.m.
Camp Wallaballa - Our K - 5th grade choir has been hard at work on this musical presentation. Join us Sunday, May 31 at 6 p.m. at south campus auditorium for their premier performance.
Worship Is... - Vacation Bible School will be held, June 9 - 12, from 6:15 - 8 p.m. at the south campus. This year, VBS is taking on a new “look.” It is geared for the whole family. We will learn different ways of worshiping our Lord and have a great time doing it. The four days will end with a special concert presented by “Seeds Family Worship.” Katelyn and Jessie would love to have your help with this exciting event.
Summer Bible Study - Women’s Bible Study will be June 17 - July 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. in room 104/106. Childcare will be provided. The series, by Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, and Beth Moore is: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed. It is a study on David.
A couple of weeks ago, a very dear saint - one of the best - Linda Fletcher - went to be with the Lord. That following Sunday, the sermon was on heaven. Many people asked if we altered the sermon due to the circumstances within the church. The answer was, “No.” Honestly, that sermon had been put into place at least since October of 2008.
This past week I announced that we were going to start work on renovation of the facility with the primary changes/alterations happening to benefit the children’s areas. This past weekend, I did the funeral for James Dudley. I communicated that we, as leaders, were moving forward by faith with this project and, while we are working on the time line we know we will need around $60,000 to accomplish this. Providentially, Mr. Dudley had asked that all memorial gifts received go to the children’s ministry area of Forum.
Friends, to me, these things are just reminders that God is in control. There’s no way on the planet that I could plan that far in advance a sermon that is that timely. There’s no way any of us could plan on a bequest being the very first gifts to come in for this project. It is just a very encouraging reminder that God is in control. That’s not just some platitude or cliché, but it is the gospel truth.
We start a new series this Sunday called, “Real life, Real people, Real answers.” I’m stoked about this series for a lot of reasons. Among the chief reasons is that the Holy Spirit of God will drive us toward Christ-likeness. Friends, as a ministry we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus. That’s what we want to occur in your life this weekend. I’m really looking forward to this series and think we have an excellent opportunity to grow together.
See you Sunday. - Scott
Here are some things that are upcoming that I would encourage you to carve out time for:
Adult Mission Trip Meeting - Sunday, right after 3rd service in room 212, there will be an informational meeting about the mission trip to Arizona Reservation Ministry in Globe, AZ., October 10-23.
Young at Heart Convention - This annual Seniors’ Convention will meet at Capital City Christian Church in Jefferson City on Thursday, May 21. Cost is $12. Contact Bill Paten if you would like to attend. Will leave south campus at 8 a.m. and return around 4 p.m.
Camp Wallaballa - Our K - 5th grade choir has been hard at work on this musical presentation. Join us Sunday, May 31 at 6 p.m. at south campus auditorium for their premier performance.
Worship Is... - Vacation Bible School will be held, June 9 - 12, from 6:15 - 8 p.m. at the south campus. This year, VBS is taking on a new “look.” It is geared for the whole family. We will learn different ways of worshiping our Lord and have a great time doing it. The four days will end with a special concert presented by “Seeds Family Worship.” Katelyn and Jessie would love to have your help with this exciting event.
Summer Bible Study - Women’s Bible Study will be June 17 - July 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. in room 104/106. Childcare will be provided. The series, by Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, and Beth Moore is: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed. It is a study on David.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
e-news for week of 5/3/09
Gang, I’m really stoked about this Sunday’s sermon for a lot of reasons. It is going to be a great message of encouragement and hope. Yes, it’s Mother’s Day and we want to honor our mothers. We’ll also dedicate and pray for families and their recently born children. It is also a day to encourage one another from God’s word. We finish the Mythbusters series talking about “Do angels really exist?” You are going to walk away from this message with possibly a new perspective on life and God’s involvement in your life.
May I talk about my mom for just a moment? I’m blessed to have a mom who loves Jesus Christ. She got it honest in that her parents loved Jesus Christ and passed on a heritage of faith. Mom loved my dad and though he passed nearly 12 years ago, mom still cherishes his memory. Throughout her life, mom demonstrated love, faithfulness, humor, love, honesty, and an enduring generosity toward the people that surround her. She’s a great lady and I’m honored to have such a mom. Honestly, my mom isn’t perfect; I don’t have rose colored glasses on toward her humanity, but she’s perfect for me.
I know some of you have mothers who have gone to be with the Lord, if you’d like to leave words of honor or tribute in the comment section on our blogspot (www.forumchristianupdate.blogspot.com), I would encourage you to do so. I look forward to hearing of her influence in your life.
With this being Mother’s Day, I do think this is a perfect time for me to initiate discussion for the question, “What’s next?” when it comes to the ministry of Forum. Here’s why it fits, one of the primary driving points for this is our ministry for our children and youth.
We’ve got the north campus up, running, and thriving. What’s next?
The leadership wants to make internal renovations to the south campus that will help us better utilize our current space. Broad brush strokes, we want to move the children’s areas (except the nursery) down to level 100 and make it an area used by our children and youth on Sunday morning. This will allow us to establish better check in systems, security systems, and flow for children. Simultaneously, we want to put our adults into the current areas where our preschool children meet. In order for this to occur, we’ll need funding that is over and above our budget. The elders unanimously affirmed this plan Monday night and have authorized the initial prep work to occur (architectural drawings, city approval, etc.) The overall cost for this endeavor will be around $60,000. I know we just had sacrificial giving that occurred 8 months ago. I’m not ready to put in front of you the “how” for this effort. At this point I’m just putting in front of you the “what.” So there’s no confusion, we are not going to add on to the current facility at this point. We are going to restructure and reutilize space. I know some might say, “Can’t we just do this without spending any money?” The bottom line answer is “Yes, we could.” But as a ministry, we want to perpetually do things to the best of our ability – to pursue excellence. We’ve stepped up in a lot of areas over the past year and we are on a continued trajectory of constant improvement.
If I don’t say it enough – you are a great church body that is making a big difference in Columbia. God continues to raise us up to new levels of impact. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. God’s presence – the Forum church family – that makes for a great Sunday connecting with God.
See you then, Scott
May I talk about my mom for just a moment? I’m blessed to have a mom who loves Jesus Christ. She got it honest in that her parents loved Jesus Christ and passed on a heritage of faith. Mom loved my dad and though he passed nearly 12 years ago, mom still cherishes his memory. Throughout her life, mom demonstrated love, faithfulness, humor, love, honesty, and an enduring generosity toward the people that surround her. She’s a great lady and I’m honored to have such a mom. Honestly, my mom isn’t perfect; I don’t have rose colored glasses on toward her humanity, but she’s perfect for me.
I know some of you have mothers who have gone to be with the Lord, if you’d like to leave words of honor or tribute in the comment section on our blogspot (www.forumchristianupdate.blogspot.com), I would encourage you to do so. I look forward to hearing of her influence in your life.
With this being Mother’s Day, I do think this is a perfect time for me to initiate discussion for the question, “What’s next?” when it comes to the ministry of Forum. Here’s why it fits, one of the primary driving points for this is our ministry for our children and youth.
We’ve got the north campus up, running, and thriving. What’s next?
The leadership wants to make internal renovations to the south campus that will help us better utilize our current space. Broad brush strokes, we want to move the children’s areas (except the nursery) down to level 100 and make it an area used by our children and youth on Sunday morning. This will allow us to establish better check in systems, security systems, and flow for children. Simultaneously, we want to put our adults into the current areas where our preschool children meet. In order for this to occur, we’ll need funding that is over and above our budget. The elders unanimously affirmed this plan Monday night and have authorized the initial prep work to occur (architectural drawings, city approval, etc.) The overall cost for this endeavor will be around $60,000. I know we just had sacrificial giving that occurred 8 months ago. I’m not ready to put in front of you the “how” for this effort. At this point I’m just putting in front of you the “what.” So there’s no confusion, we are not going to add on to the current facility at this point. We are going to restructure and reutilize space. I know some might say, “Can’t we just do this without spending any money?” The bottom line answer is “Yes, we could.” But as a ministry, we want to perpetually do things to the best of our ability – to pursue excellence. We’ve stepped up in a lot of areas over the past year and we are on a continued trajectory of constant improvement.
If I don’t say it enough – you are a great church body that is making a big difference in Columbia. God continues to raise us up to new levels of impact. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. God’s presence – the Forum church family – that makes for a great Sunday connecting with God.
See you then, Scott
Friday, May 1, 2009
E-news for week of 4/26/09
Forum strives to connect people to Jesus. This past year we ramped up to start a second campus and I'm pleased to say we are reaching people. The reason we do this is that God wants everyone in heaven with Him. That is His desire. He sent His only son to do this for us.
Several years ago there was a song that kind of captured the nation called, "I can only imagine." While the song may have lost a little of its luster - the message of the song hasn't. It is one of hope and encouragement. We continue this Sunday in the Mythbusters series talking about, "Is there a heaven and a hell?" Friends, when thinking about heaven I glimpse your faces, and the faces of family and friends who have gone on to be with the Lord ahead of us, all with arms raised and faces illuminated by the radiating glory of God crying out, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come." I know we will be in God's presence around His throne glowing in His light.
On the note of talking of God's promise and hope, a dear sister in Christ, Linda Fletcher went to be with the Lord this past Monday. Let me encourage you to pray for her husband Bob and her children Russ, Ted, and Nancy as well as the grandchildren and rest of her family. My friends, Linda was and is a saint who loves God. Her passing from life into life leaves a huge hole on this earth. We will miss her dearly but look forward to the blessed day of hope when we all see Jesus. What a day of rejoicing that will be! Just in case you didn't see the notice about her funeral - visitation is tonight from 5 - 8 and the funeral is Saturday at 11:00 a.m here at Forum.
There's a lot of ministry going on and emerging on the horizon:
Our elementary children are doing a musical production called, "Camp Wallaballa" on May 31 at 6:00 p.m. Get it onto your calendar and come support these young people as they serve the Lord with their talents.
We'll need Vacation Bible School workers for the week of June 9 - 12. This year's VBS looks stellar. The theme is "Worship is" and will help families learn to grow followers of God. Frankly, this is a breakthrough type of approach that we are trying and I'm so proud of Katelyn Morris and Jessie Spellman for putting this together. Rod Peterson caught me the other day and asked, "Have you heard the Seeds family worship music?" "I haven't." "We LOVE it. It is so good. I hope EVERYBODY comes to this VBS - I think it's going to be incredible...."
Everyone in the church family should have gotten the summer Forum Connection that emphasized the children's and youth areas. Even if you don't have children, please put the calendar on your fridge and pray for our young people throughout the summer. - Scott
Several years ago there was a song that kind of captured the nation called, "I can only imagine." While the song may have lost a little of its luster - the message of the song hasn't. It is one of hope and encouragement. We continue this Sunday in the Mythbusters series talking about, "Is there a heaven and a hell?" Friends, when thinking about heaven I glimpse your faces, and the faces of family and friends who have gone on to be with the Lord ahead of us, all with arms raised and faces illuminated by the radiating glory of God crying out, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come." I know we will be in God's presence around His throne glowing in His light.
On the note of talking of God's promise and hope, a dear sister in Christ, Linda Fletcher went to be with the Lord this past Monday. Let me encourage you to pray for her husband Bob and her children Russ, Ted, and Nancy as well as the grandchildren and rest of her family. My friends, Linda was and is a saint who loves God. Her passing from life into life leaves a huge hole on this earth. We will miss her dearly but look forward to the blessed day of hope when we all see Jesus. What a day of rejoicing that will be! Just in case you didn't see the notice about her funeral - visitation is tonight from 5 - 8 and the funeral is Saturday at 11:00 a.m here at Forum.
There's a lot of ministry going on and emerging on the horizon:
Our elementary children are doing a musical production called, "Camp Wallaballa" on May 31 at 6:00 p.m. Get it onto your calendar and come support these young people as they serve the Lord with their talents.
We'll need Vacation Bible School workers for the week of June 9 - 12. This year's VBS looks stellar. The theme is "Worship is" and will help families learn to grow followers of God. Frankly, this is a breakthrough type of approach that we are trying and I'm so proud of Katelyn Morris and Jessie Spellman for putting this together. Rod Peterson caught me the other day and asked, "Have you heard the Seeds family worship music?" "I haven't." "We LOVE it. It is so good. I hope EVERYBODY comes to this VBS - I think it's going to be incredible...."
Everyone in the church family should have gotten the summer Forum Connection that emphasized the children's and youth areas. Even if you don't have children, please put the calendar on your fridge and pray for our young people throughout the summer. - Scott
Friday, April 24, 2009
e-news for week of 4/19/09
I’m psyched about the message this weekend as we continue in the “Mythbusters” series. You’ve heard people pooh-pooh the Bible saying, “Full of errors.” “Fictional.” “Non-reliable.” We’ll explore the heights and depths of God’s revelation this weekend – namely His Word. “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” He’s a great God and we can’t wait to share from the Author of life and salvation, His Script.
As a ministry, our perpetual goal is to connect people to Jesus Christ. Bottom line, that means you. In worship, as we study the Bible, as we are in life groups, the goal is for all of us to be so connected with Jesus Christ that we begin to look like, act like, imitate, incarnate, perpetuate, and propagate Jesus Christ.
Amid the ebb and flow of this week, I’ve spent a lot of time with Jesus: reading the gospels, hearing His words, allowing Him to converse via the Scriptures and the Spirit with me. Frankly, it’s been a very challenging week for me. Bottom line, God has worked on me very hard and very deeply this week. I’m not sure where this is going to lead, but I’m confident that what He is doing is for His glory and for the sake of the kingdom. I’ll be sharing more about this over the next months, but of this I’m sure: we are going to heighten our intentionally at helping you become Christians (literally “little Christs”). I also know this; I’m miles and miles from where I need to be. Via the Spirit, the Word, new levels of transparency and accountability in life group and some of the men’s groups I attend, heightened spiritual discipline, and a lot of prayer, my personal intent is to become like Jesus.
I realize the tepid sickness within our country right now is the responsibility and fault of the church (that’s you and me). At times we focus waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyy too much on numbers such as attendances and offerings and numbers of activities and waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyy too little time of talking very directly about our pursuit of Christ and then, “spurring one another on toward love and good deeds.”
How about this, let’s pursue the high call of Christ together? You might ask, “Isn’t that what we are doing?” To which I’d say, “Yes, but we are going to do it better. Better focus. Better discipline. Better disciples.”
Here’s the second half of this, we are going to do this together joyfully. As I’ve spent time with Jesus this week, I realize very quickly that people loved to be around Him and they loved Him challenging them. He was a party guy, the kind that ‘sinners’ loved to be around but that the smug disdained and hated. Jesus is the man! I want to be that guy!
See you this Sunday. — Scott
As a ministry, our perpetual goal is to connect people to Jesus Christ. Bottom line, that means you. In worship, as we study the Bible, as we are in life groups, the goal is for all of us to be so connected with Jesus Christ that we begin to look like, act like, imitate, incarnate, perpetuate, and propagate Jesus Christ.
Amid the ebb and flow of this week, I’ve spent a lot of time with Jesus: reading the gospels, hearing His words, allowing Him to converse via the Scriptures and the Spirit with me. Frankly, it’s been a very challenging week for me. Bottom line, God has worked on me very hard and very deeply this week. I’m not sure where this is going to lead, but I’m confident that what He is doing is for His glory and for the sake of the kingdom. I’ll be sharing more about this over the next months, but of this I’m sure: we are going to heighten our intentionally at helping you become Christians (literally “little Christs”). I also know this; I’m miles and miles from where I need to be. Via the Spirit, the Word, new levels of transparency and accountability in life group and some of the men’s groups I attend, heightened spiritual discipline, and a lot of prayer, my personal intent is to become like Jesus.
I realize the tepid sickness within our country right now is the responsibility and fault of the church (that’s you and me). At times we focus waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyy too much on numbers such as attendances and offerings and numbers of activities and waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyy too little time of talking very directly about our pursuit of Christ and then, “spurring one another on toward love and good deeds.”
How about this, let’s pursue the high call of Christ together? You might ask, “Isn’t that what we are doing?” To which I’d say, “Yes, but we are going to do it better. Better focus. Better discipline. Better disciples.”
Here’s the second half of this, we are going to do this together joyfully. As I’ve spent time with Jesus this week, I realize very quickly that people loved to be around Him and they loved Him challenging them. He was a party guy, the kind that ‘sinners’ loved to be around but that the smug disdained and hated. Jesus is the man! I want to be that guy!
See you this Sunday. — Scott
Friday, April 17, 2009
e-news for week of 4/12/09- 4/18/09
As much as I prefer to look forward – I want to highlight some of the great things that have gone on over the past month:
• Our mission team organized a short term trip to the Show-Me Youth home that was just outstanding. We thank Max Sell and his team for putting this together.
• Our weekend attendance for Easter was outstanding. Right around 1,000 for Easter with over 300 attending the Good Friday service.
• We’ve baptized a lot of people here lately and many have recently joined Forum as well.
• As a ministry, fiscally speaking we are doing overall well. We’ve got a great financial team who do a great job. Recently one of the new deacons came on board to help the established team and at the elders meeting reported he’s never seen such meticulous books and proactive approach to church finances. He said, “I’m thrilled to be part of such a well run ministry.” Friends, I know I don’t talk about this type of stuff very much because I want us to perpetually keep Jesus at the center of the ministry. God honors those who honor Him and while I am aware that these types of stats are an encouragement to the church body – I don’t ever want these types of things to be the primary focal points within our church.
• Recently new carpet and tile was installed in a lot of the east end of the building. A HUGE thanks to our deacons for putting in a lot of extra time to help facilitate that. And for the huge amount of you who turned out to help on the work day – thank you. I had one very new person within the ministry tell me he’d not ever seen that type of commitment and work from any church he’d ever been part of. He asked me if that was “normal.” I was so please to be able to say wholeheartedly, “Yes, this church body loves to serve God.”
• One of our church members called me Tuesday night just to tell me about how thrilled he was as he came into the building and saw the guys who were there to play basketball huddled around the Bible doing a study. As a church, we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus.
• Some of you are shining your light and love for Christ in ways that is so evident – in your businesses, in your day to day relationships, and around town. It shows.
• I want to continue to uplift and encourage those who are doing so much for both campuses – loading, setting up, serving, leading worship, serving with our children, etc. Friends, we’ve got people all over the country rooting and praying for us to advance the kingdom. I feel the Lord has put us in position to have a greater impact to intentionally connect people to Jesus.
• May 3 at 5:00 p.m. is our next Pizza with the Pastors. We will meet at South Campus in Room 104/106. If you are new to Forum, this will be a great time to get to know us and ask any questions you might have.
• Katelyn and Jessie are working on an awesome Vacation Bible School program that will be June 9 – 12 from 6:15 – 8:30 each evening and will be held at our South Campus. The theme for the week is Worship Is… This event is for 4 year olds – 5th graders but we want the entire family to be involved. Please give Katelyn or Jessie a call if you can help out.
This weekend we’ll continue in the “Mythbusters” series talking about Creation. Are you here by random chance or was there a Designer? I’m thrilled about this message because I hope you’ll be able to see yourself, the world, and the universe through eyes of wonder. Whether you’re at the North or the South Campus – you’ll walk away encouraged. — Scott
• Our mission team organized a short term trip to the Show-Me Youth home that was just outstanding. We thank Max Sell and his team for putting this together.
• Our weekend attendance for Easter was outstanding. Right around 1,000 for Easter with over 300 attending the Good Friday service.
• We’ve baptized a lot of people here lately and many have recently joined Forum as well.
• As a ministry, fiscally speaking we are doing overall well. We’ve got a great financial team who do a great job. Recently one of the new deacons came on board to help the established team and at the elders meeting reported he’s never seen such meticulous books and proactive approach to church finances. He said, “I’m thrilled to be part of such a well run ministry.” Friends, I know I don’t talk about this type of stuff very much because I want us to perpetually keep Jesus at the center of the ministry. God honors those who honor Him and while I am aware that these types of stats are an encouragement to the church body – I don’t ever want these types of things to be the primary focal points within our church.
• Recently new carpet and tile was installed in a lot of the east end of the building. A HUGE thanks to our deacons for putting in a lot of extra time to help facilitate that. And for the huge amount of you who turned out to help on the work day – thank you. I had one very new person within the ministry tell me he’d not ever seen that type of commitment and work from any church he’d ever been part of. He asked me if that was “normal.” I was so please to be able to say wholeheartedly, “Yes, this church body loves to serve God.”
• One of our church members called me Tuesday night just to tell me about how thrilled he was as he came into the building and saw the guys who were there to play basketball huddled around the Bible doing a study. As a church, we strive to intentionally connect people to Jesus.
• Some of you are shining your light and love for Christ in ways that is so evident – in your businesses, in your day to day relationships, and around town. It shows.
• I want to continue to uplift and encourage those who are doing so much for both campuses – loading, setting up, serving, leading worship, serving with our children, etc. Friends, we’ve got people all over the country rooting and praying for us to advance the kingdom. I feel the Lord has put us in position to have a greater impact to intentionally connect people to Jesus.
• May 3 at 5:00 p.m. is our next Pizza with the Pastors. We will meet at South Campus in Room 104/106. If you are new to Forum, this will be a great time to get to know us and ask any questions you might have.
• Katelyn and Jessie are working on an awesome Vacation Bible School program that will be June 9 – 12 from 6:15 – 8:30 each evening and will be held at our South Campus. The theme for the week is Worship Is… This event is for 4 year olds – 5th graders but we want the entire family to be involved. Please give Katelyn or Jessie a call if you can help out.
This weekend we’ll continue in the “Mythbusters” series talking about Creation. Are you here by random chance or was there a Designer? I’m thrilled about this message because I hope you’ll be able to see yourself, the world, and the universe through eyes of wonder. Whether you’re at the North or the South Campus – you’ll walk away encouraged. — Scott
Thursday, April 2, 2009
e-news for week of 3/29 - 4/4/09
It’s been a fascinating week for those of you who follow college basketball. This week the back story within the realm of basketball took center stage and took over sporting news. Honestly, I’ve heard very little about the Final Four teams this week in comparison to the storyline of John Calipari becoming the head coach of Kentucky, Mike Anderson going to Georgia - maybe Memphis - no wait - he turned down more money and, some might argue - more prestige - to stay here at MU. Personally, I’m elated for a lot of reasons - but I’m not a sports writer and I’m not going to use electrons for that. But if you are an MU fan - this drama probably had you on the edge of your seat. For me, this drama ended with a surprise reversal.
Just in case you’ve not figured this out about me - I love basketball - especially college basketball. I don’t know if they genetically encode us in Indiana or if they insert some basketball chip in us at a young age. I don’t know what it is - but I truly love the game.
One of the things about basketball is in a close game - there are often quick reversals - up 5 points - swish - swish - now you’re down by 1. The game is quick. It can be frantic. My wife and I have watched a lot of games together this year and she’s said numerous times, “I can hardly watch any more. It’s so intense. Teams are winning in the last second over and over again.”
This Sunday we are going to see this pattern in the life of Jesus played out on a very large stage. We enter Holy Week this Sunday with what is commonly called “Palm Sunday.” It’s called that because Jesus was treated like a victorious king as He entered Jerusalem. Holy week is a week of reversals - and this week we are going to see how God’s purpose and plan put Jesus in position to win. Namely to win the world for Him.
Once again, this Sunday we’ll focus on Jesus Christ. I love Jesus Christ. As I know Him more and more - the more I want to imitate and follow Him. He loves every one of us so very much. I hope you are growing in your love and desire to follow Him.
Pizza with the Pastors will be this Sunday night, April 5, from 5 - 6:30 p.m in room 104/106. If you are new to Forum, this is a good time to ask questions you may have and get to know some of our ministers.
Our Good Friday Service will be April 10 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. This presentation by our adult choir recounts Christ’s journey to Calvary and His hours upon the cross. It will be a quiet, intimate opportunity to reflect up the sacrificial love of our Lord and Savior.
See you Sunday. -- Scott
Just in case you’ve not figured this out about me - I love basketball - especially college basketball. I don’t know if they genetically encode us in Indiana or if they insert some basketball chip in us at a young age. I don’t know what it is - but I truly love the game.
One of the things about basketball is in a close game - there are often quick reversals - up 5 points - swish - swish - now you’re down by 1. The game is quick. It can be frantic. My wife and I have watched a lot of games together this year and she’s said numerous times, “I can hardly watch any more. It’s so intense. Teams are winning in the last second over and over again.”
This Sunday we are going to see this pattern in the life of Jesus played out on a very large stage. We enter Holy Week this Sunday with what is commonly called “Palm Sunday.” It’s called that because Jesus was treated like a victorious king as He entered Jerusalem. Holy week is a week of reversals - and this week we are going to see how God’s purpose and plan put Jesus in position to win. Namely to win the world for Him.
Once again, this Sunday we’ll focus on Jesus Christ. I love Jesus Christ. As I know Him more and more - the more I want to imitate and follow Him. He loves every one of us so very much. I hope you are growing in your love and desire to follow Him.
Pizza with the Pastors will be this Sunday night, April 5, from 5 - 6:30 p.m in room 104/106. If you are new to Forum, this is a good time to ask questions you may have and get to know some of our ministers.
Our Good Friday Service will be April 10 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. This presentation by our adult choir recounts Christ’s journey to Calvary and His hours upon the cross. It will be a quiet, intimate opportunity to reflect up the sacrificial love of our Lord and Savior.
See you Sunday. -- Scott
Thursday, March 26, 2009
e-news for week of 3/22 - 3/28/09
As I’m writing this, I’m thinking about March Madness, not the sermon series. Our town is focused on the game on Thursday. Go Tigers! Hmmmm – in this case that’s not precise enough. It’s MU vs. UM. It’ll be a night of “Eye of the Tiger” over and over and over – doesn’t matter who’s winning. I’m going to be transparent – in my brackets I predicted this would be the case and I have UM winning. One of my closest friends in the world called last night and asked who I’m cheering for – and I’m cheering for the Tigers (MU). I have UM in my brackets going all the way – but in this instance, I’d gladly accept a busted bracket.
What is fascinating is how abuzz and easy it is to talk about this around town. Yet, talk about faith and Jesus out in public and often the dialogue comes to a grinding halt. Crickets. This sermon series, ‘March Madness’ has been focused on the life of Jesus Christ and over the next two weeks we’ll look at events surrounding his crucifixion. It’s been designed to help you to invite people who don’t go to church to have a bridge discussion where you can say, as our town is so basketball focused, “Our church is doing this series called, ‘March Madness’ and the minister has been using basketball each week.” This Sunday would be a great Sunday to invite and bring with you anyone you know who doubts the existence of God and truth. This week, we’ll talk about boundaries. You’re in for a blessing. As a staff, we can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday at either the north or south campus.
Looking forward to this Sunday. – Scott
Mark your calendar for Good Friday Service, April 10th at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. This presentation by our adult choir recounts Christ’s journey to Calvary and His hours upon the cross. It will be a quiet, intimate opportunity to reflect up the sacrificial love of our Lord and Savior.
What is fascinating is how abuzz and easy it is to talk about this around town. Yet, talk about faith and Jesus out in public and often the dialogue comes to a grinding halt. Crickets. This sermon series, ‘March Madness’ has been focused on the life of Jesus Christ and over the next two weeks we’ll look at events surrounding his crucifixion. It’s been designed to help you to invite people who don’t go to church to have a bridge discussion where you can say, as our town is so basketball focused, “Our church is doing this series called, ‘March Madness’ and the minister has been using basketball each week.” This Sunday would be a great Sunday to invite and bring with you anyone you know who doubts the existence of God and truth. This week, we’ll talk about boundaries. You’re in for a blessing. As a staff, we can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday at either the north or south campus.
Looking forward to this Sunday. – Scott
Mark your calendar for Good Friday Service, April 10th at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. This presentation by our adult choir recounts Christ’s journey to Calvary and His hours upon the cross. It will be a quiet, intimate opportunity to reflect up the sacrificial love of our Lord and Savior.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
e-news for week of 3/15/09 - 3/21/09
I literally had to pinch myself last Sunday. It was one of those – “this is happening kind of moments.” The way I pinched myself before I walked down the aisle to say, “I do” to a beautiful and godly woman when I was 20. The way I felt when 33 people gave their lives to the Lord when I was preaching in India last year. When I stood up to give the greeting at north campus I momentarily lost composure and was speechless. We didn’t fully know what to expect, but this is for sure:
God is working in our lives and in our church. I wish I could lay out all that I’m aware of, but there just isn’t enough room. Maybe we should establish a God at Work blog for the Forum campuses. In just a nutshell:
North campus launched with 183 in attendance. Things went sterling. God was lifted up, people heard about Jesus, for a first Sunday – it was stellar. A friend came in from out of town to give us an outside set of eyes and his comment was, “From where I was, things went flawlessly.” Personally, I’m not after flawless (but it was nice to hear), we want to lift up Jesus and that happened for sure.
We’re out of room in the bulletin, so let me share with some of the nuts and bolts within the ministry: 790 overall attendance last Sunday, 737 weekly worship average over the past 4 weeks, 330 in the Sunday morning Bible studies, and offering average for 4 weeks is $21,300 (weekly budget needs $20,800
Those who have recently joined Forum or made decisions for Christ include: Travis Tipton baptized 2 -22, Louis and Alicia Hendricks joined 2- 22, Grace Vega baptized 3-8, Jeff & Janet Turnbull – joined 3-8, Spencer Hockman – baptized 3-15, Danny & Darla Tharp – joined 3-15, and Riley Blattner baptized 3-15.
As a staff and ministry, let me be transparently honest – all that is going on is beyond our abilities and capabilities and we know it. God leads us. God prompts us. God called us to partner with Him. We walk by faith. Let me encourage you to encourage and lift up our staff both in prayer and verbally. God drew a really energetic and solid team here – let’s keep building one another up.
I’m excited that God is calling people to be a part of Forum. I’m glad God is leading people lovingly toward the cross to glimpse the effects of sin on his son Jesus. Our sin caused that kind of spiritual breach. As we lift up Jesus, he draws people to him. He loves us so much. I hope you get it. I hope you never take his sacrifice for granted.
This week we’ll continue in our March Madness series looking at Jesus and how he was and is “off the charts.” What does that mean? Let me give you a taste – a heart pounding dunk in a game that electrifies the crowd will show up in the statistics chart as “2.” 2 points – that’s how it will show up on the charts. The play – the energy – the emotion – all those other things can’t be quantified. Jesus lived an “off the charts” kind of life and this Sunday we hope to give you a glimpse. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday - Scott
PS – We are having a carpet tearing out party in protest of the government bailouts (that’s not really why we are doing but I thought it might help get more people here) this Sunday at 1:00 p.m.
God is working in our lives and in our church. I wish I could lay out all that I’m aware of, but there just isn’t enough room. Maybe we should establish a God at Work blog for the Forum campuses. In just a nutshell:
North campus launched with 183 in attendance. Things went sterling. God was lifted up, people heard about Jesus, for a first Sunday – it was stellar. A friend came in from out of town to give us an outside set of eyes and his comment was, “From where I was, things went flawlessly.” Personally, I’m not after flawless (but it was nice to hear), we want to lift up Jesus and that happened for sure.
We’re out of room in the bulletin, so let me share with some of the nuts and bolts within the ministry: 790 overall attendance last Sunday, 737 weekly worship average over the past 4 weeks, 330 in the Sunday morning Bible studies, and offering average for 4 weeks is $21,300 (weekly budget needs $20,800
Those who have recently joined Forum or made decisions for Christ include: Travis Tipton baptized 2 -22, Louis and Alicia Hendricks joined 2- 22, Grace Vega baptized 3-8, Jeff & Janet Turnbull – joined 3-8, Spencer Hockman – baptized 3-15, Danny & Darla Tharp – joined 3-15, and Riley Blattner baptized 3-15.
As a staff and ministry, let me be transparently honest – all that is going on is beyond our abilities and capabilities and we know it. God leads us. God prompts us. God called us to partner with Him. We walk by faith. Let me encourage you to encourage and lift up our staff both in prayer and verbally. God drew a really energetic and solid team here – let’s keep building one another up.
I’m excited that God is calling people to be a part of Forum. I’m glad God is leading people lovingly toward the cross to glimpse the effects of sin on his son Jesus. Our sin caused that kind of spiritual breach. As we lift up Jesus, he draws people to him. He loves us so much. I hope you get it. I hope you never take his sacrifice for granted.
This week we’ll continue in our March Madness series looking at Jesus and how he was and is “off the charts.” What does that mean? Let me give you a taste – a heart pounding dunk in a game that electrifies the crowd will show up in the statistics chart as “2.” 2 points – that’s how it will show up on the charts. The play – the energy – the emotion – all those other things can’t be quantified. Jesus lived an “off the charts” kind of life and this Sunday we hope to give you a glimpse. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday - Scott
PS – We are having a carpet tearing out party in protest of the government bailouts (that’s not really why we are doing but I thought it might help get more people here) this Sunday at 1:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
e-news for week of 3/8/09 - 3/14/09
I got caught off guard this past Sunday with our trial run. I just didn’t expect this, but I probably should have. I was very surprised.
This past week we had our trial run out at the north campus and while we are on a learning curve, everything overall went really, really well. I heard nothing but overall great comments. Although I wasn’t there, I’m told that as we baptized Grace Vega and showed it simulcast with the north campus people out there clapped and applauded just as the south campus rejoiced at her obedience. We want to imitate heaven and that’s what heaven does when people walk by faith – heaven has a party. This didn’t surprise me at all.
It didn’t surprise me with Keith (Howdy) Matheny and Jeff Bilbro and Jim Abernathy and others leading out on the loading/unloading/logistics things went well. I thank ever person who did and will make these types of things happen.
I’m not surprised that our staff was able to sync up campuses, deal with details, plan, etc. We’ve got a good staff.
I wasn’t surprised that people said, “It felt like Forum worship.” Or, “It was great.” And again, why wouldn’t it? David Buster (one of our elders) was leading worship and those who serve in that area are exceptionally gifted by God.
I’m not surprised by Jared doing a great job at the north campus while I’m was here at the south campus.
What caught me off guard is that we had some first time guests with us who signed in and are interested in joining Forum. This happens weekly at the south campus. But, come on, this was our “dry run” out north. Didn’t you people get the memo? Who gun jumped and invited someone to church? We weren’t scheduled to have visitors that first Sunday. That is supposed to happen this Sunday. Thus, I was surprised – but bottom line – I shouldn’t have been. God is adding to the church and His kingdom. His word is clear with the Spirit – it’s like the wind that blows here and there. God is leading this church and this ministry. As a ministry, you’ve embraced “intentionally connecting people to Jesus” and you are inviting people to come and encounter God. It’s God’s mission and I’m so glad we are on it.
For those of you who attended north campus – just a heads up – we changed the room we worship in to the room on the very end.
This week we’ll continue to look at the life and ministry of Jesus in “March Madness.” I can’t wait to see all that happens this weekend. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. -- Scott
This past week we had our trial run out at the north campus and while we are on a learning curve, everything overall went really, really well. I heard nothing but overall great comments. Although I wasn’t there, I’m told that as we baptized Grace Vega and showed it simulcast with the north campus people out there clapped and applauded just as the south campus rejoiced at her obedience. We want to imitate heaven and that’s what heaven does when people walk by faith – heaven has a party. This didn’t surprise me at all.
It didn’t surprise me with Keith (Howdy) Matheny and Jeff Bilbro and Jim Abernathy and others leading out on the loading/unloading/logistics things went well. I thank ever person who did and will make these types of things happen.
I’m not surprised that our staff was able to sync up campuses, deal with details, plan, etc. We’ve got a good staff.
I wasn’t surprised that people said, “It felt like Forum worship.” Or, “It was great.” And again, why wouldn’t it? David Buster (one of our elders) was leading worship and those who serve in that area are exceptionally gifted by God.
I’m not surprised by Jared doing a great job at the north campus while I’m was here at the south campus.
What caught me off guard is that we had some first time guests with us who signed in and are interested in joining Forum. This happens weekly at the south campus. But, come on, this was our “dry run” out north. Didn’t you people get the memo? Who gun jumped and invited someone to church? We weren’t scheduled to have visitors that first Sunday. That is supposed to happen this Sunday. Thus, I was surprised – but bottom line – I shouldn’t have been. God is adding to the church and His kingdom. His word is clear with the Spirit – it’s like the wind that blows here and there. God is leading this church and this ministry. As a ministry, you’ve embraced “intentionally connecting people to Jesus” and you are inviting people to come and encounter God. It’s God’s mission and I’m so glad we are on it.
For those of you who attended north campus – just a heads up – we changed the room we worship in to the room on the very end.
This week we’ll continue to look at the life and ministry of Jesus in “March Madness.” I can’t wait to see all that happens this weekend. Can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. -- Scott
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