Connections Church: Recent Episodes
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Mom was discouraged … again. We lived hundreds of miles apart, so I called her regularly. My mom felt worthless, she was feeling ‘flauw’ all the time, nobody visited her, and so on. What was I to do or say? I simply asked about some older people at church and about her friends’ dog that she occasionally took care of. I suggested that these people might like a visit and that her friends might like to have their dog taken care of during a trip they were planning. “I guess,” she said. A couple weeks later, I called mom again. She was quite chipper. She was feeling good. And then she went into great detail about the visits she made and the nickname she gave the dog. What mom needed was to get her mind off herself and look for ways to bless others.
Biblical Review
As I look through the Bible, I see that this is what God intended for us: to be a blessing. Adam and Eve (the first human couple) were called to take care of the world, not just sit around eating fruit off the tree. When God called Abraham and said “I will bless you,” the second half of that verse can be translated as “and you be a blessing” (Genesis 12:2). Which he did by helping his pagan neighbors, rescuing his family along with many others, etc. Abraham’s (spiritual) descendants would also be a blessing – Genesis 26:4
Many recite the verse of Jeremiah 29:11, that God’s plans for us include giving us hope and a future. This was originally told to God’s people after being captured in war and brought into exile in a foreign land. God tells them that he had this exile happen (29:4) and that while they are there, they are to seek the good of that land (29:7) – that is, to be a blessing.
Listening to Jesus’ sermon on the mount, he reminds us that we are to bless everyone, even those who want to harm us: Matthew 5:13-16,43-48. This theme is repeated in Acts 20:35 and in Romans 12:9-21 (especially :14). Wherever we are, whoever we are in contact with, the call of God continues for all who belong to Jesus – be a blessing.
Living It Out
This means developing a continual posture of trying to make the world a better place to live in. And it means that whenever we encounter other people, we strive to make their world better too. Here are some seed thoughts for doing this.
- In the physical world: When hiking, pick up trash. Even in public restrooms and YMCA locker rooms, try to make them cleaner than when entering: pick up paper towels off the floor, shine the sink or mirrors. I probably won’t go as far as my brother-in-law who often rents cars on business trips: He washes and shines the rental cars before returning them.
- During encounters with others, try to be kind, polite, and considerate. Say Hi to people in public places, even when they don’t expect it. Ask acquaintances how they are doing and truly listen. And don’t ever tell a story that can beat someone else’s story. A colleague once told me that when talking about wedding stories in a group of ministers, he makes sure that he does not take the approach: I’ll match your story and up you one. (By the way, if you are interested, ask me about a wedding that I had to do in a cornfield!)
- In society, school, and the workplace: We can all strive to make this world a better place. Continually ask the question: How can I improve the place where I am working and contribute to it? When going to school, set your mind to try and make someone else have a better day. Look for ways to help someone in the store. When someone tells an inappropriate joke in a group, don’t laugh. Just politely smile. This can have a powerful effect on the tone of the group. The same with complaining about parents, teachers, bosses, customers, food, etc. Don’t join in. Try to mention something positive.
- Point people to Jesus Christ. Mention occasionally your joy and peace because you know the Lord is in charge. No need to worry because God has a good plan. Look for an opportunity to tell how you are looking forward to Jesus coming back.
By following the call to be a blessing, we are doing what God created us to be and do. This gives us a special purpose in life. We can then look forward to each day. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself suddenly being chipper.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
Do you believe in the rapture? This question has been asked of me quite a few times. Those that ask usually believe Jesus will return to earth two times. The first return will be for the secret rapture when believers are suddenly taken out of this world and go to heaven with Jesus. The unbelievers don’t see Jesus; they are left behind totally puzzled by the disappearance of so many people. My standard response to this question has become: I believe in the Biblical rapture. Then I receive back a puzzled look.
This month in our worship services we worked through a series on Jesus’ return to earth. In the second message the rapture was referenced, but was not thoroughly explained. So I’d like to expand on what I mean by the Biblical rapture. The reference is 1 Thessalonians 4:17 “After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
The word rapture comes from the Greek word meaning “snatch up.” That’s why certain dinosaurs are called raptors: they snatch up their prey. The NIV translation uses “caught up.” When Jesus returns, all believers who have died will be raised from the dead as their souls are united with their new bodies. The living believers will instantly receive their new bodies. Then we will probably have a sensation similar to taking off in a jet or rocket as we are caught up or raptured into the air to be with Jesus.
The Greek word “meet” in this verse means: going outside the city to meet the victorious king to accompany him back into the city. In this passage “meet the Lord in the air” means that the believers are caught up (raptured) to meet Jesus in the air, to accompany him on his way to earth in victory. Jesus does not take believers out of this world into heaven at the rapture; instead, he brings them back to the earth. It is there that “we will be with the Lord forever.”
Those holding to the secret rapture often connect that event to Matthew 24:40-41: “Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.” Their understanding is that at the secret rapture, the believers will suddenly be taken away out of this world, while the unbelievers are left behind.
It is helpful to read the context to these verses with this question in mind: Exactly who is left behind? If you read Matthew 24:36-39, the second coming of Jesus is compared to the days of Noah. In Noah’s time, the unbelievers perished in the flood, which “took them all away” (:39). This is then compared to what will happen when Jesus comes: the unbelievers will all be taken away, down to each individual in their daily activity (:40-41). The Biblical concept is that the believers inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5, Romans 4:13). The unbelievers are removed from the earth, while the believers are left behind to enjoy the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21).
The teaching of the secret rapture was popularized in books written by Tim La Haye. I enjoyed reading all the books in this series, which are interesting and thought provoking. And I watched the first movie based on the first book. But, as the authors themselves continually remind people, this “Left Behind” series is fictional.
What would this mean for us?
- First, no need to worry about missing the rapture. It will be a very public and open event. Look at 1 Thessalonians 4:16 to see what happens just before the rapture.
- Second, we need to get ready now by embracing Jesus Christ now as our Lord and Savior. Then we will have the privilege to join Jesus on his triumphal return to earth. See also Colossians 3:4).
- Let’s live as those destined for this glorious event. By Christ’s Spirit we can begin that beautiful eternal life now.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
She is a student from India who came to America to attend Denver Seminary and is experiencing life as part of our church community. We recently posed a series of questions to her about her journey—what inspired her to join the program, her biggest challenges and joys, and a little about her faith story. Her thoughtful responses offer a glimpse into her life, filled with growth, discovery, and cultural connection. Read on to hear her story in her own words.
Tell us about yourself – growing up, coming to America and your studies at Denver
Seminary.
My name is Elizabeth Kipgen. I was born and raised in Nepal in a missionary family. Life was never about material wealth—we had very little, but we relied on God’s provision daily. We grew our own food in the backyard, which taught me the importance of hard work. Due to our humble background, we couldn’t afford to hire workers, so we served God together as a family team. Growing up, we never had the privilege to have toys or eat good meals. But I was content with the joy of having a family, sitting together, sharing bible stories, and enjoying little moments. The fact that I could get an education was the highlight of my life. I felt extremely blessed and that’s how my parents inculcated the value of love & gratitude in me. Our daily life revolved around school, church, and mission work. As the ministry grew, our responsibilities doubled, as the ministry in Nepal is labor-intensive. We have about 7-8 fellowships in a day, and we care for every member of the church, visiting their homes, and hospitals, and especially doing rounds of evangelism.
Figure 1: My big & beautiful family. We are blessed with seven brothers as a part of Mercy Home, an extended part of our ministry.For the past five years, I’ve served in the youth ministry, which has given me insight into the hearts and struggles of young people. Unfortunately, two young adults in our church died by suicide, which was a wake-up call for me. Youth in Nepal are vulnerable to drug exposure, criminal records, and unemployment. They feel condemned by society and judged by the church, most importantly. This made me realize the need for counseling in our mission field. This calling became clearer when my community, the Kukis in India, faced severe persecution for our faith. Amidst the widespread killing and destruction of property, one cry from a member of the community echoed in my heart: “Even if I am hurt and lost everything, I wish we had someone who could guide us through this painful situation.” They were desperately looking for counselors or psychotherapists but couldn’t find any. That’s when God called me again and directed me toward Denver Seminary. My burden is to bring God’s healing to people in pain. My prayer and vision are to run the Mercy Wellness Ministry, which will focus on providing free medical and mental health care to those in need. With the languages and gifts, I have, I believe I am chosen to serve God in these countries. How will I do that? I don’t know yet, but I know I must.
Figure 2: Gospel sharing ministry in villages with my parents & church leaders, 2023Coming to the United States was a leap of faith for me. I am currently pursuing my Master’s at Denver Seminary, specializing in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling. This season of life has brought both challenges and immense growth as I adjust to a new culture and prepare for greater service to God and others. I was only able to come here because of the scholarship they extended to me, but there are many other expenditures beyond tuition. There’s housing, food, health insurance, textbooks, and more. There was a time when I faced near homelessness and felt discouraged. I did feel foolish, but I firmly believe that where God guides, He provides. God led me to Connections Church, which has been a huge blessing and a source of encouragement to me.
What are your joys, struggles, hobbies, and interests?
Joys: My greatest joy is my faith in God, who gives meaning to every part of my existence. My family is another constant source of strength and encouragement. I love my siblings and nieces, and every minute spent with them is one of the greatest joys of my life.
Struggles: Adjusting to life in the U.S. has been challenging, especially with financial constraints, transportation difficulties, unemployment, and academic hardships. Last semester was especially hard without textbooks, and I couldn’t even go to the library because I didn’t have a car. These struggles have deepened my reliance on God’s faithfulness.
Hobbies and Interests: I enjoy working with children, exploring creative approaches to therapy, and activities such as journaling and blogging that foster community and spiritual growth. I also love learning new things, and my current venture is learning the Casio keyboard.
Share a little about your faith story.
Growing up in Nepal, I was immersed in ministry from an early age. It was a way of life for my family. Our mission work was humble but deeply fulfilling. During my undergraduate studies, we planted a new church, Pratigya EC Church, in Kathmandu. Our branch church was a two-hour walk away, and I often conducted Sunday School under the open sky because we didn’t have a building.
In 2015, Nepal was hit by a major earthquake, and people were in deep pain from the loss of life and property. The vehicles couldn’t operate due to road damage. Amid this hopelessness, as I walked through the valleys, I felt the calling of God and saw how broken our world is. I was only 18 years old, but I spent my days praying in the empty church, fasting, and asking God to bring His kingdom into that church. I was just a nobody, but I had the hand of God upon me, praying for the sick and broken. I reached out to people, sharing the good news, and the Lord blessed us with new souls. By the time I graduated, we had a full congregation and a piece of land for the church. Praise the Lord! Our God is faithful!
Figure 3: While serving Kids in Kathmandu, 2016Over time, ministry became more than just a duty—it became my life’s mission. I have been privileged to serve in evangelism, Sunday School, and youth ministry, and I am continually inspired by the simple yet profound ways God works through these efforts. After graduation, I had the opportunity to serve God holistically in Dharan, Nepal. I frequently visited many of our branch churches across Nepal while working in the office as chief editor. In every mission field, I saw how faithfully people loved God. They were faithful in giving offerings even when they had the bare minimum to survive. I saw how choosing Jesus came with a price—many were abandoned by their families and society, yet they chose God. The joy and peace they found in Christ touched my heart deeply. I believe that’s when the Holy Spirit truly worked in my heart, and I decided to follow Jesus with no turning back! For all these years, I have served voluntarily without any monetary compensation—that is my offering to the Lord. I also believe God has opened the doors to the United States because He trusts me to serve His people in Nepal. I am merely a human with many limitations, but I honor God and His calling.
Figure 4: Serving in the Youth Ministry at Bethel Church Dharan, 2024How can we as a church support your community back home?
For Manipur: Please pray for peace and restoration in the state. Due to the ethnic war that broke out in 2023 many people are wounded and displaced, and they are in desperate need of medical aid. It’s heartbreaking to see my community being this severely persecuted for our faith and ethnicity. The refugee numbers are rising in the camps, and there are significant shortages of food, shelter, and warm clothing. I am praying to visit home this December, and if possible, I hope to conduct a free health camp. Funding for this would be a great help.
For Nepal: As the ministry grows, our need for workers increases. However, due to financial constraints, we cannot hire workers. One of our goals is to establish a school to help sustain the ministry. Please pray for funding for the school. Additionally, Samaritan boxes would bring tremendous encouragement to the humble community we serve.
If you feel moved by her story and want to support her as she continues her journey of faith and learning at Denver Seminary, you can give directly to her through the link below. Your generosity will help her pursue her calling and remain a vital part of our church community.
Elizabeth’s Blog site: Hope for 2025
As we enter the New Year, we change our calendars. We try to remember to write down the updated year. Maybe some of us become more reflective and think about time: What is time? How do we gauge time? Why do we start the new year when we do?
Perception of Time
Have you ever said something like the following? I don’t have time to visit now, maybe later. There aren’t enough hours in the day to get my work done. Time goes so fast when you’re having fun … Do I need to go home already? It took forever for the doctor to see me. I wish the clock would go faster so I can get out of here.
Time seems to move slowly at times. When you’re a five-year-old getting close to your sixth birthday, time goes soooo slow. If you’re seventy-five years old, the next birthday pops up very quickly. The clock always seems to go faster when you’re having fun; and slower when you’re not.
Time consciousness varies among cultures. In our Western world, many of us might feel disoriented without knowing the time. We often stick to schedules, working hard to meet deadlines and relying on the clock to guide our day. In other cultures, people may focus more on enjoying the moment, especially during social interactions, with fewer strict deadlines.
Creation of Time
Time is part of God’s creative work. In Genesis 1 God established the cycle of day and night. (See also Psalm 104:19-24.) In fact, because of the insight given to Albert Einstein, we now know that time is entwined in the physical universe which God created. Time is a function of the mass and energy and motion. In fact, GPS satellites must adjust the timing of their signals to us because their location and speed relative to us distorts time.
As creatures we are time-bound. Our circadian rhythm causes us to get jet-lag when travelling long distances. We have cycles in life, often tuned to the cycles in creation: months, years, etc. But interestingly, as image-bearers of God, we also have a sense of the eternal. God “has also set eternity in the human heart.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11) We are also created, somehow, to transcend time.
God and Time
So how does God relate to time? Since time is part of the created order, God is above time and not bound by time. Psalm 90:2,4 – “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God … A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by.” Yet God works within time, even joining us in Jesus Christ.
The Bible also portrays God creating time as beautiful. “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.” (Genesis 1:31) And as he guides human history, God “changes times and seasons” (Daniel 2:21). In Ecclesiastes the timely routines of life are seen as a gift from God. “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
Gift of Time
This means that time is a beautiful gift to us as humans, something to cherish time and delight in. And part of God’s gift of time is the Sabbath: time to rest, to enjoy life, to be free of drudgery, to enjoy God and others.
We also are stewards of time. How we use our time depicts what is important to us. It is a mistake to say we don’t have time for something. We all have the same amount of time as anyone else: twenty-four hours in the day, sixty minutes in each hour. What we mean by this phrase is: We have other things to do that are more important. The use of time is an ongoing gauge of what – and who – is of high value in our lives. Whatever is more precious, we dedicate our time to it.
May you all enjoy the time God has blessed you with.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
A Grateful Reflection on God’s Faithfulness
As the year draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the many ways God has blessed
our church community here at Connections Church. From growth in our ministries to unexpected
provisions and acts of service, we see His hand at work in every corner of our church life.
Worship and Music
We rejoice in the staff addition of Jonah as our Worship Director this past May, whose
leadership has brought a new energy and focus to our worship. Additionally, Ally has also added
her wonderful voice and together they have been a tremendous blessing. We are grateful too
for the musicians who have also joined or stepped in to fill spots in our worship band.
Children and Youth Ministry
Our Kids’ Ministry has seen vibrant growth in leadership this year. Wendy continues to volunteer
her time to oversee the ministry. Ruth’s expanded role in middle and high school ministry is
shaping the next generation, while Kim has taken on crafts and curriculum planning with
creativity and dedication. We are thankful for Grace’s faithful service in bridging the gap after
Brooke’s departure, and we celebrate Elizabeth’s decision to join the team.
Practical Work and Remodel
Our church family came together to sort through basement items, deciding what to toss, give
away, or sell. The lower-level remodel project this summer was a huge undertaking in a short
amount of time and tangible reminder of God’s blessing our church with the opportunity to rent
out the lower level and to build relationships with the staff and families of Platte River Academy.
Ed and Bryan have also worked to keep up on other maintenance needs at the church.
Pastoral Blessings
We give thanks to God for all the pastors who preached for us for the first 6 months of the year
before the Gorters arrived in July. The apartment for the Gorters was furnished by many
donations from our church family and set up with love and care, showing our commitment to
hospitality and support. Sheryl’s taking the lead on this was greatly appreciated. Pastor John
and Barb have blessed us through Pastor John’s steady preaching and pastoral care over these
past 6 months. Pastor John and Barb’s love and prayers for the congregation has been a source
of comfort and encouragement.
Acts of Service
We are deeply grateful for members who continue to step forward, serving in new and fresh
ways. Their willingness to pour their time and talents into the church reflects their love for God
and His people.
- We hosted a 2-day Platte River Academy Back to School Bash, helping to establish a
connection with the families and staff. Barb R. coordinated so many of the activities for
the day! - We also had the privilege of serving a meal at Jesus on Colfax, ministering to those living
in poverty and trying to overcome addiction and/or struggles they face in life. It was a
powerful opportunity to extend Christ’s love through food, fellowship, and care. Others
gave financially to our offering for JOC. - We hosted our first Blood Drive through Joe’s coordination and look forward to doing this
again. - Through our Giving Trees, many gave toys and gifts to Open Doors Ministries and
clothing to the Jicarilla Apache Reformed Church. Heather continues to work with Brad
and Robin Kautz to see how we can support them through our summer mission trips.
Others have given financially to World Renew.
Community Building and Spiritual Growth
Bible study groups have continued to meet throughout the year, providing spaces for fellowship,
prayer, and deepening an understanding of God’s Word. Our monthly prayer gatherings have
been a vital time of intercession, as we come together to pray for our church and community.
Healthy Church Initiative
The well-attended retreat provided valuable input and the efforts of the Healthy Church team
have been pivotal in refining our vision. With the development of a new mission statement, we
look ahead with purpose and unity. Our mission statement: a welcoming community where
you can belong, connect with God, grow in faith following Jesus and reflect God’s love in
the world through His Spirit.
Search Committee
The formation of the Search Committee has been a significant step for our church. This team
has worked tirelessly to create a comprehensive church profile and Senior Pastor job
description, posted the position in November, and now pray, prepare for, and discern the
responses coming in.
Land Sale Journey
Through the ups and downs of the land sale process, we have seen God’s faithfulness in
guiding our steps and decisions.
Policies and Communication
Job descriptions and policies were put into place, offering clarity and structure for our ministries
moving forward. This year saw a major rewrite of our website, improving how we connect and
communicate. Amy has dedicated many hours of updating the site with a fresh look; the Healthy
Church team assisted in re-writing ministry information.
Generosity
The generous giving of our members, including promissory notes, has been an incredible
display of trust and faith in God’s provision. As we recently shared the 2025 budget and the
shortage we face, members have already stepped up with additional giving.
In Summary
Though not everyone’s name is mentioned, so many of you have continued to be dedicated to
the ministry of our church, serving quietly behind the scenes, stepping up when asked or when
you see a need, and for that the Board and leadership are filled with gratitude for all that God
has done in and through our church.
We are reminded of these words from Scripture: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
His love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1.
Let us move forward into the new year with hearts full of hope, ready to continue serving Him and loving one another.
Jayne Tien
Director of Operations
Displayed at Christmas Time
What do you put up for Christmas decorations and lights? Inside on a Christmas tree? Outside bordering your house or bushes? In stores you’ll see plenty of lighting. Stroll around your neighborhood to delight in the decorations and lighting. Pause and reflect on manger scenes with their subdued lighting. We even experience the light as strangers make more eye contact and say Merry Christmas. Families gather to eat meals, play games, and open gifts – all in fully lighted settings.
But we also experience the darkness. Longer nights. Depression induced by stress and junk food. Heightened family tensions. Wondering who to give gifts to and what they will think of mine. Some dare to search and discover a darkness in their souls. And many are separated from God … a distinct darkness.
Reflected in Redemptive History
This interplay of light and dark is reflected in Scripture. At creation both light and darkness were present and they were both very good in harmonious beauty (Genesis 1:3-5,31). After turning away from God, darkness pervaded the creation and all humanity. Conflict and pain and death became associated with darkness.
In John 1:9 Jesus is described as the true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. But the darkness is right there: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5). The darkness is evil in the world, sin in our hearts, and the curse on creation. The baby in a manger comes to dispel all this darkness.
Eventually we will see him come again, with the light of God’s glory, to make the triumph final. Then the beautiful balance of interplay of light and darkness will be restored in glorious splendor (Revelation 21:23-24).
Engaged among Spiritual Forces
An epic battle took place around Jesus’ mission to the earth. Satan and his demons had previously been given free rein to deceive the nations and even enter heaven itself to badmouth God’s people (Job 1-2) (Revelation 12:10, 20:10). He tried to destroy Jesus before he could accomplish his mission (Matthew 2:16) (Revelation 12:1-4). When Jesus completed his mission on earth, there was a battle between the good angels and the bad angels (demons) in heaven. Satan and his followers were ejected from heaven, never to return (Revelation 12:7-9).
At our Christmas Eve service on December 24 (4:00 p.m.) we will celebrate the light overcoming the darkness. Particularly we will see the grand entrance of Jesus to earth in his role as captain of the angelic armies (Luke 2:13-14). Jesus is coming to do battle. The dazzling military angels are following their captain to battle the forces of darkness.
Sadly this battle continues for us today. We still struggle with the darkness: demonic forces, evil people, our own sin, the curse on creation. Satan now directs his anger against God’s people (Revelation 12:17) (1 Peter 5:8). We are called to be ready for the assaults of this dark lord (Ephesians 6:11-12,16).
But we are told that even now, in the middle of our battle, we have the victory. Nothing is able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:37-39). Including hardships, death, angels, and demons.
On the final day of human history, Jesus will return in glorious splendor with his angels (Luke 9:26) (2 Thessalonians 1:6-7). These angels will be involved in clearing out all that is dark and evil (Matthew 13:37-43,49-50) (Matthew 25:31,41).
May you enjoy the lights of Christmas. And please bathe in the light of Jesus Christ and let his glory fill you. A paraphrase of 2 Corinthians 4:6: May God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” make his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. May you bathe in his warm, beautiful, and strong light … now, and into eternity.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
Sharing Hope Around the World: Supporting World Renew Through Our Giving TreesThis Advent season, Connections Church is honored to partner with World Renew, the global ministry of the Christian Reformed Church, through our Giving Trees initiative. Rooted in a passion for justice and mercy, World Renew works alongside communities worldwide to bring hope, reconciliation, and restoration. Their mission reminds us of God’s call to love our neighbors—both near and far—in ways that transform lives.
As we prepare our hearts for Advent, we reflect on the blessings in our lives and the importance of sharing God’s love with those in need. Through World Renew, we can take part in Christ-centered initiatives that bring hope and healing to individuals, families, and communities around the world.
What is World Renew?World Renew is a global ministry dedicated to addressing poverty, disaster, and injustice while honoring the dignity and God-given gifts of those they serve. Their work goes beyond temporary relief, focusing instead on empowering communities to build long-term resilience and sustainable solutions.
Through partnerships with local churches and organizations, World Renew offers life-changing programs in disaster response, agriculture and food security, health and nutrition, economic development, and education. Whether it’s rebuilding homes after a natural disaster or equipping families with skills to start small businesses, every effort is rooted in love, respect, and the hope of Christ.
A key way to support their work is through the World Renew Annual Gift Catalog, which offers tangible ways to give. By selecting items such as goats, chickens, hand-washing stations, or agriculture training, you can provide families with the tools they need to thrive. For example, one family in our congregation recently gave animal friendship packs and garden supplies in memory of their grandson. Giving in memory of a loved one or as a meaningful Christmas gift is a beautiful way to reflect God’s love worldwide.
Why This Matters to Connections Church
At Connections Church, we are deeply committed to living out our faith through service. Partnering with World Renew allows us to join our denomination’s global mission to share God’s love and transform lives. This partnership isn’t just about giving; it’s about participating in the work of bringing God’s kingdom to earth.
Through our Giving Trees, we have the opportunity to make a tangible difference. Each donation reflects an act of faith and love, helping restore hope to people facing immense challenges. From rebuilding homes for disaster survivors to empowering families to break the cycle of poverty, our contributions embody Christ’s heart for the world.
Join Us in Making an ImpactThis Advent season, Connections Church is focusing on two transformative areas from World Renew’s Gift Catalog:
- Disaster Response Services: When natural disasters strike, World Renew’s Disaster Response Services team steps in to provide critical support. This year, they helped families affected by flooding in Rock Valley, Iowa, offering resources to rebuild homes and restore hope. Members of our congregation with ties to Rock Valley have shared heartfelt gratitude for the compassion and effectiveness of World Renew’s efforts.
- Economic Opportunity: World Renew’s programs empower families to achieve financial independence through savings and loan groups, livelihood training, and support for small business start-ups. These initiatives help break the cycle of poverty, equipping individuals with the tools and skills needed for lasting change.
Through our Giving Trees, we are pooling cash donations to support these impactful efforts. Every gift reflects the love of Christ and brings hope to those who need it most.
This Advent, let’s come together to share Christ’s love with communities around the world. Visit Giving Trees Ministries to learn more about how to give and be a part of this life-changing mission.
A Century of Service and PartnershipLocated in Dulce, New Mexico, among the stunning yet challenging landscapes of the Jicarilla Apache Nation reservation, the Jicarilla Apache Reformed Church (JARC) has been a beacon of hope for over 110 years. Established as a mission church of the Reformed Church of America, its sanctuary and parsonage were completed in 1914, just in time for the first Christmas service. The local congregation has invested in keeping the sanctuary, the parsonage, and the classroom/gym buildings in great shape (with the help of many mission groups) over the years.
Led by Pastor Brad and Robin Kautz, JARC continues to serve a community facing significant challenges, including substance abuse, family hardships, and limited resources. Through weekly worship, Sunday school, youth programs, and community outreach, the church offers more than just practical support—it shares the gospel of Jesus Christ, bringing hope and healing to those in need.
Connections Church is honored to have a long-standing partnership with JARC. Through past Giving Trees and summer mission trips to the reservation, our congregation has joined in this legacy of service, supporting the work of JARC and building relationships with the Jicarilla Apache people. Together, we have witnessed how God’s love can transform lives and strengthen communities.
A Pastoral Legacy
The Kautz family came to Dulce, NM, in 2013, just in time to prepare for the centennial celebration for the church. Brad, Robin, and Kathleen (then 6 years old) came from SW Minnesota, where Brad was a medical professional at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Robin had quit teaching to homeschool after their granddaughter (Kathleen) arrived in their home. Brad had graduated from Western Theological Seminary in 2011.
The mission here is primarily a pastoral call to a local church that serves the Jicarilla Apache people, but there are many differences in what services are provided to this non-Christian nation. First, the Jicarilla Apache Reformed Church provides the vast majority of funerals conducted in the community. Pastor Brad sees these as a perfect opportunity for outreach to the community: He preaches the gospel at every funeral. Pastor Brad has conducted 150+ funerals over his 11 years here. For many community members, a funeral is the only time they are in the church building.
A Community Resource
The mission has a gymnasium and classrooms in addition to the sanctuary. The gym is rented out for birthdays and graduations, as well as being the site for (almost) weekly roller-skating on Friday evenings. Elders in the community love to tell stories about roller-skating in the gym 80 years ago! The Jicarilla Apache Department of Youth frequently uses the gymnasium for youth programming at no cost. The classroom building also has a short-term shelter room for emergency housing. This has been used by women escaping domestic violence, young couples trying to stay sober so they can get custody of their children again, and travelers who had no safe options for shelter.
During the pandemic, Brad and Robin began a ministry almost by accident: Feeding people. The Kautzes were asked several times if they could make a sandwich for an indigent person at their back door. Soon they were making a sack lunch for several people a day. After receiving generous donations from individuals in supportive church communities, the Kautz family has continued to feed anyone who shows up at the door, sometimes feeding 30+ meals in one week. One result of this feeding ministry has been that a few of the indigent recipients have started showing up in church on Sundays! God works in mysterious ways.
Ministry at Home
Seven years ago, the tribe contacted the Kautz family to ask if they would take care of two tiny boys, ages 2 and 4, “for a few days.” Five years ago, the Jicarilla Apache courts gave permanent guardianship of these two boys to Robin and Brad. Robin has been homeschooling them for most of the past seven years and has tutored and homeschooled several of their cousins as well. Robin has tutored and/or homeschooled several other children in need of significant academic help. Serving them in a Christian homeschool setting has been a blessing to all involved. Grandpa (Brad’s father, Tom) joined us a year and a half ago at the age of 91 to make us a family of six.
A Legacy of Service
Joining in service to JARC means stepping into a legacy built by thousands of mission workers over the past 110 years. Each contribution, no matter how small it may seem, adds to the collective impact of those who have come before, ensuring that this community continues to experience the love of Christ through tangible acts of care and compassion.This Advent season, Connections Church invites you to be part of this mission through our Giving Trees. By donating warm clothing, you can help meet a critical need and bring comfort to the Jicarilla Apache people. Together, let’s carry on this legacy of service and extend Christ’s love to a community in need.
Serving Open Door Ministries: A Journey of Love and Faith
Open Door Ministries (ODM) is one of our cherished Giving Tree ministry partners, and during Advent, Barb and Murray Roth lead the way in sponsoring this ministry with us. Their dedication to service and passion for supporting ODM have inspired many within our congregation to get involved and share Christ’s love in meaningful ways. As we celebrate this season of giving, we want to highlight Barb’s journey with Open Door Ministries and the impact she and Murray have had on our church and community.
Who Is Open Door Ministries?
Open Door Ministries (ODM) is a faith-driven organization dedicated to addressing poverty, building communities, and cultivating followers of Christ in Denver. Their mission is brought to life through four key focus areas: housing, kids and youth programs, leadership development, and outreach. From providing transitional housing for women and men overcoming homelessness, addiction, and abuse to offering educational and mentoring programs for urban youth, ODM serves as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking stability and spiritual renewal.
Their innovative programs, like the Street2Life Print Shop, give individuals in the street community a chance to gain employment and life skills. The Family Room creates a welcoming space for rest and resources, while their leadership initiatives equip urban leaders to bring Christ’s hope to the city. By combining practical assistance with the transformative power of faith, ODM not only meets immediate needs but also empowers people to change life patterns and find lasting self-sufficiency. This Advent season, our church is proud to partner with ODM to continue their work of sharing God’s love and making an impact in our community.
Barb’s Ministry Journey
Barb Roth first became involved with Open Door Ministries (ODM) in the late 1990s. At the time, she was part of a women’s Bible study that volunteered to serve dinners after Sunday evening services once every three months. It was a daunting task for Barb, taking her far out of her comfort zone. She admitted to hiding in the cramped, hot kitchen as much as possible. Over the years, the kitchen—a space shared with the preschool—became all too familiar to her. It was small, filled with old donated appliances, and often left staff worrying whether it would pass inspections.
Years later, Barb found herself deeply involved in remodeling that very kitchen. As the project progressed, she got to know the ODM staff and witnessed their immense love and passion for serving low-income and homeless individuals. This began a journey of growing involvement and connection with ODM.
When the preschool’s wooden playground wall was replaced with cinder block, Paul, the head of maintenance, asked Barb to paint murals on the new walls. Though she had never painted on cinder block before, with the help of some of the kids from our College and Career group, Grace and Brooke, the project became a success. The once plain and cold walls were transformed into a bright and cheerful space.
Over time, Barb became a go-to person for unique and challenging projects at ODM. She recalls being asked to stage a 100-year-old mansion purchased as a recovery home for men. The task came with a budget of zero dollars and the challenge of working with donated or cast-off furniture. With creativity and determination, Barb and others worked together to transform the space into a warm and welcoming home. Volunteers painted trim and doors, donations furnished the living room, and inexpensive finds like a new rug and pillows brought the space together. Even the hole in the plaster along the staircase was addressed—Paul filled it, and Barb painted intricate flowers to match the wallpaper.
For Barb, this moment was a turning point. “For the ODM staff, there is no such thing as impossible,” she reflected. “If it needs to be done, God will give you the ability and resources to do it.”
This faith and determination have been central to Open Door Ministries’ work, and Barb has been inspired by their vision. One example is ODM’s recent acquisition of a 13-unit apartment building, a dream Director David Warren had shared years ago. With the help of a generous $2,000,000 donation, the vision became a reality. This building will now provide low-income housing to those in need—a testament to God’s provision and the commitment of ODM’s supporters.
How Can We Help?
Barb’s love for ministry has extended beyond her personal involvement with ODM. She and her husband, Murray, have been involved with Connections Church’s College and Career group for several years, blessing young adults with a place to feel at home and grow in faith. Through their leadership, Barb has passed her passion for service to others. This Advent season, the College and Career group is creating gift bags for ODM’s annual Children’s Christmas Party, continuing the legacy of love and service.
You can be part of this mission through our Giving Tree Ministry. We’re collecting small toys, puzzles, creative activities, and sensory-friendly items to fill gift bags for children supported by Open Door Ministries. For convenience, you can shop directly from our Amazon Wish List and have items delivered to the church. For those who knit, we are also requesting handmade hats to include in the gift bags. Please bring any unwrapped donations, including knitted hats, to the church by December 1 and place them under the Giving Trees.
Thank you for being part of this ministry and helping to share the joy of the season with those in need!
A man was telling his neighbor, “I just bought a new hearing aid. It cost me six thousand dollars, but it’s state of the art. It’s perfect.” “Really,” answered the neighbor. “What kind is it?” “Twelve thirty.”
We’re all heading there, getting older until we reach the senior stage of life. Barb’s father in Tucson turns 93 next month. We plan to go there for a week to help celebrate his birthday.
There are many positives about getting older. After retirement we have more free time, and hopefully we have more wisdom. We develop more patience and can handle glitches and difficult people more graciously. Many experience a deeper faith and walk with God. A bigger picture of life develops, helping to keep life’s events in perspective. We think more about the life hereafter.
On the other hand, there are some challenges to getting older. We’re not able to play sports as we once did. Our mental faculties slow down. We’re not respected or needed as much. Our motivation and pep starting ebbing away. We depend more on others – especially family – to help us with daily life.
As we look at the Bible, two things stand out for me. One is that getting older is an honor and a privilege. “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs 16:31). “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old” (Proverbs 20:29). In an era when life expectancy was quite low, getting old enough to have gray hair was quite an accomplishment. It was considered a blessing from God.
Something else I glean from Scripture, a purpose for elderly people is to be a blessing to the following generations. Particularly, older people have the privilege to share their faith. “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare Your power to the next generation, Your mighty acts to all who are to come” (Psalm 71:18). See also Psalm 78:1-8 and 2 Timothy 1:5.
One of my goals is to share more memories with my children and grandchildren in an interesting way – perhaps in writing, maybe in a video using a Q&A format or occasionally through story telling when we are together. My mom kindly wrote down many of her memories in a document, listing many questions that could be answered. She also had a video recorded answering many of the questions. We learned a lot!
Based on Psalm 71, I am also resolved to share more than my memories. It is my duty to point them to God and what He has done in my life. All that I experienced, all that I did, all that I am – it’s all a gift from God. It is essential that I join the elders and relate the gospel and the blessedness we have in belonging to Jesus Christ. As younger generations look at us, I want them to see us pointing to God and finding our hope for eternal life in Christ.
Here are few ideas I have on steps to aging well:
- Self -care is important: physical exercise, stretching, eating healthy, getting regular checkups at the doctor. Enough said, before I start sounding like your mother.
- Develop a closer walk with God: read what God says in Isaiah 46:4 – “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am [the Lord], I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Take time to soak that in and delight in it.
- Seek ways to bless others: help families with younger children, provide meals to people going through a hard time, volunteer at places that help others, help out at church functions.
- Record memories to bless future generations: capture your life stories, collaborate with siblings and other family members to build on each other’s memories, remember to point to God and give him the credit.
- Prepare for the final days of your life: update your will, review your wishes with heirs, make provisions for passing.
I appreciate any thoughts you have on aging gracefully. May God give us all joy as we enter and live in the final stage of our lives.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
Do you look forward to the longer nights? Or do you dread them? Do you enjoy the dark? Or is it gloomy for you?
Darkness is often perceived as something bad or negative, understandably so. In the dark you can’t see the road as well, or the step down. Dark is where bad people hide to do their evil deeds. The air is colder in the dark. Strange noises come out of the dark, making us scared. We can also experience darkness inside. Dark thoughts occasionally enter our minds. With less daylight we can become gloomy and even experience depression.
The Bible mentions:
- rebellion against God is a result of a darkened mind (Romans 1:21, Ephesians 4:18)
- evil deeds and evil spiritual forces are associated with the dark (John 3:19, Ephesians 6:12)
- eternal separation from God is described as darkness (Matthew 8:12, Jude 1:13)
- Jesus experienced that full darkness on the cross (Matthew 27:45-46) But the Bible also presents a more positive view of the dark. At the creation of the universe God created light, but also darkness. Both day and night, light and dark, were very good (Genesis 1). Adam and Eve were not scared of the dark.
Psalm 139:11-12 describes what darkness is like to God. For God, there is no difference between daytime and nighttime. God does not have – nor does he need – an eye, a retina, an optic nerve. God perceives everything directly … no need for photons. Nothing is hidden from God. This is a great comfort for the Psalmist and for all of us. As a young boy this became real to me on the farm. We did not have indoor plumbing, so just before bedtime, the boys would go out behind a tree. One time I had to go all by myself. It was dark! All around me were different noises. Then I remembered that God is everywhere, including right here in the dark, and I was no longer scared.
We are also told that at the end of human history, Jesus will come back and bring in the new heaven and new earth. In the new earth the darkness will no longer be feared. God himself will be the glowing presence everywhere, even in the night (Revelation 21:23). The darkness of sin and the curse of evil will no longer be present (Revelation 22:3-5).
So what do we do if the darkness becomes oppressive? Here are some thoughts:
- Physically we need to take care of ourselves, try to expose ourselves to some sunlight, and take vitamin D. The longer nights could be a reminder to slow down and get extra sleep.
- Mentally and emotionally, we may go through some dark times. We may need to get professional counseling. We could also remind each other that we are cared and loved, that God is doing a wonderful work in each of our lives.
- Spiritually, Christians can go through a “dark night of the soul,” as spiritual advisors call it. Mother Teresa experienced this for 50 years. God is silent and seems distant and uncaring. We can go back to Psalm 139 and many other passages. We hear the promise of God that he will never leave us or forsake us. He will carry us though. I’d enjoy hearing your ideas about the dark and how to deal with it. Let me conclude with a paraphrase of 2 Corinthians 4:6 – May God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” may he make his light shine in your hearts to give you the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
Meet Jonah Brennan, the new Worship Director at Connections Church!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your wife Ally.
Ally and I grew up in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Music brought us together – we met in high school choir, and we later got married in college! We graduated in 2023, Ally in music education and myself in biology with the plan to attend dental school after college. We ultimately decided to move to Colorado for school due to proximity to New Mexico and familiarity with the area! Ally currently teaches 6th-12th grade choir in Bennett while I’m in my second year of studies. We live in Aurora near Anschutz Medical Campus with our 2 dogs.
What or who led you to being involved with worship and music?
Music has been a pillar of my life for as long as I can remember. My parents put me in piano lessons when I was 13, and I loved it. A bit later, the drummer for the church that I grew up in asked if I wanted lessons so I could replace him eventually, to which I happily accepted. I drummed for a few years in the band, until one week, when my worship leader asked if I would feel comfortable subbing in as worship leader for a week since she was out of town. I nervously said yes, and the rest is history. I eventually became co-leader at my church and realized this ministry will always be part of my life!
How is it important to your faith?
Music is one of my greatest joys, and I can think of no better way to give back to its Creator than ministering through worship! Throughout my childhood, I’ve always felt called to use the skills God gave me to glorify Him. Honestly, I can’t imagine not being involved in worship; when Ally and I were searching for our church home here in Denver, one of our main factors was a need for musicians!
Tell us a little bit about what goes into your planning for a worship service song selection.
It’s my job to collaborate with Pastor John to structure the worship set around the sermon. Typically, Pastor John will send me the passage and throw out a couple song suggestions, then I’ll do a dive into the passage to figure out the overall themes and main points, which I’ll use to select the songs. Once I have a general idea of the songs for Sunday, I’ll review each song and make sure the order is appropriate for a fluid service. Then I’ll create chord sheets for the team if need be, and the team will rehearse sometime before Sunday service!
What are some goals you have for Connections worship?
I would love to recruit more members and grow the worship team as much as possible! I’ve been encouraged by the participation so far and am praying that it will continue. I would love to have a full band with several singers and instrumentalists on rotation. Another goal of mine is gradually expanding the song base to keep it fresh and diverse.
What is the current need for volunteers?
Anything and everything music related! Our greatest need right now is a drummer, but we need more of everything in general. If you or someone you know might be interested in singing, guitar, piano, drums, strings, media, or anything else please contact me! You don’t have to be a pro; it is an incredible experience and very laid back. If you’re feeling called to help us, please don’t let a lack of confidence keep you back. I’d be happy to work with you to find the best way to participate or get comfortable!
Interested? Learn more about the Connections Church Worship Team!
How do you as a Christian think about the upcoming national elections in November? What do you do and say as a Christian after the elections are over? Especially if you are very disappointed with the outcome.
The Biblical worldview is that God is in control of the nations, as seen in Psalms 22:28 & 67:4. In Daniel 2:21, we are told that God sets up kings and deposes the leaders of all nations. According to Romans 13:1, there is no authority except that which God has established. This includes those who are immoral and pagan. No one can be a leader of any nation without God’s approval.
We know that Jesus Christ is governing the nations. As he was about to go into heaven to be enthroned at God’s right hand, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18) This means that those elected as leaders in November can only enter these positions with the approval of Jesus Christ.
We may not understand why and how this fits into the big plan for human history. It may be that we get the leaders we ask for or deserve. This may explain why we may have leaders who are not godly. Israel was punished in many ways when they strayed from God. One of those punishments was poor or tyrannical leaders.
We do know that all leadership changes will serve to bring in God’s kingdom and bring more people to Christ. (See Matthew 28:18-20 and Romans 15:8-12.) Christ’s kingdom sets the agenda for all history, including our nation’s history. This was also the point that God made in a dream to Nebuchadnezzar, the leader of the ancient superpower of Babylon, as described in Daniel 4. At the end of human history we will see what the overall strategy was and we will recognize that it was good and wise.
Here is what we could do as Christians heading into the elections and beyond.
- Honor and praise Jesus Christ on the throne of God as the true sovereign of all nations. This helps us keep perspective.
- Ask for guidance and wisdom as we prepare to vote. We can trust the Spirit to guide us through complex issues and rhetoric.
- After the election, thank the Lord for guiding our nation. Ask him to use it all to bring in his kingdom.
- Pray for our leaders and their welfare, that the Lord would bless them and lead them. (See 1 Timothy 2:1-4.) The reason for such prayers is that we may have peaceful lives and that people would be saved.
- Ask God to provide us with an attitude of honor and respect for all those in political office. (See Romans 13:1-7.) This includes giving taxes.
Something else to keep in mind. Our primary citizenship is not found in any country in this world. We are called to invest ourselves for the good of our country, even if that nation or its leaders are not God-honoring. (See Jeremiah 29:7.) But this is only our secondary loyalty. (By the way, that is why authoritarian governments are suspicious of Christians and the church.)
According to Philippians 3:20, our primary citizenship is in heaven. Our first loyalty is to Jesus Christ. (See also Hebrews 11:16 & 12:22-24.) According to Colossians 3:1, our center of gravity is in heaven where Christ is seated on the throne. All our lives, including politics and national affairs are oriented toward him.
Entering this election season, as Christians we have confidence that the Lord Jesus will work out his plan. And it will ultimately be good. Through it all, let us remain faithful to Christ. And let us remain respectful of our nation and its leaders.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
We often hear about the need to contribute to the church for its on-going programs and activities, as well as contributing our tithes and offerings as gifts to God. Without the faithful support of members and others the work of the church would not continue. Yet the essence of giving for the Christian is more than just to support the local church and the church worldwide; it is fundamental to our spiritual growth and development.
One of the first passages discussing tithing is found in the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy. In Deuteronomy 14: 22-23 we find the following:
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year….. and the firstborn of your herds and flocks….. so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.”
Through the practice of tithing the Israelites learned several key lessons (see also Deuteronomy 14: 24-29). First, by giving out of their first fruits they were learning to acknowledge God’s provision for their care. Second, by putting God first, they were building their own trust in God’s supply for their needs. Third, they were providing for the work (think also of the present-day work of the church) of the Levites, “who had no allotment or inheritance of their own,” and the needs of the poor, widows and orphans. And finally, they were participating in a spiritual practice that helped them to combat greed. All these benefits are available to us today.
While the tithe is a set percentage (10%) of our income, offerings are gifts that go beyond the
tithe. They represent our gratitude, love and generosity toward God and can be given to the
church, charities, missions or individuals in need. The Bible speaks of offerings as expressions of
worship and devotion. In the New Testament the apostle Paul writes:
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7.
At the core of both tithings and offerings is the heart behind the act of giving, not the amount we give. Jesus commended a poor widow for her small offering because she gave out of faith and sacrifice, not abundance (Mark 12:41-44). Thus, giving is an opportunity to express our love for God, trust in his provision, and generosity toward others. When we give with the right heart, we experience the joy and blessings that come from living a life of generosity.
While tithing was established in the Old Testament, many Christians believe the principle still
applies today even though the New Testament emphasizes generosity over specific percentages.
But as a guideline, the traditional view of tithing is that it goes to your local church, as it supports the ministry and work of that congregation and that offerings are given to other organizations, charities, or individuals in need. However, the most important thing to remember is to give with a heart for worship and trust in God.
So how do we live this out today? Decide in your heart to give and consider what the Bible says about giving. Provide for the church by giving to its general funds so that it may meet its financial obligations and collectively live out its mission in the local congregation, community and worldwide. And when you hear an announcement for a special offering at church or a request from another Christian organization or a needy individual, consider if you are convicted to make an additional gift to support that cause.
Ultimately, God is not after our money—He is after our hearts. When our hearts are aligned with His, we find joy in giving, knowing it is an act of worship that reflects His own generosity.
Jayne Tien
Director of Operations
When a wedding anniversary comes around, what do you do to celebrate? It probably depends on
the family stage you are in, your economic resources, and whether extended family is around.
In our earlier schooling years, Barb and I made homemade anniversary cards for each other.
After I started getting a salary, we would go out on a date. The last decade or so, we’ve gone on
a three-day, two-night excursion. To keep it simple and harmonious, we take turns deciding
where to go and what to do. This year, we’re celebrating closer to the Rocky Mountains, from
September 19-21, and plan to do some exploring. Although our anniversary is in December, we
decided to celebrate early to avoid heavy snow.
Last year we celebrated our 50 th anniversary. Hard to believe. I thought these only happened to a
few people who moved around slowly with walkers or wheelchairs and had white hair. Did you
hear about the girl who asked her mother, “Where do your white hairs come from?” Her mother
answered, “Every time you cause trouble, I get another white hair.” After pondering a bit, the girl
asked, “Why does grandma have all white hair?”
We celebrated our 50 th anniversary two ways. In the summer, we were in Alaska for a few days
and then took a seven-day cruise back southeast. In December we hosted a light lunch at the
Albuquerque church we were serving, as our family could not be with us.
Such celebrations are precious. They may involve money for special events, time to organize,
and effort to involve others. That extra exertion indicates the value of marriage, just as it did
when you were first married.
Anniversary celebrations remind me of two passages:
- “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.”
(Proverbs 5:18) – This portrays someone older remembering the joy of getting married
and it calls us to continued joy and refreshment in the same person. As many of us know,
our love deepens and matures over the years. - “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” (Proverbs
18:22) – Having a spouse is considered a blessing from God. It’s good to remember that our mate is a personal gift from God.
Here is a partial list of possible ways to celebrate a wedding anniversary:
- Celebrate with family and friends. Marriage is a public matter, not just private. Family and
friends have a vested interest in your marriage. This is a way for them to show support and
share the joy. - Express what drew you to your spouse, what you have discovered about your spouse, and
what you appreciate. This could be done verbally or in writing. - Perhaps renew your vows to each other. Such reenactment helps cement the relationship of
the married couple, to keep going strong together. - Do something different and special, just the two of you. Do something you both enjoy, where
you won’t be distracted by work or people. Perhaps share your joys over the years. Maybe
relate your memories of each year or decade of marriage. - Honor God. Thank and praise God for bringing you together and for carrying you through the
years. Ask God to continue holding onto your hearts and your relationship.
I would like to hear about your anniversary celebrations. And I appreciate your ideas on how to
celebrate an anniversary. May God bless each of you in all your relationships to others, and
especially in your relationship with Christ.
Pastor John Gorter
Interim Pastor
As Connections Church prepares to serve dinner at Jesus on Colfax (JOC) on October 3rd, we sat down with Kayla Horne and her team to learn more about this impactful ministry. Kayla, now the director after five years at JOC, leads efforts alongside her husband Matt, who pastors the community church on site, to bring hope and transformation to the homeless on Colfax Avenue.
Mission and VisionJesus on Colfax operates on a simple yet powerful philosophy: Show Up, Love People, Build Relationships, and Cultivate Wellbeing. Kayla shares, “We meet people where they are, just as Jesus did, holding hope for them until they can hold it for themselves.” The mission aims to lift individuals out of all forms of poverty—financial, emotional, and circumstantial.
JOC began by knocking on motel doors along East Colfax, offering food and fellowship. Today in addition to their outreach program, they’ve established two Family Rooms—spaces where individuals can connect, grow, and access resources. Participants earn points by engaging in activities, which they can exchange for essentials in the Family Room store.
Key Programs and Initiatives Outreach Initiatives: Teams regularly visit motels and streets along East Colfax to meet people where they live. They offer food, prayer, and encouragement, helping to build trust through consistent presence. * Family Rooms: These spaces are the heart of JOC’s mission, offering not just meals but case management, classes, Bible studies, and employment support. The empowerment model encourages personal investment in their journey toward stability. * Purchased Program: A new initiative, ‘Purchased,’ focuses on rescuing and supporting women affected by sex trafficking. Adapted from a similar program in Shreveport, LA, it provides recovery resources and holistic support to help women rebuild their lives. * Coffee Roastery and Restaurant:* The newest venture by JOC involves a coffee roastery that serves as a training facility. “Here, individuals learn the soft skills that are essential for keeping employment, providing them a ladder out of homelessness,” Kayla emphasizes.
Impact and Success StoriesGetting InvolvedYour involvement can make a real difference. Here are ways you can help:
- Serve Dinner: Join us in providing a warm meal and fellowship during our scheduled service evening on October 3rd. Details and RSVP here.
- Training Events: Start with volunteering by attending a training event to learn how to engage effectively with the homeless. After attending a training event, visit their VOMO website for a list of the volunteer opportunities.
- Fundraising Dessert: Support their programs by attending the upcoming fundraising event on September 27th. Details and RSVP here.
- Donate Items: JOC always needs donations for their Family Room stores, including hygiene products and prepackaged food. They also serve burritos every Tuesday during motel outreach. Contributions of these items are always welcome and greatly appreciated.
Future GoalsJesus on Colfax (JOC) is focused on closing a critical gap in homeless outreach—helping individuals transition from rock bottom to stability. While resources exist for those already stable or in immediate crisis, there’s little support for those in between. JOC aims to address this by developing a program specifically for people in this transitional phase, providing the tools and support needed to stabilize and move forward. This effort will create a continuum of care that not only helps individuals out of crisis but equips them for sustainable recovery and long-term success, breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Personal MotivationKayla’s journey with Jesus on Colfax (JOC) began after her profound experiences with homeless outreach in Chicago. Moved by the striking similarities she saw between herself and those she served, she has committed to being part of where the Spirit moves, bringing the kingdom of God to Colfax Avenue. For Kayla, serving at JOC is not just about helping others; it’s about witnessing the work of Jesus every day. She sees her role as a privilege, allowing her to participate actively in transformative work that not only changes lives but also strengthens her faith and understanding of God’s grace.
Join Us in Making a DifferenceAs we prepare to serve with Jesus on Colfax, let’s be inspired by their mission. Your participation—whether through serving, donating, or supporting—can bring light to those who need it most. Together, we can change lives—one meal, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time.
According to my calendar, September 8 is Grandparents Day. Reading that suddenly brings me back to the homes of my grandparents in Northwest Iowa. They lived an hour’s drive away from our home in Southwest Minnesota.
My mom’s parents were generally homebound. We’d visit on a Sunday afternoon and often the afternoon worship service from their church was being sent by telephone wire to a special speaker in their house. Nothing interfered with that. We six kids could either sit still for that hour and a half in the living room. Or we could play on the porch. Very devout grandparents.
My dad’s parents were more active. We kids would take turns spending days at a time at their place in the summer. They had nice toys, we could help bake, we could ride bikes around the block. We even got to help mow the lawn. Many good memories.
We have six grandchildren of our own: three girls and three boys. Each one is unique and precious. Barb and I enjoy being with them. We try to attend their school activities, invite them over, and take them out individually for a birthday treat. We affirm each one and express our deep love for them.
Grandparenting has changed over the years. Our own kids would see their grandparents intermittently, as we lived so far away from them. This is a common story today in a more transient society. Also, there may be a few step-grandparents, or grandparent figures, in children’s lives. This also can be healthy for children.
According to Proverbs 13:22, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” Obviously this involves more than finances and property. It includes sharing our faith, our values, our morals, our approach to life and people. So how can we be good grandparents today?
Here are some ideas:
- Keep God at the center of your life. Maintain a robust relationship with Jesus Christ. Let it be shown by what you do and say. Perhaps take your grandchildren along to church. Ask them about their spiritual life. Whenever your grandchildren are around, they notice how you live and why you do what you do. God can use that to influence their faith walk.
- Maintain a good relationship with your grandchildren’s parents. Even if they are not the birth parents. Talk respectfully to – and about – them. Follow the parents’ guidelines concerning what the grandchildren may or may not do. This consistency will instill security in the grandchildren and will foster a respectful attitude toward their parents and other adults.
- Help develop your grandchildren’s character and values. Do activities with them. Have them work with you. Take an exploratory trip. Correct anything they say or do amiss. Model and teach how to live properly. Your grandchildren have an instinctive desire to please and emulate you.
- Connect with them personally on a regular basis. If you’re not able to be together, maybe do Facetime or texting. This helps anchor them and gives them a solid footing in handling life.
- Pray for them regularly. Ask God to protect them, give them wisdom, instill maturity in them, and work in their hearts to give them a living faith in Christ. Occasionally we will also pray for their future spouses.
So how should we celebrate Grandparents Day this Sunday? Perhaps connect or do something with our grandchildren. At least thank God for the influence our own grandparents may have had on our lives. And thank God for our own grandchildren, asking for guidance in this role.
I’d love to hear your memories of your grandparents. And I’d appreciate hearing your ideas on being a grand grandparent.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
What we have accomplished and what is next:
The Healthy Church Survey was completed earlier this summer by 46 congregants, which was a great foundation for understanding our next steps. Then, the Healthy Church Retreat on August 17 was attended by 28 Congregants who had a chance to see the results of the survey and discuss what they mean for Connections Church. Conversations flowed freely in small table groups as we talked through the survey and how we could use the survey results to discern changes and new opportunities!
Rev. Carl Kammeraad coached us through this process and was impressed to see that of the 14 areas surveyed, Connections scored 4.0 or more (out of 5.0) in 8 areas. The remaining 6 scored above 3.0. Overall, this indicated that we are not an unhealthy church — we do have a lot of strengths along with our weaknesses. We sensed that those who attended the retreat were encouraged.
If you were not able to attend the retreat and are interested in the results of the survey, please reach out to Tim Reicher (Tim@myconnections.church) or Jayne Tien (Jayne@myconnections.church) for a copy.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
The retreat gave us a chance to discuss the survey results of strengths and weaknesses and ways we see God may be calling us to act on them.
When the retreat group was asked to give one word to describe our church, the list was interesting and very positive: authentic, Bible based, broken/messy, caring, diverse, egalitarian, evolving, friendly, genuine, grounded in faith, healing, home, loving, non-judgmental, respectful, tenacious, trying, unique.
Going Forward:
Some comments shared during the last few months have been “Here we go again, another survey that won’t go anywhere.” “Nothing will change.” That sentiment has been heard and we want to encourage you to come alongside leadership and help in not repeating this trend.
As the survey showed that we really are not an unhealthy church, this means we already are doing many of the things that you expressed that would make us better. Change or next steps will not happen in a week or a month but will take time and energy that will require participation. Over the next weeks and months, we will make every effort to expose our strengths and ways to continue them, as well as expose our weaknesses and propose remedies. Coach Carl will continue to advise us as we engage in these callings and become a more effective church.
Once again, we thank you for taking the survey and participating in our Healthy Church Retreat. We ask that you join us in praying for our church and for your participation in our next steps.
We are Connections Church: Connecting with one another, connecting with God.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Tim Reicher, Chair, Healthy Church Team
Jayne Tien, Co-chair, Healthy Church Team
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). This profound metaphor speaks to the role Christians are meant to play in the world—a role that is deeply impactful, preserving, and life-giving. But what does it really mean to be “salt” in our generation, and how does this differ from being “sugar”? While both salt and sugar are essential in the culinary world, their spiritual implications offer us a powerful lesson about the nature of Christian witness and the depth of our relationships with others.
The Attributes of Salt: Preserving and Enhancing Life
- Preservation: Salt has long been used as a preservative, preventing decay and extending the life of food. In the same way, Christians are called to preserve the goodness and truth of God in a world that often leans toward moral decay. By living out the gospel, we help sustain the values of love, justice, and mercy, acting as a stabilizing force in our communities.
- Enhancement: Salt enhances flavor, bringing out the best in food without overpowering it. As Christians, we are called to enhance the lives of those around us by reflecting Christ’s love and truth. Our presence should make a difference, adding depth and richness to the lives of others, pointing them toward the abundant life that Jesus offers.
- Healing: Salt has healing properties and has been used in medicinal practices for centuries. Spiritually, Christians are called to be agents of healing in a broken world. Whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or standing up for justice, we bring the healing power of Christ into our relationships and communities.
The Pitfalls of Sugar: Superficial Sweetness and Short-Term Satisfaction
- Superficial Sweetness: Sugar provides immediate sweetness but lacks the substance and depth that salt offers. In a spiritual context, being “sugar” means offering superficial comfort or shallow affirmations that may feel good in the moment but fail to address deeper needs. This kind of engagement often lacks the depth required for true transformation and growth.
- Short-Term Satisfaction: Sugar offers quick energy but leads to a crash once the initial effects wear off. Similarly, relationships or ministries built on surface-level interactions may initially seem fulfilling but can leave both parties feeling empty when the deeper, more challenging aspects of life arise. Without the depth that salt provides, our witness can become hollow, unable to sustain long-term spiritual health.
- Decay: Just as sugar can contribute to physical decay, such as cavities or health issues when consumed in excess, a “sugary” approach to Christian living can lead to spiritual decay. When we avoid hard truths or shy away from the uncomfortable aspects of discipleship, we risk weakening our faith and the faith of those around us.
Living as Salt in Our Generation
Being “salt” in our generation requires a commitment to living out the gospel in a way that is both truthful and loving. It means being willing to have hard conversations, to stand up for what is right, and to offer genuine care that goes beyond surface-level niceties. This kind of life enriches our relationships and communities, offering lasting impact rather than temporary sweetness.
In contrast, being “sugar” might seem appealing at first—it’s easy, it feels good, and it’s often well-received. But over time, it fails to provide the substance needed for true growth and transformation. Our call as Christians is to be salt, not sugar, in a world that desperately needs both the truth and love of Christ.
By embracing the role of salt, we fulfill our biblical calling to preserve, enhance, and heal the world around us, offering a rich and enduring witness that points others to the fullness of life found in Christ alone.
Amy Luinstra
Deacon
When a pastor is called by a church to serve, which do you think that pastor prefers? That the church relies on the pastor to set the vision and to take the lead into the future? Or that the church has already set a vision with plans for the future; and is now searching for a pastor that would like to work with that vision?
Let me tell you about conversations I’ve had with pastors who were contacted by churches that were interested in them. Many times, the pastor had asked questions such as: What vision do you have for the future? What goals do you have? How do you plan to accomplish them? When a church says, “We’re relying on you to lead us,” most pastors feel hesitant. On the other hand, when a church presents a clear vision and says, “This is who we are and where we believe God is leading us,” pastors are often drawn to that clarity and purpose.
On August 17 Connections Church will put together a vision for the future, set some goals, and consider how to carry them out. By the way, when I think of Connections Church, I picture all the people, not just the leadership. It warms a pastor’s heart if the entire congregation is involved with setting a course for the future, not just the leadership. If only the leadership is determining who we are and what we want to do, most prospective pastors hesitate to become pastor of such a church. Such a scenario seems to indicate that the church is not very united. This could lead to mission and visions changing as leadership changes.
Sometimes we may look at other churches who have a dynamic pastor and who seem to be successful. We may then draw the conclusion: We just need the right dynamic pastor to make our church thrive and grow. But that is a risky path. The congregational members then tend to neglect their own vital gifts in service to the Lord and the church. 1 Corinthians 12 describes how important every member of the church serves a vital function. “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good … Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (1 Cor. 12:7,27)
We also need to step back and remind ourselves of Matthew 16:18. Peter had taken the bold step of confessing Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, the only hope of the world. Then Jesus said, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church.” We understand that the rock Jesus references is the confession that Peter made about Jesus. And all Jesus’ followers make the same confession. Yes, Jesus is the one to build His church. But He uses all of us as His hands and feet to build His church as we boldly go forward in Him.
We as a congregation have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our church. I know giving up a Saturday morning isn’t easy, but the time we invest will be well worth it. Barb and I will be there, eager to listen and contribute; but more importantly, we look forward to hearing our thoughts and ideas. This is our opportunity to set a course together, guided by the Spirit.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
In anticipation of the upcoming Healthy Church Retreat, it’s crucial for us to establish a shared understanding and common vocabulary. This preparation will foster unity and clarity as we engage in meaningful discussions. A central objective of our retreat is to define a unique mission and vision for Connections Church. While this task is challenging, it is essential for guiding our congregation’s future direction and ensuring that our efforts align with the broader mission of the Church.
Developing a mission and vision statement is a foundational exercise for any church, providing a clear sense of purpose and direction. It addresses core questions such as “Why were we led to Connections Church?” and “What is God’s purpose for us in our corner of Denver?” While the Great Commission offers a universal mandate for all Christian communities, each church, including Connections Church, operates within a unique environment. This setting includes specific community needs, cultural dynamics, and available resources, all of which influence how we live out our faith and serve others.
The retreat offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on these aspects of our community and discern together the specific calling and the role God has for Connections Church, within His Kingdom. It’s a chance to listen to diverse perspectives, to look toward our potential, and to set a course for the future that is both inspiring and actionable. While it might seem ambitious to accomplish this in a single three-hour session, the goal is not to finalize every detail but to lay a strong foundation. From this foundation, we can continue to build and refine our mission and vision in the coming months.
It’s important to remember that creating a mission and vision statement is not merely a task for leadership or a select group. It is a communal process that benefits from the input and prayerful consideration of the entire congregation. Each member’s experiences, insights, and spiritual gifts contribute to a richer understanding of our church’s identity and purpose. This collective discernment process is a powerful expression of our unity in Christ and our shared commitment to His work.
Furthermore, a well-crafted mission and vision statement will serve multiple functions for our church. It will guide our decision-making, ensuring that all activities and initiatives are aligned with our core values and long-term goals. It will also help to communicate our church’s unique identity and purpose to both members and the wider community, clarifying what we stand for and what we aim to achieve. This clarity is crucial for attracting new members, engaging with the community, building partnerships with other organizations and placing a call for a new pastor.
During the retreat, we will explore various aspects of our church’s life and ministry. This includes assessing our strengths, identifying areas for growth, and considering the specific needs of our community. These are taken directly from our Healthy Church survey results. We will include detailed local demographics—ministry and religious trends in our surrounding neighborhoods—and insights from our experiences in other church settings to guide us. Through prayer, discussion, and collaboration, we aim to discern God’s will for our church and articulate it in a way that is both compelling and actionable.
As we continue on this journey, it’s essential to remember that defining a mission and vision is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. The initial statements we develop will likely evolve over time as our church grows and as we respond to new challenges and opportunities. Flexibility and openness to God’s leading are key, as is a commitment to regularly revisiting and refining our mission and vision as our church is being used by God.
The Healthy Church Retreat is a significant step towards defining the unique role that Connections Church is called to play in God’s Kingdom. By engaging in this process with prayerful intentionality and a spirit of unity, we can create a mission and vision that not only guides our actions but also inspires and energizes our congregation. Let’s approach this task with humility, openness, and a deep sense of purpose, trusting that God will provide the wisdom and guidance we need to move forward together.
Learn more about The Healthy Church Retreat, August 17th >>
Join Us for a Transformative Healthy Church Retreat on Saturday, August 17, 8:30 am – noon!
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Healthy Church Retreat on August 17th! This retreat promises to be a time of community building and envisioning the future of our church. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are new to our congregation, this retreat is an essential step in our journey together. And, we really need you to attend!
Why Should You Attend?
- Strengthen Our Vision This retreat offers a unique opportunity to help set a clearer understanding of God’s purpose for our church. We will be providing actual results from the survey that we will not publish elsewhere. Through insightful discussions, based on our survey results, we will seek to align our individual and collective missions with God’s vision for our community.
- Shape the Future of Our Church Your voice matters! This retreat is a chance for you to contribute to the shaping of our church’s future. We will discuss our mission and vision, where we go from here, and identify next steps for our ministries. Your input will help us create a vibrant and impactful church that meets the needs of our members and reaches out to our wider community.
- Enhance Our Outreach and Evangelism During the retreat, we will discuss new and effective ways to reach out to our neighbors and share the love of Christ. We will learn more about our surrounding community demographics and also discuss how to build relationships with our homeschool rentals and how we can connect with the 55+ community planned from the land sale. Learn how you can participate in our outreach efforts, within our walls and beyond, and help us spread the Good News in our community.
- Foster Growth and Unity This retreat is a time to gather insight from each one of you. Participation does not mean that one has to have the loudest voice — one thought that is placed on your heart from the Holy Spirit can make all the difference in guiding us to what God has in store for our church. We will have discussion times designed to strengthen our bonds as a church family and build unity among us. As we grow closer to God and each other, we will be better equipped to face challenges and celebrate victories together.
Practical Details
- Date: August 17th
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Church Worship Center
- Meeting Details: We will have 3 sections:
- a look at the survey results and what are our top areas of directions as well as our lowest areas
- a look at the demographics in our surrounding area, and
- what we sense as next steps.
- Food!
- continental breakfast – 8:30 – 9:00 am
- break-out snacks
- Childcare Provided: We are pleased to offer free childcare services to ensure that parents can fully participate in the retreat without worry. Please be sure to register on the link below.
- What to Bring
- An open heart and a willingness to participate in discussions and activities.
- Your enthusiasm and ideas for the future of our church!
How to Register
To ensure we have enough materials and refreshments for everyone, please register by Thursday, August 15. You can sign up after services on Sundays in the lobby, through our church office, or online at
Register Online
Final Thougths
- We ask that you join us now for the next few weeks in praying for our retreat discussion, asking God to give all of us discernment to seek His will through this opportunity.
- This retreat is not just an event; it’s a pivotal moment for our church. It is a time to come together, seek God’s guidance, and set a course for the future that glorifies Him and serves our community. Let’s embrace this opportunity with open hearts and minds, ready to be inspired and equipped for the journey ahead.
- We will have two more Reflections over the next two weeks to help prepare us for our retreat. Be sure to take the time to read those – thanks!
We look forward to seeing each of you there and experiencing the incredible things God has in store for us! Please reach out to Jayne or Tim if you have questions!
Do you see yourself as a sinner? It’s a Biblical truth that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). This understanding of our shared human condition is the first step towards recognizing our personal need for a savior. In the Bible, the Greek word for sin is a derivative of “hamartia,” or missing the mark. The antonym for this word is “arete,” which in ancient greek means a unique excellence or perfection. Usually, we have pieces of both hamartia and arete in us and our unique excellence can become our tragic flaw. For example, we might be extremely good at speaking and using words powerfully. However, we may be so good at rhetoric, that we use words to manipulate others and as people applaud our presentational gifts, our narcissistic tendencies grow within us.
When we see ourselves as sinners, as people missing the mark, we see ourselves as people needing a savior. This realization is not a cause for despair but a source of hope. Where do you miss the mark and need a savior to redeem your brokenness? Consider those areas of your unique excellence. Could they also be places of falling short or missing the mark? Sometimes, we can know the Bible so well that we know where everyone else falls short. In our unique excellence of knowing God’s word and spending time in it, we have the other side of using it as a litmus test to measure others. In Romans 3, Paul says the law informs us of what is right, but no one can be declared righteous by the law. The law makes us aware that we are missing the mark. We do not understand our fallen nature if we cannot see that we miss the mark. The gospel writer John says, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (I John 1:8, NIV). The good news is Jesus came to save sinners. So, if you recognize yourself as a sinner, Jesus came to save you.
To not see yourself as a sinner is nothing new. In Jesus’ day, the religious leaders focused on how others missed the mark. In one instance, when they saw Jesus eating with those they considered “sinners,” they called the disciples out. Here is how Mark recounts the story:
When the teachers of the law, who were Pharisees, saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mark 2:16-18)
If we recognize that we are sinners, we know that Jesus came to attend to us, too. But, if we see ourselves as righteous, having already attained perfection, then we do not need a savior. Here is the truth: As sinful humanity, we cannot always live in our unique excellence. We will always have that tragic side where we fail and fall short. Nothing and no one apart from Jesus can save us from our sinful selves. And so we need a savior.
So, don’t look for a savior who will save them. Look for a savior who will save you. And don’t be confused about who that savior is. Often, we look to our current religious and political leaders to save us. But they cannot. They are sinners themselves. There is only one who can save us, and that is Jesus.
Please join us at Connections Church, where we know we all have sinned and will sin and need Jesus as our savior. We worship the God who saves us, and we welcome fellow sinners to come alongside us as we grow in our knowledge and faith in Jesus.
“Did you do that on purpose?” When we ask someone this question, we mean to ask if they did something intentionally. Did they intend to do what they did, or were their words or actions thoughtless?
God created each of us on purpose. You have a reason for being. Psalm 139:13-14 speaks of God’s intention in our formation:
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well. (NIV)
The psalmist says, Lord, you created me and everything I am about with a specific purpose. From my very core, you began your design. You put all the pieces of me together, and each of your designs is amazing. Please remember this when you feel like you lack a purpose or identity.
The psalmist goes on to say,
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be. (139:15-16, NIV)
Nothing about you surprises your creator. Each day is on record before you are born. This whole psalm acknowledges that not a thing happens in our lives that God is not already aware of. Our response to purpose should be to live into it. When we have a purpose, we have a reason for being. When we lose our purpose, we might question why we exist. Please remember that if God created you with a purpose, then you have not lost that purpose; you have simply lost sight of that purpose. How can you regain that vision?
Practice what you are good at. The more we practice what we are good at, the better we become at doing it. The better we become at doing something, the more people notice what we have to offer. We often enjoy doing those things we are good at because we hear from others that they matter. So, if you play a musical instrument, practice it at an assisted living center or in a local church. If you are good at art, practice it by volunteering in a local school art class or creating banners at a place of worship. If you are good at math, help others with their taxes or volunteer to count the offering at church. God knows what you are good at, and you probably do too. If you do not, purposefully speak with those around you to ask them what talents they see you possess.
Remember, your identity is not what you do but who you are. We can quickly lose sight that we are God’s children, with or without a formal role. The Bible says we are “dearly loved” (Colossians 3:12, Ephesians 5:1). We are dearly loved on purpose. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave [on purpose, intentionally] his one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (NIV). Choose to believe in His love for you, on purpose, because he gave his only son for you.
Bring your best to the table. Consistency of character is essential no matter who is watching or what we are doing. We, God’s dearly loved children, can imitate the character traits that Jesus Christ models. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience are part of God’s character. We need to purposefully imitate these traits, striving to be the best version of ourselves in every situation.
Listen to God’s leading. The Message interprets Proverbs 3:6 as “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God!” The writer of this proverb tells us to turn to God intentionally. And Psalm 139 reminds us God is always near by writing,
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast. (7-10, NIV)
God is with us at all times. Listen to his leading on purpose.
Fellowship with one another often has to be practiced on purpose. Sometimes, we may not feel like going to church, but being in the presence of others following Jesus helps remind us how dearly loved we are and how much we have to offer this world. Join us for worship at Connections Church. Where we seek to offer what we are good at to bless others, live as God’s dearly loved children, remind ourselves through hearing the word preached to bring our best to the table and listen to God’s voice speaking to us through community.
We are all probably familiar with the word “subliminal,” which means something going on beneath the surface without us even realizing it. But the lesser-used root of this word is “liminal,” which means the space between, transitional, or on the threshold of something new. Liminal spaces can feel daunting because while we know what happened before, we do not yet know what will happen next. These times can last for a short period, like after school lets out in May, until it begins again in August. Or, they can last for years. For example, after children head off to work or college, you enter the liminal space of being empty nesters. What will fill that space that was once filled with a busy household?
The Bible is full of liminal spaces. Moses spent 40 years in Midian after killing the Egyptian who he saw beating a Hebrew. He knew what he had been before that incident: a son of the Pharoah, exalted, with a clear track to leadership. But in Midian’s desert, he had nothing and no idea where his life would go. Until God began to rebuild him again, raising him to be a great leader for those held in captivity in Egypt. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years before they came to the promised land. Later, the Israelites were in exile for hundreds of years on two different occasions. Again, they knew what they had left and had no idea of their future. The psalms are full of liminal spaces. That is when the psalmists seem most often to cry out to God. Psalm 13 is an example of this:
```
How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and day after day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
Look on me and answer, Lord my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death,
and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,”
and my foes will rejoice when I fall. (1-4, NIV)
``` We might relate to this psalmist in our liminal spaces, feeling abandoned or forgotten while the rest of the world seems to be thriving or moving on. We cry out for direction, purpose, and meaning. We listen, but for a time, it seems we are hearing nothing.
The “dog days of summer” can be liminal spaces. Between July and August, these hottest days of the year may seem oppressive as the cooler days of spring are over and the pleasant days of fall have not yet begun. We wait. We sit, and we sweat. But remember, the good news is that dog days do not last forever, nor do liminal spaces. They are a phase, a transition, and like all transitions, they too shall pass.
What can we learn in liminal spaces? What can we do besides complain about our current circumstances? The end of Psalm 13 and many other psalms point us in the right direction.
```
But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing the Lord’s praise,
for he has been good to me.(5-6, NIV)
``` Trust, hope, remember, and believe during liminal times. These are not just words, but pillars of faith that can guide us through the uncertainty. During periods of transition, be they great or small, long or short, when it is not clear yet what will be, people of faith remember what God has done in their lives. They live with the hope that God will provide for them again. They trust that no matter what, God will never leave or forsake them. They also believe that God is with them and they are not alone.
Fellowshipping with others during times of transition can help us to feel support. It’s during these times that we need each other the most. Come worship with us at Connections Church where we remember what God has done and ask curious questions about what God will do in our current circumstances. Together, we can find strength and comfort in our shared faith.
Dear Lord,
As I am in this liminal space, walk close to me.
When I have lost sight of what I am to be about, provide meaning and context.
When I feel I have so much to give and yet hear back that I am not what others want, remind me that you have a plan.
Please build back up what remains torn down.
Restore my soul.
Make me new again.AMEN
Amidst the prevalent discourse on the abuse of touch, it’s easy to feel apprehensive about physical contact. However, research is uncovering the profound role of appropriate touch in soothing the nervous system and enhancing mental well-being. Think about the warmth of a friend’s hug, the reassurance of holding a loved one’s hand, or the connection forged through a simple handshake. These instances of physical touch dispel feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging.
In the famous painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, God reaches down to Adam with all His godly might while Adam holds his arm up to God with seemingly lackluster effort. Commentators note that by simply straightening his fingers, Adam could complete the connection. There is an energy in that painting of wanting the fingers to touch. As onlookers, we long for the connection because we recognize what can happen through that touch. We are no longer isolated, alone, and abandoned, but we have a connection with the creator of the universe.
There is a reason mothers scoop up their crying babies, holding them close to their chests, and fathers take the hands of toddlers and walk them safely across intersections. Touch communicates that we are in this together and that you are not alone. We never lose this need for safe touch, no matter how old we get. But as we age, many of us may push loving contact away with fierce independence, thinking we do not need nor want help.
When we experience appropriate touch, research shows that it can significantly alleviate feelings of depression, anxiety, and psychological numbness. It brings us back to a state of balance, where we can respond to triggers with more measured reactions rather than automatic fight, flight, or freeze responses. This understanding of the power of touch is not new. In Genesis 2:18, God declares, ”It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” God created us to be in connection. Even in the New Testament, Jesus chooses to work with twelve disciples, recognizing the strength and power in connection.
Think about how often Jesus heals the sick and raises the dead by touching them (e.g., Matthew 8:3, 15; Matthew 9:20, 29; Matthew 17:7; 20:34; Mark 8:54). Yet, we know from the story of Lazarus that Jesus can raise the dead without touching a body. Why, then, does Jesus use touch in so many stories? Perhaps he wants us to see that touch breaks down barriers between self and others. On a day when touching the sick meant becoming unclean yourself, Jesus redeems touch to bring healing and restoration.
Inappropriate touch abuses, demeans, and demoralizes humanity. This touch makes people feel small, like property, and of little value. Indeed, people leave organized religion when wolves violate their bodies in places where they should be safe. But the touch that heals, restores, welcomes, and connects people is a gift God provides for our good. It is a goodness of touch that Diana Ross sings about in the song Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand), and these lyrics serve as an excellent reminder to us all:
Reach out and touch
Somebody's hand
Make this world a better place
If you can
Reach out and touch
Somebody's hand
Make this world a better place
If you can
Come worship with us at Connections Church, Sunday mornings at 9:30am. Our desire is to connect you with God, the creator of the Universe; Jesus, his only son, our Lord and Savior; and the Holy Spirit, who will never leave you and serves as a reminder of all God has promised. As a community, we seek to break down barriers that make us feel isolated and foster fellowship that leads to belonging.
Record heat waves are sweeping the nation throughout the summer. Where do you go when the heat is on? Do you hide indoors or venture out? Heat can make us uncomfortable, and who wants to feel uncomfortable? But if we find places that are okay to be in the heat, we can tolerate the temperatures much more readily. A pool, shoreline, or breezy deck might be places where heat becomes tolerable—maybe even somewhat enjoyable. Because of our bodies’ design, we can handle a certain amount of heat. We sweat to take our internal temperatures down. We drink water to stay hydrated. And we slow down our activities so our bodies do not overheat on their own.
Mental heat enters each of our lives in the form of pressure, stress, or a lack of calm. You might feel in the “hot seat” when facing a challenging board meeting, job interview, or human resource corrective action. Your face might turn red or flush when you become embroiled in conflict or shamed by another. People will tug at their collars or roll up their sleeves when they experience unsettling things at work or home. Both actions signify that things are getting “hot” inside. How do we respond to these times of heat in our lives?
Water, in scripture, is a symbol of spiritual nourishment and the remedy for never allowing the heat to overtake us. Jeremiah 17:8-9 says, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Access to this spiritual water, according to this scripture, comes from trust in the Lord. When the heat is on, we need to immerse ourselves deep into scripture and find those words that will bring comfort and relief to our circumstances.
In the New Testament, Jesus intentionally goes to a well in Samaria at noon, where he encounters a woman who needs to hear life-giving words. Instead of going to the well in the early morning or late evening, when the heat is less, this woman goes in the middle of the day, and Jesus meets her there. Perhaps her life circumstances require that she face the heat. Jesus knows everything about this woman and yet invites the woman to ask Him for the living water that will satiate her thirsty soul.
Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water….but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life”.
John 4:10&14
When Jesus acknowledges that He knows all about her circumstances and yet offers her the gift of living water that leads to eternal life, she becomes so thrilled that she tells everyone she can in her town, and they come to see for themselves. Because she encountered Jesus in the heat of her day, she led many others to discover Him, too.
When we experience intense heat, dry spiritual patches, or discomfort, let us tap into the reserves our spiritual body offers: Trust in the Lord. Place your confidence in Him. Ask Him for the living water that only He can supply. And, send your roots down deep into His word. Know it. Refer to it often. Remind yourself of the promises of God. Heat typically passes. It is seasonal. But one thing is for sure: it will come again. How will you be ready?
Come worship with us at Connections Church where we prepare for seasons of drought and celebrate seasons of plenty.
How many of you would say you are adventurous? Are you willing to try new things and take on new risks, ideas, or experiences? Summer is a great time to be adventurous. Vacation time seems to be an obvious way to adventure into new territory and see new sights. But, even without vacation, the summer allows us time to slow down, breathe in, and think about a new way we might want to challenge ourselves. It could be training for an event we have never done, like hiking a 14ner, participating in a triathlon, or walking a 5k race. A new challenge for you might be learning an instrument, agreeing to speak in public, or helping at a local food bank. The thing with adventures is you never know exactly how they are going to go. Because they are new, there is an element of surprise. What will we find when we try an adventure?
Fear is an inhibitor of adventure. When we ask “what if” and follow that with any fearful statement about what could go wrong, we stop ourselves from adventuring. We often see this happen in the Bible, where God asks His people to do adventurous things, and they ask, ‘What if?’ Let’s take the example of Moses. God called him to go to Egypt and set His people free. What an invitation to an adventure! But Moses, like many of us, was filled with fear and doubt. He asked, ‘What if?’ so many times that God began to get angry. Moses even went so far as to say, ‘You have chosen the wrong guy.’ But God, in His infinite wisdom and patience, reassured Moses and promised to be with him every step of the way.
10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” 11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” 13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.” 14 Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform the signs with it.”
Exodus 4:10-16
God invites us as His followers to be adventurous. When we quiet that spirit of adventure because we worry about all the “what ifs,” we miss opportunities to experience God’s power. God did not choose Moses because he was an excellent speaker, David because he was an intimidating presence, or Mary because she was a particularly bold woman. God chose these people to do adventurous things because He knew they believed in Him. God invites us to adventure because He knows His power will become evident to us through our inability to do the adventure on our own. The apostle Paul writes about this in 2 Corinthians 12:9: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’”
So, if you feel a tug from the Lord to try something new: To share the Gospel with an unbelieving friend or coworker; to serve on a Mission Team in a country you have never been to; or to step up in leadership, say “yes.” You don’t have to have it all figured out. God will make a way. Know that through this experience of trusting God, you will grow as you see His power made perfect in your weakness.
We invite you to attend with us at Connections Church. We are a growing church that longs to take risks, try new things, and trust God to show us our next steps. We invite you to adventure with us!
I Peter 1:1:15: “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
The pursuit of holiness has received a bad rap in modern society. Unless you are the Pope, one should not come off as trying to be “holier than thou.” To be referred to as such means you put off a moral superiority towards others. Acting in such a way would be the opposite of what God calls us to be. How could Peter write about this call to be holy in Chapter 1 of his book, and then a few chapters later tell us to “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). How do calls for holiness and humility both lead to completeness?
The word “holy” in English comes from the word for “whole.” To be whole is the idea of not lacking anything that James writes about in his first chapter:
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)
Would you want to be holy if it meant you were complete and lacking nothing? When we see our “holes,” we feel less than, insignificant, and not capable. God calls us to something else. But we cannot do it on our own. We cannot live without holes in a broken world unless we start over in Christ. Outside of Christ, we are wholly holey people.
When we seek to live in Christ, exclusively devoted to God, we live as more whole individuals. God is perfectly complete. His Son, Jesus, was the perfect sacrifice. When Jesus died on the cross for us, He not only covered our sins, but He also filled all our holes. God looks at us through the covering of His Son and sees us as complete. What we cannot do for ourselves, Christ did for us. In Christ, we find our restoration and our hope.
Not only does God see me through Christ as holy, but I can view myself as complete and not lacking anything in Christ. I no longer see myself apart from Christ but living in Him. This is why the apostle Paul says in Philippians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Once we are born again in Christ and live for him, accepting him as our Lord and Savior, our lives no longer matter. We live in Christ, seeking to be obedient to him, choosing his way, and acting by faith. As humans, we cannot be perfect on our own. We will fail. We will show our holes. Sometimes, we will act out of our holes. But, when we obey Christ, we live complete, holy lives.
Community creates a context for holy living. When we love one another, as Christ has loved us, we encourage, equip, and engage with one another in a way that strengthens us. Our Christian community cheers us on toward wholeness. We recognize that none of us can be perfect apart from Christ. Yet, in him, we have everything we need.
Come worship with us at Connections Church where we seek to love one another and live into His holiness.
“Perfect is not what I seek to be, for then there is no room to grow in me.”
(Reynolds, August 3, 2021)
We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. Psalm 33: 20-22
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16
Have you ever felt lazy? We are approaching the “lazy, hazy, days of summer,” which might make us question, “When is it ok to waste time?” We also might have “to-do lists” that are several pages long, causing not only ourselves but also those we love to feel pressured into achieving versus receiving. In these situations, we might ask ourselves, “When am I forcing my own agenda of things that I believe must be done now versus waiting on the Lord for God’s timing?”
The Bible says we should both wait on the Lord and make the most of every opportunity. How do we do both? We begin by identifying when and why it is essential to wait on the Lord and then observing times when that waiting turns into wasting.
When we take action without waiting on the Lord, we can make rash decisions. These choices can have long-term implications. Rushing into quitting a job we have in hand or taking a job because it is available, without consulting God, might lead to financial demise or a toxic job situation. People rush into marriages, business deals, and moves across the country to escape their current circumstances. In each of these situations, humans try to run from or to something that will result in their saving. But, they do not pause to ask their actual Savior whether God would have them do this.
Maybe we don’t think God cares about these decisions, but the Bible tells us otherwise. In Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus speaks to his disciples, saying that the sparrows sold cheaply in the market are not outside God’s care. God knows when one of them falls. In fact, says Jesus, even the hairs of your head are all numbered by God. So, God cares about the details and wants us to take the time to go to him with our concerns. We must wait on the Lord when we have big decisions because God cares about us.
But are there times when we say we are waiting on the Lord and that we are actually wasting time and failing to make the most of every opportunity? Absolutely! Here, we clearly distinguish between waiting and wasting, which lies in the definitions. Wasting means to become progressively weaker — “wasting away.” It also can mean to use without purpose or extravagantly—extravagant meaning without restraint. So, when we waste time, we do not use it with intention or view it as precious or important. Instead, we fill our time with things that make us progressively weaker, not stronger. When wasting time, we may be very active being inactive. Here are some ways we waste time:
We stream: Oh my goodness, can we fill our time with streaming? We get short and snappy with others because they interrupt our mindless streaming. What a waste of time, relationship, and opportunity.
We text/check email/engage social media: We trade voice-to-voice and in-person exchanges for written words and videos. Not only does this limit how much we can say, but it also limits our critical thinking as we trade small bites for meaty conversations.
We make excuses: There are a million reasons we can think of why we need a nap or we need to watch the next TedTalk more than we need to clean, apply for a job, or prepare for our next assignment. We may feel a sense of accomplishment and peace when our workspace is clean, but wasting time often takes precedence over accomplishing what needs to happen.
We are stuck: Sometimes, we do not take any action because we don’t know how to make something happen given our current circumstances. Ephesians 3:20 suggests that God can do way more than we can even imagine. So, we are wasting time and opportunity when we do not act because we do not know how it could ever happen.
We are not thriving: Thriving involves flourishing, which consists of development. When we waste our time, we do not develop who we are. We become weaker by not challenging ourselves to move forward.
Waiting, on the other hand, is more active than one might think at first glance. The Oxford Dictionary begins the definition of waiting with the word “action.” It reads, “…the action of staying where one is or delaying action until a particular time or until something else happens.” ·When we are waiting, particularly when we are waiting on the Lord, we are taking several actions.
We are listening: What is God telling us during this waiting period? What themes do we hear repeated? What is happening in our lives that we also hear through God’s word? God is constantly speaking to us. What is God saying?
We are watching: Where do we see God at work around us and inviting us to join? What is God doing in the world? As we read scripture, where do we see areas where we can be salt and light?
We are trusting: Scripture says, “…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6, NIV). So, we know we have something to offer this world. We actively trust that God will show us what that is.
We are testing: Waiting also involves testing the waters. It means taking steps forward to gain a new perspective on your circumstances. It may mean filling out job applications, having difficult but essential conversations at your current workplace, or challenging relationships with productive conflict. We are testing whether this is the direction God wants us to go. We do not know the outcome of this testing, but we trust God will show us the way if this is God’s direction.
We are growing: For many people, failure is an excellent opportunity for growth. When we don’t put ourselves out there and try to get back into the game of life, we become stagnant. Stagnant means having no activity and often putting off an unpleasant smell or aroma. We are wasting our time when we say we are “waiting on the Lord” but do not act in ways that listen, watch, trust, and test God’s perfect plan.
Wasting and waiting are both actions; one requires purposeful engagement, while the other involves mindless consumption. They both fill times of transition in ways that influence outcomes. Will we mindlessly fill our time with mind numbing activities, or will we intentionally slow down to listen, watch, trust, test, and grow?
At Connections Church, we challenge each other to wait on the Lord while actively pursuing God’s calling. Come join us for worship Sundays at 9:30am.
Have you ever wondered what is not being shared on Facebook? We see stories of engagements, honors, graduations, weddings, and births. We rarely glimpse the struggles of a child grappling with mental health challenges, the agony of failed endeavors, or the silent battles of infertility and loss.
Facebook posts can take our breath away, like a sucker punch to the gut. As readers, we don’t measure up. Our lives are not so perfect. Silence stifles our voices, as our hearts cry out,
1 How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and day after day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
3 Look on me and answer, Lord my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death,
4 and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,”
and my foes will rejoice when I fall. (Psalm 13:1-4)
Digging deeper than what we see at first glance, we might notice that even the most braggadocious posts mask the reality of our true struggles in life. If we pull back the curtain, we might find a mom attempting to lift up a child who feels unloved, a wife trying to present the best side of a loveless marriage, or a successful individual compensating for relational voids. Facebook posts can cover what is really going on like Greek Theater masks. Slow down, look closer, and see what is actually being said, or not said. Or notice those who are not posting, because they are in a season where it is difficult to chime in.
We are all struggling with something these days. The honest truth is, life is hard. This is not a new concept. In the Bible, Jesus says in John 16:33,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus does not say, “You might have trouble.” He says trouble is inevitable in this world. Jesus is preparing his disciples with these words because he, the perfect, sinless man, is himself going to suffer great pain, mocking, and ultimately death from the very people he came to save. Jesus says to his disciples, don’t expect anything different for yourselves. As my followers, you will go through trouble. But, “in me, you may have peace.”
It is interesting to note that any time Jesus faces trials while on earth, he turns to his heavenly Father. From his Father, he learns the timing of when to speak and when to remain silent; when to move and when to stay put; when to heal, and when to honor the Sabbath. We are blessed by his example of where to turn when we face trials. Look to Him. Is there anywhere else we can run to or hide? We are safe in Jesus’s arms. “In me, you may have peace.”
While Facebook might be fun, try to find another community that is honest about the trials we face in life. No one is exempt from them. Trials are part of life in a fallen world. So, be kind. Everyone is going through something.
Good Times
Times of Trouble
force me
to create
to express
to reach
to question
Times of Pain
cause me
to weep
to read
to learn
to grow
Times of Doubt
challenge me
to pray
to search
to seek
to listen
Times of Plenty
encourage me
to give
to laugh
to love
to relate
by Erin M. Reynolds
Come worship with us at Connections Church! Join our community that is talking about all types of times, celebrating the gift of vulnerability, and practicing authenticity with one another.
Spring has sprung, and many of us may find ourselves gazing upon our yards with a mix of anticipation and exasperation. Where do we even begin? There is a laundry list of tasks demanding attention: pulling weeds, endless mowing, clearing leaves from rock beds, trimming back ornamental grasses, planting new foliage, and refreshing pots. Every year, we may embark on our individual projects by shopping for perennials, dreaming of a year in the future that will require less work. Yet, inevitably, we find ourselves each year caught in an endless cycle of refinement. The work is never done. There is always a new project ahead.
In seasons of change, we might wonder if God experiences a similar sentiment towards us – anticipation and exasperation. Our growth is never complete, and the process of cultivating seems unending. Will we take root? Will we flourish? Will we bear fruit? Will what was planted last year grow again this year? Despite our shortcomings, God persists in creating new life within us. And, although we should feel grateful for the constant tending, we may whine about the time it takes and the pain we feel in the midst of it.
But where in this daunting task do we find anticipation? Surveying our seemingly hopeless yards, our eyes are drawn to pockets of new life. A ground creeper not noticed before now flourishes with delicate purple foliage. Green shoots emerge amidst withered ornamental grasses. Life, despite the endless challenges, persists. And in that persistence, there is hope. Hope that each of us can begin anew, allowing God to cut back what needs to be removed and plant afresh in barren patches.
God’s mastery in nurturing growth is undeniable. He understands that growth requires nurturing. Despite the challenges and frustrations He may face, God continues to work on our hearts, watering our souls, and strengthening our roots. All of this, ultimately, is for our benefit. In the midst of our struggles—be they relational, job loss, financial setbacks, stress, crisis of identity, etc.
—God reassures us:
“See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:19
God is actively at work within us! No matter how parched or depleted we may feel, God declares, “I am not finished with you yet! What I am doing within you is something new. Trust me. I am your Creator, and this is what I do.”
So, what can we do as we await the new growth to take root? Here are some great practices:
- Stay Rooted in the Word: Ground yourself in scripture. What is God’s purpose? What is God’s plan? God is consistent throughout scripture telling us about his unending love for us. If you are unfamiliar with the Bible, consider joining a community to learn more about it.
- Trust in God’s Promises: Familiarize yourself with God’s assurances, such as “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5), and “I will be your God, you will be my people” (Jeremiah 7:23). Worship serves as a powerful reminder of these promises. We repeat through song what God has promised to us.
- Find Community: Growth is challenging, but it is easier when shared. Seek out faith communities that value vulnerability and support one another through life’s struggles and triumphs.
Spring symbolizes new beginnings—a chance for fresh growth. We invite you to worship with us at Connections Church. Though the first steps forward may seem daunting, the promise of a flourishing life in Christ awaits you!
The Board of Trustees and Employed/Ordained Ministers of Connections Church seek willing volunteers to join in a “Task Force” to research the long term financial viability of Connections Church (CC). […]
For Sunday, March 12 2023
Series: Lent 2023- Rescue
Read John 4:1-42
In the Sunday sermon we covered a lot of history between Samaria and Israel. Summarize what we know about the hatred between these two groups. How did the division start? How did it progress? What can we learn about ourselves in their story? What warnings can we apply?
(See 2 Kings 17 for more background.)
“Jesus had to go.” What does this tell us about Jesus and his mission? What does this mean for the church and our mission?
“He sat down by a well?” In the message the urgency of Jesus’ mission was contrasted with the peace/patience to just sit down. What can we learn about serving Jesus from his example? Have you ever sensed and urgency in your mission/calling? Have you ever experience a peace to just sit when others were frantic?
He asked her for a drink. How can asking for help be a great way to serve and build relationships? Do you have any examples of asking for help, or being asked for help, and how a relationship and trust grew from that experience?
The conversation reveals, and teaches, many things. And of course Jesus has “inside information” that helps move the conversation, and her conversion, forward. One notable part is that he states that true worship is in “The Spirit and truth.” It is not dependent on temple (Religious practice) or mountain (place).
What does this mean for our worship and the mission of the church? What does this mean for “Christian Zionism,” that is, a belief that establishing the nation or Israel is required for Christ’s second coming. Or for “Christian Nationalism,” the belief that the United States is a new Israel, ie, a new promised land required for the fulfillment of prophesy and Christ’s return?
In the end we see two very powerful lessons:
First is Jesus demonstrating, and declaring, that he is the Messiah, the savior of the world. He is the spring of living water and all people need what only he can provide- salvation.
Second, we see that this woman immediately sets out in mission. More specifically, she embodies one of our values- Bringer. She simply shares what Jesus means to her/has done former, and then brings others to Jesus. Jesus seems to take care of the rest. As the text says- the people believed not just on her account, but because they too met Jesus.
How might this guide and direct our mission as a church and as individuals?
Close with a time of prayer to drink from Jesus’ offer of salvation, And to pray for opportunities to share the living water with others that they might come to know Jesus too.
As I reflect on the story of the woman at the well (John 4),
I think he says it best in a few stanzas…
“I Thirst for You” by Joseph Langford
I know what is in your heart – I know your loneliness and all your hurts – the rejections, the judgments, the humiliations. I carried it all before you. And I carried it all for you, so you might share My strength and victory. I know especially your need for love – how you are thirsting to be loved and cherished.
But how often have you thirsted in vain, by seeking that love selfishly, striving to fill the emptiness inside you with passing pleasures – with the even greater emptiness of sin. Do you thirst for love? “Come to Me all you who thirst…”(Jn. 7:37). I will satisfy you and fill you. Do you thirst to be cherished? I cherish you more than you can imagine – to the point of dying on a cross for you.
I thirst for you. Yes, that is the only way to even begin to describe My love for you:
I THIRST FOR YOU. I thirst to love you and to be loved by you – that is how precious you are to Me.
I THIRST FOR YOU. Come to Me, and I will fill your heart and heal your wounds. I will make you a new creation. and give you peace, even in all your trials.
I THIRST FOR YOU. You must never doubt My mercy, My acceptance of you; My desire to forgive, My longing to bless you and live My life in you.
I THIRST FOR YOU. If you feel unimportant in the eyes of the world, that matters not at all. For Me, there is no one any more important in the entire world than you.
I THIRST FOR YOU. No matter how far you have strayed without a destination, no matter how often you have forgotten Me, no matter how many crosses you bear in this life.
I THIRST FOR YOU – just you, as you are. You don’t need to change to believe in My love, for it will be your confidence in that love that will make you change.
Do you find this difficult to believe? If so, look at the Cross, look at My Heart that was pierced for you. Then listen again to the words I spoke there, for they tell you clearly why I endured all this for you:
“….I THIRST” (John 19: 28)
The following will provide you scriptures to read on the topic of fasting. Some ideas for prayer. And finally, guidelines and suggestions for fasting, and alternatives to fasting from food.
Remember-
We are not obligated to fast. We are invited to fast by Jesus (Matthew 6:16) because fasting is an opportunity to experience blessing and growth.
Scriptures about Fasting:
Ezra 8:21-23
Nehemiah 1:1-10
Daniel 9:1-3 ff
Joel 1:13-15, 2:12-17,
Jonah 3:1-10
Matthew 6:16-18,
Matthew 9:14-17
Luke 18:9-14
Prayer
If you have never prayed much, give yourself to dedicated, quiet prayer the next 40 days. Set a time, set a place, get a journal, and start talking to God. You can’t beat the prayer he taught his disciples…
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours
now and for ever. Amen.
Bible Reading
We have the #imagesoflent23 scripture readings and “word of the day” for meditation, journaling and artistic reflection.
We have “Today” devotionals available.
You can also find many wonderful bible reading plans and devotionals on the YouVersion Bible App.
Fasting
Your fasting may be tied into your prayer and bible reading. You’ll have to give up some time, a piece of your day, to get into the word and pray. It might mean giving up some sleep to wake up a half hour earlier. It might mean giving up a 15 minute coffee break in the middle of the day. It might mean giving the last part of your day to God instead of Netflix or Wordle. If you do this you are positioning yourself for profound spiritual growth and transformation.
Types of Fasting
Complete Fast- This fast calls for drinking only liquids, typically water with light juices as an option. Typical only done for a 24-48 hours, unless experienced.
Selective Fast- This type of fast involves removing certain elements from a diet: meat, sweets, bread or alcohol are all common selective fasts.
Intermittent Fast- Abstaining from eating any type of food for a specific time of the day, such as 6:00 am to 3:00 pm, or from sunup to sundown.
Here are a few suggestions for alternatives to fasting from food:
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Give up something from your home everyday to bless someone else. The jacket you don’t wear anymore. The book collecting dust on your shelf. The kids clothes your kids outgrew a decade ago. Give something up, and bless someone else. As you de-clutter your life you will find space has been created for the Spirit to fill.
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Give up driving and walk. Force yourself to slow down the next 40 days and bike to work or school. Just get out of your car, get on your feet, or your bike, get out in the creation. Some days will be sunny, and life will be great. Some days will be cold and rainy, and you will suffer, good. You’ll slow down. You’ll think more. You’ll clear your head. You’ll see things you don’t normally see. You’ll notice neighbors and things in the community that could lead to connections, relationships, opportunities.
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Unplug. Give up electronics, or social media, or movies. Just unplug and stop looking at screens and starting looking at reality. And remember, every Sunday is a day to break your fast, so you can binge after church each Sunday!
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OR, if you can’t give up your online life, leverage it. Post your bible reading everyday in Lent. Post picture of your prayer corner. Post an invitation to worship. Bring Jesus into your online life and create some social accountability, but also some witness to the world, for Jesus.
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Of course you can go with the now standard: give up a luxury. Give up sleeping on your bed and sleep on the ground, for the son of God had no where to rest his head. Give up shoes, and walk barefoot. If the sacrifice costs you, then great! I know a woman who gives up mirrors for Lent. She so wants her life to be about Jesus for Lent that she has decided to not even look at herself. Fasting is a way to practice suffering. Suffering produces perseverance, and perseverance produces a stronger faith in Jesus!
And finally, Serve
Of course you can serve in the church. Help with a service. Volunteer with the kids. Help with the facilities. But you can get creative. If you are giving away something each day, your service will naturally flow as you have to drop if off to a person in need or a thrift store. You might take a meal to a person in need. You might invite someone over for dinner and games (yes, serving people can actually be fun!).
One final thought:
Give $1 each day of Lent.
The things we pay for, we care for.
You can pay each day for your time with God.
Take a bill, slip it into an envelope, and get to it.
Or you could pay up front.
Invest your $40 right at the start.
Then you’ll be like, “I already paid to spend some time with God today, I’m just throwing my money away if I don’t do it!”
Lent 2023
February 22 – April 6, 2023
Easter Sunday
April 9, 2023
What is the word of the day project?
This year, as a tool for reflection, repentance, and remembrance we are using the scripture readings from the Revised Common Lectionary to provide you with three scripture readings each week of Lent. The challenge is to read the scripture, reflect on the word, and take a photo that represents the word and the scripture. Read the scripture in the morning and throughout the day reflect on how you see the word/verse in your day-to-day like.
One scripture
One word
One image
The word prompts are designed to get you into the Bible each day with words that are significant to this season of repentance, remembrance, and reflection, and to help promote creativity as a spiritual discipline to draw close to God and participate in the season.
If you choose, you can share your images on Instagram with the hashtag:
#IMAGESOFLENT23
Download the entire guide here:
IMAGESOFLENT23
Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it.
Proverbs 4:23
We know the wisdom of guarding our heart.
But guard them from what?
Jesus dropped some wisdom on this matter when he warned his disciples,
20 He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. 21 For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. 23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.” Mark 7:20-23
Along the way the church codified this list, and other warnings, into the seven deadly sins:
Anger. Envy. Gluttony. Greed. Lust. Pride. Sloth.
I like how Rebecca DeYoung called them “The Glittering Vices.”
They glitter as a call us, tempt us, and lure us in.
They promise food and sex and vengeance and more.
And to be honest, they can be fun.
For a season.
But they never deliver on their promises.
They leave us craving more, yet never satisfying.
They begin to turn onus, an din us, and rot us inside out.
So how do we guard our hearts from these glittering vices?
Virtue.
Anger is fought with forgiveness.
Envy is deflated by celebration.
Gluttony is satisfied by fasting and feasting.
Greed is cured through giving.
Lust is conquered through fidelity and chastity.
Pride is brought down by humility.
And sloth is overcome through industriousness.
As you read through the sins take inventory of your heart, and her honest.
Have you been nurturing an angry grudge?
Has the green eyed monster taken hold of you?
Are you lustfully add ted to pornography?
As you take inventory be gentle with yourself.
All these sins tempt all people, in different ways, and at different times.
You’re quite normal if a wound from the past has stirred up anger in your heart.
You’re very human if you think more stuff might make you happy and secure.
You have a healthy sexuality if you find the human form beautiful and attractive.
But all these normal and natural tendency can quickly turn to sin.
So confess.
And commit to the virtuous.
If that’s enough, great.
If not, ask for help.
Talk to a pastor. A friend. A counselor.
We need not live captive to the glittering vices of deadly sin.
We can, with the help of God and others, live a more virtuous life that honors God, blesses others, and helps ourselves.
So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
Colossians 3:12-14
I wanted to start with the positive.
The “high fashion” that God is dressing his people.
But there are really two steps-
Before we can put on the new wardrobe of Christ, we must first take off the old garments. Otherwise it would be a foolish as waking up each day and just adding another layer of clothes. Always covering up yesterday’s dirty outfit.
It just doesn’t work.
We can put on love, and hargor hate for our neighbor.
We can’t put on compassion, and declare some people are not worthy.
We can’t put on purity, and keep secretive immoral sin.
So the bible makes it clear:
Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you’ll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.
And that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That’s a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God. It’s because of this kind of thing that God is about to explode in anger. It wasn’t long ago that you were doing all that stuff and not knowing any better. But you know better now, so make sure it’s all gone for good: bad temper, irritability, meanness, profanity, dirty talk.
Don’t lie to one another. You’re done with that old life. It’s like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you’ve stripped off and put in the fire. Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete. Words like Jewish and non-Jewish, religious and irreligious, insider and outsider, uncivilized and uncouth, slave and free, mean nothing. From now on everyone is defined by Christ, everyone is included in Christ.
Colossians 3:3-11
This week make it your morning beauty routine-
Go through this passage and declare, outloud even, all that you are taking off- the anger, filthy language, lies, lusts and the like.
And then put on the garments of Christ-
Compassion. Kindness. Humility. Quiet strength. Disciple. Forgiveness. And of course, love.
This week we build on our “Prayer of Examen.”
– We add our Lord’s Prayer.
– Two confessional affirmations.
– And a prayer to be part of the body of Christ.
I encourage you to stop and recite these, preferably out loud, twice a day.
Begin with the Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.
Heidelberg Catechism:
Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?
A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with His precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. Therefore, by His Holy Spirit He also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for Him.
Westminster Catechism:
Q: What is the chief end of man?
A: Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.
Close with a prayer reminding affirming that you are a part of the body of Christ:
You are a part of the body of Christ-
Christ loves you.
Christ died for you.
Christ rose for you.
Christ is coming again for you.
Without you Christ’s body is broken.
From Sunday, January 15, 2023
Series: “Uncluttered”
From the Series Overview-
Given time, we all collect clutter-
Cluttered homes. Cluttered schedules. Cluttered lives.
But it does’t have to stay that way. With some thought, work and discipline we can clear out the clutter and made room for matters. God. Relationships. And spiritual habits that bring blessing. Join us this winter as we take out the old and bring in the new!
Opening:
Are you hoarder, or a minimalist? (Left to your own will you keep everything, or would you rather throw it all out?)
For the next few weeks we are getting uncluttered. This is about living a godly life. Because an uncluttered life has space-
Space for God…worship…prayer…family…friends…rest…recreation…generosity…serving…
We start with admitting we have clutter. It’s called confession.
Read Isaiah 6:1-7
What does seeing God unveiled do to/in Isaiah? What is his response to this theophany?
What does God do in response to Isaiah?
Read Psalm 32:1-6
What happened when the Psalmist tried to conceal sin?
What happened when he confessed sin?
“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:8-9
Step one to get “uncluttered” is confession. The word “confession” in the Bible comes from the Greek “Homologeo.” This translates as “Same word.” What it means is that we’re saying the same word as God. We’re getting into agreement with God.
Confession gives us the opportunity to clear out the clutter and experience the forgiveness of sins and the purity of God. When we agree that sin is real, and sin separates us from God, confession is how we remove the clutter and grow close God.
A profound practice of confession is the “Prayer of Examen.” Saint Ignatius commended this practice to all followers of Jesus. Twice a day, noon and night, we stop and examine our lives,
Confess our sins,
Receive forgiveness,
And move forward in faith.
For the sake of alliteration and simplicity I’ve re-worked Saint Ignatius’ Examen into three steps:
Review
Repent
Request
Review. You have to get in the right posture of review. So stop. Set down the phone. Walk away from the desk. Break deeply. Quiet your soul. Clear your mind. Then review your day so far: Have you been aware of the presence of God? Have you lived out of the filling of the Spirit and displayed His fruits? For what can you give God thanks? Don’t rush the review and don’t skimp on the rejoicing (that’s your bonus RE word).
Repent. Here’s the confession part. A good way to approach repentance is by examining sins of commission and omission. Have you committed any sins- You spoke harshly of another person. You lied. You broke the speed limit (yep, sin.). Confess it. Then repent of sins of omission- You did not exend love to a neighbor. You missed an opportunity to show mercy. You have not been generous with your resources. Confess these as well.
Request. With an honest review and the confession of sins the first thing we can request, and receive, is forgiveness. Let God’s forgiveness wash over you and renew your faith. Then feel free to bring all your requests before God. Pray for yourself, your loved ones, your church…
It doesn’t have to be long. Five to ten minutes is all it takes. Of course it can be more.
A journal helps. Writing our our confessions and our requests is a great way to grow and to track God’s work in your life.
And setting an alert on your phone is a great hack. It will surprise you. It will come at very inconvenient times. You will want to postpone of delay your examen. But by all means possible, do it at that moment.
“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:8-9
Step one to get “uncluttered” is confession.
The word “confession” in the Bible comes from the Greek “Homologeo.” This translates as “Same word.” What it means is that we’re saying the same word as God. We’re willing to say the same thing that God says. We’re getting into agreement with God.
God says that angry outburst was a sin.
We say the same.
God says that greedy decision was motivated by sin.
We agree.
God says that lustful look was sin.
We confess the same.
Now we have the opportunity to clear out the clutter and experience the forgiveness of sins and the purity of God. When we agree that sin is real, and sin separates us from God, confession is how we remove the clutter and grow close God.
A profound practice of confession is the “Prayer of Examen.”
Saint Ignatius commended this practice to all followers of Jesus.
Twice a day, noon and night, we stop and examine our lives,
Confess our sins,
Receive forgiveness,
And move forward in faith.
For the sake of alliteration and simplicity I’ve re-worked Saint Ignatius’ Examen into three steps:
Review
Repent
Request
Review. You have to get in the right posture of review. So stop. Set down the phone. Walk away from the desk. Break deeply. Quiet your soul. Clear your mind. Then review your day so far: Have you been aware of the presence of God? Have you lived out of the filling of the Spirit and displayed His fruits? For what can you give God thanks? Don’t rush the review and don’t skimp on the rejoicing (that’s your bonus RE word).
Repent. Here’s the confession part. A good way to approach repentance is by examining sins of commission and omission. Have you committed any sins- You spoke harshly of another person. You lied. You broke the speed limit (yep, sin.). Confess it. Then repent of sins of omission- You did not exend love to a neighbor. You missed an opportunity to show mercy. You have not been generous with your resources. Confess these as well.
Request. With an honest review and the confession of sins the first thing we can request, and receive, is forgiveness. Let God’s forgiveness wash over you and renew your faith. Then feel free to bring all your requests before God. Pray for yourself, your loved ones, your church…
It doesn’t have to be long. Five to ten minutes is all it takes. Of course it can be more.
A journal helps. Writing our our confessions and our requests is a great way to grow and to track God’s work in your life.
And setting an alert on your phone is a great hack. It will surprise you. It will come at very inconvenient times. You will want to postpone of delay your examen. But by all means possible, do it at that moment.
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Connections Sports Camp is back!Sports Camp is for kids 4-12 years old. Think of this a super-charged Vacation Bible School where children will engage in a variety of sports, learn about Jesus, and create lasting relationships with youth and adult leaders. Camp includes Basketball, Soccer and Cheerleading, with exciting games, drills, and routines.
Preschool Children, 4 and 5 years old, will have their own “Team 45,” designed to teach the fundamentals of motion, rhythm, and balance development.
Schedule: 9am-12:15pmOpening Ceremony (Welcome, announcements, worship, theme of the day, etc)
Practice 1
Snack
Bible Lesson
Practice 2
Closing Ceremony
Ages: 4 yrs – 6th grades
Location: Connections Church
Time: 9:00 am – 12:15 pm
Cost: $75 per child
Please let us know your child’s preferred sport: basketball, soccer, cheer or Team 45.
And don’t forget to order your child’s t-shirt size.
SPORTS CAMP REGISTRATION PAGE