October 13, 2016
We have those in the Christian community that will argue miracles are not for today. They happened long ago, but we should no longer expect God to do them now. Others will claim that God is very much in the miracle business. I had a guy in my office recently who claimed that he could (through God’s power) heal anyone, anywhere, anytime. These two views are like bookends to a library of books spouting everything in between. So what is a person to believe?
I take comfort that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) There are more than 14 verses that directly declare God doesn’t change. So how does one reconcile the seeming difference between what is happening in our world and the claims in the Bible?
Baker’s dictionary of the Bible describes a miracle as: "an event in the external world brought about by the immediate agency or the simple volition of God.” Miracles happen every day, but we may not recognize it or be aware of them.
If you would like to see a miracle, here are some quick one liners that might help.
1. Put yourself in a position where a miracle will be necessary. (Matthew 14:29) Many of us live very safe lives, never venturing beyond what you know is possible. God loves to do the impossible with those who think all things are possible with God.
2. Ask God for something that is not possible in human terms. (John 5:6) Jesus asked the man who had been an invalid for 38 years if he wanted to get well. Seems like a stupid question, but is it? If some of us got well we would have nothing to talk about, complain about, or identify with. Jesus wants to do a miracle, but you have to want one too.
3. Stretch your faith. (Matthew 9:29) Jesus said to the blind man, “according to your faith it will be done to you.” What do you believe God for? If you believe something you need to act on that belief. When we do, God responds. Jesus could not do any miracles in his home town because they saw him as just a carpenter’s son. (Mark 6:5)
What would you like God to do? What would you like to do, but are afraid of? Where could you stretch your faith? Answer these simple but difficult questions, and watch a miracle take place in your life.
This week I will be speaking at the Dwelling Place in Cranbrook. I am looking forward to being with this growing and vibrant congregation. An added bonus for me visiting Cranbrook is to hang out with my grandkids.
KCF will be treated to a great message by Anne-Marie Haynes.
Update on Haiti
Hurricane Matthew slammed Haiti as you have all heard. More than a 1000 people have died, 20,000 homes destroyed, and all the crops have been wiped out in the hurricane’s path. Mango trees, banana plantations, gardens—all gone. In addition, there is now fear of widespread cholera because of water contamination. This is as serious as the 2010 earthquake was.
Hurricane Matthew hit with winds of 230 km/hr causing severe damage; practically wiping out whole towns in most of the southwestern part of the island. In Grand Goave alone, 600 homes were flattened, 1750 homes damaged, leaving thousands without shelter. There is a major food crisis due to gardens and livestock being completely destroyed. Haiti Arise campus was largely spared from the effects of this hurricane, due to the well- built structures. All the EACHone BUILDone homes withstood the storm. This is a testimony of work well done with your donation dollars.
However, right now the people need our support.
On October 25, at 6 pm we are going to have a spaghetti dinner and auction to raise funds for Make Haiti Sustainable. Money raised will go towards seeds for gardens, banana shoots, chickens, goats etc. to help people grow their own food again. Tickets are $30 each and we can provide a $20 tax receipt. If you can’t make the dinner, but would like to support Haiti, visit our website and donate on line. Or call our office for an interac transaction.
A New Phone Number!
Kootenay Christian Fellowship and Our Daily Bread has a new phone number. Please update your records. Our new number is (250) 352-1722. The old 1-888 number is discontinued.
S.H.A.R.E Nelson IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
The S.H.A.R.E. Nelson move is complete! They are open for business. Come and see our new location and what the new store looks like. Please use bottom level doors. There is no access from the KCF entrance.
If you can help at the store to organize and set up, please call the store at (250) 352-1222.
Bright Lights – A Club for Kids
This “extraordinary” club for kids is being offered again this year for Kindergarten to Grade 4 beginning this Saturday, October 15, 2016 and every Saturday from 1:00 – 3:15 pm at KCF. This club is not exclusive and any child can come! There will be games, music, crafts, movies, character building, and snacks! Registration and Orientation is on October 15 and is $30 per child, $50 per family, or $5 drop-in fee. Contact Doreen to Register 250-354-2077.
Calendar of Events
Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.
Looking forward to seeing you this weekend.
Pastor Jim
E-transfers to office@kcfoffice.com
Kootenay Christian Fellowship520 Falls Street (1/2 Block up from Baker Street)Nelson, BC V1L 6B5