Is it possible to change? I don’t mean a cosmetic change like a face lift, or tummy tuck, but a transformation from the inside out. The number one issue that will sabotage our success is our character. And it is our character that is as stubborn as an offended mother in law. There is a reason the bestselling books in pop psychology are on how to make your life better. The very fact there is so much advice on this point, may be a strong indicator of just how futile all this well-meaning advice is. The point is that we can dress up a person, give him/her education, and even endow him/her with money, but if the character is bad; it will be all for naught. Character defines one’s reputation and reputation determines one’s future.
The difficult thing for me is that I have long known that Character is important. And much is made of this fact. But what if one has a debilitating character flaw; how can you fix that?
New Year’s resolutions don’t work. Counselling is often futile. Religion has proven ineffective. Change of geography is fruitless. Where ever you go, there you are. This morbid reality is one of the reasons the gospel is called the good news. It is good news because what humans have difficulty doing (changing their character), God can do in an instant. This is also the reason why I love Easter. Because of Easter, (Jesus rising from the dead) we can become a new creation. Not a do over, not a recycled version, not a makeover, but a brand new creation. This is our promise. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17) Think of the implications. The old has gone, the new has come. In Christ we become a different person, a brand new person. The reason this works is because when Christ is in us, we get a new spirit. It is not a new program we take on, or a new set of rules to live by, or even a new philosophy to carry out, but something changes inside of us. When this change happens, the above becomes our reality. You see the same power that rose Christ from the dead, is the same power that changes us. If that spirit can master death, our character is no problem. The Apostle Paul said he was not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God to change a life. (Romans 1:16) He goes on to say, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.” (Romans 8:11)
This is good news. Has your life been on hold, going downhill, or you have given up, because your character has not served you well. Shout for joy. We have a Saviour, one who has risen from the dead, who loves us and wants to come into our lives so we too can live a new life.
Just like spring brings hope, Christ gives us hope for a new life to those who will receive it. Open your heart to Jesus and live.
This offer is so good, it is fitting that Easter is on April Fool’s Day. As only a fool would reject such a great offer as the opportunity to have a brand new you.
We would like to invite you to our Special Easter Celebration, starting at 8:45 am with a full scale free brunch. Followed by an awesome Celebration of the Resurrected Christ.
Look forward to seeing you here this Sunday.
Easter Celebrations
On Resurrection Sunday, April 1st, we will have three wonderful events you can take part in. First, enjoy the Easter morning with the Christians from many different churches at 8 am at Lakeside Park. Then come on down to KCF for Brunch at 8:45 am. Finally we will celebrate the resurrection together at 10:30 am. What a great morning it will be. Each of the events is open to the community and everyone is encouraged to bring family and friends. Contact the office for participation opportunities.
Growth Groups
Dreams to Destiny will be theme for our next series of Growth Group sessions. This ten week character study on the life of Joseph will be an encouragement to us all. By participating in a Growth Group you will get maximum benefit out of this sermon series. Why not sign up today. Growth group is a wonderful opportunity to grow in God and with each other. Registration time for the next start-up is now underway. Group gatherings will begin on Thursday, April 5 and will run until June 14. Contact the KCF office to register or sign up at the Guest Table on Sunday.
Family Camp at Dutch Harbour
Why not consider taking a part of your holidays to join us for family camp this year. This is an inexpensive opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, Kootenay Lake, beautiful mountains and beaches, plus be inspired and encouraged. This will all happen within the community of wonderful people. Pastor Dan Walton will be our guest speaker and Cliff Schneider will provide Children’s Ministry for the kids. Join us July 2 to 6. Contact the office to register.
S.H.A.R.E. Nelson
Want to know how to get a good deal on some great items? Follow the S.H.A.R.E. Nelson Facebook page and don’t miss out on any sales.
S.H.A.R.E. is accepting and receiving donations and new items are being put out for sale every day. If you would like to volunteer at S.H.A.R.E. we currently have great ministry opportunities. Call the store at 250.352.1222 or stop by the store to inquire. Click on this link to check out S.H.A.R.E.’s video! Check out our FB page.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aZX9v7gxdM
Calendar of Events
Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.
Pastor Jim
E-transfers to office@kcfoffice.com
Kootenay Christian Fellowship520 Falls Street (1/2 Block up from Baker Street)Nelson, BC V1L 6B5