The Look

Even with a mask - “the look” - stink eye, dirty look, glower, glare is as real as ever. I once worked with a teacher that could quiet a room of unruly 12 year olds with just a look. He would execute the death stare and the room would become as quiet as a funeral parlor. The power in the look! I speak of the negative side, but the opposite is true as well. “The look” can also convey love, empathy, compassion, acceptance and care. What did you grow up with? When persons of power and influence looked at you while growing up, how did you feel? Does “the look” still influence you; bringing out in you defiance or compliance, fear or love, depression or encouragement? The eye is a powerful resource. We need to use it wisely.

Jesus gave Peter the look. Peter, Jesus’ most trusted friend and companion and chosen one to be a leader in the church, fell flat on his face. He promised to the point of death and imprisonment, that he would never reject, deny, or desert his master, mentor and Lord. But he did! In the darkest hour of human history, when Jesus was being falsely accused, condemned to death, Peter was busily denying all connections with Jesus. Not once, but three times just like Jesus predicted. Jesus told Peter it would happen before the rooster would crow. (Read it in Luke 22:54-61)

Right after Peter’s third denial, the rooster is crowing. At that moment, while Jesus is on the hot seat of condemnation, the scripture says, “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times." (Luke 22:61)

What was in that look? Here is the truth of the matter. Jesus already knew Peter was going to falter. I know people are not perfect; we all fail at some point. When people disappoint me, while it hurts and I am let down, I can take it, because it is to be expected. So, I want to look at them in away that conveys love, acceptance and forgiveness. This is the look I hope to get from others when I too fail them. However, unfortunately, we all know this is often not the case.

But I can tell you with confidence, the look Peter got from Jesus was just that - love, acceptance and forgiveness. Later he is restored to Jesus and Peter becomes the key leader in the new Christian movement. Jesus is still looking at us that way. A look that says, you are my child and I love you. It is a look that if we receive it, will draw us to God instead of away from him. God has his eye on you and me, not for condemnation but for love. Reach out to him today and allow his gaze to restore and heal your soul. 

This Sunday, I am going to be talking about the trial of three individuals, Judas, Peter and Jesus. One failed the test; the other barely passed the test, while the third aced it. Which one of these can you identify with? Let’s see what God can do for you in this Sunday together. Invite a friend, family member or neighbour. Let’s do church together – online.

Sunday Meeting

We want to make our online experience better for all our viewers. Church is a community, intended for interactive and responsive connection between each other. We have been using Facebook, but it has its limitations. We have launched kcf.online.church for all our attendees. CHECK IT OUT!! There you will find a Bible, our schedule, links to our website, a place for prayer, a place to give, a page for interactive comments, growth group questions and more.

It will be easy for you to invite your friends, to share and to be more connected, even if we are virtual.

Please consider using this platform on Sundays at 10:30am, sign in, and enjoy.

Here is the link https://kcf.online.church/

 OR you can simply go to kootenaychristianfellowship.com and click on the live stream option.  Be sure to Sign In so that you can enjoy all the benefits and options on the platform.

Tithes and Offerings

Those who are wanting to support our Church with offerings (during this time, it is very much appreciated) it can be done by Etransfer to office@kcfoffice.com, through our website via PayPal, or by calling in to the office with a credit card or mailing in your cheque. Thank you for continuing giving to the church with your tithes and generous offerings. 

Going the Distance – Fellowship of Christian Assemblies Conference

THE FCA invites you to come together and attend this inspiring and supportive gathering. This year’s theme is “Going the Distance”. This Online conference is on May 4th and 5^th from 2 – 7:30pm and is totally online and so provides those who otherwise could not attend due to travel and financials constraints the ability to participate this year!  Check out the Invitation Video, Schedule and Registration sections via the link below and register today! Early Bird Rate of only $50 for KCF members is in effect until March 21^st. This is a great opportunity to meet and engage with Pastors and Christians from all over the Country!

https://convention.fcaministers.com/canada/

Summer Retreat 2021!

Are you making plans for Summer? It is time to Save the Dates for Summer Retreat at Dutch Harbour. Camp will be August 16 – 20. We are excited to have with us, Pastor Rawlin Falk, a KCF Executive Elder, who will be the camp speaker for the week. We are planning for and are hopeful that we can meet there this year. Details and Updates will follow as we get closer.

Prayer Meetings

We are having prayer meetings online. We would love to have you join with us from 7-7:45am on Wednesdays. Let us know if you would like to participate and we can zoom assist you.

Jim Reimer, Pastor

March 18, 2021