Ephesians 6 v 11 -17. Here we are at the end of the book, after seeing all that God has done for us in Jesus, his immense love in reaching us when we were dead and lost completely. God rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us made us alive together with Christ! We have seen the plan of God worked out through Jesus and how he has purposed it to continue through us the body of Jesus in the earth, looking like him and acting like him in the world. We are carrying out his mission, directed by him, the living head. 

Although the victory is won, the fight is not over and there is much ground to take, and God wants a people ready for battle. One of the ‘schemes of the devil’ is to make us feel that ‘flesh and blood’ is the only thing that there is; to make us think that what we see with our eyes, the physical world, is the only thing that is real and to blind us to the spiritual realities. If he can succeed in this then most of his battle is done. An unbelieving Christian is of no threat to him. An unaware believer is not a risk in the war. And a believer still caught in the lies of the enemy, not walking in freedom is a victory in his sight. But this passage alerts us to the true reality that we are living in. It does not just alert us to the fact that there is a battle that we should engage in one day, but that we are presently in the battle. These words are a call to ‘Wake up!’ and to see things the way they really are. The way we perceive things will determine the way we walk. 

This battle is not for the strong, but for the weak! It is not for the capable but for the willing. It is for those weak and willing to put on Jesus, to trade their feeble attempts for his strength, power and might. We are to be strong in him. This passage calls us to stand in the wonders of what he has done and to live and fight out of this true reading of reality. The gospel, the good news spills over in every line. The weak can be strong in him, the feeble can stand in him, the hard-pressed overcome in him, the provision for all we need is found in him. The truth can be known and received in him, the sinner made righteous in him, the disturbed find peace in him and all he has done. The attacked find protection in him, those beyond hope find salvation in him, those unarmed are given the weapon of his word and Spirit to overcome. 

God wants us to see and know and live from this remarkable truth. He wants us to experience ever increasing freedom. Jesus said, “if you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32) He wants to free us from false ways of thinking and living and bring us into the liberation of a life in Jesus, and to be part of his freedom army, liberating the world. Come on! What a story! What an invitation! What a God we serve!

We look forward to seeing you Sunday @10:30am, 520 Falls Street – Pastor Andrew Freeman.

Communion

This Sunday, we will have communion, so if you are joining us online, be prepared at home with some grape juice and bread as we share in this special time together.

Easter

Here is the calendar for Easter weekend:

• ·        Good Friday Music Event at Hall Street Plaza, 2-4pm

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at the "One Voice: Rejoice" Christian Music Event, where the power of music transcends boundaries and unites us all! This is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of life, love, and community - the universal themes that connect each of us. 

Inspiring Performances: Enjoy live music from Christian artists and local talent, showcasing a joyful noise sure to get you dancing.

Community Connection: Engage with fellow attendees in a welcoming atmosphere, and learn more about what our community's churches are doing both locally and abroad.

Message of Hope: Hear an uplifting, and highly comical, message that is sure to inspire hope, purpose, and positivity, relevant to everyone, regardless of their beliefs.

This event is open to everyone—whether you’re a long-time believer, exploring your faith, or simply looking for some baked goods, great music, and community. Come as you are and bring your friends!

• ·        Easter Sunday@ KCF (April 20)

Free Pancake and Sausage breakfast 9:45am followed by (10:30am) Music, Fellowship, and a Special Easter message from Pastor Jim.

Summer Retreat 2025!

Are you longing for long, warm days spent enjoying Kootenay Lake-splashing, paddling, floating, wading, walking forest trails, digging your toes in the sand, reading a good book, napping after a good meal, great inspiration from the evening services and time spent after with friends by the fire or playing cards. Come for adventure and chilling out - consider booking a week at The Harbour at Riondel for a vacation this year.

Aug 18 – 22. 

Food Bank

Our Food Bank is in regular operation every Thursday from 9 to 11am!

We are always accepting donations of non-perishable food items, so feel free to drop items off that have been lingering in your cupboards.

Volunteers are needed Thursdays from 8:30 – 11:10am. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Tyler Bethune at odb@odboffice.com.

Our Daily Bread

If God is leading you to help someone not be hungry, to have a safe place to go for community, and to experience the love of God, please consider Volunteering or sending Our Daily Bread a financial gift today.

Etransfer: odb@odboffice.com

Here is a video link that captures the heart of ODB. We hope you can take a moment to click on the link and watch it. We also invite you to share this link far and wide. https://youtu.be/BNJbNrIdQkY?si=I5Yip9tu08MoYKvf

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 your continued giving to the church with your tithes and generous offerings.

Anne-Marie Rasmussen – Administrator