Is It, Trouble in Paradise or Paradise in times of trouble?

How Did the Disciples Get It So Wrong?

You would think the disciples—Jesus’ closest friends—would have seen it coming. He told them, again and again; suffering, rejection, and hardship were ahead. But somehow, they still believed the road would lead to crowns and comfort, not crosses and chaos.

Even just hours before his arrest, Jesus warned them clearly. In John 15:18 through 16:4, he speaks of what is coming: hatred from the world, persecution, even death. But his words are not just warnings—they are also promises.

From this moment in Scripture, we learn three crucial things:

1. Jesus prepares us.

He never sugarcoats the truth. Life as his follower will not always be easy, but he makes sure we are not caught off guard.

1. We are never alone.

Even when the world turns its back, Jesus does not. He reminds us of that rejection from people for his name’s sake is not abandonment from God.

1. The Holy Spirit empowers us.

In verses 26-27, Jesus points to the coming of the Spirit. This is not just comfort—it is power. Through the Spirit, we can testify boldly, live fearlessly, and walk faithfully.

And yet, in the moment of Jesus' arrest and crucifixion, the disciples scatter in fear. They do not stand strong—they hide. But then everything changes. Jesus rises from the dead, just as he said. And soon after, the promised Holy Spirit fills them.

Now, these same men who ran in fear are preaching with boldness. In Acts 5, even after being flogged and threatened, they rejoice—yes, rejoice! —because they were counted worthy to suffer for Jesus. And they keep preaching. Every day. Everywhere.

This boldness, this joy in the face of suffering, was the spark that lit a movement the world could not stop.

Today, people still respond to the gospel—not just because of what we say, but because of how we live. When we endure trials with joy, when we love in the face of hate, people see that this truly is good news.

It’s not trouble in paradise—it’s paradise in troubled times. And that changes everything. We look forward to connecting with you on Sunday @ 10:30am – Pastor Jim Reimer.

Canada Day at Lakeside Park

Our Local Gospel band, “GATES” with rapper, “SB” will be included in Nelson’s Canada Day music celebration at Lakeside Park this coming July. The band has collaborated with SB on new original songs along side the classic, “Happy Day” will be featured in the Joy-filled set. We are blessed to be lifting the name of Jesus at a secular community event and your prayers are much appreciated.

Summer Retreat 2025 – It’s Time to get Registered!

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. 

Children’s Wing

We are busy renovating and getting ready for a vibrant children ministry. We will be needing painters soon, if you may be able to help, please reply to this email or contact Jim Reimer directly.

You can help and leave a legacy for generations to come. How? By financially partnering with us and volunteering by cleaning and providing physical labour. Please consider financial donations of any amount. Please etransfer to office@kcfoffice.com or provide a cheque or cash at the office marked children.   Do it for the kids. If you want to volunteer your time, connect with Pastor Jim. Thank you.

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