July 28, 2016

Last week I introduced the subject of Jesus weeping. I asked the question what makes you cry? Two times it is recorded that Jesus wept, once at Lazarus’ tomb and then as he approached Jerusalem in the final week of his life. (Luke 19:41 “As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it.”) Jesus was about to do the most difficult thing imaginable.  He was on his way to be tortured, beaten, mocked, falsely accused, and finally crucified. While he hung on the cross, not only did he bear the pain of this horrible form of execution, but also he took upon himself the burden of all the sin on the world. The weight was immense, to the point Jesus cried out in anguish, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”

What prepared him for this most difficult experience? It was his compassion. He wept over Jerusalem. It was his extraordinary concern for the welfare of society in general. He not only cares about us individually, but he cares about our cities, our country, even the world. He cared about the city, to do something about it. He went to the cross.  He gave up his life. His compassion, (demonstrated by his weeping) translated into passion, (demonstrated by his actions) carried him to complete what he started. 

The challenge for us is to feel the hurt that exists in the city, country and the world so that our compassion will translate into passion which propels us to give up our lives to make change too. This is the missionary call. This is the pastoral call. This is the church planters call. But it is also the call of the church in particular to make a difference in our city. Let the compassion of Jesus flood our hearts, so we can be filled with passion to make a difference in our community. 

P.A.R.T. (Peddle Along a Rail Trail) 11

A NEW ROUTE!!!  We will ride a different rail trail route that is better and greater!   We will ride from the Paulson Detour Road, past Christina Lake and on to Grand Forks.  Experience the incredibly scenic 5 hour ride with a tunnel, trestles, historical interests and spectacular views with an option to swim in the river.  Not to mention most of the ride is downhill!  

This super fun bike ride with a purpose is set to happen on Saturday, August 13th.  Come and join us for this fun, new ride.  This is a fundraiser for Our Daily Bread and a great way to meet and build friendships.  With sponsorships of $125 or more, your entry fee will be waived.  Registration forms are available at the Guest Table on Sunday, at the office during the week or at kootenaychristianfellowship.com.  If you are not able to go on the bike ride, you can sponsor a rider! 

Mystery Dinners

The next Mystery Dinner will be Sunday August 14th.  This is a potluck dinner.  If you haven’t tried it yet, this is the perfect time and opportunity to meet new friends and grow existing friendships.  Sign up on Sunday at the Guest Table or contact the office to register.  Your host will contact you to give you details of where you will be having dinner. 

Upcoming Dates to Put in Your Calendar

• P.A.R.T. (Peddle Along A Rail Trail) 11 is August 13. Mark your Calendar and Register.
• Mystery Dinners, Sunday, August 14 

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