August 18, 2016

Hate is a bad word, I was told by a four year old. What do you think? Is hate a bad word? Hate is such a strong expression. We hear this word used more today than ever before. What do you hate? Nothing! 

There are some things I hate. I hate turnips. Yes, I am sorry, but I just can’t love a turnip. If I had my way, I would put all turnips on a “no eat list.” You may love turnips, but the fact is that when they are cooked, turnips give off an offensive odour. This odour offends me; therefore, all turnips should be banned.

I also hate injustice, bigotry, and lying. Now I don’t hate the ones behind injustice, bigotry or the lying, but the actions of such individuals. 

There are some things the Lord hates. Here are seven of them. “There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.” Proverbs 6:16-19 

Why does God hate these things? Notice the list! There is one common denominator. It is relationship. The reason God hates the man who stirs up strife and in the same paragraph hates the one who murders is because of the high value God puts on connection and relationship. Murder is extreme, but so are lies, pride, wicked schemes, and doing evil because of the toll on human society. 

Here is my take on this. We should hate the things God hates and love the things God loves. Our culture celebrates evil, lying, and even stirring up dissension.  We are not so big on murder though, that is of course if we don’t consider abortion. ( I can’t think of anyone more innocent than a baby in the safety of a mother’s womb.) The point I am making is that I need to protect relationships. There is nothing of higher value to God than relationship with God and each other. Anything that takes away from that, God hates. 

Jesus didn’t love everything when he walked on this earth. He hated injustice, bigotry, and religion that kept people from knowing God in all his love and forgiveness. This Sunday, I will be sharing on what God hates and his profound love for humans and his passionate intervention in the affairs of humankind. 

Baptism!

On Sunday, August 28th we will be baptizing again at Lakeside Park. We will meet at the flagpole following the church celebration.  After the baptism we will celebrate together as we enjoy a picnic together.  Please bring something for you and your family to eat. If you are considering Baptism, please contact Pastor Jim. 

Alpha

Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that freely explore the basics of Christian faith.  Alpha is for anyone who’s curious.  The talks are designed to encourage conversation and explore the basics of the Christian faith in a friendly, open environment.  No question is out of bounds and you are free to discuss as much or as little as you want.   Each session includes food, a short talk and discussion where you can share your thoughts and ask questions.  There’s no pressure, no follow up and no charge.  This is an 11 week program beginning Wednesday, September 14th - 6:30pm to 8pm at KCF, 520 Falls Street.  Please contact the office if you are interested and for details. 

Ladies SHINE Conference

The ladies will gather on Friday September 23 and Saturday September 24 at KCF.  Keynote speaker is Kristine Sales and Ramona Dannhauer will speak on Friday evening.  Visit our website for full details or contact the office.  Registration is required. 

Upcoming Dates to Put in Your Calendar

• Baptism at Lakeside Park, meet at the flagpole on Sunday August 28^th 1pm
• Adam’s Road Free Testimony and Music, Monday, Sept 12, First Baptist Church, 611 Fifth Street, Nelson – 7pm
• Alpha begins at KCF, 520 Falls Street, Wednesday Sept 14, 6:30pm
• The Salvation Army, Celebrating 120 years in the community Sept 16-18
• Ladies Conference, Sept 23 and 24 at KCF, 520 Falls Street, Registration Required 

Looking forward to seeing you this weekend. 

Pastor Jim