The Pioneers
Today I ran along the St. Lawrence River in the city of Cornwall, Ontario. I am here at the Nav Centre attending the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies Conference. As I ran along the well maintained path, I pondered the ships, canoes and voyagers that plied those waters. Those early days before Facebook, electricity, and roads, before there were warm hotel beds to sleep in, big buffets to eat from, and expensive running shoes to run in. These were pioneers, adventurers and risk takers, willing to suffer discomfort in order to explore new lands. They must have had a sense of the “call” to see what was around the next bend, to go just a little farther, to map out just a little further.
God’s Calling to Enter the Kingdom of God
Abraham must have had a bit of the same experience. God called him to leave the comforts of his home, to go to a land he did not know (Genesis 12). This is not unlike the call we receive from God to leave the land we know and enter the Kingdom of God. A different place than what is familiar. Here in this new land of the Kingdom of God, there is much to explore. There are new customs, new ways, and new experiences. But it is a good place, filled with opportunity, delights, and challenges that will tickle ones fancy and stretch one’s resolve. Many don’t want to go here. They want to remain in the land of the comfortable, the land of familiarity, and the land mediocrity. But by doing so, they forfeit the joy of living a fresh new way. They won’t experience the joy which is the fruit of victory after a hard fought battle. Jesus taught us that if we will leave what we know as this life and come into what he called the Kingdom of God we will experience righteousness, peace and joy (Romans 14:17).
Why not heed the call to do some exploring in the new realm of the Kingdom of God? Instead of the St. Lawrence, get on the river of God and see where it takes you.
Those are my musings from the St. Lawrence River here in Cornwall, Ontario.
This Sunday we are pleased to have John and Eloise Bergen with us again. These two are true examples of the miracle transforming power of God. I encourage you all to clear your Sunday calendar and join us this coming Sunday. I will be home and look forward to seeing you all again.
S.H.A.R.E. Nelson
S.H.A.R.E. currently has great ministry opportunities. Consider volunteering at S.H.A.R.E. Nelson. Call the store at 250.352.1222 or stop by the store to inquire.
Family Camp at Dutch Harbour
Why not consider taking a part of your holidays to join us for family camp this year. This is an inexpensive opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, Kootenay Lake, beautiful mountains and beaches, plus be inspired and encouraged. This will all happened within the community of wonderful people. Pastor Glen Forsberg will be our guest speaker and Cliff Schneider will provide Children’s Ministry for the kids. Join us July 3 to 7. Contact the office to register or visit kootenaychristianfellowship.com.
PART 12 (Pedal Along a Rail Trail)
This super fun bike ride with a purpose is set to happen on Saturday, June 24. Come and join us for this incredibly scenic 4 to 5 hour ride with trestles, tunnels and spectacular views from high above the Arrow Lake. It is a 54 km ride starting at Paulson Detour Road and concluding at the Celgar Mill parking lot. This is a fundraiser for Our Daily Bread. With sponsorships of $200 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. Register now and start accumulating sponsorships!
Calendar of Events
Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.
Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday.
Pastor Jim
E-transfers to office@kcfoffice.com
Kootenay Christian Fellowship520 Falls Street (1/2 Block up from Baker Street)Nelson, BC V1L 6B5