True Riches

I am writing this blog from my hotel room in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This is the first leg of our journey home from our successful trip to Haiti. I have now visited this wonderful and needy country nine times since the earthquake. I saw hard working Haitians trying to eke out an existence under the most trying circumstances. I witnessed love in action, humility in attitude, and strength in character from the locals. Some from our over indulged, narcissistic, and white spoiled privileged society have suggested that Haiti is backwards and undesirable. While the living conditions were far below our standards, the humanity factor was rich and beautiful to behold.

Jesus’ words shout at me here, "But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort. (Luke 6:24)

There is an unspoken (and sometimes not so unspoken) concept in our capitalistic society that the evidence of God’s favor on our life is the fact that we are exorbitantly wealthy in comparison to Haitian standards and for that matter, for most of the world. Yet the teaching from Jesus is one of caution and concern if you have been endowed with wealth. It is not a sin to have money, but it is a terrible thing for money to have you. What I saw in Haiti were people who laughed easily, even though there were eight people sleeping in a house that was 10 X 12 feet.  You read that right. The whole house is just 120 sq. ft., which did not have air conditioning in a very hot climate, running water meant you run to the community well and fetch it, and the toilet is down the path, just off to the right in a makeshift outhouse with no door. And they do it with grace. Of course everyone in Haiti doesn’t live like that, but a lot do. Still these people worship God with enthusiasm. Their clothes are clean, (no washing machines here) and their shoes are polished.

I wonder what will be done on judgement day. Our riches will have no bearing on our status in that day. Like I said, riches are not sinful or evil. Many of the most spiritual people in the bible were wealthy. But the wealthy spiritual ones in the bible used their wealth to bless others, to make a difference in the lives of those who were struggling, and they worshipped God, not their resources. In fact, I thank God for the resources he has given me, as it allows me to bless others. But I pray that I can also be content with what he has given me that I might worship God with enthusiasm and not run after money.

This Sunday, Trevor Miller and I will be sharing at KCF on our trip to Haiti. It will be inspirational, insightful, and informative. Why not invite a friend to come and celebrate with us the great things God did through us in Haiti.

Communion

This Sunday is Communion Sunday. It is when we come together as a family to eat at the Lord’s table. 

Clearwater Bible College on Tour

On Sunday, March 25th @ 10:30am Clearwater College students will be visiting us on their ministry tour.  This year’s theme is Fight the Good Fight. Please consider bringing a friend to this faith building event.

Billets are needed for the wonderful young people, 5 men, and 4 women. If you are interested in billeting please contact the KCF office as soon as possible at 250.352.1722.

Easter Celebrations

On Resurrection Sunday, April 1^st, we will have three wonderful events you can take part in.  First, enjoy the Easter morning with the Christians from many different churches at 8 am at Lakeside Park. Then come on down to KCF for Brunch at 8:45 am. Finally we will celebrate the resurrection together at 10:30 am.   What a great morning it will be. Each of the events is open to the community and everyone is encouraged to bring family and friends. Contact the office for participation opportunities.

Growth Groups

Growth group is a wonderful opportunity to grow in God and with each other. 

Registration time for the next start-up is now underway.

Group gatherings will begin on Thursday, April 5 and will run until June 14. 

Contact the KCF office to register or sign up at the Guest Table on Sunday.

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 happen within the community of wonderful people. Pastor Dan Walton will be our guest speaker and Cliff Schneider will provide Children’s Ministry for the kids.  Join us July 2 to 6.  Contact the office to register.

S.H.A.R.E. Nelson

Want to know how to get a good deal on some great items? Follow the S.H.A.R.E. Nelson Facebook page and don’t miss out on any sales.

S.H.A.R.E. is accepting and receiving donations and new items are being put out for sale every day. If you would like to volunteer at S.H.A.R.E. we currently have great ministry opportunities.  Call the store at 250.352.1222 or stop by the store to inquire.  Click on this link to check out S.H.A.R.E.’s video! Check out our FB page.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aZX9v7gxdM

Calendar of Events

• Clearwater Bible College comes to KCF, Sunday, March 25, 10:30am
• Easter Celebrations, Sunday, April 1
  • 8am Son Rise Service, Lakeside Park Flag Pole
  • 8:45 Brunch at KCF
  • 10:30 Worship and Celebration at KCF
• KCF Annual General Meeting, Sunday, April 15, 1pm at KCF
• PART 13 (Pedal Along a Rail Trail), Saturday, June 23
• Family Camp, July 2 – 6 at Dutch Harbour, near Riondel
• Growth Groups, Thursday at 6:45 – 8:30pm, registration required.
• Bright Lights for Kids K to Grade 4, Tuesdays, 3:30 – 5pm at KCF (returns from Spring Break on April 3^rd).
• Junior Youth for ages 11 – 15.  Fridays, 4pm – 5:30pm at KCF (returns from Spring Break on April 6). 

Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.

Pastor Jim

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March 14, 2018