It is simply amazing that a church as small as JIBC can touch the world. We sometimes might be tempted to think that only the big churches can send missionaries across the street, across the river and across the ocean. The secret is not in the big church, the secret is THE BIG GOD! We can touch the world in Jerusalem (our local area), Judea (still in South Carolina and the south east) Samaria (we cross boundaries and not just geographical) and the world (places like Ukraine, Romania, and now, let’s add Slovakia.
Mark Livengood is following his passion to reach Ukraine with the Gospel. Now that there is a war going on, he has to take another approach. So, it is official, he is going to Slovakia August 17-28. He will be teaching English to over 100 students. He will be working with some of the “grown” students he has taught in the past. Pray that the Holy Spirit will prepare the hearts of the students and the protection of Mark’s family when he is gone. Amen.
Now, let’s touch the world across the street. Vacation Bible School is an outstanding opportunity to impact children in our community. Bible stories will be told, the Gospel will be shared and lives will be changed. VBS starts this Monday, June 19. Pray for the stamina of all our volunteers. Sometimes we go into the entire world and sometimes all the world comes to us!
This Sunday, June 18 Celebrate Recovery will host a Mental Health Awareness Night. We have two counselors coming in as presenters. Darryl has arranged for a local caterer to prepare the meal that will be served from 5:30-6:30. You do not have to enjoy the meal in order to attend the service at 6:30. If you do want to attend the meal, you do need to make a reservation through the church office.
Sometimes we touch the world through our prayers; other times through our offerings and support; and sometimes we touch the world with our hands and feet as we “go”. I rejoice at how JIBC is becoming outwardly focused and outwardly aware. To God be the Glory.
See you this Sunday, good Lord willing!
Pastor Tom
