November 8 2009
Matthew 28:7 (NLT)
Worship Leader: Adam Looney
The Joy of the Lord
Welcome & Greeting
Firm Foundation
My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less
In Christ Alone
Lord’s Supper
Why Did My Savior Come to Earth?
Regular Offering
Seek Ye First
Invitation
How Can I Keep From Singing?
Shepherd’s Prayer
Benevolence Special Offering
To The Least of These
Living for Jesus
(Children are dismissed to Children’s Worship)
Message
“Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted Because of Righteousness”
Special Announcement
How Can I Keep From Singing?
Benevolence November 8
When James wanted to emphasize those things that are important in living out our faith, he said, “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” (James 1:27, NLT) Those who cannot provide for themselves have always been close to God’s heart. And He has always called upon us to be active in helping them. One of the most significant ways many of us can participate in helping them is by participating in our special contribution for Benevolence ministries today.
Coincidentally, today has been designated “Orphan Sunday” by a number of Christian groups who actively support the cause of children left without parents. (You can get more information at www.orphansunday.org.) While our contribution helps to support the care of orphans in various ways, it also provides for children who may have one or more parents, but are still in need of assistance to address the needs of life. Just last week, we received a letter from Shannon Fuller, Principal at Boyd Elementary School. She included these words: “thanks to your donation….for school supplies and gift cards for shoes, all of our students have what they need to begin a successful school year.” She continued, “We are incredibly thankful to live and work in a community that always puts children and their needs first.”
We have a wonderful opportunity today to share in the efforts like the one described above that support children as well as others in need. We do this by working through various organizations such as schools, Allen Community Outreach, The Samaritan Inn, and the Allen Food Pantry, as well as by assisting individual families directly.
We determined years ago that we would fund our Benevolence Ministry through a special contribution each year. In addition, for the first time, our elders have asked all who are able to consider also making a “special contribution” to help support our other ministries that are funded through our general fund.
Please give generously, as God has enabled you, to make a difference in the lives of those who are close to God’s heart!