Letter from Pastor John – Oct. 13

Looking Back

I feel like I should confess the sin of ingratitude. God has done SO SO MUCH in such a short time. Remember with me and praise God for the Kelley family being here, the great number of people who have come to know the Lord and come to join (or rejoin) the church, the many guests, the progress in so many areas of ministry, the regular touch of the Holy Spirit when we gather together, our needs are met in abundance… I am deeply humbled and amazed. Lord, forgive me for not dwelling on the things You have done and are doing – great and small. 
 
For over six months we studied the Gospel of John together. If the Lord wills it, we will resume that study in 2020 and I can’t wait. Someone asked me if I could make my notes available. I’ve never done that before but I would be willing. If one of you would like to take my sermon notes and write them up in a concise way so that we can make them available, I would be willing to do that. Maybe you have time on your hands, have the ability to do this, and you’ve been praying about a way you can use your gifts. If this might be you, reach out to me and let’s talk. I have some ideas that might bless the church. 
 
As I look back over the past few months, I find myself thinking about those of you who have suffered losses in that time. Life has gone on for others but you might feel like it’s standing still for you. Please know that we love you and pray for you often. Something we have been working on for you is a GriefShare Group. John Sumpter has agreed to lead this group and I hope you will consider joining. 
 

Looking Forward

I’m so excited about what is on the horizon for SMBC. Over the last few months, we have been preparing for the arrival of a Life Action Ministries team. We are getting ready for a time of revival. Sometimes, in the hustle of life, we forget to take time for what is most important—our relationship with God, and our relationships with each other. This Life Action Revival Conference (Thirst) will provide us a special context for doing exactly that, and I am desperate for all of us to be a part of it. So, let’s please clear our calendars for November 10th-13th. Please set these evenings aside to fully plunge in to God’s presence. As a church, we’re putting all of our focus on this Revival as our highest priority. Don’t you think it will be worth it? I have confidence that this event will really take our church forward, but even more, I truly believe this will be a huge step forward for you and me personally as well as our families. Sherry and I can’t wait to experience these special moments with you. Let’s start praying now that God will do something amazing in our midst!
 
Looking forward,
Pastor John  
 
Do you need to talk with me or one of the other elders?
Please call the church or send us an email.
john.jicka@smithmemorial.org
elders@smithmemorial.org
 

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