July 2007 Letter from the Pastor

After many months of waiting, a Russian girl finally obtained a visa to visit her relatives in Canada for three months. She arrived in Canada and was shown around the various attractions, amusements, and entertainments. The young Russian seemed immensely impressed by the amount of things that people were wrapped up with.

As the three months drew to a close, everyone expected her to defect and seek political asylum in Canada. She surprised them all by expressing a desire to return to her family in Russia and the small group of believers to which they belonged. She explained that in North America everyone seems wrapped up in “things” and doesn’t have time for people. In Russia, they don’t have as many material possessions and consequently they need each other. She wanted to return to a place where people relied on each other, where fellowship was important.

That seemed to be the Apostle Paul’s concern for believers in Philippi. He thanked God when they came to mind. He prayed for them with joy because of how they worked together for a common cause (the gospel). Paul longed to be with them, but since they were separated, he called out to God on their behalf. Paul truly seemed to care for the Philippians.

On Wednesday, July 25th, we will have a ‘Fellowship Night’. Come join us for a potluck at 6:30 p.m. at the church. Bring a salad or a dessert to share. We will also have a time for games at 7:15 and hope to conclude with a little singing around the campfire.

The two Wednesday’s prior to the ‘Fellowship Night’ will be reserved for prayer at the church. We will meet at 6:30 p.m. and pray together on July 11th and July 18th.

How important is it to pray for our church?

Would you like someone to be gathering to intercede on behalf of those who come to worship with us? Would you like someone to be asking God to bring others to hear the Gospel? Would you appreciate having people pray that ‘your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.’ Would you be willing to be one of those who come together and pray? Please come and join in the fellowship of calling out together to the only true God.

On a related note, we are planning a ‘Softball Sunday’ on July 8th. Our Redeemer Baptist Church softball team is invited to attend our worship service on that day. We will recognize the team and have a meal for everyone after the service on that day. Our plans include a fun time of friendly competition (like a home run hitting contest), after we eat. Pray that this time will stir the hearts of those needing Him and unite His followers.

Pastor Lerud