Nov. 24, 2021
Devotional Thought
Greetings Lewisville Campus Friends and Family, I want to encourage you today: "6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4: 6-7 NIV)
To be concerned is such an inborn attitude in us. We cannot help ourselves. Before we even realize it, the worry wrinkles have disfigured our face, and we are constantly tense and stressed out. And what are all the worries and concerns; are they legit? Yes, many times, these are significant concerns. Sickness, unemployment, and relationship breakdowns are not things you wipe off the table with a simple hand gesture. But if you have already done everything in your power to deal with the matter, worry will not help. Concern (worry, fear, anxiety) is probably one of the worst doctors to call in.
Leave your life to the Lord; He will take care of you!
Paul is not just saying that we shouldn’t be concerned about anything and leave it at that. No, he recommends a better Doctor than “Dr. Concern.” He suggests that you present your case to the Lord. Tell Him everything - how you feel, what you know, how you think, even what you desire. Speak to Him, share your heart with Him. He wants to hear that you really trust Him and that you’re not just casually trying Him out.
And thank Him. For what? For the fact that He is going to give me exactly what I desire? No, thank Him for listening and answering. How and where and when is God’s business. Your business is to have complete confidence in God’s decision.
And if you’ve managed to come this far, you will experience inner peace. It is an indescribable peace. People will ask, “How do you manage to stay calm?” And all you will be able to say in response would be: “It is the Lord; it is He who has given me peace.”
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Ps. 136:1 (NIV) – (Do yourself a favor, and read the whole psalm sometime this Thanksgiving long weekend!)
God bless, and thank you for being a part of our Lewisville-campus and greater Arlington Church Family.
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Pr. Eugene, Michele, and Lauren
Thanksgiving Brunch & Service
We had an absolute blast at the First Annual Thanksgiving Brunch & Service at Arlington Adventist Church - Lewisville Campus. Bigger and better than I could’ve possibly hoped for. We had a potluck brunch with more food and dessert than we could finish during our regular service time. Then enjoyed some good praise and worship singing, before a sermonette (Smile!) by Pr Eugene in closing.
Super thankful for all who attended, helped setup and cleanup. The spirit amongst all was amazing. Guests couldn’t stop talking about how blessed and welcomed they felt. Let’s keep this welcoming inclusive spirit up year-round church family. Hospitality and love to ALL is where it’s at
It was such a high sabbath, with great fellowship - Thank you to each and every person who contributed their time, resources and amazing food and desserts, that made this a memorable day. I appreciate you all so much
Pr Eugene
You can view some of the photos here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.149438787408202&type=3
(Do you have any photos or videos to be added? Please email Pr Eugene at eugene @ arlingtonadventist . com for inclusion, with due credit)
Some Calendar Items
December
?? - #GrowingTogether Coachinar" (Group Coaching)
10 – Agape Feast Communion (Friday evening) – More info to be announced
31 – Old Years / New Year’s Prayer Time
- The Thursday Night Prayer Group would like to invite all to a quiet, reflective service on New Year’s Eve from 7:00 p.m to 12:00 a.m. This is an opportunity for the community to gather, say prayers, reflect, and praise God for the many blessings received throughout the year. It also allows us to greet the New Year rejoicing in the Power of the Holy Spirit and to develop a lifestyle of intimacy with God. Please plan to attend December 31st, 9 p.m to 12 a.m
January
11 - #GrowingTogether - Webinar #2
More info to be announced Have something that should be included in our Calendar? Email Pastor Eugene eugene@arlingtonadventist.com and we will include it in our Google Calendar, and a working Google Doc that will continuously be updated.
Weekend at-a-Glance
Sermon
Sermon this week by Pr. Kevin: Listening Heart: Surrender Without Compromise
Scripture: "But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." (Matthew 5:39, NKJV)
Some Internal Housekeeping
Sterling Volunteers
For EVERYONE who has any position at our Lewisville-Campus, and/or Knowledge Seekers Christian School: We are all required to complete the Sterling Volunteers training and submit to a background check.
Why a Background Check?
“Church should be a safe place to bring our children. Everyone involved in work with children who are minors must meet all Church and legal standards and requirements” (Church Manual, Edition 18, pp. 168-169).
Who Has to do It?
As part of this effort, those over 18 who are voted to serve within our churches or organizations, and those who are employed by the church and working with children and youth, are asked to complete a criminal background check (FB 20) and child protection training through Sterling Volunteers. This should be completed every three years.
100% Compliance Expected.
LINKS:
- Texas Conference Volunteer Ministries Landing Page: https://texasadventist.org/volunteerministries/
- Sterling volunteer Guidelines (Volunteers) - https://texasadventist.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/VERIFIED-VOLUNTEERS-GUIDELNES-FOR-VOLUNTEERS.pdf
- Sterling volunteer Guidelines (Employees / Contractors) - https://texasadventist.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/NEW-VERIFIED-VOLUNTEERS-GUIDELNES-FOR-EMPLOYEES.pdf
- First Time Registrant Information (PDF + Link) : https://texasadventist.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/SV-FirstTimeRegistrant.pdf
- Existing Accounts (for Renewal) Information (PDF + Link) : https://texasadventist.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SV-ExistingAccounts.pdf
Currently only Pastor Eugene and one board member is in compliance. We ask that you please complete the training, and submit to the background check ASAP. Our date for compliance is currently Dec. 18.
Keeping it short this week.
Enjoy the time off. Be safe, stay warm. If you're joining family in person, or via zoom/FaceTime, doing it "friends-giving" style or even just your household - enjoy the break. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Ps. 136:1
Enjoy the time off. Be safe, stay warm. If you're joining family in person, or via zoom/FaceTime, doing it "friends-giving" style or even just your household - enjoy the break. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Ps. 136:1