Someone dropped a cat off in the woods near our home and, you guessed it, that starving cat has ended up at our door.  Our own cat died several months ago and I could see Terri’s eyes light up as this stray cat cried for food just outside our door.  We took some food and some water out for the cat and it hissed at us and ran into the bushes.  We knelt down and called to the cat who would then come toward the food and us and then would run back.  It would cry and look longingly, but just couldn’t bring itself to trust us even though it was starving.

    I wonder sometimes if people don’t get like that.  All the stuff of life piles up on us and we get afraid to trust the very one who could keep us from starving spiritually.  I watch people try so many things to fill up their lives.  Yet, there is a deep hunger that just doesn’t get filled by all the activity and things.  Jesus Christ loves us.  He gave his life so we could have life and forgiveness.  If you are so hurt by life that you just haven’t been able to risk trusting Jesus, please give him the opportunity to love you.  It’s where we find out we are worth everything to God and we can begin to heal and build a life full of meaning.

     By the way, we backed away and the cat came out and ate.  It has now come to our door several times wanting food.  It lets us get closer, but it is still afraid to let us pet it.  I pray you don’t just take the good things Jesus wants to give you and then keep him at a distance.  Let him love you and let you know how much you are loved!

Thankful for the loving touch of Christ. . .Don

Matthew 25

     This is the fund that is used to help our own church people as they have needs.  With this tough economy that fund is about empty.  If you can give above your regular tithes and offerings to help others, please do so.  Make sure checks are made out to the church and the memo says, “Matthew 25.”

    You’d think things could just slow down in July.  I mean, after all, it is one of the hottest months and many head out for vacations.  But around Northside July always means VBS!  This year we had a Galactic Blast!  I’ve watched the phenomenon called VBS here for the tenth time now.  I am amazed at how many children we get the privilege of teaching and how many people come together to make it possible.  Kristy and Lisa take the lead but where would they be without all the team leaders and all the workers that give so much time and energy and love to be the hands and feet of Christ to these children?

     I call this a “mid-summer” gift, because it is a great gift from our church to our children and the children of our community.  Thank you, church, for having a heart for children.  Thank you for stepping up and giving what it takes to pull off such a huge event for 5 days!  May God bless you for all you have done!

     I think the real gift comes when we see the faces of our children.  They really enjoy the fun of VBS, but they also get the point that Jesus loves them and so do we!  Who knows just what seeds have been planted that will sprout at just the right time in a child’s heart to see them through the tough times of life.  For many we may have planted seeds that will one day lead them to accept Christ and then turn around and begin sharing that gift with others.

     I thank God for all of you for being a church that goes out of its way to love children.  Let’s always be ready to serve Christ by loving children!

Thankful for VBS and all who make it happen. . .Don

PS—GREAT NEWS——We have enough mentors to begin our  AFTERSCHOOL MENTORING MINISTRY!!!!  PRAISE GOD!!!!!!!!!!!