Thanksgiving Begins with Halloween…sorta

In the middle of your busy week I want to do several things in this message.

First, be encouraged! Do not grow weary in doing good for there’s a harvest to reap if you don’t give up! Live in the joy of the Lord this week. Don’t let the enemy or life’s circumstances steal your joy.

Second, pray. Right now, sometime today, on the drive home, pray. Pray for your church as a group- that we pursue Christ in all things and plan ministries that honor him. Pray for your church as individuals- for people by name and for each of us. I sense that the enemy has attacked many of us in the past several weeks; he is stepping up his efforts to make us an anemic, fearful group of people rather than a powerful presence for the Kingdom of God. As I type, there is a leadership meeting for a vibrant Prayer Ministry that we are hoping to engage as a church soon; pray for our church’s prayer life and power!

Third, get ready for the baby boom- its already happening! We have 10 babies being born between now and April 2012, and the first 2 are already here. Gracie Willert (Matt and April) came into the world last Thursday and Gabriella Martinez joined our journey last night! Babies are treasures beyond measure and each birth will be a chance for us to minister to our brothers and sisters. Watch for lists to help provide meals for these families to show them the love and care of Christ.

Fourth, get ready for our Trunk or Treat at Jenny Lane Trailer Park this Sunday, Oct. 30, 5-7 pm. We are establishing a long-term ministry in this needy community and this is one more step to get us there. What can you do? Email us at info@thesanctuaryfellowship.com and let us know you can help. TEENAGERS will be GREAT at this ministry. We’ll give away candy, play games, share the Gospel, and intro our Thanksgiving Meal Ministry: we’re going to deliver Thanksgiving meals to the residents on 11/23. Be a part of this community-transforming ministry.

NEXT! We’ve signed and executed our lease on the Market Street property in Richmond, TX! The General Contractor is seeking final permits from the city and will begin a portion of the work as soon as they come in. We are excited and will keep you updated on progress. GIVE FAITHFULLY and PRAY that the Lord uses us mightily through this move!

LAST! We wrap up Radical Together this Sunday, Oct. 30. Be with us for a unique worship experience that will challenge you to cut the ties to the things that keep you tied to this world and away from Christ.

God bless and we’ll see you at 10:15 sharp this Sunday!

Pastor Joe