Family, friends, and a funeral. That about sums up my time away over the last two weeks. Quality time with my family and extended family and some fun with friends enjoying this beautiful area we live.
A man I consider a forever friend and have known for over 40 years went to be with the Lord after a long battle with cancer. I was privileged to lead his memorial service. I shared from 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Bob was a man who not only started well when I first met him 40 years ago, but more importantly he finished well.
Not to sound morbid, but I am thankful that the funeral took place while on vacation, and at the end of my vacation. It reminded of what really matters, what is of greatest importance, and to give myself completely to finishing well.
Finishing well! It doesn’t happen by chance. It comes through endurance, discipline, intentionality, and sacrifice. Finishing well! It is all about investments. Investments made into people’s lives. In these challenging times, look to make connections with people. In one verse of the larger section we are looking at this Sunday, Paul says of the people in Philippi, “You whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown.” The people Paul ministers to are viewed as a crown, a reward, for his investment in their lives. That is finishing well!
So many of you aren’t able to attend services presently and I miss you. And I know you miss being here with God’s people. The hope is to open up the way for more of you to attend worship on Sundays. Nursery will be added on September 6 (likely first service only). Also, we want to experiment with designating second service with strict guidelines for mask wearing beginning also on September 6. Remember that nothing is permanent, especially when it comes to navigating such unprecedented times.
What is permanent is the need for prayer! This Tuesday, September 1st from 7:00-7:30 in the gym parking lot, we will gather to pray. As Philippians 4 also addresses, the antidote to worry is prayer. When anxiety hits that is a reminder to pray. Please carve out 30 minutes this Tuesday night to join with your church family outside to lock arms in prayer.
Let me mention too that on Sunday, September 6 @ 1:00 the local pastors prayer group is leading a prayer time on the lawn of Laconia High School. You are all urged to join us.
Blessings to you, church, for you are indeed my joy and crown! Pastor Brian
Looking Forward
Sermon Direction
The Principle of Peace
Philippians 4:1-7
Link to This Sunday Worship Service
Annual Business Meeting
Our annual business meeting will be held tonight in the sanctuary at 7pm. We are requiring that all who attend the business meeting wear a mask to and from your seat and if you go upfront to speak. You may remove your mask while seated. We will also have a separate section for those who want to remain wearing masks.
Opening Up the Way for More People to Attend
Two important changes to our services, beginning September 6th. One change is, we will be offering nursery during 1stservice.
Second change is during 2nd service we will require masks to and from your seats. We will also offer a designated mask section for those who choose to wear a mask the whole time. Again this is only for 2nd service.
Any questions please contact Corianne at the office 524-2277 or corianne@ebclaconia.com
Fellowship of Prayer
The next Fellowship of Prayer event will be Tuesday September 1st at 7pm in the gym parking lot.
New Sermon Series
“Being Real” a study in 1 John
Begins September 27th
Community Groups
Begin September 27th
Giving
You can continue to give either online on our website www.laconiachurch.com
Prayer and Praise
If you have any prayer requests or needs, please email Corianne at: corianne@ebclaconia.com