The Weekly Epistle 8/4/21

“A mist in the pulpit is a fog in the pew.”  The first time I heard that saying was at a pastor’s conference.  The point was, if what is being communicated is not clear in the preacher’s mind, then it will be even foggier to the congregation hearing it.  My desire is to understand God’s Word I am presenting to you each week as best as I can in order for it to be clearly understood, so we can all clearly apply the material to our lives.  This applies to my preaching as well as other matters of communication.  
 
Let’s face it, we live in a day of information overload.  So much comes at us on a daily basis it is nearly impossible to keep it all straight.  In the church office, we strive to keep you informed.  When possible, we try to follow the principle that it takes “6 times, 6 different ways,” for information to stick.  There is a lot going on this month, so I want to make sure you are aware of all that is happening here at EBC.
 
A men’s study (for all ages) on, “How to get the most of the Bible” begins this Saturday morning from 7:00-8:00 in the fellowship hall.  The study runs for 4 weeks.  No sign-up is required, so just show up.  Coffee and donuts will be provided for this Saturday.  
 
Finance review is this Sunday, August 8 between services (from 10:15-10:40) in the fellowship hall.  This is your opportunity to ask questions about the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year that begins in September.  
 
Prayer 30 is next Wednesday night, August 11, from 7:00-7:30 in the gym parking lot.  And speaking of prayer, if you have prayer requests or praises to be included in our weekly epistle then send those to the church office by Tuesday of each week. 
 
Baptism class will be held for all ages on Sunday, August 22 @ 9:00 (during first service).  If you plan to get baptized at our church picnic, then you need to attend this class.  
 
Our annual church business meeting for members is Thursday, August 26 at 7:00.  We will have some pertinent updates from the elders and the trustees as well as voting on the church budget.  Your presence is necessary to stay informed and to vote on a couple of matters.  
 
And don’t forget the church picnic!  It is from 10:00-4:00 on Saturday, August 28 at Ellacoya State Park.  There will be games for all ages, hamburgers and hotdogs provided, and a baptism around 3:00.  Bring a side dish to share with others and make sure you sign up (back of the church at ministry counter).  
 
Did you get all that?  In all this activity and the stuff you can add from your own life, build in time to rest and be refreshed.  Set realistic expectations of what you can and cannot do.  Give priority to relationships.  Enjoy the moment and not just live for the next choice.  Invest in being rather than having.  Take care of your soul!  
 
“Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him,” (Deuteronomy 30:19-20.
 
Blessings to you, Pastor Brian