The Spirit - May 2, 2024

THOUGHTS FROM OUR SENIOR MINISTER

In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves immersed in the timeless wisdom of the Scriptures. These sacred texts are not

 mere words on a page; they are living, breathing narratives that speak to the depths of our souls and guide us in our walk with God. In my Wednesday evening Bible Study on the Psalms, I’ve tried to explore this reality of our faith by sharing musical interpretations of the Psalm we study for that evening. As we delve into the Scriptures, we embark on a profound journey of discovery, transformation, and spiritual awakening.

Living out the Scriptures (like all parts of our faith) is not a passive endeavor but an active, participatory experience. It requires us to engage with the text with open hearts and minds, allowing its truths to permeate our being and shape our actions. Just as the apostle James exhorted us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only,” we are called to embody the teachings of the Scriptures in our daily lives.

One of the most powerful aspects of experiencing the Scriptures is the way they speak to us in different seasons of our lives. A passage that once seemed obscure or irrelevant may suddenly come alive with new meaning and relevance as we navigate through life’s challenges and triumphs. The Scriptures have a remarkable ability to meet us where we are and provide the guidance, comfort, and encouragement we need.

Furthermore, the Scriptures serve as a mirror, reflecting our innermost thoughts, desires, and struggles. They reveal the depths of our humanity and offer a pathway to healing and redemption. When we allow the light of God’s 

Word to illuminate our lives, we are confronted with both the beauty of our potential and the brokenness of our reality. Yet, in the midst of our imperfections, we find hope in the promise of God’s grace and mercy.

As we immerse ourselves in the Scriptures (be it individually, through our Wednesday evening or Sunday morning Bible Study, or during worship), we are invited into a sacred dialogue with God. Through prayerful reflection, meditation, and study, we open ourselves to receive divine wisdom and guidance. The Scriptures become a source of nourishment for our souls, sustaining us through life’s trials and tribulations.

Moreover, experiencing the Scriptures in community enriches our understanding and interpretation of God’s Word. Through shared study, discussion, and fellowship, we gain new insights and perspectives that deepen our faith and strengthen our bonds with one another. The Scriptures unite us as a faith community, guiding us on a collective journey of discipleship and service.

May we continue to live into and out of the Scriptures here at First Christian. Experiencing the Scriptures is a transformative journey that enriches our faith, shapes our character, and draws us closer to God. May we approach the sacred texts with reverence, humility, and an open heart, allowing them to illuminate our path and inspire us to live lives worthy of Christ’s Gospel. Together, let us embrace the timeless wisdom of the Scriptures and embark on the journey of faith that leads us ever deeper into the heart of God.

Peace Always,

Rev. David Clifford

GRATITUDE AND PRAYER

Gratitude for Prayer as I just read over the prayer list from church recently, I realized just how grateful I am for the gift of prayer…. for those who pray for others so fervently, and for my ability to pray and to be prayed for. God is with us in everything we do every single minute of every day. For those of us who pray, He gives us hope and courage and relief from anxiety, and faith in the future. I believe in the power of prayer, and talking to God is constantly on my mind. There are so many in need, and those who feel alone and frightened and sick with nowhere to turn….it is the gift of prayer that can help see them through the valleys of life, knowing that there is someone out there who loves them and cares about them and is praying for them. Recently, the Monday morning prayer group gathered at my home. I have not been able to join them recently because of my health issues, so they came to me. We visited and prayed together for so many in need, and they also prayed for me and my healing. At the end of our gathering, Femi stood and prayed a beautiful prayer of healing for me….it touched my heart, and I shall never forget it. I am grateful for this group and look forward to being able to join them again, pray, and go out and visit those in need of some love and prayers. When I pray, I am grateful for the knowledge that I am heard…God is listening to my prayers…. I can turn my concerns over to Him and know that He will answer. I have been in a lot of pain recently, constant pain, the kind that there is no relief from. I have called out to God to help me. When I pray, it helps to change my focus from the pain to hope, knowing that I can turn it over to God to heal me…. Prayer gives me relief and hope. Sometimes that is all we need is to know that we are heard…it gives us strength to carry on, knowing that our prayers are heard. As we go through our days with lots of challenges, or we learn of a friend who is suffering, or we look around our world at all the tragedy…. let’s be grateful as Christians for the gift of prayer and our ever-present Father who listens. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Thanks for the opportunity to share my thoughts…. with love, Carolyn Dorsey

Distribution Educational

Clubs of America

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.  First Christian Church was represented well at the national competition by three sophomore students from Henderson County High. The students first won their regional competition at Murray University, which earned them an opportunity to compete at the state level. The young ladies shared their presentation about the untimely and sad death of Lofton Hazelwood, who was a freshman student at the University of Kentucky. Lofton was a victim of fraternity hazing. The young ladies shared their Lofton’s Legacy presentation at the Kentucky DECA state competition and placed third in the state. Their third-place finish paved the way for the presenters to travel to Anaheim California to compete in the DECA’s national competition, It was an exciting and memorable experience for these rising leaders from Henderson. 

The HCHS Kentucky state finalists were (left to right) Sophie Pressley, a member of The Hills Church Taylor Womack and Baylee Womack from First Christian Church of Henderson.   

A Youth Update

From Jada Hamby

Over the past few months, our church basement has been buzzing with laughter and excitement as our youth gather every Sunday morning and Wednesday night. From crafts to games, from running around the place to heartfelt discussions, we've enjoyed an abundance of fun-filled moments. When I stepped into this role, I originally carried some worries, as I struggled to see the brighter side for some of my life but, these children taught me something invaluable – the power of joy. They helped me realize that even amid challenges we face as individuals or a church, joy is present, and most times just waiting to be discovered. Initially, I wasn't sure if they would embrace the gratitude practices we are doing as a church, scared they would be dismissed as 'cringe' or 'silly.' Yet, through our time together, I've witnessed a shift in our relationships and our meetings. Gratitude is at the forefront of our gatherings and is slowly weaving its way into our conversations and activities. I am very excited to share that our youth have decided to continue meeting throughout the summer and we're planning even more exciting activities and opportunities for the coming summer If you know a child or teenager who might be interested in joining our meetings, please send them our way. Pictured are front top to bottom: Henson Clifford, Grae Hopgood, Rachel Womack, Maddie, & Jennifer Swift, Dwayne Pfingston, Ellie Swift & Hollan-Monroe Clifford. Abbie & Lucas Myers

ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Member Class: We would like to extend an opportunity to any that have not officially become members of First Christian. Join Rev. David in exploring what membership at our church looks like. This class will take place on Sunday, May 19 at 9:30 a.m.  There is no requirement or expectation to join the church if you take the class. Please contact Rev. David or the church office if you are interested.

We will have a 2024 Graduate Recognition during worship on May 19. Please call or email the church office with your graduates’ information. Deadline for information is May 12.

The Outreach/Prayer group meets on Mondays @ 9:30 a.m.

Another episode of The Monday Morning Preacher will air May 6, you can join us through our FCCH Website and Facebook page.

Bible Study for Adults- (on Psalms) and Youth Group Activities are scheduled for Wednesday evenings,

from 6-7 p.m.

 Sunday School Classes meet every Sunday @ 9:30 a.m. prior to worship.  These classes include teens, children, and adults.  The nursery is also open currently.

CWF’s May projects: They will be collecting food for summer break in May. They are taking donations on any of the following items -Cereal, Oats, Pancake mix, Pancake syrup, Evaporated or Powdered Milk, Honey. Donations can be made at the church office. Thank you for your generosity!

The Senior saints will meet on Tuesday May 21. Lunch to be determined.

Mother’s Day is May 12!  We are asking that everyone consider donating to the Father Bradley Shelter for Women and Children in honor of all the mothers of FCC. This shelter encourages self-sufficiency in their residents so they may go on to live full and productive lives. Please fill out the insert that will be included in our bulletins on May 5.  A list of those who gave in honor or memory of their mothers will be printed in the Mother's Day bulletin on May 12. Deadline May 5.

The FCC Board Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m.

We will have two other special collections following Mother’s Day: The Pentecost offering: May 19 and May 26 that support new church ministers of the denomination. Father’s Day’s collection: June 2 and June 9.

Ministry Team meetings are set up for the last Tuesday of each month. The Team will be meeting again on June 25 at 6:30 p.m. with the May meeting being cancelled.

The Deacon’s will have a bake sale after church on May 26.

Note of Thanks

From June and Ron Skaggs: Thank you for your prayers, sympathy, cards, phone calls, gifts of food and visits during this time of loss of our son, Kris. It was nice to have so many expressions of love, care, and concern.

 PRAYER CORNER- MAY 2024 1

What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and grief to bear

What a privilege to carry, Everything to God in PRAYER.

 “The value of persistent prayer is not that God will hear us, but that we will finally hear God.”

Gratitude begins when you realize there is nothing in which you are entitled.

Misc. Prayer Requests:

People in war torn countries, End to shootings & violence, People affected by health issues, Areas affected by hurricane, flooding, and fires, People fighting loneliness, anxiety, and depression, Injustices at home and throughout the world, Students, teachers, administrators, and parents, all people struggling financially & the economic situation, All disaster recovery, Our fellow churches with new leadership, FCC- Rev. David, Jada & the Children’s Ministry, Sunday School, All Leadership groups, Discernment of God’s will, increased Prayer Life, Healing and forgiveness in relationships, those struggling with addiction, Concerns for our community, state, country, and world, Increased kindness, respect for one another, tolerance, acceptance & peace.

Don’t forget to include thanks for answered prayers, your expressions of gratitude and all the ways you have seen God’s hand at work in your life, especially God’s continuing faithfulness to each of us.

 Lord Jesus, most of all, we pray for your never changing presence walking with us daily in the light of your love.  Help us to be the instrument of your peace, your compassion, and your love. Amen