What God is Doing

What a Mighty God we serve!  We have been in a New Testament kind of revival at New Beginnings since Sunday morning.  The evangelist has been preaching under the power of the Holy Ghost helping us to see that we are living beneath our privilege as Children of God.  He has been calling us to a renewed relationship with Jesus Christ and a walk of holiness.  After he preaches, he calls on the people to respond to the Word—ask God to search our hearts and repent. 

Thus far, we have seen people delivered and healed, and some of our youth and children are receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost.  Today, I am beside myself with excitement and praise to God for what He is doing, and for the fact that He is allowing me to be part of His work.

I announced last night that in light of the mighty things He is doing, this revival will continue.  Tonight will be the last service this week, but we will continue  on Sunday morning and just see where the Lord will take us. 

I am not afraid of the working of the Holy Ghost.  When He is working everything is done properly, His POWER is manifested, and people are saved, healed and delivered. 

Don’t miss this powerful flow of the Spirit!  Get involved!  Help spread the Word.  REVIVAL HAS COME TO CROSSVILLE!!!

The Time Has Come…

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18-19 KJV).

Jesus read this passage from the book of Isaiah (61:1-2). It referred to the year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25), a time of restoration—debts forgiven, prisoners set free, Sabbath rest. Good news, indeed! After closing up the scroll, Jesus sat down and said something that was quite startling. He announced to them all, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21).

It had not been very long since Jesus had been baptized by John in the river Jordan. There the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove. Being filled with the Spirit, He returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Having triumphed by the Word of God, He returned to Galilee "in the power of the Spirit" and began His ministry.

Now He was back home in Nazareth, preaching in the synagogue, proclaiming the year of the favor of the Lord, and applying those prophetic words to Himself: "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." For the Spirit of the Lord was upon Him, as at His baptism. And He was anointed, not with oil, but with the Holy Spirit. Jesus, the Anointed One. Messiah in their midst.

Reading through the gospels, we find that Jesus’ ministry was powerful, indeed. Even before the end of Luke 4, we see Jesus preaching the good news of the Kingdom (vv. 31-32, 43 ), releasing people from demonic oppression (vv. 33-36, 41) and healing the sick (vv.38-40). His word went forth with authority, and no one who came to Him for deliverance or healing was turned away. No demon was too great to cast out, no sickness too difficult to cure. Everyone who came, received.

And so it continues—the year of the favor of the Lord—because “Jesus Christ [is] the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8 KJV).

Are you in need? There is good news for you! Are you brokenhearted? There is healing! Do you have a physical affliction? There is healing! Are you bound by addictions? There is deliverance! Are you a slave to lust or greed? Oppressed by fear, anger, or a spirit of unforgiveness? There is deliverance, restoration, healing, freedom, and forgiveness of sins!

Memorial Service

Audrey Justus went to be with the Lord on Sunday evening at about 6:30 following a lengthy illness.  It was my pleasure to visit with and minister to her over the past several months.

The family will receive friends at Hood Funeral Home on Thursday, June 3, from 6pm to 8pm.  A Memorial Service will begin at 8.

Please join me in prayer for Audrey’s family in their time of sorrow.

Revival--Now is the Time!

As we announced on Wednesday night, the revival is definitely scheduled for June 13-16 (Sunday night – Wednesday night) with Milton Martin as the Evangelist.  I am expecting this to be a powerful revival of deliverance, restoration, and healing.  Sometimes we become comfortable in our spiritual walk, and we begin to accept the things that come into our lives as “just a part of life.”  All the while, we become less and less excited about our relationship with Christ and more and more concerned with the things of this life. 

I believe that God wants to deliver, restore, and heal His people so that we can be what He has called us to be—individually and corporately.  I believe that if we pray and seek His face and make the necessary preparations (cf. 2 Chronicles 7:14) this revival will not be just a series of meetings, but will be a time of divine visitation! 

Please join me in prayer and make plans to attend (and invite others to attend with you).  Then, come expecting a miracle!

Revival

Experiencing God

For far too long people have gone to church to fulfill an obligation through some ritual and so are reduced to actions without meaning. Church attendance and worship is all about an encounter with God that changes who we are.

This is why at New Beginnings we believe it is time to stop just attending church, and to start experiencing God. We believe that when we come to church we have the right to expect that it will be a time of encountering and experiencing God in such a way that it forever impacts and changes our lives!

If you don't have a home church, come experience God with us at New Beginnings.

Steel to Magnets

Dr. David Jeremiah wrote the following in the April 2003 “Turning Points Magazine”

Jesus never had to worry about turn-out or attendance figures.  The crowds were never far away—sometimes eager to hear Him, sometimes wanting to stone Him.  He was like steel to magnets.  Some were drawn to Him, others repelled by Him.  But everyone knew He was there, and no one could ignore Him.

Baby Bentley

When he first arrived at UT Hospital five weeks ago, the prognosis for baby Bentley was not good.  The family was not given much hope from the doctors; however, several people began to pray and God has worked a miracle.  I am happy to announce here that Bentley came home yesterday and is doing very well. 

Updates

God is simply amazing!  On Wednesday, Audrey Justus was moved from Cookville Regional Medical Center to her home in Crossville via ambulance with an IV bag of dopamine.  The doctor said that once the dopamine ran out, her blood pressure would drop and she would die. 

I got to her house after the bag of dopamine had been depleted, and it certainly looked as if Audrey would pass on to her eternal reward.  We prayed for her and sang to her as she seemed so close to death; however, she began to perk up and talk and even laugh a little. 

At 10 pm I left to come home for the night.  When I returned on Thursday morning, Audrey was raised up in her bed, grinning from ear to ear.  Her color was back and she was quite cheerful.

As of last night, she is still doing well and enjoying being at home—without the dopamine.  Praise the Lord!

Also, I received an update about baby Bentley.  He is still at UT Hospital, but he is doing good.  He is expected to come home in a week or so.  

Please continue to pray for Audrey and baby Bentley.

Update on Audrey Justus

I went to visit with Audrey Justus again today at Cookville Regional Medical Center. Her daughter, Carol, wanted me to be there with them when the doctor came in to talk to them.

Audrey has been in and out of the hospital and nursing home since December ’09 when she had a growth removed from inside her heart. The Lord has touched her several times when it seemed she might not make it. Currently she is on dopamine to keep her blood pressure up. The doctor tried to lower the dosage this morning, but her blood pressure dropped drastically and quickly. He told her and her daughter and son today that without the dopamine, her blood pressure will bottom out and she will die. This, of course, keeps her from being able to go home, which she desperately wants to do.

Audrey assured me, both yesterday and today, that she is ready to go. In fact, she told her children today not to worry. “Everything will be okay,” she said.

In the next couple days a decision will be made about discontinuing the dopamine. We still believe that our God is able to perform a miracle for Audrey…and she believes it, too. In the face of such a grave discussion, Audrey was smiling, laughing, and speaking with confidence about her future. Please join me in prayer for her miracle!

National Day of Prayer

If ever this nation needed God, it is today! 

The National Day of Prayer is currently under attack.  A federal judge in Wisconsin ruled the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional Thursday, saying the day amounts to a call for religious action.

For more information you can go to the National Day of Prayer website.

Update on Baby Bentley

Baby Bentley was born March 27, 2010 and was transported to UT Medical Center very shortly after birth. He has been in critical condition and the doctors have not been very optimistic regarding his condition.

Yesterday I visited with J.J. Fragiadakis and Brittany Lane (Bentley’s parents), and Auntie Connie. I am pleased to report that Bently is doing much better. He is off the ventilator, and as I understand it, they should be taking out the feeding tube soon. The EEG showed improved brain activity, and the doctors are now expressing optimism.

While he is doing much better, he is expected to be in the hospital for a couple more weeks. Please join me in prayer for Bentley and his family.

Things are not always as they appear to be

I recently read an article that contained the following story.  Although it’s several years old, I thought it was worth sharing here.

Two of the best commercials shown during Super Bowl XXXIX   were sponsored by Ameriquest Mortgage Company.  Both had the same message: “Don’t judge too quickly.”

In one ad, a convenience store shopper is standing at the counter and talking on his cell phone. He says to the person on the other end, “You’re getting robbed.” The two clerks hear those words and react by squirting the man with pepper spray, slugging him with a baseball bat, and then zapping him with an electric cattle prod.

In the second commercial, a man is preparing a romantic dinner. He chops vegetables with a large knife, while tomato sauce simmers on the stove. A white cat knocks the pan of sauce onto the floor and then falls into the mess. Just as the man picks up his tomato-splattered cat, his wife opens the door. She sees him holding a cat dripping with red sauce in one hand and a large knife in the other. The scene appears to be unmistakably horrific.

As these ads show, things aren't always as they first appear.

(This story was related by Richard Kauffman, McDonald,
Pennsylvania, as seen during Super Bowl XXXIX—2/6/05).

Back to Sunbright

Pastor Jack Lawson has invited me to minister at Sonbright Christian Center on Sunday evening, March 21.  I am excited to be able to return to the church I was privileged to pastor for over 7 years.  I have heard many good reports about the congregation, and I am thrilled to be able to go back and worship with them.

Several people from New Beginnings are planning to join me on this night, including our Worship Band.  I am blessed to work with such wonderful people in Crossville.  Their love and support mean so very much!

Gospel Singing

Jesus Loves YOU!

This is really cool!

First Time to Minister

I am greatly looking forward to our service tomorrow night!  Our very own, Roger Dixon, has accepted his call to preach and will be giving his very first sermon at New Beginnings tomorrow night.   I know he is a little nervous about his first sermon, so I ask you to join me in prayer that the Lord will calm his nerves and that he will feel perfect liberty as he shares the Word of Life!

Can you see it?

Some of us are not very observant. Something may be staring us in the face, but we cannot perceive it.

Not too long ago my mother replaced some of the art work on her walls in the living room. When my two year old nephew awoke from a nap, he quickly noticed that things were not as they were when he went to sleep.

On the other hand, when I walked into the living room (even knowing that mother had made the changes), never even noticed….that is, until Josiah started pointing around the room.

And so it is with God and God’s people. God is at work, doing a new thing, and many people don’t see it. God is at work, making things happen that have never happened before, and many of us don’t perceive it.

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” (Isaiah 43:19).

These words were spoken by God—through the prophet Isaiah—to the exiled Children of Israel. He insists that they would just open their eyes and look, God is doing a new thing. He is already at work.

He cautions them in verse 18 not to allow their current situation or the things of the past hinder them from seeing what God is doing.

It is easy for us to become so engrossed in our own lives—the difficulties and challenges we face on a daily basis—that we miss out on all the wonderful things God is doing today. But He is doing a fresh, new thing today…can you see it?

The Joy of Difficult Times

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved." ~Helen Keller (1880-1968).

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing”  (James 1:2-4).

Weekend Update

We had a great time at Bread of Life last night.  In addition to the 20 or so adults, there are about 6 children there, and they are awesome!   In spite of the fact that they are at a rescue mission, they are so happy and fun-loving.  It is a joy, indeed, to be part of this ministry!

I am looking forward to a great time at New Beginnings today.   It is so good to come together with friends and family to worship the Lord together.   I see thee Lord doing such wonderful things, and we are growing in Him.  When we started New Beginnings, we had about 18 people.  We now have about 40 people attending, and I expect that we will double that very soon! 

Tonight I will be preaching at a joint service of the Oliver Springs and Petros Churches of God of Prophecy at Petros.  Pastor Slone (Petros), and Pastor Massengale (Oliver Springs) have involved me in these services several times, and I always look forward to being with them. 

Bread of Life

We are looking forward to our monthly dinner and service at Bread of Life Rescue Mission tomorrow night.   We always have ample help from New Beginnings—cooking, serving, and clean up.  I am very thankful to serve with people who are so willing to give of their time and resources to bless others!

Get a Life

From HeartLight Gallery

Tonight's Service Cancelled

While we do not like to cancel services, some of the roads across the county are still hazardous, and with the temperature in the mid to low 20’s, there is the possibility that other roads still wet may refreeze. Because we do not want to put anyone at risk, New Beginnings has cancelled services for tonight (2/17/10).

For future cancellation notices:

Listen to 102.5 WOW Country or check out their website at http://www.1025wowcountry.com/news/closings.php

Listen to Mix 99.3 or check out their website at http://www.mix993.net/news/closings.php

Of course, we will post the cancellation here, too, as well as sending e-mails and texts to those in our congregation.

Upcoming Events

Bread of Life—February 20

Open Gym for Youth/Kids—February 27

Daylight Saving Time—March 14

Five Star Jubilee in Concert at New Beginnings—March 14

Calling All Laborers

“But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest”  (Matthew 9:36-38).

Happy Valentine’s Day!

1 Corinthians 13

Love

¹What if I could speak

   all languages

   of humans

   and of angels?

   If I did not love others,

   I would be nothing more

   than a noisy gong

   or a clanging cymbal.

²What if I could prophesy

   and understand all secrets

   and all knowledge?

   And what if I had faith

   that moved mountains?

   I would be nothing,

   unless I loved others.

³What if I gave away all

   that I owned

   and let myself

   be burned alive? ^[a] I would gain nothing,

   unless I loved others.

⁴Love is kind and patient,

   never jealous, boastful,

   proud, or ⁵rude.

   Love isn't selfish

   or quick tempered.

   It doesn't keep a record

   of wrongs that others do.

⁶Love rejoices in the truth,

   but not in evil.

⁷Love is always supportive,

   loyal, hopeful,

   and trusting.

⁸Love never fails!

   Everyone who prophesies

   will stop,

   and unknown languages

   will no longer

   be spoken.

   All that we know

   will be forgotten.

⁹We don't know everything,

   and our prophecies

   are not complete.

¹⁰But what is perfect

   will someday appear,

   and what isn't perfect

   will then disappear.

¹¹When we were children,

   we thought and reasoned

   as children do.

   But when we grew up,

   we quit our childish ways.

¹²Now all we can see of God

   is like a cloudy picture

   in a mirror.

   Later we will see him

   face to face.

   We don't know everything,

   but then we will,

   just as God completely

   understands us.

¹³For now there are faith,

   hope, and love.

   But of these three,

   the greatest is love.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20corinthians%2013&version=CEV

Another Beautiful Day

Here is a picture taken from my window at about 8 am.

Praise Report

We had an awesome worship service yesterday! I'm so excited about all the Lord is doing. We had 40 in attendance yesterday with a few people out sick. At the conclusion of the sermon, 2 people came forward to surrender their hearts to the Lord in repentance. How great is our God?

Forward Together

A New Year With The Lord

A new year is about to unfold
With new opportunities to explore
Doors will open for new experiences
New adventures with the Lord

Remember not the former things
The things of this past year
The Lord will do new things in us
Much more than we are aware

For He will make a way for us
As we put our trust in Him
And He will guide our every step
By His presence we have within

What God has placed within our hearts
We find we’ll be able to do
If we look for the opportunities
We’ll see the door to go through

We mustn’t let anything hold us back
But rise up and take our place
And be all that God wants us to be
With a fresh touch of His grace

© By M.S.Lowndes

Death Announcement

I just received a message that Evelyn Stringfield has passed away. Sister Evelyn was a long time member of the Church of God of Prophecy at Sunbright, TN. I had the happy privilege of serving as her pastor for 8 years. Sister Evelyn was a very kind and loving lady who loved the Lord. She will be missed!

Please join me in praying for her family as they deal with this loss. Our God is faithful to comfort those who mourn. May Sister Evelyn's children and grandchildren feel that comfort during this time of grief.

Announcement from Harvest Christian Fellowship

Special Prayer Request

I just received word today that Evelyn Stringfield, from the Sunbright Church, is in special need of prayer. Apparently, she has been in intensive care at Oak Ridge for 2 weeks already. She had a pretty serious surgery yesterday and is expected to be in the hospital for a while. Please join me in praying for her!

An Eagle's View

From an Eagle's View

Have you ever wondered what it's like to fly free,
To see the world as far as the eye can see,
To view the surroundings from high and from low,
To hear only the sound of a distant echo,
To float in the air with the wind being your guide,
To admire many rainbows that the trees tend to hide,
To see the misty mornings over a beautiful mountaintop,
To glide over a flowing river that never seems to stop,
To watch the animals from over a mile away,
Or to rise above the treetops that glisten in the day?
If you were an eagle you would wonder no more,
For it can see things you have never seen before.
Next time you look into the sky of blue,
Think of what it's like from an eagle's view.

© Stacy Smith


“As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings” (Deuteronomy 32:11).

A View from the Mountain

I went up the mountain from where I live yesterday and took a couple pics.

Just A Thought

"When we have exhausted our store of endurance, when our strength has failed ere the day is half done, when we reach the end of our hoarded resources, our Father’s full giving is only begun. His love has no limit, His grace has no measure, His pow’r has no boundary known unto men. For out of His infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again." Annie Flint Johnson

On Sunday night, May 31, we had the first ever joint service of New Beginnings and Harvest Christian Fellowship. For over two years now, HCF has partnered with New Beginnings providing support in various ways: prayer, encouragement, finances, and other tangible contributions.

For this first "joint service," quite a number of people from HCF drove from Knoxville to join with us in celebrating what God is doing, and to offer their personal support and encouragement. We are very thankful for Pastors Ken Dyer and Sharon Faruggia and everyone at Harvest Christian Fellowship and pray God's richest blessing on them daily.

The next joint service is scheduled for Sunday evening, July 26 at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Knoxville.

A Wonderful Evening

We had a great time at the church cook out on Wednesday night. A few people who had planned to come were unable to attend--a couple were at the hospital, and others were sick. Nevertheless, there were still almost 40 who came out to enjoy a great time of food, fellowship, and singing. Yesterday I was blessed to hear from a few people who do not attend New Beginnings, yet came to the cook out. They said they felt so welcome and thoroughly enjoyed spending the evening with us!

I am thankful to everyone who helped with the food and preparations. We have a wonderful group of people at New Beginnings, and I thank God for you daily!

Church Cook Out

Just a reminder that tomorrow night we will have a church cook out at the Pastor's home. There will be NO services at the church! We look forward to seeing you!

A Week of Ministry

Well, this has been a very busy week of ministry. We have had a number of people sick and I have made several trips to hospitals. I have also had the honor of ministering to a few people who just need the Lord! It seems that every time I turn around the Lord is opening another door for ministry. It is so encouraging and exciting to see how the Lord is working!

In the midst of the joy of ministry, of course, the enemy makes it obvious that he is against us. He uses those who are weak in the faith. He whispers lies to them, and they believe them. And rather than seeking truth, they proceed to spread the lies. How very sad this is! I am reminded, however, of Luke's record of one of Paul's speeches. As he summed up the trials, challenges, and difficulties he had experienced, he stated emphatically:

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20:24)

I am so thrilled that the Lord has called me into the ministry--in spite of the difficulties. The joy is in seeing people saved, healed, encouraged, strengthened, and growing in the Spirit. I am looking forward to the greater things ahead. By the grace of God, I shall not be moved!

Church Cook Out

On Wednesday, May 20, we will not be having our regular service and meetings at the church. Rather, we will have a church cook out at the Pastor's home. Everyone is invited to attend. We will grill hamburgers and hot dogs, and have several side dishes. We hope to have great weather for this day, and we are expecting a great turnout.

Pastor Ken Dyer

I received word this morning that Pastor Ken Dyer will be going home today. On Tuesday afternoon, Pastor Ken had double heart bypass surgery. We give praise to God for the good things He is doing in and for Pastor Ken and ask that you continue to pray for full and speedy recovery.

I love you, but I hate your body

The following is something I read on Pastor Gary Langley's blog today. I just thought it was worth sharing!
--------------------------------------------------------------------

I love you, but I hate your body

If you said those words to your spouse, your marriage would be in serious trouble. In an intimate relationship, our love and affection for one another is most often expressed in various forms of bodily contact.

So why do so many people who claim to love Jesus reject contact with his body, the church?

Yes, I have heard all the reasons... the excuses.

"I can't find a good church in my area." Really? Seriously? With a dozen -- perhaps a hundred -- evangelical, Bible-believing, worshipping congregations within a few minutes of your home, you can't find one that meets your approval? You think maybe, just maybe, all those churches are not the problem after all?

"I was hurt before." Welcome to the real world. In any group or organization composed of people, it is highly likely, perhaps inevitable, that sooner or later somebody will say or do something that hurts you. If you let that keep you away, how do you survive in the workplace? In the mall parking lot, even? If you think people who attend churches get their feelings hurt now and then, you wouldn't believe how thick the pastors skin has to be! Get over it. Grow up. Go to church.

"I just don't seem to fit in anywhere." Then ask the Lord to help you plant a church for other misfits like you. Maybe what you are experiencing is "Divine discontent." The Lord might be allowing you to be an uncomfortable misfit because he has called you to a task you have resisted. Remember that story about Jonah? Avoidance is a bad strategy. Give up, give in, give all.

"Most Christians are just insincere hypocrites." Step away from the mirror, champ. You know the old cliché -- "You'll never find a perfect church, because as soon as you get there..." This excuse is among the biggest smokescreens of them all. Look, here's the bottom line: the church is not just a good idea, it's a GOD idea. It is such an important idea that Jesus gave his life for it. For you to disregard the church, avoid the church, criticize the church from the outside, or -- can we be straight here? -- just get so lazy, self-indulgent, and arrogant that you start to believe 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' should be sending up all kinds of warning alarms in your head and heart, because "you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked."

If you love Jesus, love his body.
Go to church.
Get involved.
Take a risk.
Allow yourself to possibly be offended or hurt again.

You can't really love Jesus and disconnect from his body. You wouldn't want to make the body of Christ an amputee, would you?

Read more: "I love you, but I hate your body - Kahu's posterous" - http://kahugary.posterous.com/i-love-you-but-i-hate-your-body#ixzz0Crps5gP3&A

Update on Pastor Ken Dyer

We praise the Lord for His goodness and His favor. Pastor Dyer came through his by-pass surgery yesterday just fine. The surgery took about 2-1/2 hours, a little less than had been anticipated. I received word this morning that he was talking and eating and that he will be leaving the ICU and going to a room a little later today.

There were a host of people who came to the hospital yesterday to offer their prayers and support for Pastor Ken and his family. At one point it seemed that almost half of the waiting room was there for Ken. We appreciate the prayers of all who prayed for Ken and we give praise to God. We are trusting the Lord, too, for a full and speedy recovery.

Easter Service

We had a wonderful service at New Beginnings today. The youth and children did an awesome Easter skit portraying the power of the resurrection. There were 65 people in attendance. This broke our last record attendance of 54 of just a few weeks ago.

I preached on the facts of the resurrection. At the conclusion, 2 people said they had confessed their sins and asked Jesus into their lives. I am so excited to have a part in the awesome things the Lord is doing in the lives of the people of Crossville, and I am looking forward to the future with great anticipation!

A Note From Pastor Ken Dyer

Dear Friends,

As many of you know, I was admitted to St. Mary's hospital last week. The doctors determined that Heart By-Pass surgery was necessary.

Therefore, on Tuesday morning, April 14, at 7:30 AM I will be going into surgery. I ask for your prayers during and after this procedure.

The recovery period will most likely be 4 - 5 weeks. So, thank you in advance for your prayerful support.

May the blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,



Kenneth Dyer
Pastor
Harvest Christian Fellowship
www.harvestrocmin.org

Prayer Request

Please remember Pastor Ken Dyer (of Harvest Christian Fellowship) in prayer. He went to the Emergency Room on Thursday with chest pain. They did a stress test yesterday, and a heart cath today. The blockage, apparently, is such that they are planning to do surgery perhaps one day next week.

Charles Holt

I received the sad news today that Paul Holt's father, Charles Holt, passed away Sunday night. Paul Holt is the former pastor of the Arrowhead church in Knoxville. Please pray for him and his family.

12 Baptized

This past Sunday was an awesome day for New Beginnings. For the past several weeks, we have had a tremendous increase in attendance in our Sunday morning and Wednesday evening services. Our new praise band is positively AWESOME! The Lord has been doing marvelous things, for sure.

During these past few weeks, there have been several conversions and re-dedications. So on Sunday evening about 28 of us drove to the Arrowhead church in Knoxville to participate in a special "Deliverance" service and baptism. Brother Ralph Reagan was the special speaker and several others gave their testimony of God's Deliverance in their lives...including our very own, John & Shannon Barnwell.

Following the service, I went into the baptistry and baptized 10 people. Brother Barnwell and Brother Reagan baptized 4 more, 2 of whom are also from New Beginnings.

We give God Praise for the wonderful things He is doing.

Visitation and Funeral Arrangements

Arrangements for Barbara and David Morris, Tim Kendricks mother and step-father, are as follows:

The family will receive friends at Evans Mortuary on Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. (ET). The funeral service will be on Friday and 12 Noon in the chapel of Evans Mortuary.

Evans Mortuary is located at 805 North Gatway Ave. in Rockwood, TN.

Please continue to be in prayer for both families.

Special Prayer Request

I received word yesterday from Faye Kendrick that her husband Tim's mother and step father had been shot. Tim's mother was life-flighted to UT hospital in Knoxville, but the step father died at the scene. I was in Nashville when I got this news at about 1 p.m.

At about 5:30, mother and I were on our way to Knoxville. We sat with the family for quite some time. The prognosis was bleak, but the doctors were going to keep Tim's mother on life support through the night.

I received word this morning that they were taking her off life support. Please join me in praying for Tim and his sisters that God will give them comfort and strength and keep them calm in His love during this most difficult time.

A New Excitement in the Air

There is a new wave of excitement at New Beginnings! God has been doing some awesome things.

Yesterday, people began arriving earlier than usual--about 9:30. We have a time of fellowship with coffee and breakfast pastries at 10 a.m. and our worship service doesn't begin until 10:30. People just kept flowing in and filled the 40 chairs we had set out so that we had to pull out more chairs. In total, we had 54 people. Last week we had 37. For about a year our average attendance has been 18.

The worship was powerful and uplifting. It was awesome to see so many people responding to the Spirit as we lifted up the name of Jesus. Our new Worship Team is absolutely awesome! In addition to the keyboard, we now have a lead guitar, bass guitar, and drums.

The message, too, seemed to touch many people. As I gave the altar call, several people responded in tears. God is definitely doing something great at New Beginnings, and we are excited to be part of it!

Praise Report

I received an email today saying that the boy is free. His father told Gary Glover, "The Holy Spirit lead me to one place to look for my boy, and I got him."

We rejoice with this family and give God praise!!!

Prayer Request

I received an email about a brother in Nigeria whose 8 year old son was kidnapped last week. A ransom has been demanded, and the kidnappers are also making threats against the father and family. Please join me in prayer for this little boy to be delivered from these evil people and restored to his family.

A Special Day

It was a special day at church yesterday. The Spirit of the Lord was certainly present from the beginning.

The youth and children had a special program, and they did a superb job. I'm so proud of them all!

Also, we planned a little surprise. It was Bill's birthday, so we presented him with a gift--a small token of our love and appreciation for him--and had sandwiches and cake after church.

The church also presented me with a Christmas gift--new suit, shirt, and tie. I feel so honored to be serving with such generous and thoughtful people.

Christmas Banquet

We had a super Christmas Banquet last night! It’s times like this that makes a Pastor very proud. I would surely miss someone if I tried to name everyone who contributed to the tremendous success of this special event, but I feel I would be remiss if I didn’t give special recognition to two people who went above and beyond the call of duty: Kim and Lola. Kim outlined the program for the evening, decorated the tables, participated in a comedy act, directed “Rejoice with Exceeding Great Joy”, a youth and children’s presentation, and helped serve our guests.

Lola was responsible for the menu and personally oversaw all the food preparation. She has worked as a caterer in the past, and her experience was evident. Lola spent a great deal of time gathering supplies, soliciting and directing helpers, as well as preparing several items on the menu herself. In addition to all that, she hosted a lunch at her home yesterday afternoon, before the banquet, for those helping her.

I am so proud of Kim and Lola and thankful to the Lord that He has placed them at New Beginnings!

Of course two people couldn’t do it all by themselves. There were a number of people helping them, and no one’s contribution is inconsequential. For fear of missing someone, let me just say a great big THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make this such a wonderful success!

We had more than 85 people in attendance!

Preparing for Christmas…

We Pentecostals have often been loathe to celebrate the Christian seasons of Advent and Lent. I have discovered several reasons for this; however, none really seem to be sound. One person has said that “[Celebrating these seasons] ...is mainly tradition, and we are not traditionalists.” (I thought that one was funny). Another said, “We need to just stick to preaching the cross.”

Sometimes it seems to me that in our quest to throw off traditionalism we have divested ourselves of some of the most important aspects of the Christian faith. Our celebrations have become so mundane it is sometimes difficult to identify the real reason we celebrate.

Advent is Latin for 'a coming or arrival'. The idea behind it is that God came to earthly life and lived among us. That is something to celebrate, because just by being in this world, God was giving the supreme blessing to His creation.

Advent is a season of preparation. In Advent, we thank God for Christ's first coming, prepare for his final coming at the end of time, and celebrate Christ's presence among us today through the Spirit. God loved us and wanted to share that love.

Tomorrow is the first of four weeks of Advent leading up to Christmas day. It is the time to get ready by rejoicing that our God is not far away and unfamiliar with the struggles of human life, that Christ is here right now among His followers, that God has already begun to bring in the Kingdom, and that Christ will come again to make it clear who really runs the place.

Remember the words of Jesus: "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20).

May the Lord bless you and your family during this season!

Thanksgiving

The Meadows Family had a wonderful day of Thanksgiving yesterday. It was so nice to have all of our family together for dinner and fellowship. Mother always makes it very special. Everyone seemed to have a great time together. After dinner, each of us read a Scripture and shared something for which we are thankful. It was good to have my uncle Ken and cousin Denae and her husband Tim with us, too!

Family is very important, and I thank God for mine! I trust each of you had a joyous Thanksgiving with your family and friends, too.

Election Day

Today is the day we will elect a new President for these United States. If you didn't have the opportunity to vote early, please don't forget to vote today. Make your voice heard.

Bread of Life Rescue Mission

Once again, New Beginnings joined in the ministry of Bread of Life Rescue Mission on Saturday (10/18) by preparing a meal for the residents and having a worship service with them. This is a regular monthly event for New Beginnings, and we always look forward to it.

I am thankful to Lola Rudolph who coordinates our meal preparation, and to all those who so faithfully participate in preparing food and assist in serving and clean-up.

The worship services are a particular joy for me. Every time I have ministered there, I have received a very warm welcome by both the staff and the residents, and I have had great liberty in the Spirit to minister. God is doing something wonderful at Bread of Life, and we are pleased to be able to join Him, in some small way, in what He is doing!

Pray for the Election

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Without a doubt, our nation is in desperate need of help and direction from the Lord. In just a few days the people of the United States will go to the voting polls to select a new President and Vice President for our country. Speaking of this upcoming election, the National Day of Prayer Chairman, Shirley Dobson, said:

“In light of the approaching elections, it is crucial that we remain in fervent prayer for our beloved land. The presidential race is especially important. The individual installed in the Oval Office in January, 2009 will play a pivotal role in determining the future course of our country. It is, therefore, imperative that people go to the polls and elect a candidate whose leadership will reflect a moral, principled perspective. We’re living in serious times. Our country is at a crossroads. The decisions of our elected officials will determine America’s moral climate and national security for generations. We desperately need leaders with courage and integrity to guide us.”

It is my prayer that each of you will join me in prayer that the will of God be accomplished in this election, and that you will exercise your right to vote on November 4.

A Few Pictures from Thailand

It was a joy to have Brother Boonyong Bureenok in my home for the past few days. Boone and I have been friends for about 23 years. He is doing a great work in Thailand and in Cambodia and Myanmar, as well. Please join me in praying for him and his family, and for the orphanages he oversees as well as the missionary efforts.

The first photo is Boone and his son, Phil. The second is Boone's wife, Jintana, and Phil with a child. The third is a group of children from the orphanage in Korat, Thailand.

Boone is Here!!

Yesterday was a long day, but a most enjoyable one. I set out yesterday morning to Tupelo, MS to pick up my good friend, Boone Bureenok. I was going to be driving by myself and it is almost a six hour drive each way, so I decided to find a good audio book to listen to on the way--I purchased "Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby. This is a powerful book on the importance of an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. It made the drive so much easier.

Well, I now have Boone here with me and he is doing well. He will be sharing some of the things going on in Thailand at New Beginnings on Sunday morning. It has been a joy to hear updates on some of my friends in Thailand...Akrapol, Prayong, Mai, and many others. God is so good!!

Boonyong Bureenok

I am pleased to announce that Boonyong Bureenok will be with us at New Beginnings next Sunday (9/28). Brother Boone is a missionary in Thailand and operates an orphanage there. We are excited that he will be visiting with us!

Week-end update

On Saturday we had the annual Ball / Meadows Family Reunion at the Cumberland Mountain State Park. It was so good to see family I hadn’t seen since last year. In fact, there were some there whom I hadn’t seen in many years. We had a great time!

Saturday evening, New Beginnings prepared a meal for the Bread of Life Rescue Mission. I am so thankful for the dedication of our people to this ministry. Following the meal, we had a service with those living at the mission. Jerry and Sherry Brewer were also with us, and they led in the singing. It was a fun and uplifting time. There was such freedom as I began to preach. In fact, the Spirit of the Lord was very powerful. When I gave the altar call, several people responded and we prayed for a few people who were in need of healing, as well. It was an awesome service!

On Sunday morning, New Beginnings met at the Cumberland Mountain State Park (second day for me) for an End of Summer Church Picnic. Although we were to begin at 11 a.m., people kept streaming in up to about 1 p.m. In total we had approximately 78 people to attend this special event, many of whom have no church home.

Sunday afternoon at about 2 p.m., a few of us went back to Bread of Life where I baptized 5 people in water who had recently came to the Lord or re-dedicated their lives to God. This has been an awesome week-end! To God be the glory!

End of Summer Church Picnic

On Sunday, September 21, 2008, New Beginnings will host an End of Summer Picnic at Cumberland Mountain State Park. We will be at the top of the hill pavilion at 11 a.m. (no service at 495 4th Street)

We will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and there will be plenty of games for the whole family. Everyone is invited to attend and its all FREE!!!!

Prayer Request

I just learned earlier today that the Tito Rivera, the son of the Presiding Bishop of Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico passed away suddenly and unexpectedly over the week-end. I believe Tito was 29 years old and the only son of Bishop and Sister Rivera. Please join me in prayer for the family during this very difficult time.

Petros Church

I was honored to minister at the Petros church last night at a joint service of the Petros and Oliver Springs churches. The meeting was well attended by people from both churches. Pastor Stewart Sloan (Petros) and Pastor Roy Massengale (Oliver Springs) are to be commended for their efforts in kindling fellowship between their churches.

I was happy to have three people from New Beginnings join me. It was certainly a powerful service in which the Spirit of the Lord ministered to His people! I am thankful to Pastor Sloan for inviting me!

FREE Concert

The Cumberland County Ministerial Association presents a free concert by gifted musician, composer and recording artist Tony Melendez who plays the guitar with his feet having been born without arms.

Pope John Paul II commissioned Tony to be a GIFT OF HOPE for the world after hearing and seeing him play. Tony has performed throughout the U.S. and over forty Countries. This free concert will be at Stone Memorial High School, 2800 Cook Road in Crossville, TN on Saturday September 20. Doors open at 5:30 P.M. Performance at 6:30 P.M.

Cumberland County Ministerial Association
President Beverly Talbott C.L.P. 456-8312
Sec. Treas. Dewey Peterson 484-7729

Spiritual Growth

For the past few weeks I have been preaching on Spiritual Growth. We have discussed the need for Spiritual Growth, the goal of Spiritual Growth, and the attitudes and habits necessary to achieve Spiritual Growth. Spiritual growth is discipleship in action!

Jesus Himself described what is required of those who would be His disciple: “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

These words are the strongest and clearest from Jesus that teaches the requirements necessary in those who will follow him. Someone has described them as an outline of the Terms of Authentic Discipleship.

1. DESIRE—“if any man will come after me.” Desire drives people and it is at the heart of discipleship!

2. DENIAL—“let him deny himself.” SELF is the enemy of authentic discipleship. Consider the variety of words prefixed by SELF that illustrate how SELF can dominate us: Self righteousness; self centeredness; self interest; self confidence; self consciousness; self defense; self importance; self indulgence; self opinion; self reliance; self satisfaction; self seeking; self sufficient.

3. DEATH—“and take up his cross.” Authentic discipleship is a sacrificial lifestyle. It’s a life not lived solely for ones own interests or ends. The cross symbolized the ‘cause’ Jesus both lived for and died for. We are called to die ‘daily’ to that which gets in the way of us knowing him, loving him, serving him, following him.

4. DETERMINATION—“follow me.”
• Authentic discipleship is a lifelong commitment. Jesus asks for the greatest and most determined commitment of your life.

• Authentic discipleship will ask questions of you ‘daily’. You can measure how authentic your discipleship is by how your desire to follow him challenges your lifestyle and attitudes, guides your choices and determines your principles.

• Authentic discipleship requires genuine courage. “Jesus promised his disciples three things – that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy and in constant trouble”

Funeral Arrangements

We received the sad news yesterday that R. B. Daniels passed away on Saturday night at Cumberland Medical Center. R. B., better known as "Doc" to those who knew him, recently attended one of our services at New Beginnings. I visited both yesterday and today with some of his family and friends, and having heard some of their stories made me wish I had the opportunity to know him before.

The arrangements for "Doc" are as follows:

The family will receive friends Tuesday night at Bilbrey Funeral Home from 6-8 PM.

The funeral service will be on Wednesday at 3 PM at Bilbrey Funeral Home, with a graveside service and military honors.

Doc had 2 sons and 2 daughters. Please join me in prayer for them and all his friends who are mourning his death.

Arkansas Trip

What a trip! Mother and I returned home last night at about 9 PM from our trip to Little Rock, Arkansas. We left Crossville on Monday and met up with Jason, Jennifer, Josiah and Isaiah in Gallatin where we had dinner and spent the night. On Tuesday morning we all headed out to Little Rock, Arkansas where Jason, Jennifer and the boys will be working and living.

It was a very good trip until we got about 90 miles outside of Little Rock. Jason, Josiah and I were riding in the big Budget truck towing a car while mother, Jennifer and Isaiah were in the van. David and Kathy Williams were driving along, as well. The other two vehicles were a little bit ahead of us when the truck we were in lost all power. We were right in front of a rest area, but it was closed.

Long story short, Jason stayed with the budget truck until a tow truck arrived. David came back to get Josiah and me and I drove mother, Jennifer and the boys on to Little Rock. David and Kathy went back to Nashville. We arrived in Little Rock sometime after 5 PM, and Jason arrived an hour or so later. It was rough, but we made it safe and sound and we give the Lord praise!

Jason and Jennifer are going to be house parents in the Forence Crittenton Home, an emergency shelter for teens sponsored by the Freewill Missionary Baptist Family Ministries. I was very impressed with the ministries provided, and I am very proud of my brother and his family for their interest in this area of ministry.

Mother spent the night at Crittenton House with Jason, Jennifer and the boys, and I went to a hotel. On Wednesday I went back to Crittenton House where I had a devotion with them encouraging them in their decision, and we prayed over them.

Mother and I left Little Rock at about 2 PM (much later than we expected) for the long trip home. We arrived back last night at about 9 PM. Thank the Lord for His protection along the way!

Old Friends

I went to Nashville on Friday for the International Assembly. Of course, it was good to be there for the services and Brother Varlack's class, but it was especially good to see some friends I haven't seen in years: the Williams from California, the Lee's from Wyoming, Scott Creasey from Florida, Dennis Wilson from Texas, Donald Markham (I forget where he is now), and so many others.

Seeing so many people I got acquainted with so many years ago brings back a host of memories. I've been blessed through the years to have met so many wonderful people across this land and into other nations of the world. My life has been enriched as a result of knowing all of them, and I am thankful!

A Powerful Word

I was just listening to Kay Horner on the assembly webcast. She had a powerful word: "Victory begins with the name of Jesus on our lips, but will not be consumated until the nature of Jesus is in our hearts."

International Assembly

The International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy began yesterday at the Sommet Center in Nashville, TN. For those who may be interested, you can watch the International Assembly Webcast. Also, the DayStar network will air the Thursday and Friday evening sessions, beginning at 7:30 EST (subject to change). Thursday evening session will be the Global Outreach emphasis evening with a sermon from Bishop Sherman Allen, General Presbyter of Africa. Friday’s evening session will be a celebration of Pentecostal Awakening, featuring a sermon by Special Guest Dr. Jerry Macklin. Current plans are that the programming will begin with portions of the opening concert of the Bahamas Brass Band and will include the services in their entirety through the altar responses that will be given by the speakers.

One World One Dream

One World One Dream is the theme selected by China, the host nation of the XXIX Olympics. As I watched the opening ceremonies last night, I was awestruck by the sheer magnitude of the celebration. The Chinese spared no effort, and seemingly no cost, in welcoming the world to Beijing.

At one point, 2,008 drummers were pounding the fou, an ancient Chinese percussion instrument, and as they were doing so, they chanted, “Friends have come from afar, how happy we are,” a phrase from the works of Confucius (551BC-479BC). Shortly after this, hundreds of men in boxes bobbed up and down creating various designs and waves. Several times during this performance they also formed the Chinese character “he,” which means both harmony and peace.

As I watched the “parade of nations” I was thinking about the theme of the Summer Olympics. About two hundred-four nations were represented, none led by the “head of state” or other politicians, but rather by athletes from their respective countries.

We live in a world that is divided in so many ways. The cry for harmony and peace can be heard from so many areas of the world, yet, the very thing that divides—the very thing that hinders harmony and peace—is the only thing that can possibly bring harmony and peace. Jesus commanded that His church “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).

So many people around the world are in need of the peace that comes only through Jesus Christ. Let’s join together in praying for the nations of the world and for those Christians who are working so hard to share the love of our Savior—the Prince of Peace!

Update from Thailand

I spoke with Brother Boonyong Bureenok (right in photo) on the phone last night. He is preparing to take a trip to Myanmar (Burma) in the next couple days, and at the end of this month Gary Glover and a group with Co-Mission will be visiting Thailand. They will continue on to Burma, Cambodia, and Viet Nam.

We thank the Lord for Brother Boon and his work in Thailand. Even though this is a difficult time, he continues to have a heart for the ministry to which God called him. Please join me in prayer for Brother Boon, his family, and the work in Thailand. Also, if you would like to make a donation to the ministry there, you may send it to the address on Co-Mission's website, or you may send a check to New Beginnings. We will forward all offerings we receive for Thailand to Brother Boon.

2 More Nights

We had 2 wonderful nights of revival services with Pastor Tony Cathey who shared a powerful Word from the Lord each night. We are looking forward to 2 more nights with Pastor Terry Barnwell beginning tonight.

If you haven't joined us yet, why not drop in and let's worship the Lord together. I know He has something special for us!

Ok, this is too funny

Youth Pastor gone wild???


http://view.break.com/545222 - Watch more free videos

Just a Reminder...

Our revival begins tomorrow night at 7 PM. We are excited about what the Lord has been doing at New Beginnings, but we are expecting greater things from Him in our upcoming revival! We have been in prayer and fasting for a fresh encounter with Him, and I believe He has heard our prayer.

Pastor Tony Cathey will be with us to minister tomorrow and Thursday, and Pastor Terry Barnwell will minister on Friday and Saturday nights. I have great confidence that these two men will share a word from the Lord that has the power to change the hearer (cf. Romans 1:16).

We look forward to seeing you!

A Wonderful Day

We had a wonderful time of worship and fellowship yesterday. Although we had a few people out, we still had 25 in attendance, for which we praise the Lord. I shared a message on the fact that Spiritual Growth is a choice that we must make. God has commanded that we grow, and it takes effort on our part. God has not left it all up to us, however. He has promised to help us and to bless us as we pursue Him. Following the message, we celebrated Holy Communion.

We were pleased to have the District Presbyter of the Church of God of Prophecy, Dr. Freddie Harding, in service with us.

Last night I had the honor of ministering to a joint service of the Petros and Oliver Springs (COGOP) Churches. We met at the Oliver Springs church and there seemed to be a pretty good representation from each church. Mother, Dad, and Josiah (my nephew) went with me. The Spirit of the Lord was definitely present to minister to the peoples needs. I am very thankful to Pastors Roy Massengale and Stewart Sloan for giving me the opportunity to minister in this joint service!

News From Guatemala

I received the following from David Byrd in Guatemala. Please join me in prayer for the people there.

We have a urgent request for you and for your people to pray. There has been a lot of rain here. In one village, there were 12 whole families lost due to landslides on their homes. People have been told to leave their houses. People are being put up everywhere (either with relatives or friends). We have been told that the rivers will crest tonight at 11:00 (1:00 your time) and will be the equilate to Hurricane Mitch in 1998. The levies in Honduras will break which will bring a mighty wall of water into Guatemala. Please pray that the Lord will keep the river from cresting and pray for God's protection for the people here.

We are hosting a single mom and her three children with us tonight.

Thanks for your prayers.

David

Pray for Revival!

What is revival? According to Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, revival is the act of reviving, or the state of being revived. Specifically: (a) Renewed attention to something... (b) Renewed performance of, or interest in, something... (c) Renewed interest in religion, after indifference and decline; a period of religious awakening.

How do we know when we need revival?
When it is easier to stay at home than to go to church.
When it is easier to work than worship.
When it is easier to be critical than kind.
When it is easier to read magazines than the Bible.
When it is easier to support the club than the church.
When it is easier to grumble than to praise.
When it is easier to hold grudges than to forgive.
When it is easier to condemn souls rather than pray for their salvation.
(from "When Do We Need Revival?")

What are the results of Revival? Revival brings transformation (Romans 12:2), encouragement (Psalm 51:10), strength (Isaiah 40:31), support (Psalm 103:1-5), and focus (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

Let’s Have A Revival
Let’s have a revival
From the pulpit to the pew
Let’s have a revival
That starts in me and you..
Then it reaches out to a lost and dying world
Let’s bring them in
This is our joy—it’s our survival
Let’s pray for Holy Ghost revival
Let’s have a Revival

Arrangements for Jay Houston

I just learned the arrangements for Jay Houston. The family will receive friends at the Bilbrey Funeral Home tomorrow night (Friday) from 6p.m. to 7p.m. with a funeral service to follow.

Again, please join me in prayer for this family.

Death Announcement

I just returned from the hospital a little while ago, and I am very sad to announce that Jay Houston passed away as a result of the injuries he sustained in an accident earlier today.

I didn’t know Jay personally, but he was my sister-in-law, Brenda’s, uncle. My brothers, Chris and Bill, were both well acquainted with Jay, and they have talked about what a good man he was. Jay has children living in California and Nevada, I believe, and all of them were able to come and visit with him just a few weeks ago.

When death comes so suddenly it only reminds us of how short life really is. In the bible, James spoke of the brevity of life. “For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14). How very important it is, then, that we prepare ourselves for that day that will come to all of us.

Please join me in prayer for Jay’s wife, children, and grandchildren, for his extended family, and for all those who knew and loved him.

Saturday and Sunday

The past couple days have been exciting. On Saturday, we served the evening meal and had a service with the people at Bread of Life Rescue Mission. At the end of the service we met a young man, Pete, (that’s not his real name) whom the Lord had delivered of many things. It was awesome to hear him share what the Lord has done for him. Please join me in prayer for “Pete” that the Lord will give him strength to press forward in the name of Jesus.

Yesterday we had a wonderful service at New Beginnings. Our new drummer sounded just awesome in the worship service. I preached, “It’s Time for Revival,” and we had a wonderful time of prayer after the message. Everyone seems so excited about our upcoming revival. Last night we met at Lawson Memorial Chapel to pray and seek the face of the Lord.

Volunteer Event

I received the following announcement from Linda Kawicki at Bread of Life Rescue Mission.

Dear Friends in Christ,

You are invited to take part in our volunteer event. Date is July 26th from 10 – 3 pm with lunch being provided. This will not only be a fun day, the meeting will provide understanding about what the mission’s needs are. Come and here about the future! If you would so kindly place this message in your bulletin or on your bulletin board, it would be appreciated. RSVP by July 23rd by calling 931-707-0503 and ask for Linda. Become a part of the team.

Hope to see you there,
Linda K. Secretary

Revival Announcement

Click on image for larger view.

Revival at Sparta

I received the following e-mail announcing revival at the Sparta church:

Bro. Chip, I wanted to invite you guys to join us, "By His Grace" Ministries for revival services at Sparta COGOP. We will begin services Friday night @ 7 PM thru Sunday morning. Hope you can join us and help us pray for revival!

God bless you! Gary Baker
www.byhisgrace.faithsite.com

The past few days...

We had an awesome service on Wednesday night. My mother ministered from the book of Jonah, “You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide.” Following her teaching, we had a powerful time of prayer. As we prayed for one another the Holy Spirit seemed to sweep through among us. The children came from the back and joined in the celebration. It was so exciting to see them express the joy of the Lord along with us “older folks.”

Friday, my family went to the lake in Spring City to celebrate Independence Day. We had a great time! I got to see many of my maternal relatives—the Weaver clan. It is always a joy to be around them.

Today we had an awesome service. Pastor Tony Cathey was with us (filling in for our Worship leader who took some extra time with his family). Tony did an awesome job. I preached “Understanding the Seasons of Your Life.” Although we had about 10 of our regular people out, we still had 30 people in attendance with several first time guests! Today was also the first service in which we had a drummer, and we are looking forward to having her play on a regular basis as part of our worship services. We are excited about the future!!

Plateau District Fellowship

I received this from Freddie Harding.


Click image to enlarge.

Week-end update

Saturday was the 7th Annual Block Party hosted by Bread of Life Rescue Mission. Mother, Dad, and I went around noon and it was very crowded. It was good to see so many people interested in the ministry of this mission. We enjoyed visiting and look forward to our continued cooperation with them.

Saturday afternoon I went to Grandview for my niece's birthday party. It was a western theme and free horse rides were offered. Jurnee had a great time opening all her birthday presents (who wouldn't, heh?)

Yesterday we had a great service. I preached "Wake up, take off your night clothes, put on your day clothes, and go to work" with Romans 13:11-14 as my text. We had some 2nd time guests and Aaron (Rhonda's son) who is visiting from CA.

I'm looking forward to a wonderful week ahead!

Just A Reminder

I received the following note from Linda Kawicki, Bread of Life Mission Secretary.

Just as a reminder: 

Tomorrow is the BLOCK PARTY hosted by the Bread of Life from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm.  Lots of food and fun for the kids.  And lots of praise and worship.

Hope to see you all there.  Bring your favorite lawn chair and enjoy the day with us. 

God Bless

Restoration Ministries Newsletter

On Eagles Wings
Restoration Ministries Newsletter
February – March, 2008

In February, we had a meeting with the NUFED schools. The purpose of this meeting was to decide which schools wanted which project. The projects offered were: reforestation, water cisterns, raising fish, and raising chickens.

On February 8, Vickie and I began raising 500 Tilapia. They are growing very well. Starter food has been given to them three times a day. We started out at 9 ounces, then 12 ounces, and now they receive 1 lb of food. The Tilapia were just minnows when purchased. Now, some are about 3 to 4 inches long in two months. However, 63 fish have died. Please pray for the fish to stop dying. The fish will be sold, and the proceeds will be used for construction.

 
The day finally came to hand out certificates of thanks and the showing of a Jesus film. Twenty two of the twenty eight families who installed water cisterns during the past two years received their certificate of thanks. After a time of thanking the people, we also praised the Lord for supplying rain to fill the cisterns. There were approximately 100 men, women, and children in attendance.

Following the time of thanksgiving, we showed the Jesus film. The movie was enjoyed by all. No one came forward afterwards for prayer. However, we ask that you partner with us in continued prayer for the village of Cajon de Rio.

On March 3, Don Julio came to teach us how to graft our fruit trees. Four people were present to learn how to do the grafting process. Two hundred thirteen trees were grafted in all. The trees grafted were 70 tangerine, 70 limes, and 73 grapefruit. We are now waiting to make sure the grafts took hold.

Santos and Amabilia, two students from the Intermach school in Jacotan planted radishes. We planted approximately 800 radishes. The radishes will be sold, and the proceeds used for construction. The radishes are growing well and will be ready to harvest in about 3 weeks.

On March 28, Jorge Rosales from NUFED schools and I went to Guareruche. For two days, Moringa limbs were cut down in preparation to be handled out at the school inn Guarecruche. The teacher was excited about the trees as were the students and parents. Twenty seven limbs, three feet long, were given to the school. The limbs were placed in a dark room for four days. Then, they will be planted around the school property.


The students and I visited San Jocinto and another village about 10 minutes from Chiquimula. They graciously gave us permission to cut 100 Moringa limbs from each location to hand out at the NUFED schools. It is our goal to plant the Moringa limbs at each school. Six months later the limbs will be cut off and half given to the school and the other half to us so other schools will benefit from the limbs. The Moringa trees have a three fold purpose. The leaves are a good vitamin resource, the seeds are used to purify water, and the wood can be used for firewood for cooking. Every six moths the limbs can be cut. Since the tree grows so fast, the tree is a good resource for firewood.

The students mixed dirt to put into bags to plant seeds. Six hundred bags were filled with dirt. The mixture was six parts dirt, three parts manure and one part sand. Six hundred Ramon seeds were planted in the bags.

The Ramon trees can supply food for the people. The Ramon seeds can be ground and made into tortillas and atol, a drink which the people like.

We thank you for helping us with our personal support. Without your faithful financial support, we would not be able to serve the Mayan people of Camotan and Jacotan, Guatemala.

God bless you for all you do.
Love and prayers.
David, Vickie, and Melissa

Service at Bread of Life

Saturday night was awesome! New Beginnings prepared the evening meal for the residents of Bread of Life Rescue Mission. We served about 30 people and there was plenty of help and food. After the meal, we had a service with them. Representatives of the Lantana Road Baptist Church opened the service and led in singing, and then I preached. I used Matthew 20:30-34 as my text. The Spirit of the Lord was awesome in that place. Several came forward for prayer during the altar service, and one man gave his heart to the Lord. God is awesome!

On Saturday, June 28th, Bread of Life will host their 7th Annual Block Party and Open House. This will be an all day event, beginning at 10:30 a.m. and concluding at 6:00 p.m. There will be fun and games for the kids, plenty to eat, and lots of worship, music, and praise.

Praise Reports

I just received word a little while ago from the families of Veness Diden and Rhonda Turner. Sister Veness had her surgery this morning in Knoxville and she came through it quite well. She had a tumor behind her right eye about the size of a golf ball. The doctors were able to get it all, and it was benign.

Rhonda had her surgery in California. She had an aneurysm in the brain. I am told the surgery was successful and Rhonda is doing great.

We give praise to the Lord for watching over each of these ladies today. Please continue to remember them in prayer that they will have a full and speedy recovery!

Prayer Requests

Today both Veness Diden (from Sunbright) and Rhonda Turner (my cousin) will be having surgery. Please join me in prayer for both of these ladies.

Christian Unity

Here is an interesting quote I found on Christian unity.

Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshippers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be were they to become "unity" conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship. Social religion is perfected when private religion is purified. --A.W. Tozer

Why Another Church?

I am often asked, "Why would you want to start another church in Crossville?" In some ways, I suppose this is a legitimate question, although I do sometimes tire of hearing it. Nevertheless, I would like to answer the question here.

First of all, starting a new church is biblical! Paul said, “My one ambition is to proclaim the gospel where the name of Christ is not known, lest I build on someone else's foundation” (Romans 15:20). The New Testament church was very aggressive in planting churches.

Second, starting a new church gives people options! Usually, churches are afraid of competition from a new church that is planted across town. It is possible, however, for two churches to complement one another rather than to be in competition. People are not all the same, and some aspects (style of worship, average age of congregation, etc.) of one church may not appeal to everyone.

Third, starting a new church may be more effective in reaching the lost. Numerous studies have shown that 60-8- percent of the new adult members of new congregations are people who were not actively involved in the life of any worshiping congregation immediately prior to joining a new mission.