A VBS God Sighting

Greetings in the Name of Jesus,

This has been a blessed week!

Sunday in our combined worship service, the gym was filled to almost capacity. The Celebration Choir started our worship by singing, “Soli Deo Gloria.” It was heavenly. The congregational singing touched my soul. Thank you to the hospitality team and men’s group for the wonderful breakfast. The fellowship was rich, and the food was yummy!

Now comes the best part… each morning this week, the building has been full of kids and volunteers for Vacation Bible School. As I write this, my ears are still ringing from the kids shouting, “Trust Jesus!” Our Children’s Ministry Director, Molly Gardner, and her army of volunteers have been a blessing to watch. Thank you for such a great job with these kids! 

Molly wrote this earlier in the week, “I have to share a “God Sighting” with you all because it really moved me. At closing today, there was a little girl in the front row who was singing ‘’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus’ with so much passion that I could tell… she was feeling every word that left her mouth. This is why! Why we make the last-minute pivots, smile when we feel like raising an eyebrow, hug when we want to run!!!” 

Molly is so right, this is why our community needs the church like never before. Jesus makes a difference in our schools, workplaces, homes, and neighborhoods. I pray we will continue to stay on message – Trust Jesus. It is the WHY of our worship, outreach, witness, and spiritual growth.  

You can see pictures or videos of VBS at our VBS photocircle page or go to the Stonebridge UMC Facebook page. The pictures and videos are amazing! 

This Sunday, building off the theme of the outdoors, my message is called "Trust Jesus – Canoeing the White Waters of Life". We will look at Jesus calming the storm in Mark 6:46-51 and Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 3:12-14. Bring your paddle as we learn how to navigate the rough waters of life. 

One final note… it’s summer and a time for vacations. Our offerings are typically lower this time of year. Remember the church in your generosity as we continue to reach our community for Christ. After the excitement of this past week, we are truly living and loving like Jesus.

See you Sunday!

Pastor John Allen