Marks of the Messiah – All or Nothing

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Can you think of a crossroads decision you’ve had to make?  A decision that has a permanent, irreversible outcome?  These types of decisions are intimidating. They cause us to think long and hard before we commit, yet they are often the most rewarding decisions that we make!  This is the type of decision that Jesus invites us to make when we choose to follow Him.  Following Jesus is a permanent, life-changing commitment that comes at a high cost, but results in freedom, perfect love, and everlasting life.  The trouble is that we would rather skip the cost of following Jesus and go straight to the rewards.  We often try to dip our toes in the water rather than jump in head-first. 

In Revelation 3:15 God says “…you are neither cold nor hot.  I wish you were either one or the other!”  I always thought this verse meant that God would rather that we be not committed at all to Him than only partially committed, until one of my professors at Ambrose University explained the context.  This portion of Revelation is directed to the church in Laodicea.  Laodicea was near a type of hot springs and was also near bodies of cold water.  There were clear purposes for both hot and cold water, but lukewarm water was useless – nobody used it.  The point is that lukewarm is not an option – we’re either useful or we aren’t. 

This week we continue our series in Mark 8:27-35.  In this passage, Jesus’ disciples are faced with this crossroads decision.  Their response to Jesus’ question, “who do you say I am” would determine the success of His mission.  I hope you will join us this week as we consider what it truly means to confess Jesus as the Messiah and how our confession impacts our everyday lives.

See you Sunday! 

Pastor Eric

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Going Beyond Anniversary Service – March 24

Join us on March 24 as we celebrate the 1-year anniversary of our Going Beyond initiative during our worship service.

Israel Trip Information Night – March 31 – 7 pm

Join Pastor Kirk and Britton on a journey through Israel (November 26 – December 5, 2019), following in the footsteps of Jesus. Grow as a disciple of Jesus as you visit places you have read about in the New Testament. The words and life of Jesus will come alive in a new way. Contact Pastor Kirk at kirk@mylivinghope.ca.
Did you miss the Information Night? Join Pastor Kirk and Britton for a recap on March 31 at 7 pm at the church. Deadline for application and deposit is May 26, 2019.

Marriage Preparation Course – May 11 and June 8

Are you planning to be married within the next year? Join Pastor Kirk and learn how to develop a strong foundation by exploring topics such as how to express feelings, learning to listen, ways to resolve conflict, finding common goals and values, and the importance of commitment. This 2-session course is for engaged (or soon to be engaged) couples or those exploring the possibility of marriage.
The course will be held on 2 Saturday mornings, May 11 and June 8, from 8:30 am until noon. Breakfast will be provided.
Register by email at info@mylivinghope.ca or call the church office.

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Coming Events

March 24 Going Beyond One Year Anniversary Celebration (during Weekend Service)
March 24 Encounter – Young Adults Worship Night
March 31 Israel Trip Information Night
March 31 Connect Lunch
April 19 Good Friday Service
April 21 Resurrection Sunday
May 11, June 8 Marriage Preparation Course
July 29-August 2 Kids Camp – “Journey to Athens”
   
   

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