February 27-March 5, 2010
 |
|
The Long, Winter Road “…for you have not passed this way before”
The landscape of forty acres was clothed in an all white garment of snow and Papaw’s pond was almost frozen solid. As we drove up this long, winter road, it came to me that although I had traveled this road many times; death made it seem very different today. Death is a transition both for the dead and the living, for those who go and those who stay. I rejoice for my grandfather who is now breathing heaven’s air after struggling to get a good breath the past few years. As my family and I face this transition, I take comfort in the words of Joshua to the Israelites before they crossed the flood waters of the chilly Jordan: “follow the ark of the covenant (which represents God’s presence)…in order that you may know the way you should go, for you have not passed this way before.”
Passing Through,
|
For almost forty years I joyfully remember turning off the rural, Alabama highway onto a sandy road leading up to Papaw’s house on the hill. I knew there would eventually come a day when Papaw wouldn’t be there; I just didn’t think it would be today. Unfortunately, we almost always think in terms of tomorrow. But today, February 12, 2010, is the day the Lord received my beloved grandfather into His eternal presence. 
God’s presence helps us cross every road of uncertainty. God never calls us to something that He doesn’t promise to lead us through. As you come to new roads you have never traveled before, seek His presence. In the midst of all the uncertainty, He will help you know the way you should go. Cross over looking for spring time. It’s just ahead of every long, winter road!
 |
One week each month we will be praying for the families of The Orchard. Thank you for faithfully lifting these families to the Lord. Sunday - Arredondo family - Jose, Tatiana and Isidro Monday - Baker family - Brian and Amy Tuesday - Beavers family - Jack and Sheila Wednesday - Betancourt family - Joe, Jackie, Jason, Jenna, Julia and Joshua Thursday - Kelly Brown Friday - Carter family - Chad, Sherry, Joseph, Kathryn and Stephen Saturday - Carter family - Charlie and Wilma
Grand Sweep Reading Schedule
|
 |
|
Weekly Need: $5,171 Actual Weekly Giving Average: $4,274 All contributions given to The Orchard Church will be used exclusively for charitable purposes in accordance with laws governing a tax-exempt organization organized under state law provisions and that of the Internal Revenue Code. In keeping with the foregoing commitment, we reserve the right to distribute all funds contributed to the area of greatest need. |
 |
CLICK HERE... February Family Fun Day
Please & Thank You Beginning March 7 during Acts 2:42 (9:30 a.m. each Sunday) Pastor Anita will be teaching the Preschool and Elementary children a course in Manners. Please make this a priority for your Sundays followed by a time of worship with your family. Acts 2:42
Fearless - Imagine Your Life Without Fear - a study based on Max Lucado's book "Fearless" continues Sunday's at 9:30 a.m. Join us for study, discussion and prayer as we seek lives that Fear Less! (If you have the book - read chapter 13.) ======================= The next series for adults during Acts 2:42 will begin on March 14 as Pastor Chris leads several weeks of Biblical information and Q and A about Spiritual Gifts. This is your opportunity to ask questions you've always wanted to ask. First Sunday Potluck First Sunday Potluck on March 7 immediately following the worship service. Please bring enough food for your family and a couple more people as we always invite our guests to join us. Family Trivia Night
Musical Rehearsal Children and Youth involved in the musical will be practicing each week for 30 minutes following the worship service. Please help your children to get to the rehearsal quickly. Living Free
Dates at a Glance Mark your calendars for the following events: Feb 28 - Family Fun Day @ Jump Zone
|
Preschool and Elementary children and their families - Sunday, February 28th - 1:00 til 4:00 p.m. at Jump Zone on Columbia Ave. Cost is $10 per child includes pizza, drink, dessert and 3 hours of jumping, busy, silly fun! Parents eat for $4 and jump for free.
Our next Fellowship Activity will be held on March 13 at 6:00 p.m. when we will have Family Trivia Night at The Orchard. This will be fun for the whole family - children, youth and adults. Bring your favorite appetizer or dessert to share and your competitive spirit.
Ladies Bible Study will meet on Wednesday evening from 6:00 - 7:30 as they study lesson 5 of Living Free. If you have not yet joined them, you are welcome. Pick up a book at Lifeway.Inviting lost and hurting people to receive New Life and Healing!
