Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Northeast Community News – December 26, 2017

     Dear Friends and Family! 
What wonderful moments we had together Christmas Eve! In the morning, we gathered for Sunday school and the morning worship service. Gerry D. has been leading us in a deep study of Isaiah in Sunday school and it has reminded me of my college days preparing me for ministry! Yes, it is that good! After the morning service Mary W. handed out Sunday School treats to take home! Yum! In the evening, we gathered for our Candlelight Christmas Eve Service. What a joy to see Dick and Emily, Pastor Amy, Theo and the kids and Pastor Ed and Annette in the service. Likewise, we were blessed as Pastor Amy, Theo, young Theo and Remington served communion just before we closed singing Silent Night by candle light. We concluded our day eating cookies, sharing memories, and catching up. While God’s overly generous white Christmas answer to prayer kept some of you away, it was a wonderful day to be in the House of the Lord! Amen! 
God’s morning message came from Luke 1:26-38 and was titled, “She is Chosen.” While some may argue Mary was special before she was chosen, Scripture seems to argue against this idea. Yes, she was from a religious family, but neither her name, her family, nor her place of domicile were significant in any way. In His choice of Mary, we see God can do the extraordinary among the ordinary. What extraordinary things could God do with ordinary you? Second, Mary asks clarifying questions and was greatly troubled NOT because she needed more time to decide or the Angel to provide more evidence God can do the impossible (as Zechariah did - v. 18), but simply because her mind cannot comprehend how God will do it as she is virgin. Mary believes God can do the impossible… do you? 
         Finally, we come to the moment of decision. First, she gives Gabriel an idea where she stands in her relationship with the Lord; then she gives God’s messenger her answer: “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38a). In Mary’s response, we learn first she IS the Lord’s Servant! Then, as the Lord’s servant she says yes to God’s plan! So, are you the Lord’s Servant? Are you yielded to Him? You’ll never be able to say yes to God’s plan for your life until you learn to yield and serve Him! Amen? Amen!           
                   Blessings, Pastor Dan
NEWS AND EVENTS
                                NEW YEARS EVE PARTY AT LINDA KASTEN’S HOUSE!  (6:00-9:00PM)
Are you interested in getting together on Christmas Eve with your Church Family for some fun, food, and fellowship? If so, bring your favorite table game and a snack food to share and come over on over to Linda K’s house between 6:00 – 9:00PM for a New Year’s Eve party. Her house is just off the corner east of Plainfield and right off Knapp at 1854 Meadowfield Dr NE (from the church, take a left on Knapp NE, and left on Meadowfield, which is BEFORE the golf course and Plainfield) and there is lots of parking on road, in her driveway, or around the back of the house. If you’d like to help or have any questions, please contact Linda at (616) 821-0817. 
DECEMBER IS TIME TO COLLECT FOR CRISIS CARE KITS!
Be ready to again collect items for the much needed kits that are used in disasters.  
CRISIS CARE KITS
Each Crisis Care Kit includes the following new items in a 2-gallon Zip-loc bag:
  • 1 medium size bottle of shampoo (12-18 oz)  [Please tape the flip-tops closed]
  • 2 bars of soap (bath-size or larger)
  • 1 medium toothpaste (4.0-6.4 oz)
  • 3 toothbrushes (in original packaging)
  • 1 box of Band-Aids (30 or more)
  • 1 fingernail clipper
  • 1 sturdy hair comb
  • 2 hand towels
  • 4 pocket-size packages of facial tissue
  • 1 Beanie Baby-size stuffed toy
Each Crisis Care Kit (CCK) should contain only the items/QUANTITIES REQUESTED.  Items in the CCK MUST MATCH INVENTORY.
Deviating from this list can cause an entire shipment to be rejected in customs.  The cost of the items for typical CCK is about $20.
PEOPLE WANTED TO PRAY FOR STRANGERS!
There is a “prayer mail box” out by the bus stop.  Many hurting and broken people are walking right past us without a church to pray for them!  If you are interested, let Pastor Dan know by calling/texting (616) 204-1153 or email him at hathdan@me.com.  
INTERESTED IN CHURCH MEMBERSHIP?
A series of membership classes will be starting soon.  If you are interested in learning more about the Church of the Nazarene, or becoming a member of our church, please let Pastor Dan know by contacting him at: 616-204-1153 or hathdan@me.com.
                                                                 SOUND BOOTH PERSON STILL NEEDED:
The church is looking for someone who is interested in being a sound booth technician.  You will need to be able to attend music practices Sunday morning at 9 AM.  Let Janie know if you are interested at 616-204-2499 or hathjan@icloud.com.
GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!
Thank you for collecting General Mills box tops!  This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for the Native American Christian Academy. Questions and box tops should go to Fran S. or Sherry J.
CHURCH POSTCARDS ARE AVAILABLE!
Is there someone missing or would like to invite to church? Why not grab a few church postcards and send them out? A simple hand written note blesses everyone! You will find them on the table under the missionary bulletin board in the Annex.
DAILY DEVOTIONS – “REFLECTING GOD” IS AVAILABLE! FREE!!
“Reflecting God” is a daily devotional guide our church makes available free to anyone interested. The devotions provide a brief truth from the Bible every day. Reflecting God also has a section for reading the Bible in a year and praying for our missionaries! Feel free to take one! You’ll find them located on the table outside the sanctuary!
GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS:
Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter, just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 
UPCOMING EVENTS
December                  Crisis Care Kit Collection
December 27            Wed. Night Meeting @ 6:30 PMat church
January 7                   Begin homeless bag collection
January 18                 3rd Thursday Lunch @  Hibachi Grill off Alpine

January 26                 Women’s Rendezvous @ 10:30 AM at church
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Northeast Community News – December 19, 2017

Dear Friends and Family! 
    We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! While we surely don’t worship a building, it was truly a blessing to see the result of so much hard work this week in God’s house! From the newly installed carpet and base to the beautifully refinished wood floor, the church looks great! Thanks to everyone who gave of their time, talent, and treasure! You’ve made a difference!
    Janie and I also gave our homemade gift to the church this year! Janie labored (and Dan largely watched) as she made 60 individual 6” apple, blueberry, and cherry pies! If you still need yours, we did have a few pies leftover, so let me know! This Sunday, Mary W. and the Sunday School will hand out their Christmas candy to all in attendance! So, make sure to be there! 
    After a wonderful Sunday school hour, we gathered to worship. God’s message this week came from John 1:6-8, 19-28 and was titled, “He is Light.” While the Priests and Levites wondered if he might be the Christ, Elijah, or a prophet (verses 19-21), “John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord’ (v.23). John had a message and he shared with everyone who came near! What about you? Are you sharing God’s message this Christmas season? Why or why not? 
    But that begs the question, ‘What was John the Baptist’s message? The Apostle John answers this question in v. 7: “He (John the Baptist) came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe.” It had been painfully dark for over 400 years. In God’s silence the Jews had been taken into captivity, lost their language and culture, and except for a faithful remnant had lost hope the Light of the Messiah might ever come! Ever felt like God had forgotten you? Ever experienced a time when God seemed silent in the midst of your darkness?
         John declared, the Light of the World was coming and was indeed already in their midst. What they needed to do was prepare for His coming by confessing, repenting, and being baptized. Do you need to repent or confess something as you prepare for Christmas? There is no better time to draw near to Christ than Christmas! But, for those of you who have remained faithful even in the midst of pain and darkness look up! Through the Holy Spirit, the Light of the World is with you! In Christ, you will never spend Christmas alone again! Hallelujah!      
                   Blessings, Pastor Dan


NEWS AND EVENTS
3RD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH @ HIBACHI GRILL THIS THURSDAY!!
It is time once again for our montly meeting at Hibachi Grill off Alpine.  Meet there for a delicious lunch at 11:30 AM.  Of course, there is much talking and having fun as well!  Check with Tracy T. for any questions.  
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
At 6 PM on December 24th, there will be an evening service.  Be a part of this reflection of the “reason for the season”.  Stay and enjoy some cookies and warm drinks afterwards.  
DECEMBER IS TIME TO COLLECT FOR CRISIS CARE KITS!
Be ready to again collect items for the much needed kits that are used in disasters.  
CRISIS CARE KITS
Each Crisis Care Kit includes the following new items in a 2-gallon Zip-loc bag:
  • 1 medium size bottle of shampoo (12-18 oz)  [Please tape the flip-tops closed]
  • 2 bars of soap (bath-size or larger)
  • 1 medium toothpaste (4.0-6.4 oz)
  • 3 toothbrushes (in original packaging)
  • 1 box of Band-Aids (30 or more)
  • 1 fingernail clipper
  • 1 sturdy hair comb
  • 2 hand towels
  • 4 pocket-size packages of facial tissue
  • 1 Beanie Baby-size stuffed toy
Each Crisis Care Kit (CCK) should contain only the items/QUANTITIES REQUESTED.  Items in the CCK MUST MATCH INVENTORY.
Deviating from this list can cause an entire shipment to be rejected in customs.  The cost of the items for typical CCK is about $20.
PEOPLE WANTED TO PRAY FOR STRANGERS!
There is a “prayer mail box” out by the bus stop.  Many hurting and broken people are walking right past us without a church to pray for them!  If you are interested, let Pastor Dan know by calling/texting (616) 204-1153 or email him at hathdan@me.com.  
INTERESTED IN CHURCH MEMBERSHIP?
A series of membership classes will be starting soon.  If you are interested in learning more about the Church of the Nazarene, or becoming a member of our church, please let Pastor Dan know by contacting him at: 616-204-1153 or hathdan@me.com.  
SOUND BOOTH PERSON STILL NEEDED:
The church is looking for someone who is interested in being a sound booth technician.  You will need to be able to attend music practices Sunday morning at 9 AM.  Let Janie know if you are interested at 616-204-2499 or hathjan@icloud.com.
GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!
Thank you for collecting General Mills box tops!  This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for the Native American Christian Academy. Questions and box tops should go to Fran S. or Sherry J.
CHURCH POSTCARDS ARE AVAILABLE!
Is there someone missing or would like to invite to church? Why not grab a few church postcards and send them out? A simple hand written note blesses everyone! You will find them on the table under the missionary bulletin board in the Annex.
DAILY DEVOTIONS – “REFLECTING GOD” IS AVAILABLE! FREE!!
“Reflecting God” is a daily devotional guide our church makes available free to anyone interested. The devotions provide a brief truth from the Bible every day. Reflecting God also has a section for reading the Bible in a year and praying for our missionaries! Feel free to take one! You’ll find them located on the table outside the sanctuary!
GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS:
Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter, just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 

UPCOMING EVENTS
December                  Crisis Care Kit Collection
December 20            Wed. Night Meeting @ 6:30 PMat church
December 21            3rd Thursday Chinese Lunch @ Hibachi Grill – 11:30 AM
December 24             AM service & 6 PM service

January 26                 Women’s Rendezvous @ 10:30 AM at church
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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Northeast Community News – December 11, 2017

Dear Friends and Family! 
    What a wonderful day we had in the Lord, Sunday! Sunday was the second week of Advent and we were blessed as Obadiah and Hyacinth lit the Advent wreath. With the Advent wreath lit, we then had the privilege of receiving Hyacinth and Obadiah into membership! What a blessing of God they continue to be. So, why haven’t some of you come into membership yet? It is never too late to become a member! Let us know if you are interested! After our Sunday school hour and worship service we also enjoyed our every other month potluck after the service this week! What a wonderful time of food, and conversation! God is so good to us! Amen? Amen! 
    Remember, our new carpeting will be installed on Tuesday! I can hardly wait to see our new carpet next to our newly refinished wood floor Wed.! Thank you for your patience and we work to improve God’s house and blessings on everyone who faithfully gives! Hey, I’ve got an idea! Why don’t you come to the Bible Study Wed. and check it out? Consider yourself invited! Fun!
    God’s message last Sunday came from Mark 1:1-8 and was titled, “He is Lord.” As we enter the second week of Advent, we must ask ourselves what we really want as Christmas approaches. In a culture ready to sell cheap alternatives, Mark calls us back to an authentic understanding of Christ and Christmas. First, in verses 1-3, Mark declares Isaiah’s prophecy regarding has come true! Jesus is the promised Messiah and John the Baptist was indeed the prophesied ‘voice crying in the desert.’ For seekers then and now, the search is over! Jesus is the Savior of the World!
    Second, in verse 6, Mark makes clear if we want to follow Christ, we must be prepared to do things differently. In John the Baptist, we see more than an eccentric vegan; we see a call to separate ourselves from the larger culture. So, do you act differently from the pagans around you? Are there things you ‘embrace’ and ‘refuse to do’ based on your walk with Jesus? When you live a life of holiness, you are going to appear about as strange as John the Baptist to some of your friends and coworkers and classmates! 
    Finally, in verse 5, we discover an authentic Christmas requires humility and repentance. We read, “The whole Judean countryside went out to him confessing their sins and being baptized” (v. 5). So, have you confessed and repented? Jesus is the Savior! You will not have the peace your soul longs for this Christmas until you confess your sins, repent, and ask Jesus into your heart!                      
         Later, the Baptist proclaims his unimportance compared to Christ (verses 7-8). When he received notice and praise, he didn’t point to himself; he pointed to Jesus! How about you? When you receive praise who gets the glory? It’s time to reject cheap imitations and acknowledge Jesus is the Christ, humble ourselves, and give God the Glory this Christmas!
         Blessings, Pastor Dan
NEWS AND EVENTS
                                                ANNUAL COOKIE EXCHANGE THIS SATURDAY!
On Saturday, December 16th, bring  your 1-2 dozen favorite Christmas cookies to exchange with others.  We will meet at the church at 10:30 AM for this fun event!  So, get out those recipes and prepare to bake!
DECEMBER IS TIME TO COLLECT FOR CRISIS CARE KITS!
Be ready to again collect items for the much needed kits that are used in disasters.  
CRISIS CARE KITS
Each Crisis Care Kit includes the following new items in a 2-gallon Zip-loc bag:
  • 1 medium size bottle of shampoo (12-18 oz)  [Please tape the flip-tops closed]
  • 2 bars of soap (bath-size or larger)
  • 1 medium toothpaste (4.0-6.4 oz)
  • 3 toothbrushes (in original packaging)
  • 1 box of Band-Aids (30 or more)
  • 1 fingernail clipper
  • 1 sturdy hair comb
  • 2 hand towels
  • 4 pocket-size packages of facial tissue
  • 1 Beanie Baby-size stuffed toy
Each Crisis Care Kit (CCK) should contain only the items/QUANTITIES REQUESTED.  Items in the CCK MUST MATCH INVENTORY.
Deviating from this list can cause an entire shipment to be rejected in customs.  The cost of the items for typical CCK is about $20.
                PEOPLE WANTED TO PRAY FOR STRANGERS!
There is a “prayer mail box” out by the bus stop.  Many hurting and broken people are walking right past us without a church to pray for them!  If you are interested, let Pastor Dan know by calling/texting (616) 204-1153 or email him at hathdan@me.com.  
INTERESTED IN CHURCH MEMBERSHIP?
A series of membership classes will be starting soon.  If you are interested in learning more about the Church of the Nazarene, or becoming a member of our church, please let Pastor Dan know by contacting him at: 616-204-1153 or hathdan@me.com.
                                                                 SOUND BOOTH PERSON STILL NEEDED:
The church is looking for someone who is interested in being a sound booth technician.  You will need to be able to attend music practices Sunday morning at 9 AM.  Let Janie know if you are interested at 616-204-2499 or hathjan@icloud.com.
GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!
Thank you for collecting General Mills box tops!  This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for the Native American Christian Academy. Questions and box tops should go to Fran S. or Sherry J.
CHURCH POSTCARDS ARE AVAILABLE!
Is there someone missing or would like to invite to church? Why not grab a few church postcards and send them out? A simple hand written note blesses everyone! You will find them on the table under the missionary bulletin board in the Annex.
DAILY DEVOTIONS – “REFLECTING GOD” IS AVAILABLE! FREE!!
“Reflecting God” is a daily devotional guide our church makes available free to anyone interested. The devotions provide a brief truth from the Bible every day. Reflecting God also has a section for reading the Bible in a year and praying for our missionaries! Feel free to take one! You’ll find them located on the table outside the sanctuary!
GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS:
Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter, just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 

UPCOMING EVENTS
December                              Crisis Care Kit Collection
December 13                        Wed. Night Meeting @ 6:30 PM at church
December 16                        Annual Cookie Exchange @ church @ 10:30 AM

December 21                        3rd Thursday Chinese Lunch @ Hibachi Grill – 11:30 AM
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