GBC Community Update: Faith that Works

​Good afternoon. I’ve been reflecting a bit on our series on James since we finished it on Sunday. I’m happy for how many embraced the idea of living a ‘faith that works’.  With Oasis Camp only a few weeks away I’m going to add a weekly ‘Oasis’ update so you know what’s going on, how you can help, and how you can pray.
 
 
Oasis Update: OASIS Crafts help needed!  
This update comes from Krista Schito, who is our afternoon craft leader. Krista is newer to the GBC family and has jumped right into this senior leadership role which is amazing!  Please pray for Krista in the weeks leading up to camp as there is a huge amount of preparations to get ready.
Here’s what she shares:
There are a number of items we need, so we can make the craft station a memorable experience.  If anyone has any of these items around the house and wants to donate it we would be super grateful for your support!  Here’s the list of what we need.  
-70 empty plastic water bottles
-Corrugated cardboard
-Wood boards that are ½” thick and measure from 6-8” x 14-16”
 
You can bring them to Krista on Sundays or else drop them off at the church during the week.
 
 
Join in prayer on Wednesday night
Our weekly prayer gathering led by Patrick will happen again here at GBC on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm.  The focus continues to be on praying for the gospel to reach people in the city of Guelph, but also allowing for specific requests.  We will gain inspiration from Scripture, examples of people or prayer, and will periodically speak to the obstacles of prayer and how to overcome them.   
 
 
Summer thoughts to keep you on the journey: Faith that Works
It was suggested I send out my summary of our series on James from Sunday’s message as my update for further reflection. I liked that idea!  If you recall, we were studying the idea of living a faith that works, meaning a faith that is effective for the times we’re in but also one we do something with.   Our salvation in Jesus Christ is a gift and so is the new life he gives us.  With this in mind, what have we learned during the past few months?
James has given us clear instructions in this letter on how to achieve practical holiness and spiritual maturity…his purpose was to touch our consciences and stir our souls.
So…STAND with confidence…remember, he who is in your is greater than he in world
SERVE with compassion...be engaged with the world around you
SPEAK with care...watch what you say in terms of content and audience
SUBMIT with contrition…humble yourself before God and HE will lift you up
SHARE with concern…your time and treasure then forgive as God has forgiven
And most of all pray. Then, when you face trials of all kinds you can consider it pure joy and experience the blessings and crown of life that come with a life living a faith that works.
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris