This week's newsletter from Karen

For the past few weeks I’ve been keeping up with a blog from a Children’s Pastor entitled, If You Want to Ensure Your Kid Will Be on the Bachelor…, where each week the title was completed with a different phrase. The previous four phrases were:

1. Never show your daughter physical affection.
2. Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment.
3. Teach your kids there are no consequences for their behavior.
4. Give your kids whatever they want.

I read the fifth and final in this series and wanted to share.

The last thing you must do if you want to ensure your kids end up on the Bachelor is teach them their self-worth is connected to people’s acceptance of them.

One of the worst parts of this show is when someone is sent home. They show them in the limo crying out of control. They are devastated. It’s a much different thing than when someone is voted off an island or loses at Jeopardy. On the Bachelor, the pain [is] intensely personal. The Bachelor is not saying sorry you didn’t win; he is saying “I don’t love you.” It hurts like few things do in reality TV and in life for that matter. These women come on the show to find love that has eluded them and has left them feeling privately rejected only to be publicly rejected in front of millions. How do we help our kids build real relationships in a world full of superficial ones?

I never want my kids to go through this. How do we prevent this?

1. Teach them that their acceptance before Christ is finished and final. There is nothing they can do to make Jesus love them more and there is nothing they can do to make him love them less.
2. Teach your kids God first–Family second–Others third. Their filter for acceptance has to be God’s unconditional love and grace, the warm unconditional love of family. Then teach them that when others reject them their acceptance is found in Christ and nurtured in a caring family, and rejection by others becomes a paper-cut rather than a gashing wound.
3. Teach your kids that our acceptance of others comes from a proper understanding of the Gospel and Christ’s acceptance of us.
4. Don’t defend your kids every time they face a relational problem or when they are rejected by others, rather give them practical steps to deal with the relational [problem].
5. Teach your kids that relationships can painful but are always worth it. Our faith is only seen in how we care for those around us and in how we resolve conflict in a way that brings glory to God. There are many evidences of God’s grace that can only be seen in community. We need each other. Real relationships matter.
6. Demonstrate to your kids that doing the right thing is more important than doing the popular thing.


Above taken from samluce.com

This week's newsletter from Michael

Proverbs 4:20-27 (NIV)

20 My son, pay attention to what I say;
    turn your ear to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight,
    keep them within your heart;
22 for they are life to those who find them
    and health to one’s whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart,
    for everything you do flows from it.
24 Keep your mouth free of perversity;
    keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead;
    fix your gaze directly before you.
26 Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
    and be steadfast in all your ways.
27 Do not turn to the right or the left;
    keep your foot from evil.

During my quiet time this morning, this was a part of my bible reading schedule, and I just had to share this with you all. As your week begins, keep these verses in the back of your mind, or better yet, try and memorize verse 23. Guard your heart in everything you do. Don’t get caught off guard in what you say, where you go, with your eyes, etc.

We are in need of camera operators. You don’t have to be tech-savvy; we just need a few good men and women who are willing to volunteer once or twice a month so that others may enjoy being a part of worship. We will train you! If you would like more information, please contact me at michael@hillcrest.church or Jeff Mitchell at jefry@hillcrest.church.

This week's newsletter from Gene

Words are inadequate to express thanks to all of you for the tremendous support over the past 38 years, but you outshined yourselves these past 6 months as Lynn was battling leukemia. "By this shall all (men) know that you are My disciples, if you love one another (if you keep on showing love among yourselves). John 13:35 AMP

Even to the casual observer, it should be obvious that you are His disciples as great love has been shown. The impact of all of us living what should be the normal Christian life is very distinctive in today's world.

The outpouring of support at Lynn's memorial celebration service was amazing. Obviously standing room only in the auditorium, with 600-650 attending and another 264 more watching the stream from various parts of the country. She wondered many times if people even liked her. We can all learn that being faithful to the life you believe the Lord would have you lead should be the "normal" Christian life.

This journey was not one of our choosing, but the Lord's. In His wisdom, He knew for her life to have the most impact, this was the road and time He chose. My prayer is that her life and death would not be in vain, but that each person touched by this journey will simply ask the Lord, "what would you have me do?" And then do it.

This week's newsletter from Karen

There are certain times and certain circumstances that seem to test our faith more than others. The past two weeks has been a combination of those times and circumstances for many.

The following is a lesson I read a few months ago (Splink, August 14) teaching kids about our faith and how it is proven for others to see. I wanted to share because maybe it will bless you and your family.

FAITH
Say to your kids: "I can ______________ (play a guitar, say the alphabet backwards, make crepes, touch your tongue to your nose, or whatever you can do; preferably something they don't know you can do).

Ask: Do you believe me?

Demonstrate your "skill" to the family. I demonstrated by my actions that I could do what I said I could. The Bible says that our good works demonstrate we have faith.

James 2:14 asks a very important question: "What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith, but does not have works?”

Read James 2:15-16 for an example of how faith and works go together. He said, “If a man who does not have anything and is hungry comes to you and you say, ‘Be warmed and filled, depart in peace,’ but you don’t help him–does it do that man any good?” No, the man is still hungry. It is no good to SAY you have faith, but not DO anything. Faith without any works is dead—no good—useless.

James says that the proof of your faith is good works. If you really have faith, you will do what God says.

What kind of works should we do? Read James 1:27 to find some good works we should do. (Help those who are less fortunate—the fatherless and widows; live right and do not follow the world’s ways).

Choose one activity your family can do together to do good works and serve others.

This week's newsletter from Michael

God is so good! I just wanted to say thank you parents for getting your children to choir last night!! We had over 25 kids show up to sing! It was so exciting seeing our leaders lead them! If you forgot to bring your kiddos on Sunday night, you still can come next Sunday and get them registered! Contact me or Amy Koch.

We also had an exciting time in our Worship Choir rehearsal Sunday! We had 60 in attendance! Church family, if you are not busy on Sunday afternoons get up here! You are missing out! How about rearranging that one hour on Sunday afternoon to use your gifts for the King of kings! The Lord has gifted you so use it.

Wednesday at 7:00pm we are having a special rehearsal for the memorial celebration of Lynn Chappell. If you have ever been a part of the Adult Worship Choir in the past 38 years please come join us for an hour as we prepare. It truly is going to be a celebration service! The Chappell family would appreciate seeing you in the choir loft. Let's fill the stage!

Psalm 92 says, It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High.

I can't wait to do it all over again next week... give thanks and sing praises unto His Name! I hope you can't wait either. Love you, church family!

This week's newsletter from Gene

These past 6 months or so have been a very difficult time, and the ending was not what we had hoped and prayed for. So many of you have been so faithful to stand by us in prayer and any way humanly possible. It is so appreciated. All this brings into question in our minds, “what is God up to?” We won’t know all the answers, as I’m sure there are many. We will just see a few in this life, then when we join Lynn, we will see clearly. I do know these past few months, and in particular the past 2 weeks of her life, were very difficult. The reality is that she is much, much better where she is now. Selfishly, along with you, I will miss her greatly, but the Lord is in charge of that also.

Both Lynn and I were blessed to be raised by Godly parents, which gave us a tremendous advantage as we dealt with life together these past 42 1/2 years of marriage. The Lord has blessed us greatly in so many ways, but the most important is His blessing us with two strong, believing daughters, their husbands, who stand with them in every way, and 3 of the world’s best grandkids.

We will all have to seek the Lord and see what He has individually for us, but here is a part of a note I received from my brother after Lynn’s passing last Friday that you may also find helpful.

"If we believe God is sovereign and that He could have healed Lynn, we must also believe He is sovereign and had a reason not to heal Lynn. As Believers we must accept that sovereignty. We cannot accept only half of it."

Student Ministry Matters

by Tom Goodman

Here are three things you should know about our Hillcrest student ministry.

Our New Position of Youth Coordinator. In a previous church I served, we hired a seminary student to lead our youth program. He had served 4 years as an intern in John Randles’ youth ministry while completing his undergraduate degree at Texas Tech, so he knew what was expected for youth ministry. We called him to lead our program while he pursued a master’s degree in youth ministry at Southwestern Seminary. Our youth ministry grew remarkably under his leadership, both in numbers and in spiritual maturity. I believe we can find someone like that for our ministry here. Our Personnel Committee has helped me create a job description for this new position. You can find it at www.hillcrest.church/youth. We’ll discuss and vote on this position in the special called business meeting Sunday, January 24, 6:30pm in room A-161 on the Adult Wing. After that, we’ll search for the right person to fill that post.

Our Interim Youth Leader. John Cameron teaches our youth on Sunday mornings, and I watched him lead the teen-aged MKs on our Malawi trip last Spring. So, it was an easy decision to ask him to serve as our interim youth leader. John is 37, he’s been married to Nikki since 2008, and they have one son, 4-year-old Ethan. They are from Louisiana. John is a veteran, having served in the Army National Guard for eight years as a heavy combat engineer and in military intelligence. He served in Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Eastern Europe. You’ve probably seen the Enduring Freedom medal on his license plate. He works as an architect for the Dagleish Company. One interesting tidbit about John and Nikki: Their search for an Austin home was featured on the show House Hunters in 2010.

Our Winter/Spring Student Calendar. In addition to the normal gatherings on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings, the students will have a busy calendar. There’s the Student Evangelism Conference in January, a Hillsong concert in February, the Warrior Dash in March, the Refuel Retreat at Camp Eagle during Spring Break, a day at Natural Bridge Caverns in April, and the BOUNCE mission trip in July. Of course, Michael Slaughter is also planning another youth choir trip in June.

Please pray for God’s blessings on the Hillcrest student ministry in 2016!

This week's newsletter from Karen

Job, described as blameless and upright, experienced some rough times. He never cursed God for the rough times, but he did question why he had to face them. God had some interesting answers for Job’s questions, but afterwards Job says this, “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.” (Job 42:2-3) In the end, Job was restored by God.

In the New Testament Paul describes the many successes and defeats he went through. In Philippians 4:12-13 he says these words, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

I am always ready to question God when times are tough, but many times forget Him when times are good. But as both men point out, God is there all the time. Good and bad. It is so important for children to understand this concept. Take some time this week and share with your child times when you knew God was working during a tough time in your life and when God was present in a wonderful time of your life. Help them understand that God is always with them. 

This week's newsletter from Michael

So, I have this thing for the group “Point of Grace.” I first heard of this group when I was 16 years old. The song that I seem to always hum to is, “God Loves People More than Anything.” It just has some amazing lyrics and decided I wanted to share them with you today.

Chorus
God loves people more than anything
God loves people more than anything
More than anything He wants them to know
He'd rather die than let them go
'Cause God loves people more than anything

Verse 1
God loves the weary when they're too weak to try
He feels their pain, He knows their shame
He cries with those who cry
He won't give up or walk away when other people do
'Cause God loves people more than anything

Verse 2
God loves the wounded who've stumbled into sin
He reaches down and pulls them out
And cleans them off again
And He will heal the broken heart that's given up on love
'Cause God loves people more than anything

No matter what your week entails, know that God loves you more than anything! Here is a Youtube link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOMpwiFnEj8

Don’t forget all children’s choirs start this Sunday at 5:30p.m.

This week's newsletter from Gene

This coming Sunday begins our children's choir ministry as they prepare for a musical presentation the end of April. If your kids have been involved in the past, you know the value they receive on so many levels. We tend to just think of the musical side, which is obviously very important, but there are other benefits.

For example, participation allows them to be a part of a team with a focus to accomplish a particular goal. They are given a safe environment in which to develop their singing skills and self-confidence in front of people. Some of the songs they learn will be with them for years to come.

One of the highlights of Lynn's life has been working with children in choirs. Obviously she can't do that right now, but between hospital stays this fall, the Lord allowed her to select a musical that would work well with the kids she anticipated coming, and to get the staff together.

We are so grateful for this committed group of leaders that will make this a successful ministry to our kids this spring. Amy Koch and her team will lead Kids Music Theater. Mark and Julie Chambers will lead Preschool Praise Club. Information can be found online at www.hillcrest.church/kmt or through the office. Bring your kids 5:30-6:30 Sunday evenings. 

Religious Symbols

by Tom Goodman

The first question in today's Common Ground lesson is about the central symbols of major world religions. Here are the answers:

Judaism: The Star of David

Islam: The Scythe, or Crescent Moon

Buddhism: The Dharma Wheel

Hinduism: "Om" written in Sanskrit

This week's newsletter from Karen

In the first chapters of Deuteronomy Moses reminds the Israelites of their journey to the land of Canaan from the exodus of Egypt.

Moses reminds the Israelites of their disobedience to God and how, because of this disobedience, their ancestors were not allowed to cross the Jordan River and see the promised land. Moses reminds the Israelites of the many times God showed himself mighty by giving kingdoms into their hands so they could pass safety through the lands on their journey. Moses reminds them that God is faithful and will keep his promises if they will obey his commands as they move into Canaan.

I cannot count the consequences suffered for not obeying God. I cannot count the times I have “forgotten” when God showed himself mighty in my life. I cannot count the times God has given me a second chance to turn and seek him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Is God reminding you of consequences, forgotten times, or promises? How exciting! When you turn to seek Him, He’ll be there!

One other thing Moses tells the Israelites is to pass this history along to their children. If it was important for the Israelite children to know the journey of their ancestors, is not important for our children to know our “journey” with God? Don’t be afraid to tell your story to your children. It will build their faith and strengthen yours.

This week's newsletter from Gene

As I think of what to share as we begin a new year, the lyrics to this old hymn keep coming to mind. It uses some King James terminology, but the message is strong and true.

He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials He multiplies peace.

Chorus - His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

Fear not that thy need shall exceed His provision,
Our God ever yearns His resources to share;
Lean hard on the arm everlasting, availing;
The Father both thee and thy load will bear.

He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials He multiplies peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.

His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again. 

At Cross Purposes

by Tom Goodman

They wanted Jesus but not the cross.  It's a parable for our times.

A few years ago thieves snatched an 8-foot statue of Jesus off a crucifix in Detroit's Church of the Messiah.  Police suspect that the thieves had assumed that the image of Jesus was made of copper and robbed it to sell as scrap.  They didn't see any value to the cross and left it behind.

As I said:  A parable for our times.  A lot of people prefer Jesus without the cross.

But while many may respect Jesus as a great moral teacher, his teaching is only a small part of what the original Christians considered important.  As you read through the Gospels, the account of three years of teachings and miracles moves quickly.  Then the writers slow down to linger over the details of the week leading up to his crucifixion and resurrection.  The events of that single week dominate the four New Testament Gospels, taking up two-fifths of Matthew, three-fifths of Mark, a third of Luke and half of John.  I recall one of my seminary professors saying that the Gospels were essentially "Passion narratives with extended introductions."  The word "passion" traditionally means "suffering," and clearly the four Gospels consider Christ's Passion the most important part of the story.

The centrality of the cross shows up in our artistic designs and architecture today.  Judaism is identified by the Star of David, Islam by the crescent moon, and Buddhism by the dharma wheel; but Christianity is identified by the cross.  Why?

Across the next four Sundays we're going to look at four biblical images that explain why Jesus died for those he would call to himself.  We'll go to the altar, the market, the courtroom, and the laundry.  Each of those images reveals the meaning of Christ's death: 

The Altar: Christ absorbed God's holy anger that burns against our impurity

The Market: Christ bought us for himself

The Courtroom: Christ exchanged moral records with us to enable us to pass the Judgment Day

The Laundry: Christ washed us clean

Don't be like those Detroit thieves who wanted a Jesus without the cross. P.T. Forsythe said, "You do not understand Christ till you understand his cross."  Join us at the foot of the cross this Sunday at 10.