Wednesday, November 4, 2009

TRUNK OR TREAT






















What a blast we had Friday October 30th with our 2nd Trunk or Treat event geared for the kids in our community. We figure we had 250-300 out for the night, with many of our SBCC family opening their "trunks" to serve out a ton of candy to the kids who came. And they came!!

Many thanks to Char and all who gave of themselves to make the evening a success. Enjoy some of the pictures

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

There's No Quit


On Tuesday I traveled to Olathe KS to be with Eric & Kirsten as well as to watch Eric's soccer game for MNU. I'm not a big "road warrior" and the thought of traveling to & from Kansas City on the same day wasn't necessarily enticing. Yet, I wanted to be with my kids. I had a good time being with them and having dinner together. It was time well spent.

As the 2nd half of Eric's game began, so did a steady drizzle/rain. The guys began to slip and slide on the field making for some memorable moments. For 45 minutes they played through the cold, wet, miserable conditions. At one point with Eric's team up 5-0 I was asking the linesman when were they gonna call it a day??

Yet everyone played on until the end. Neither team quit. They braved the weather and finished the game. Both teams could be applauded for that.

And it made me consider our lives today and how easy or convienent it's become to "quit" when things get uncomfortable. When job or family or our health aren't going the way we desire or planned, do we also "quit" ministry or attending services? And if so, doesn't that speak to the real health of our heart more than the words from our lips? Do we seek our Father in Heaven only when things are well? Is our service to him contingent on how he's providing? Are we guilty of seeking the gifts of the Father more than the presence of the Father? In short, do bail when life becomes difficult or demanding?

Let's "pray on & play on" until the end. May our Father in Heaven find no quit in you! Or in me!

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Pictures from Outdoor Service





Wanted to pass along a couple more pics from our service Sept 13

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

The Generous Church


This new series is aimed at helping us understand that when by the Grace of God, he gets a hold of our heart, it will change the way we view our resources. I'm not talking only our money, but also our time and how we view those around us. God's great desire is to see us become "trophies" of his love, put on display for others to see.

From day one here at SBCC we've wanted to use whatever God gives us to build up his kingdom. We've used garage sales to benefit local schools, "Trunk or Treat" for kids to have a great evening of fun with lots of candy (we get a subsidy from local dentists), to this Generous Church campaign where God has provided us the means to help families in need.

Four guys in the Old Testament posed an interesting question. They looked at each other and their less than ideal lot in life and asked this question, "Why sit here until we die?" Do you find yourself spinning your wheels, watching your life pass by, not sure what you're doing or why? "Why should you sit here doing nothing and then pass on?"

God's plan for our lives that we might know His Son Jesus as our Forgiver from sin & guilt, then trust him to lead us on our journey of life. God wants you and I to use our time & our resources in living for him. Do you want your life to count? Are you interested in writing a legacy that won't erode with the passing of time?

God of Wonders beyond our Galaxy


On Sunday September 13th we celebrated God's goodness by having the worship service outdoors. It was a great day. Barely touching 80, partly cloudy, gentle breeze-one couldn't ask for a better day. As our worship team was drawing the song portion of our service to a close, my wife Patti nudged me and directed my attention to the sky. I looked up and noticed this huge cross looming over us. It was an awesome sight and great reminder as to why we had gathered. To celebrate the mercy & grace of Jesus Christ. He demonstrated his love towards us by dying on the cross & victoriously returning from the grave on the 3rd day!
If you're looking for a church that exalts Jesus Christ and desires to make him known, then join us this Sunday. We have a staffed and secure nursery & kids worship time for children. Our 1st through 5th graders remain with parents for the song portion of the service. The atmosphere is casual and our music is contemporary with a desire to turn our hearts towards Christ. Weekly we teach from God's Word. My desire to make His Word understandable in it's given context and applicable to life today.
Our methods may vary, but the message of the Grace of God reaching us through the Love of Jesus Christ is constant. If you're looking for a church cares more about where God is leading you than where you've been... I'll see you on Sunday!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

New Life and Baptism




Sunday June 28th was another special day in the journey of SBCC as we were privileged to baptize 9 as followers of Jesus Christ. We believe Jesus set forth baptism as an ordinance for his church, an act of obedience and devotion. It's clear in the New Testament that those who were followers of the Risen Lord Jesus were baptized in his name. They wanted to be identified as having trusted him as their Savior and Lord. Kind of like today people wear sports jerseys or other articles of clothing expressing their allegiance to a particular team or player.



In similar manner, when we realize our need for a savior from sin and place our trust in Jesus Christ who alone is able to forgive sin, we then seek to follow him. In being baptized we are declaring for those watching, we belong to Jesus and he is our savior. Here at StoneBridge we practice baptism by immersion. It's a picture, an illustration if you will, of Jesus death and resurrection.



So we rejoice with those who gave their story of being rescued by Christ, delivered from old habits. Of Jesus giving people a clean heart and a fresh start. Of the God of the 2nd chance, giving us another opportunity.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Kids Rock Camp




This past week the children had a fantastic week at VBS. Every night was filled with fun and adventure, centered around the life of the Apostle Peter. The kids learned how much Jesus loves them and wants to make something really special of their life. It was so neat to see the smiles and hear the laughter of kids and adults alike.

I want to thank Jayna and Kristi and their team of adults who made this such a fun week. We believe 4 children made a profession of faith in Jesus this past week. It really is neat to observe the body of Christ rise us and make a difference in the life of someone else. When we serve the Lord and he uses us to touch another heart, only he knows the difference that will come as a result of this.


I believe that as a church reaches out to children, seeks out students, loves them, helps them to grow in their life with God, trains & provides them with meaningful opportunities to serve God, God will in turn bless that church body. For Jesus demonstrated his love for kids and we're at our very best whenever we imitate Christ!