Northwest Church of Christ
3904 38th Street NW Canton, Ohio 44718
330-492-5523 Fax: 330-493-7119
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| Northwest News On Line November 22, 2009 |
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NORTHWEST LIFE LINES
WEAKNESS OR STRENGTH?
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them… (Romans 12:3-6a).
The Apostle Paul here clearly reveals to us the responsibility each of us has as members of the body of Christ to use the talents God has given us. He also points out that these talents (abilities) differ. He goes on to name several areas where we can show talent in service to God (Romans 12:6b-8). Each member of the body of Christ has talent, great or small. Paul’s point here is that we use those talents even if they are small in comparison to others n the church. Each member of the body is important to God.
If one has one talent to be used in the Lord’s service, it should be developed to the best it can be as it will be vital in the body’s service to God. I read a story that emphasizes this point that I want to share with you. (I do not have the author’s name)
A ten-year old boy decided to study judo despite the fact that he had lost his left arm in a devastating car accident. He began lessons with an old Japanese judo master. The boy was doing well, so he couldn’t under-stand why, after three months of training, the master had taught him only one move.
“Sensei,” the boy finally said, “Shouldn’t I be learning more moves?
“This is the only move you know, but this is the only move you’ll ever need to know,” the sensei replied. Not quite understanding, but believing in his teacher, the boy kept training.
Several months later, the sensei took the boy to his first tournament. Surprising himself, the boy easily won his first two matches. The third match proved to be more difficult, but after some time, his opponent became impatient and charged; the boy deftly used his one move to win the match.
Still amazed by his success, the boy was now in the finals. This time, his opponent was bigger, stronger, and more experienced. For a while, the boy appeared to be overmatched. Concerned that the boy might get hurt, the referee called a time-out. He was about to stop the match when the sensei intervened.
“No,” the sensei insisted. “Let him continue.”
Soon after the match resumed, his opponent made a critical mistake, he dropped his guard. Instantly, the boy used his move to pin him. The boy had won his match and the tournament. One the way home, the boy and the sensei reviewed every move in every match. Then the boy summoned the courage to ask what was really on his mind: “Sensei, how did I win the tournament with one move?”
You won for two reasons. First, you’ve almost mastered one of the most difficult throws in all of judo. And second, the only known defense for that move is for your opponent to grab your left arm.” His biggest weakness had become his biggest strength.
Many times as we look around us at the other members of the church who have several strong talents, we begin to feel insecure in our limited abilities. But, the question is not “how many talents do you have,” but “how are you using the talent(s) you have?” If you have only one talent (few only have one talent), make it the best possible. If you have many talents, make them the best they can be. God looks at the body as individual members and we will not be judged on the abilities of others. For the church to grow in numbers, we each must grow individually. There are no unimportant members in the body of Christ. God and the brethren need each of us to do the best we can in living the Christian life.
Church Family: Francis Kahrig is at Aultman Hospital. Dorothy Kahrig had surgery on Thursday, November 19th for breast cancer. Gilbert Plummer will have hip replacement surgery on Monday, November 30th at Affinity Hospital. Floyd Kinney suffered a stroke following surgery on Wednesday, November 18th at Aultman Hospital. Dorothy Townsend is at Mercy Hospital, room 975, with congestive heart failure. Dolores Ladson had hip replacement surgery and is now at Aultman-Woodlawn in room #213. Hazel Decker (the mother of Marilyn Hopkins and Bev Lones) remains at St. Joseph’s Care Center in room 210.
Remember, too, our Shut-In members, those in the Armed Forces, as well as the Leadership of the Lord’s church here at the Northwest church of Christ.
Friends And Family: Others to remember in prayer include: Lisa Wenzel (the daughter of Diane Gardiner) has been undergoing medical tests to determine the cause of some physical problems. The doctors are testing for possible multiple sclerosis. Ray Hunt had knee surgery. His address is posted on the bulletin board. Sophia Green (the granddaughter of Katherine Green) had surgery on November 12th. She lives in Rochester, NY. Hope Hawkins (from the Massillon church of Christ) had surgery on Wednesday, November 4th. Joe Kress (son-in-law of Victoria Walker) is now at Hanover House. Logan Trizna (2 yr. old grandson of Brian Heid’s cousin) had reconstructive surgery following surgery to remove cancer. Jack Duty (leukemia).
Death: Joe Phillips (the father-in-law of Bill Gadow and the grandfather of Joe and Craig Gadow) passed away. The funeral was at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church this past Monday.
Harry Fox (the father of Eugene Fox and Rose Varn) passed away on Tuesday, November 17th following a long illness. The funeral was Saturday, November 21th. The arrangements were with Reed Funeral Home.
Ed Ramsier passed away on Wednesday, November 18th.
Thank You: Dear Family, I want to “Thank You” for all the cards, the lap throw, phone calls and prayers. It’s been a long healing process and I’m not there yet. I still have tremors and dizzy spells. I’m scheduled for therapy on the 20th. I will be seeing both of my doctors this week. In Christian Love,
Doris Brown
To Our Northwest Family, Thank you for all your prayers, and many gifts since Cheyenne was diagnosed with leukemia. Your expressions of kindness and thoughtfulness mean more to us than words can express and will always be remembered. Continue to pray for Cheyenne and us as she still has a long haul to go. In Christian Love,
Steve and Julie Newman
Harold and Juanita Brown would like to thank all who prayed for their friends in Florida, Charlie and Lorraine Reed. Lorraine passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, November 12th, surrounded by her family.
Placed Membership: We are happy to announce that, two individuals, Mary Calvert and her fiancé, Doug Clouse, have requested to place their membership with the Northwest church. Mary comes to us from the Hendersonville, North Carolina congregation, while Doug was a member of the Massillon congregation. The elders from each of these churches have sent us letters commending them to the oversight of this congregation’s eldership. We welcome Mary and Doug and we, the elders, encourage everyone to get to know these two, if you don’t already, and help them feel at home here at Northwest.
Note: Contribution envelopes for 2010 are now on the table in the foyer. Please remember to put your name beside the number of the box that you are taking.
Note: Those who are interested in becoming involved in our “Greeter Ministry” are asked to sign the sheet posted on the east-wing bulletin board. If you have questions, please see Art Hopkins or Marilyn Hopkins.
Note: Steve Moser has a friend who is in the process of re-keying our locks around the building. To have this done is quite expensive. He wants no monetary compensation for his work; however, he collects locks and keys. So, if anyone has any of those lying around collecting dust, please give those to Steve, or any of the office staff. Thank you for helping.
Note: Melissa Cartledge is in need of curtains for her apartment (standard size windows). See Melissa or Ruth Smith.
Updates: Stephen & Julie Newman’s address is: 3841 Taft Ave. NE, Canton, OH 44705
Teen Night Out: The annual “All Night Bowling Party” will be held on Saturday, December 19th from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM at Hall of Fame Lanes. The cost is $15.00 per person. There is a flyer on the east wing bulletin board or see Ed Lones for more information.
Miss Molly’s Tea Room: Due to the overwhelming response, a second van has been added for our trip to Miss Molly’s Tea Room thanks to Ruth Smith. If you have not signed up to ride the van and would like to, please sign on the ladies’ bulletin board. We also have been able to increase our reservation number to fifty people. If you would like one of the remaining six reservations, please see Sonya Ash by Sunday, November 22nd. All monies should be turned in to Sonya Ash by November 22nd as well. Please note: since our group has increased to 50 ladies, we may have to wait past 2:30pm to be seated. Please keep this in mind should you have to arrive home at a certain time.
Note: There will be no singing practice in the month of December. It will resume January 3rd at 5:00 PM.
Entertainment Books: Stepping Stones for Ohio Valley University are again selling these books. November 29th will be the last day that they are available. See Marilyn Hopkins, Leila Kindall, or any member.
Holiday Goodie order sheets are on the east wing bulletin board. Sign up for what you would like to have. The order sheets will be taken down on November 23rd. All orders can be picked up after December 10th. Please see Juanita Jacobs for more information.
Annual Holiday Dinner: This year’s dinner will be Sunday evening, December 6th, at 6:00 PM, with evening worship service beginning at 5:00 PM. Sign up if you are planning to attend and also if you can bring a dessert. The cost is $2.00 per person; children 10 and under are free. Give your money to Hope Camarata, Joan Cook, or Patrick and Theada Shepler. Each family is asked to bring a 2 liter bottle of pop. It is imperative that you sign up if you will be attending, so we know how much food to prepare.
Note: The membership bulletin board is now complete and located in the west wing of the building. If your picture is not on the board, or if your information needs to be corrected, please see Heather Lindenberger.
Golden Agers: No meeting on Tuesday, November 24th.
“Power For Today”: Orders are being taken for “Power For Today”, a 21st Century Christian daily devotional booklet for 2010. You will receive one booklet each quarter and the total cost for a yearly subscription is $7.80. If you are interested in subscribing for one or more, please pay in advance with cash or check made out to Kathy Kruger. The deadline for ordering is November 29th.
Youth News:
Dec. 13th: Lunch & “Destination Unknown” Camarata
Lads to Leaders Meeting: There will be a meeting in room #7 today following the Bible study. This will be a registration meeting for anyone wanting to attend convention this year. Thank you.
*QUESTIONS PEOPLE ASK*
Is the statement, “The Jesus I know would never condemn a loving, committed relationship” valid?
Any time you hear this statement it is when the one making the statement wants to do or is doing something that is not in accordance with the will of God or when someone is trying to put forth an agenda that is not in accord with the Bible. You never hear this statement made when one is doing that which is in harmony with God’s will. When the going gets tough and we get tired of working on a relationship and someone else comes along that suites us better than the one we have, then we just know that God will agree with us in forsaking those commitments we made to the one person and go after the one we should not have. We just know that God wants us to be happy and will understand and agree with our actions, even though those actions are clearly forbidden and denounced as sin in God’s Word. God is so loving, gentle, kind and merciful that He just wants people to be happy and will make exceptions in our case.
As we look around the religious world today, including some members of the Lord’s church, we see a great movement to make right many immoralities clearly condemned by God. We hear and read of religious groups who have “restudied” these subjects and now see things quite differently than in the past. But it does not matter how many times you restudy such scriptures as 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 it will mean the same as it did the first time you read it. “Do you not know that the un-righteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.” All of these are acts of unrighteousness and God says that none of these will be allowed in His kingdom. You cannot practice these things and be a faithful child of God.
For some reason mankind has come to the conclusion that God will fall for and agree with anything that comes along. He is just a big loving fuzz ball and his only mission is to make people happy. That could not be further from the truth.
God has made it clear from the beginning that HE is God. Adam and Eve knew what God had said, but they did what they wanted to do and brought sin upon mankind. God did not say, “Now folks, I am sorry you chose to eat the forbidden fruit, but if that is what makes you happy, alright.” No, God said, “Get out of the garden.” (Personal translation, B.C.) If God looked at sin the way man looks at sin, nothing would be sinful. Whatever pleases the individual would not be sin if it were left up to man.
Paul wrote to the Galatians, Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life (6:7-8).
Jesus will condemn loving relationships if these relation-ships are not according to the will of God. God wants us to be happy, but he wants us to be happy doing His will. God has never promised that we would be happy with the conditions that surround us in this world. But we can be happy in our spiritual relationship we have with Him!
-B.C.
…let us give thanks, by which we offer to God an acceptable worship with reverence and awe;…
TODAY’S SERMONS: A.M. - (Keith) “Run With The Winners” (Hebrews 12: 1-2)
P.M. - (Keith) “The Extra Blessing” (John 20: 26-29)
Those reading for lessons during the worship service are asked to use the “New King James Version”, as it corresponds to the pew Bibles and the projections on the screen.
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PRIVILEGED TO SERVE
** (If you are unable to serve in the scheduled capacity, let Art Hopkins know) **
November 22, 2009 A.M. P.M.
Shepherd’s Prayer Richard Smith Richard Smith
Song Leader Stephen Lindenberger Don Hopkins
Prayer Mark Daverio John R. Oberlin
Read Steve Franks Leonard Miller
Reading Hebrews 12: 1-2 John 20: 26-29
Closing Prayer Art Hopkins Jerry Cain
Communion Jim Ladson Frank Kruger, Jr.
Offering Josh Heid John Oberlin
Serving Communion:
1. Clyde Burfield 5. Don Hopkins 1. Alex McMichael 4. Ron Franks
2. Bob Stotler 6. Allen Crawford 2. Martin Williams 5. Mike Moss
3. John Oberlin 7. Al Rohr 3. James Blackwell 6. Patrick Shepler
4. Keith Kull 8. Zachary Cook
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November 29, 2009 A.M. P.M.
Shepherd’s Prayer Tom Walton Tom Walton
Song Leader Bill Craddock Leo Howard
Prayer Dick Dimit Robert Franks
Read Eugene Fox Jeff Thompson
Reading Luke 1:26-33 Luke 6: 46-49
Closing Prayer John Simone Cliff Schofield
Communion Bill Craddock Jerry Cain
Offering John Oberlin Chuck Camarata
Serving Communion:
1. Bob Hughes 5. Mark Daverio 1. Ron Franks 4. Harry Rose
2. Wesley Wyatt 6. Virgil Anderson 2. Leonard Miller 5. Josh Heid
3. Devin Watson 7. Charles Evans 3. E.C. Bradley 6. Brandon Hutching
4. John R. Oberlin 8. Steve Franks
For The Record (11/15/09)
A.M. Worship………..335 A.M. Bible Study.........193
P.M. Worship…….......200
Wed. BS (11/11/09)…...107
Contribution……6761.13
Worship Times
Sunday Worship……..9:00 A.M.
Sunday Bible Study...10:15 A.M.
Sunday Evening ……..6:00 P.M.
Wed. Evening...............7:00 P.M.
Contribution – $3575.34