Bethany Newsletter – May 2013
A courageous stand
The sports reporter Chris Broussard was part of a group on an ESPN TV show discussing pro basketball player Jason Collins’ recent announcement that he is homosexual. When asked to share his views, Broussard said that he believed what the Bible taught: that all sex outside of marriage between a man and a woman is sin. That is a courageous “coming out.”
Broussard wasn’t angry or nasty or acting as though he was superior to others when he stated his beliefs. He was polite and respectful to the others on the program as he calmly took his stand. Another reporter on the show is homosexual but he and Broussard spoke of how they have remained friends and agree to disagree.
Not all have been friendly toward Broussard. ESPN apologized for his statements and some have questioned whether the network should continue to employ him.
In our day and age, when it seems the only thing wrong is to say something is wrong, it took courage for Broussard to say the Bible teaches that certain behavior is sin. It was especially courageous considering the environment in which he works. Pro basketball players have been known for their sexual promiscuity. Many have bragged about how many women they have been with, as if it is a sign of their manliness. Some of those Broussard will seek to interview now know what he believes the Bible teaches about their behavior.
It takes courage from God for somebody to take a stand in the public arena and say the Bible is the authority that determines what is right and wrong. The world tempts us to elevate our reason and our desires and the opinion of the majority and make those things the deciding factor as to what is true. The Bible, though, describes itself as “the word of truth” (II Timothy 2:15). “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (II Timothy 3:16). The Bible’s commands aren’t pointless rules that are out of touch with modern-day life. The Bible is inspired by the Lord, who is never out of date and makes no mistakes. It is the Word of the God who loves us and knows what is best for us. Because He loves us God says, “Avoid this path that will eventually lead to trouble. Go this direction that leads to life full of joy and peace and love.” With boldness, humility and love we invite people to find the best path and live under the authority of God’s Word.
—Pastor Craig
The Women’s Missionary Federation will meet on Thur. May 2 at 1 p.m. at the church. Elva will lead the Bible study and Loretta will host the dessert. All ladies are invited.
The Mother and Daughter salad buffet will be Thurs. May 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the church. All ladies are invited to come. The program will be about: “Pearls for a princess.” The theme song will be “Child of the King” inspired by the verse: “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,” (John 1:12). Those who would like to bring a salad to share are welcome to do so.
Coming up: AFLC Annual Conference, Osceola, Wisconsin, June 11-14.
Outdoor worship service and church picnic, Cullaby Lake, July 28
Vacation Bible School is being planned for July 15-19, 9-11:30 a.m. You’re encouraged to mark your calendars, start praying and plan to be a part of this special time of sharing with kids the good news of Jesus.
Family Bible camp will be June 23-27 at Cedar Springs Camp, Lake Stevens, Wash. A special gift has once again made it possible to offer reduced fees for attending camp. It will be only $80 for adults to attend and $60 for children 12 and under, with a $199 maximum fee per family. It is free for first-time attenders. Camp is a great time for all members of the family to get away from the day-to-day routine and get into God’s Word. During the day there are children learning times and activities for the younger ones, youth and adult Bible study times, and worship services in the evenings. There are also many recreation opportunities at camp. You’re encouraged to mark the dates and plan to come along.
Men’s breakfast will be Saturday, May 4 at 8 a.m. If you’d like to help prepare the breakfast talk with Pastor Craig.
The Lutheran Ambassador magazine is the magazine of our church body – the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations. It comes out once a month and contains articles to encourage people in their relationship with Jesus and provide information about the AFLC and its congregations. Subscriptions are $19 a year. This month is the time in our congregation to renew your subscription or start a new one. To do so please leave your name and address and $19 in the folder in the church office. Checks should be made out to the church.
Sunday, May 19 will be the last week of Sunday school for the school year. We give thanks for all those who have taught and helped lead Sunday school during this past year.
Tuesday, May 14 will be the last Astor School Good News Club for the school year. Thank you to all those who have faithfully served.
National Day of Prayer is Thursday, May 2. You’re encouraged to spend time during the day in prayer for our nation.
Christian Education committee and Sunday school teachers will meet Sun. May 5 at 5 p.m.