Scripture: 

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 2 Corinthians 9:7 & 12

Paul’s message to the church at Corinth is this: You have received an indescribable gift of the grace of Jesus Christ.  Our response to that great gift is to give thanks.  We give not because we have to but because our hearts are so filled with the joy of Jesus that our thanksgivings overflow.  We just cannot stop giving thanks for what God has done and continues to do for us.

As most of you read in the September newsletter or heard in church on Sunday, we have launched our Forward In Faith initiative.  This program is a 90-day campaign this fall and a continued effort over the next 3 years. The focus is to build unity among members, grow in our generosity, restore our aging buildings, and prepare for the future.

The work on our facilities will include: HVAC controls, paint, flooring and plumbing in our Educational Building, new hot water, ice machine, and flooring in the FLC.  Other repair work such as roof dormers, facia, and plumbing are also being evaluated. 

The challenge for all of us is this:

• Pray daily for the Forward in Faith initiative.
• Think - How can you contribute over the next 90 days?
• Invite someone to attend a worship service or event at Mt. Zion.
• Ask the question – What can I (or a group I am involved with) do in the future to assist with Forward in Faith?

Prayer: 

God of grace, ever creating and restoring, you breathe life into all things and embrace us with an everlasting love; help us to grow in wonder and awe, to embody a spirit of gratitude, and to dream generous dreams; that, in gathering what we have, we may graciously offer ourselves to accomplish what you will, in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Pastor Angela

Key Verse:

“And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Devotional/Did You Know:

Our Education Building was built in 1961, making it 63 years old. Over the years, it has housed the Church Office, Sonshine Preschool, numerous Sunday School Classes and has hosted numerous Bible Studies and Community meetings like A.A and Baby Garten. It feels like home to so many, but in order to continue using it to the fullest, some repairs and upgrades are needed. It is our hope that the Forward in Faith campaign will make that possible.

Have you found the right Small Group? There are very few things more important to me than my Sunday School Class. Although the Woody Washam Friendship Class has seen members move away and new members arrive, the loving spirit has been constant. We have raised our children together, celebrated joyous times and supported one another in time of need and sorrow. We know it is a Safe Place, where we can voice differing opinions without judgement. It’s family, and I want everyone to have a group like this.

I have wondered how new visitors view our physical classroom, though. The Education Building is certainly showing its age, and as we move Forward in Faith, I hope that we can give it the facelift it needs to reflect our welcoming hearts. And, Did You Know… just to replace the flooring in the building will cost an estimated $65,000?

Faith in Action:

Make this the week that you start visiting Sunday School classes. I promise you will find the right one for your needs! And if you belong to a class, please invite someone to join you!

Prayer:

Dear Father, 

In the words from Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”

I pray that this is the week that someone finds their special small group at Mt. Zion. May our members be the reflection of your love and welcome all new comers with open arms. I also pray that our members reflect on the needs of our church as we look to grow and embrace more people, and that they are able to support this important campaign. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

Debbie Johnson

Key Verses:

1st Corinthians 12: 4-7 NIV: There are different kinds of gifts but the same spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one of the manifestations of the spirit is given for the common good.

1st Corinthians 12:12-13 NKJV: For as the body is one and has many members, but all members of that one body, being many, are of one body, so also is Christ. For by one spirit we were all baptized into one body.

Devotion:

There’s a lot to unpack in these verses as Paul is reminding the people of Corinth that the church, the body of Christ, will only operate at its best if all will work together using their God-given gifts not in self-service but to serve the whole. He compares the body of Christ to the human body and just as each part of the body specializes in its function, it takes all of the body parts to help the body as a whole to operate at its optimum.

I recently visited the history room here at Mount Zion and did you know that our current sanctuary was built in 1954. This is Mount Zion’s third sanctuary but its fourth structure. Mount Zion‘s first congregation met in an arbor, but regardless of the style or shape, do you know what each of those sanctuaries had in common? 

Each started as just a pile of building materials that were gathered together in hopes of becoming a sanctuary. Although each brick, board & nail had its own purpose & strength, it wasn’t until they were assembled together did they find their ultimate purpose. Just like our congregation here at Mt Zion, each believer (that’s you!) is given a gift or strength from God that is distributed by the Holy Spirit. These gifts may be different but each hold equal value and are meant to benefit God’s ultimate purpose of growing His Kingdom. 

Discovering one’s spiritual gift and using it to serve God’s people as an act of love is part of this beautiful journey. I often hear people say things like: “I can’t do that, I’ve served my time/I do not have time, I’m too old/young to volunteer” or my favorite, “no one asked me.” But here’s my response to that..” Who is limiting you?” God made a place for each of us and your gift is not on merit but by grace alone. He blessed you in order that you may exercise your gift, walk out your faith and honor him by being his hands and feet here on earth. This, my friends, is the blessing…God can and will use you no matter your limits! All He requires is a willing heart!

Faith In Action:

What if our church decided to not just gather at particular events or on Sunday morning but instead..To Assemble and use our God-given gifts to better our church, our community and the world!?! Can you imagine what God could do in and through Mt Zion? 

Prayer:

Dear Lord, you are a great gift giver. Thank you for your generosity. Do not let fear or anxiety keep me from serving you well. Help me to find ways to share these gifts with the body of Christ and to the world. And together help the body of Christ here at Mt Zion be so generous that others become curious. So curious that they cannot help but to want to know more about your kingdom. We give you all the glory. Amen.  

Shawna Sherrill

Devotion Theme:

God hears our prayers and sees our generous giving

Key Verse:

Acts 10:1-4 The angel said, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God…”

Devotional / Did you know:

Did you know that a man named Cornelius, a Roman citizen, played a pivotal role as barriers between the Gentiles and Jews were broken down in the early Christian Church?  

While his name resonates with us, we don’t know much about him.  We know he was a soldier and had many troops under his command.  And, we know that he observed Jewish practices of prayer and giving to the poor even though he was an outsider.  You can read the rest of the fascinating story in Acts chapter 10 of how he met with Peter and the walls of division between Jews and Gentiles were torn down.

There are several striking things about this story of Cornelius.  He recounts in verse 30 that “a man in shining clothes stood before me”  and the angel said to him “God has heard your prayer and God has remembered your gifts to the poor!” It is truly a wonder that he was visited by an angel!  But equally fascinating is the report that God heard his prayers and looked favorably on his faithfulness and generosity!  It doesn’t say that God was impressed with the amount of his gifts, but that God took note and was pleased that Cornelius acted faithfully and gave out of a generous heart.  It also impresses me that Cornelius didn’t have to accomplish a mighty feat to have God smile on him.  He went about living a faithful life, obeying God’s commands, doing good. 

Faith in action:

This week, keep on praying!  Even when you think your prayers aren’t getting through, God loves you and hears your prayers.  Ask Him if there are simple acts of kindness that you can show to someone.  Also, consider that God is pleased when we are faithful and act with a heart filled with love and generosity.  

Prayer:  

Lord, thank you for dwelling among us as we live in reverence to you.  Thank you for hearing our prayers and for smiling on our acts of kindness as we strive to live in faithfulness to you.  Thank you for loving us with a steadfast love that endures forever.  Make us courageous and strong to be faithful in prayer and generous with the abilities you have given us.  

Buddy Phillips

Key Verses: 2 Corinthians 8:2-4

In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people.

Devotional:

Churches are our homes. And just like the homes we live in, they require upkeep and regular maintenance. We want our church to be welcoming to others. In addition to our attitudes towards others, that means keeping the buildings and grounds maintained and updated. We want to be able to be in ministry to those around us. All of this requires generosity, both of our time and our resources.

As I was growing up, I never knew that we would be considered lower middle class. As an adult I realize that my parents made a small amount of money go far for their family of 6. The 4 daughters were taught from an early age that “first fruits” went to tithing and were taught also that God always provides what is truly needed when you give in faithfully and joyfully. We didn’t eat out, had a garden and made our own clothes, but always had a good and happy life and everything we really needed. When the church needed extra money for maintenance or ministries, we found ways to contribute. We made things to be sold at bazaars; we planted 600 (!) cedar tree seedlings that were sold for Christmas trees as they matured, with proceeds going to the church. Those are some of my fondest memories.

Faith in action:

Consider ways that you can give to the Forward in Faith campaign so that we can keep our church in good shape and look forward to many more years of faithfulness in missions for God’s people. How can you use your talents and gifts to contribute above your normal giving? Are you crafty? A good cook? Sew? Good at organizing charitable events? Handy and able to do some of the necessary tasks? Be creative with ways to be able to give for our church home.

Prayer:  

Dead God,

Thank you for all that you have done in our lives. You have been faithful in all seasons of our lives. You have used us and this church to bless so many lives. We are so grateful.  

Please help us to find the ways to keep this building and these grounds and our hearts in shape so that we may continue to be a blessing to not only to each other, but also to the community around us. Help us to listen for the ways you want us to be in ministry to each other and the world around us. Show us how we can help.

Amen.

Dora Klaus

Key Verse

“We didn't bring anything into this world, and we won't take anything with us when we leave.”

1 Timothy‬ 6‬:7‬ CEV‬‬

Devotional

Growing up, Sunday mornings & nights were church times, and on occasions, Wednesdays nights too. My parents and my grandparents created that legacy. This is why Beth and I make it a priority to be present, whether in person or online so that our kids see the impact that church can have on our lives. This is the same legacy that many church members have at Mt Zion. Having your family in church builds faith and faith enables us to share the joy of Christ, a legacy I want to pass on to my kids. 

Tithing and giving goes hand in hand with 1 Timothy 6:7.  I remember on Sunday mornings, I was often given a dollar to put in the offering plate and my parents would put their envelope in as the offering plate passed our row. I never knew how much they were giving, but I saw the act. Today, we give online and even more so, we have to share with our kids the importance of tithing and giving because it’s not as easy to see the act as I did growing up. Leaving the legacy of a cheerful and abundant giver through tithing and giving is another one of the greatest things I hope to pass along to my kids.

Faith in action

This week, consider the habits we do with little thought. Is it the coffee we get on the way to work, the daily workout or the TV show we love to watch. Any of these and many, many more can be part of your legacy. Make it a priority this week to prioritize our church and cheerful giving the legacy that you want to pass along to family and friends.

Prayer

Hey God, we are your children and you have blessed us with a rich and wonderful legacy. Help us to keep this legacy strong with our own family by coming to gather at your house, our church and to be the best stewards by giving and giving abundantly to your missions and purpose. 

It’s in your Son’s name we give thanks and pray. 

Amen

Jon Lentz

Key Verse:

1 Peter 2:4-10 “…like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house…”

Devotional / Did you know:

As children, we learned that the church isn’t just a building or a place, but rather it’s the people who make up the church. But, did you know that Peter encourages followers of Jesus to be ‘living stones built into a spiritual house’?

When Jesus called his disciples, he didn’t call just one. He called many and all of them, men and women, boys and girls of all ages, were different. They had different backgrounds, unique personalities, different skills, a variety of interests, and even their vocations were different. As the number of followers increased, Jesus was growing in them the ability to carry on the work He started on earth.  

Isn’t it fitting that Peter, the one who’s name was changed from Simon to “the rock”, uses the image that we are all to be living stones. In this passage, Peter first tells us to put away the things that cause strife among us. Things like malice, envy, slander. A prerequisite if you will, is to put these things aside and focus on treating one another in ways that promote unity.  

If we are ‘living stones’, one on its own, can accomplish very little. But bound together our unique strengths and abilities enable the church to accomplish two of its essential purposes… 

First, the Church becomes a place where we meet together and share a sense of belonging. Everyone is accepted just as they are. We rejoice with those who rejoice and hurt with those who hurt. We don’t always get it right, but as a spiritual house, we are bound to one another by the grace and love we extend to each other. When we are generous with grace our bonds are made stronger.

The Church also becomes a place where we live out the physical presence of Christ in this world. We serve in very practical ways to care for the needs of the hurting world around us. This intentional caring, the sharing of Christ’s love, is what makes the Church unique and different from every other organization and social club.  

Going forward in faith together, we aim to keep our buildings in excellent working order. We also aim to restore our spiritual house, made up of living stones, bound to one another.  

Faith in action

This week, take just one step of faith. Thinking creatively, choose one of your many unique talents, blessings, capabilities, or areas of interest. Then generously apply that gift. You may feel a little outside of your comfort zone at first, but that’s how faith works. When we use our God given abilities for His purposes, we grow in the realization that he has provided for our every need. Meanwhile, we are blessed to share in making an eternal difference in someone’s life.

Prayer:  

Lord, thank you for being faithful through all the ages to provide for our every need. Turn our hearts to you and fill us with the awareness of your abundant grace. Give us generous hearts so that we are generous in giving grace to one another and blessing those in need from the abundance that you have poured out on us.  

Buddy Phillips

Key Verse

“Jesus said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” Mark 10:14

Did You Know?

Did you know that Sonshine Preschool is in its 24th year, providing exceptional Christian childcare for our Church and Community? Wow!  

For 10 years, I had the privilege of teaching at Sonshine Preschool. It is a magical place, where the staff begins the day in a prayer circle, and then they watch as young children make friends, learn new skills and come to know how much Jesus loves them. To see a 4-year-old learn the Lord’s Prayer, or a 3-year-old declare that “Jesus is the light of the World” is truly something special. But Sonshine is more than a school. It is an important mission of Mt. Zion, where we also minister to young families in our community who may need a church home. How it warmed my heart to see “Sonshine Kids” become part of our Children’s choir or join us for Sunday School, and for young parents to form lasting friendships.  

Our Forward in Faith objectives are Unity, Generosity, Restore and Future. Yes, our education building needs a refresh, and through our generosity, we can make that happen. And in doing so, the Preschool may make an even better first impression to prospective parents. But more importantly, we all need to understand the importance of our Children’s Ministries to the future of our Church, as Mt Zion strives to grow in order to better serve our Lord. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Children are our greatest treasure. They are our Future.”  

Faith in Action

There are so many ways that you could help our Children’s Ministries grow and flourish… volunteer to teach a Sunday School class, support Sonshine Preschool with your prayers, help with Vacation Bible School, assist with our Youth Group or Children’s Choirs. The needs are many, and you’ll be rewarded with lots of smiles and hugs! If you are ready to help, reach out to our church staff and they will help you get started.  

Prayer

Dear Father, 

We thank you for the joy and innocence of the children in our midst. I pray that as we move Forward in Faith, we will continue to make Mt. Zion a loving and welcoming place for young families. Help us as we search for ways that we can be a part of the lives of the children of Mt. Zion and in our community.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

Debbie Johnson

Key Verse: John 17: 20-23 Jesus Prays for All Believers

20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

Devotional

Did you know that the last prayer Jesus prayed as the events that led to His crucifixion began included a prayer for future believers (US!) and that the prayer was that we be unified? Jesus prayed for unity among all the believers, based on their unity with Him and God and their unity with each other and the Holy Spirit. This doesn’t mean that we are all the same or believe exactly the same. Jesus also spoke many times about different spiritual gifts and how it took all the parts of the body to make a whole. Jesus also picked a wide range of personalities and types of gifts for the men who were chosen disciples. God has used so many people with different styles and gifts throughout the Bible and in modern history - there is a place for all of us. What unity does mean is that we are all working together for the good of our faith - that we are united in purpose. While we may not agree on every detail of our faith, we are still united in Christ and in the calling to make disciples of the world. This best occurs when we build each other up and work together to make the world a better place. For Mt Zion, that means moving forward together: to maintain the church physically and spiritually, to use our gifts for mission, to bring all people to Christ, and to love and accept each other in unity.

Faith in action:

Actively seek ways to embrace unity for accomplishing the missions of Mt Zion and to further God’s kingdom while acknowledging that we will all have some differences along the way. God has big things planned for our church and His kingdom and we need to work together to accomplish what He means for us to accomplish. We can do this, with God’s help, if we work together. 

Prayer:  

Father God, please forgive us when we let our differences interfere with the work You have given us. Help us to become more like You and to listen to your Holy Spirit as You direct us in what You want us to do as we work to love Your people and to bring more people into Your kingdom. You do not mean for us to all be identical, but You do mean for us to all follow You and work together to further Your kingdom. May we all use our gifts to work together in the tasks You set forth for us. Amen.

Dora Klaus

For a wonderful video on John 17 visit:

https://groupleaders.org/curriculum-feed/unity-john17?rq=Unity%3A%20John%2017

Verse: Acts 11:27 – 30 “…The disciples, each according to their ability, decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.”

Did you know that the early Church in Antioch sent gifts to aid the believers in Jerusalem? A severe famine was beginning to spread throughout the Roman world and the early disciples’ first instinct was to reach out and help their brothers living in Judea. They each, in proportion to their own resources, “fixed upon an amount of a relief fund to send to the brethren who lived in Judaea. This they did…”

A few phrases really stand out in this short passage. The disciples had been made aware of the needs of their fellow Christians and each according to his ability, weighed what they could do and committed to provide help. These logical steps are essential to moving forward in faith. The disciples were first faced with a choice of whether or not to respond to the need. Once they decided to respond, each took stock of their ability “in proportion to their own resources.” And finally, they followed through on their commitment by sending their gifts to their brothers in need.     

In recent weeks, we have experienced a similar event as hurricane Helene brought flooding and destruction to our neighbors. The devastation and loss has been heart-wrenching but an outpouring of loving acts of kindness have provided relief and restoration for physical as well as spiritual and emotional needs. People have chosen to respond, determined what they can give, and given in generous ways to help their neighbors in need. All of these acts of kindness reflect the healing love that Jesus modeled when he walked this earth.  

Faith in Action

Life on earth is hard sometimes. Whether it’s a famine nearly 2000 years ago or flooding with damaging winds of our era, there are always opportunities for us to care for and love one another. As you are made aware of needs around you, decide in your heart what you are able to do, then take a step forward in faith to apply your gifts.  

Prayer

Lord, thank you for giving us eyes to see and ears to hear. Give us wisdom and understanding to respond to the needs around us. Give us courage and strength as we step forward in faith to bring about healing and restoration. Move our hearts to bless others from the blessings you have poured out on us. All these things we ask, not for our glory, but that through generous acts of kindness, your name may be glorified. Amen

Buddy Phillips