Pathfinder

  Last fall I taught a Sunday school class on the minor prophet of Zechariah. I knew then that our Advent series in 2024 would be from this little, oft-overlooked book. Why is that? Some have called Zechariah, “The gospel according to Zechariah.” Bryan Gregory chose to name his commentary on Zechariah, Longing for God in an Age of Discouragement. Think about that title for a moment. Are we living in an age of discouragement? Many of us perhaps feel that we are. Consider these words from another Old Testament scholar regarding the theme of Zechariah, “Writing to people who were discouraged by living, after the exile, in a “ day of small things” ( Zech. 4:10 ), when there seemed to be little progress toward the glorious future promised in the earlier prophets, Zechariah encouraged them to look forward to the day when the Lord would act once again. The righteous King was coming to bring salvation and to bring an end to war and suffering ( Zech. 9:9–17 )." (Iain Duguid)  ...

  Thus far, I think that my biggest take-away from Bryan's sermon series on Proverbs is that Solomon, in addition to being wise, was also a brutally direct, hard line pragmatist. He cuts right to the chase on every subject he broaches in his goal to teach the people of Israel how to lead Godly lives. That said, with the Christmas season once again upon us, I was curious as to what he had to say about “giving”. Proverbs 11:25 seemed appropriate:       “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” You will be pleased to know that there are a variety of avenues that will offer our APC congregation the opportunity to refresh others this blessed holiday season. Everyone enjoys receiving Christmas cards from friends, family and acquaintances alike. The Deacons thought it might be nice for us to keep in touch with those members of our family in Christ who have moved away by sending them cards. We already send cards to our Fri...

  Many thanks to all who made our Fall Work Day such a success. Windows, floor mats, refrigerators and garbage cans got washed. Vents were vacuumed and stained glass dusted. Coffee pots were cleaned, and switches, doorknobs and banisters were disinfected. Smoke detectors and emergency lights were checked. Storm windows were installed and window wells were cleaned. Silver was polished… and so much more! An extra note of thanks to the Thursday Evening Bible Study which provided us with a delicious Coffee Break… it was very much appreciated. Throughout the month, much more was accomplished. The diffusers in Mc Lean Hall were removed and brighter bulbs were installed…making it much easier to read in there. Floors and baseboards were scrubbed and shined. The front sign was cleaned and the posts were scrapped, primed and painted. Also, new treads were installed on the YH porch steps along with a new Food Pantry door latch. As Advent begins, the Nativity will be set up to share the ...