mtlaurel

Are You Decisive?

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:12:20 GMT

Are You Decisive?

All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Matthew 5:37, NIV

Did you know that the average adult makes approximately 35,000 remotely conscious decisions each day? They range from minor, automatic choices (what to wear, what to eat, when to check your phone) to significant decisions. That number of decisions can lead to "decision fatigue," when your mental energy is depleted.

You and your spouse or friend choose to eat out. Where should you go? Who decides? Couples struggle to choose restaurants because of that "decision fatigue" I mentioned above. Too many options, differing food preferences, and the emotional burden of turning a low-stakes decision into a test of care. It often becomes a power dynamic where one partner suggests, the other rejects, leading to endless loops. A common conversation happens when one person suggests, the other says "I don't care" but then rejects every idea. Why do people have trouble making simple decisions?

Sometimes indecision is worse than the actual aftermath once the decision is made. Oy! All through Scripture, it’s obvious that Jesus doesn’t mince words. His yes means yes and His no means no. He’s absolute and decisive but it never takes away from His gentle spirit or His ability to respond with compassion. In fact, many would argue that it’s His decisiveness that allows Him to show true empathy and do what His Father instructs.

Our challenge with being decisive is that we often try to please too many people or we struggle to balance our priorities. However, when you live for an audience of One and you make pleasing Jesus your absolute priority, a lot of decisions have a way of answering themselves.

What happens when the path ahead is unclear or you’re not sure what to do? Keep in mind that God is generous with His wisdom. He’ll show you the way. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” When you let God determine your yes and your no, He takes care of what stays and what goes. Will you trust that He won’t let you miss out on His best?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 14:1-14 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, May 3 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this message with anyone you choose. And if you'd like to receive PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send an email to ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

How Peaceful Are You?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:18:47 GMT

How Peaceful Are You?

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

2 Thessalonians 3:16, NIV

There’s nothing more appealing than being around a peaceful person. Someone who’s not rocked by the waves of life or triggered by the drama that life can bring. That kind of person brings steadiness and peace to any environment. Being peaceful is often underrated by our culture because we sometimes assume that it means life lacks excitement or fun. However, the opposite is true. When you choose the way of peace, you can welcome excitement and anticipate what God is doing without being on edge that you won’t like the results. Choosing to trust that God is on the throne, is really in control, that He’s really good, and that He really is for you, allows you to be able to live differently than the world around you.

When Jesus is at the top of your priorities, you become for more concerned with keeping and maintaining the relationships God gives you than you do about proving a point or always being right. Being peaceful gives you room to be loving, grace-giving, and kind. In turn, you actually get to enjoy the life you live without undue hassle, stress, or difficulties.

Being peaceful doesn’t ignore reality or avoid hardship. Rather, it trusts fully in the sovereignty and faithfulness of Christ Jesus. Have you experienced the fruit of choosing peace even when it’s difficult?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 10:1-10 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, April 26 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Giving to Caesar . . .

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:36:51 GMT

Giving to Caesar . . .

Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Romans 13:7 NIV

Today is Tax Day 2026. Let’s be honest. Who among us likes to pay taxes? I don’t see many hands up out there! Here in Romans 13, the apostle Paul was dealing with actual responses to what governments demand. You may not like to hear this, but Biblically, none of us has the right to withhold taxes even if the government doesn't use them the way we think it should. You don’t have to be an Einstein to know that governments are made up of imperfect men and women just like us. Only a fool would demand and/or expect that the government will always manage everything perfectly. Truth be told, Paul was writing to the Roman Christians, who had the same problems we have about taxes. In a nutshell, Paul said, if you owe taxes, pay them.

His point was pretty clear . . . Don't resent the powers of government. In context, Romans 13:7 needs to be read with chapter 12, too. “Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world) (Romans 12:2a). Don't act like everybody else when it comes to paying your taxes. The world grumbles and gripes and groans at paying taxes. You and I have a right, of course, as everyone does, to protest injustice and to correct abuse. There’s no question about that. But don't always be grumbling about the taxes that you have to pay.

Forgive me if I sound like I’m defending any gross injustice that might prevail in our American system. I, for one, am glad that we can meet for worship and we don't have to hide behind closed doors. I’m glad that we have relative freedom from attack when we walk down the street because the government God gives us protects us from chaos. I want to make every effort I can, as a good citizen, to improve it and see that it does things better.

So, let’s thank God for the privilege of paying our taxes. The apostle Paul wants us to have a different attitude than the world around us about this issue. We’re not supposed to attack the government and try to overthrow it because it doesn't act quite like we think it should. Rather, we’re to understand that God brought it into being, and He’ll change it if the hearts of the people of the land choose to change it. Somebody once said, “Every nation gets the government it deserves.” So, as we pay our taxes, let’s do so cheerfully, remembering that the apostle says that we shouldn’t only pay our taxes, but if we owe respect, we’re also to give that; if we owe someone honor, we should also give that. Let’s never forget that the worst of governments are, nevertheless, better than anarchy and chaos. Even the worst government serves certain functions which God Himself has ordained.

So, on this tax day, let’s respond as Christians, with cheerfulness and gladness for what we can do under God, and let’s do so with an attitude that tells others that there’s something different about us.

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Luke 24:13-35 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, April 19 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Let’s be a Little More Patient

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:33:07 GMT

Let’s be a Little More Patient

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.

Proverbs 14:29, NIV

There are so many people and circumstances that challenge our patience, aren’t there? Even when you want to be patient, it feels like life does its best to prevent you from exercising it. The hard part about patience is that it’s usually required in the midst of unplanned, uncertain, and undesirable circumstances.

Patience is the fruit of your overflow when life isn’t on your timeline. The big question is, “How do you respond?” Slow your roll. Reflect on the person you are when life hasn’t gone your way lately. Think about how you respond to those close to you when you feel challenged, frustrated, or rushed.

Here’s a suggestion for us all . . . Let’s submit our timeline and our emotions to our Heavenly Father. Let’s ask Him for His help in being patient with the people in our lives and the places He wants to take us. He’s never late, though it may sometimes feel like it.

Patience is refining your spirit, disciplining your heart, and reminding you that He’s God and His goodness can always be trusted. Patience is the fruit of a heart that’s surrendered to God’s schedule. Has He ever been running behind?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Acts 2:22-32 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, April 12 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Are You Able to Laugh?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:50:44 GMT

Are You Able to Laugh?

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22, NIV

Do you know people who, if they would suddenly smile, their faces would crack into a million pieces? I’m sure you do. They’re everywhere. Even in the church.

Standup comedian and author David Brenner was signing books in a San Francisco bookstore when a young man handed him a newly purchased copy to be signed and said softly, “I want to thank you for saving my life.” Brenner replied flippantly, “That’s okay.” The young man stood his ground and said, “No, I really mean it.”

Brenner stopped signing and looked at him. The man said, “My father died. He was my best friend. I loved him and couldn’t stop crying for weeks. I decided to take my own life. The night I was going to do it, I happened to have the TV on. You were hosting The Tonight Show , doing your monologue. Next thing I knew I was watching you and laughing. Then I started laughing hysterically. I realized then that if I was able to laugh, I was able to live. So, I want to thank you for saving my life.” Humbled and grateful, Brenner shook his hand and said, “No, I thank you.”

One of my favorite pictures of Jesus was painted/created by Stephen Sawyer and it’s entitled “Joy to the World.” Do a Google search for it and I’m sure you’ll find it. Stephen writes this about his work: “Humor is a divine gift. Within the depths of humor there is great healing power for mind, body and spirit. Even deeper in humor there is the balm of forgiveness, patience, and unselfishness, which bubble-up as spiritual refreshment to our weary souls. The struggle for perfection, while it is long and difficult, is truly within our grasp. When Jesus exhorts us, even at this moment, to "Be of good cheer" He knows that He calls us to a life of service that challenges every resource and talent that God has given us. Jesus knows our path to perfection from free-will to consecrated free-will is the real struggle that shapes our eternal life, and the joy of unselfish service is our measure of success in overcoming the handicaps of our mortal limitations within the confines of time and space.”

I realize that for many Christians, this week, Holy Week, is not a joy-filled week. If we focus only on Jesus’ leaving His dearest disciples on Maundy Thursday and focus solely on His suffering on Good Friday’s cross, we would be people of despair. But that’s not where the story ended. Jesus conquered our sin at the cross and rose from death and the grave on the third day. Those facts alone should bring laughter to our lives.

My friend, never forget that laughter does more than help us escape our problems. It sometimes gives us the courage to face them. As humorous author Barbara Johnson has said, “ Laughter is like changing a baby’s diaper. It doesn’t permanently solve any problems, but it makes things more acceptable for a while.”

May you have a blessed Resurrection Day celebration with the knowledge that Jesus laughed at death as He exited the grave. He is risen! He is risen indeed!

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 28:1-10 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Resurrection Sunday, April 5 , as we worship the risen King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Copy of FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:55:47 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, April 17th 6:30pm

"Soul on Fire"

Join us in our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night.

Soul on Fire is a 2025 American biographical dram film about John O'Leary, a real-life St Louise native who survived fire burns which covered his entire body. It is an inspirational true story celebrating heroes and a reminder that God is still doing miracles.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Maunday Thursday Service

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:52:29 GMT

Maunday Thursday Service

We invite you to join us in Fellowship Hall for a meaningful and intimate Maundy Thursday service featuring Foot Washing and Communion.

On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered with His disciples for the Last Supper. During that time, He did something unexpected — He humbled Himself and washed His disciples’ feet. In doing so, He demonstrated what it truly means to love and serve one another.

We encourage you to come with an open heart and a spirit of humility as we remember Christ’s love and His call to serve one another.

Come experience this meaningful night of worship, reflection, and fellowship as we prepare our hearts for Easter.

We look forward to sharing this special Maundy Thursday service with you.

New Paragraph

Honest

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:20:45 GMT

Honest 

The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

Proverbs 12:22 NIV

The phrase “honesty is the best policy” can sound cheesy. But reality is our friend. Has it ever paid off in your life to be dishonest? Even when the truth hurts or consequences have to be paid, honesty will always beat spending energy covering up the truth. A life of integrity honors God and protects your peace. It allows you to be the same person in private as you are in public, not wondering if you need to cover your tracks. God deals with the real you because, at the end of the day, it’s just you and Him anyway.

Don’t let the enemy rob your joy or steal your rest. Humble yourself, be honest, and watch God handle it with His grace. Living in the light is the only way to have the energy, strength, and perseverance to run your race well. Because, at the end of the day, God loves and refines the real you, not the perception of you. Honesty is refreshing for you, for others, and certainly for your Heavenly Father who knows everything about you anyway. A life of integrity is the only kind of life worth living. Is there anything His grace can’t cover?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Psalm 118 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, March 29 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Capable

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 14:34:24 GMT

Capable

I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:13, NIV

If you’ve been reading your Bible, you know that there isn’t one story in the Bible where God called someone to complete a task or walk out a mission that was beyond their capability. Not one. David defeated Goliath. Gideon victoriously overtook the massive army that opposed him. Peter walked on the water. Countless stories and yours is the same. The hard part is remembering that you’re capable of running the race God has for you . . . not someone else’s race or the impossible standards the world or you yourself has placed on your shoulders.

My friend, let me encourage you to trust that God has given you every tool you need to not just get through your day but to set an example in strength and competence. When you partner with Jesus, you’ll witness His supernatural invade your natural. When that happens, your limitations are where His abilities begin and nothing is too hard for Him.

Isn’t it comforting to know that the One who knows everything you’ll face has already determined that you’re capable to accomplish the task? Today, lean into His guidance, trust His provision, and show up trusting that His strength in your weakness is more than you’ll ever need. My friend, you are capable because God has equipped you. Has God ever shorted you?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 11:1-45 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, March 22 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Loyal

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:07:06 GMT

Loyal

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24, NIV

From now until Resurrection Day, I want to encourage you in a very practical way to reflect, recalibrate, and refocus your mind on Jesus. If we don’t proactively put Him at the center, life will quickly fill the spot. Jesus’ times of testing in the wilderness led Him to greater perseverance, trust, and peace in His Father. It’s my hope for you that, as you put Jesus at the center, you, too, will witness His faithfulness in a whole new way. Let’s get started . . .

Do you have a friend that you know you could call no matter what time of day or what has happened? Maybe you’ve made a silent agreement between the two of you, that regardless of whether you support their choices, you support one another first and foremost. That kind of relationship can bring so much comfort and strength. The incredible truth about that kind of loyalty is that it barely scrapes the surface of the loyalty God has for His people. It’s only out of His allegiance to us that we’re able to show up for others without condition. The relationships we invest in, the causes we support, the ways we spend our time, the resources we share all show how deeply we matter to each other.

When you remain loyal to God above all, He gives you the ability to do the same for others. Your legacy is a result of your loyalty. When answering one, you inherently answer the other. Let’s let God and His Word determine the direction of both. Remember: Who you’re loyal to proves who you love. Does your life reflect that?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading 2 Timothy 1:1-14 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, March 15 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Does He Notice?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:42:13 GMT

Does He Notice?

Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

Matthew 6:26, NIV

If the above Scripture sounds familiar to some of you, here’s why. It was the Scripture reference from the Mt. Laurel Church of God’s Lenten devotional from yesterday, Tuesday, Lent 2. For those of you who aren’t familiar with what I’m referring to, here’s the skinny. For the Advent and Lenten seasons each year, my wife and I find and distribute a daily devotional book to the people who attend the Mt. Laurel Church of God ( www.mtlaurelcog.org ). Matthew 6:26 served as the basis of yesterday’s devotion and it convicted me pretty severely.

When my mother tells me that I’m special, I usually respond with, “Oh, Mother. I’m just an average, everyday kind of guy. I’m not special at all.” And as I pass through my average days, I admit that I usually miss a lot of what God has placed around me. I don’t usually notice the squirrels eating from our bird feeders until our little dog barks at them to get outta there. I don’t normally notice when the bulbs start to sprout in the spring until my wife says, “Look at the daffodils starting to grow!” I don’t usually pull myself away from my home computer unless Pamela says, “Wow! Look at that red sunset!”

The whole point of yesterday’s devotion was that God does notice each of us. If He provides the beauty of the spring flowers and the colorful plumage of each bird that sits on your feeder, be assured that God notices you, my friend, and what’s happening in your life. He’s not oblivious to your hardship. He knows what you’re feeling when you suffer the death of a loved one. He’s fully aware of your anxiety when you’re faced with a challenge at work. God surely does see, know, and love you. How do I know that? Because He sent His Son to show you how to survive this world and then to die for you. The God who created the beauty that many of us overlook each day will take care of you, not and forever.

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 4:5-42 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, March 8 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Men's Prayer Breakfast

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:25:29 GMT

MEN'S PRAYER BREAKFAST - BECOMING MEN OF HUMILITY

PLEASE REGISTER BY MARCH 10th SO WE KNOW HOW MUCH FOOD TO MAKE.

Join us in Fellowship Hall on March 13th @ 8:30am for a FREE Men's Prayer Breakfast. A Guest Speaker will bring the message.

A love offering will be accepted.

Grab the other Men in your life and join us for this time of food, fellowship & Worship!

God has called out to each of us.

No matter where you are on your

journey, we all benefit from

looking at and hearing God's

Word together.

Join us for breakfast, fellowship,

and a guest speaker. This is a

great opportunity to get to know

the other men of the church,

share experiences, and grow your

faith to become the man God

wants you to be.

We'd love to have you come to our prayer breakfast

visit: www.mtlaurelcog.org/mens-breakfast to register and let us know you will be joining us.

BOOK DISCUSSION

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:22:42 GMT

April 18th 9:00am - 10:30am

Grab your copy of Max Lucado's - Anxious for Nothing - Finding Calm in a Chaotic World and join us on April 18th for a book discussion in Classroom #1.

Max Lucado's Anxious for Nothing teaches how to find peace by focusing on Philippians 4:4-8, emphasizing four main steps: Celebrate God's goodness, Ask God for help through prayer, leave worries with Him, and Meditate on good, positive things, ultimately replacing worry with faith, gratitude, and peace by trusting in God's control and presence.

New Paragraph

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:16:57 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, March 20th 6:30pm

"Raising The Bar"

Join us in our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night.

Raising The Bar: The Alma Richards Story

in 1908, Alma Richards, an eighth grader, quits school to work as a ranch hand. A chance meeting with a professor motivates him to resume his education, leading him to compete in the high jump at the Stockholm Olympics and win a gold medal.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

C.R.A.S.E - Civilian Response to Active Shooter Event

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:19:22 GMT

C.R.A.S.E. - Civilian Response to Active Shooter Event

March 19th 2026, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Mt Laurel Church of God Fellowship Hall

This two-hour course will begin at 6:30pm and conclude with refreshments. The instructor will provide us with a model response program that will prepare us for any possible active or armed threat. The course, built on Avoid, Defend (ADD)/ Run, Hide, Fight strategy will help us be prepared should we ever be called upon to defend ourselves and/or our neighbors.

Plan to stay afterwards for delicious refreshments

Preparing for Tomorrow Means Using Today Right

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:19:15 GMT

Preparing for Tomorrow Means Using Today Right

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34, NIV

Lately I’ve been hearing a lot about future-casting, planning for the future, and getting ready for tomorrow’s possibilities. Maybe my Alexa devices have heard me mention the word “retirement.” And before you get your panties in a twist . . . No, I’m not retiring! Yet.

All that to say this: The only preparation you need for tomorrow is the right use of today. The following story from Charles Schulz’s Charlie Brown comic strip might help illustrate my point today.

Charlie Brown is seen at bat. STRIKE THREE. He’s struck out again and slumps down on the players’ bench. He says, “Rats! I’ll never be a big-league player. I just don’t have it! All my life I’ve dreamed of playing in the big leagues, but I know I’ll never make it.”

Lucy turns to console him. “Charlie Brown,” she says, “you’re thinking too far ahead. What you need to do is set yourself more immediate goals.”

Charlie Brown looks up and asks, “Immediate goals?”

Lucy responds, “Yes, Start with this next inning when you go out to pitch. See if you can walk out to the mound without falling down.”

The first step to walking into any future is the step that you take today. Make it a forward . . . positive . . . springy and light-hearted . . . energetic . . . well-aimed . . . purposeful step. The steps you take today become the well-worn path of tomorrow.

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Psalm 121 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, March 1 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Discerning God’s Will

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:52:26 GMT

Discerning God’s Will

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Matthew 5:8, NIV

If you’re anything like me (I don’t mean to assume you are, but I have to think we may have some similarities), then it’s likely that at times you face a challenging life decision and are really trying to discern what it is that God is calling you to do.

Sometimes there isn’t even a bad option as much as just trying to figure out which might be the best. Here’s what happens in my life: I get it right about 50% of the time. The other 50% is when I jump in with both feet to something that seemed like what I should do . . . only to realize mid-jump that maybe I leapt before I really looked. Please tell me I’m not the only one that’s ever done that!

But here’s what I love about God and what Matthew 5:8 promises us: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” It doesn’t say, “Blessed are those who never mess things up” or “Blessed are those who do all the right things,” because God is always more focused on our hearts than on our actions. Let’s face it: We’re flawed people just trying to do our best, and sometimes that’s enough and sometimes we still fall short.

When the prophet Samuel went to look for the next king of Israel and saw David, God reminded Samuel that He wasn’t concerned with outward appearance but looks at what’s in a person’s heart. If we allow ourselves to fall in love with Jesus completely and totally, we’ll find more and more that our heart is in the right place, and that’s when we experience the pure joy of what it means to walk in the way He has for us. Our desires for ourselves will line up more and more with His desires.

And that doesn’t mean we become perfect. God isn’t concerned about us being perfect because He knows exactly who we are, with all our flaws and weaknesses. He’s our Creator and knows us better than we know ourselves. He wants our hearts to be pure because that’s when we can really experience what it means to walk in the freedom of all that he intends for us to become. Yes, He wants us to live lives that are holy and pure, but He also is there to catch us when we inevitably fall short when we take those leaps with both feet.

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 4:1-11 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, February 22 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

The You That Only You Can Be

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:01:21 GMT

The You That Only You Can Be

So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. Now Joseph was well-built and handsome, and after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”

Genesis 39:6-7, NIV

Remember that time when you were placed in charge of a powerful man’s estate and then somebody wanted to sleep with you and you said no and found yourself in prison. Me neither.

But that was a real thing for Joseph. You’d think maybe being sold into slavery by your brothers would be the lowest point of your life, but I feel like being falsely accused after doing the right thing and then finding yourself in prison might be a close second.

Do you know what you’d never hear Joseph say? “THAT’S NOT FAIR!” Joseph kept trusting in God even during all the chaos and tragedy in his life. He always chose the high road, even though it appeared sometimes to be getting him nowhere except a prison cell.

I’ve heard it said that character and integrity is who you are when no one is looking. I believe the key to living a faithful and successful life is to never compromise your integrity for any kind of gain.

Joseph could’ve slept with Potiphar’s wife and maybe no one would have known. But instead, he risked it all to do the right thing. Doesn’t it always feel better to return the wallet filled with cash you found in the parking lot instead of keeping it for yourself and knowing it wasn’t yours to keep? It’s a reminder that living with integrity won’t always be the easiest road, but it’ll always be the road that leads you where God wants to take you.

There’s no job, no relationship, no object worth losing who you are, because somewhere is a God-ordained opportunity waiting for the real you, the you that only you can be, the you that can sleep like a well-behaved baby at night knowing you did the right thing even if no one noticed. No one applauded Joseph for his choice. In fact, he was punished for doing the right thing. But God saw, and ultimately, Joseph was blessed for being a man of character and integrity. God looks for those same traits in each of us, hoping He’ll find us faithful in a million small ways that others my never even notice.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading 2 Peter 1:16-21 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, February 15 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Under Pressure

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:36:08 GMT

Under Pressure

“. . . because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

James 1:3-4, NIV

Don’t you wonder how much of the stress we deal with on a day-to-day basis is really a test from the Lord? Obviously, we’re all under some kind of tension. Maybe it’s caused by your spouse or your kids or your workplace or your health. Maybe your tension is a direct result of decisions you made in the past and the consequences you’re having to deal with now. We all are called to handle some form and some level of pressure. How we deal with it makes all the difference in our level of peace.

An old legend says that God first created birds without wings. Sometime later, God made wings and said to the birds, “Come, take up these burdens and bear them.” The birds hesitated at first but soon obeyed. They tried picking up the wings in their beaks but found them too heavy. Then they tried picking them up with their claws but found them too large. Finally, one of the birds managed to get the wings hoisted onto its shoulders where it was finally possible to carry them.

To the amazement of the birds, before long the wings began to grow and they soon had attached themselves to the bodies of the birds. One of the birds began to flap his wings and others followed his example. Before long, one of the birds took off and began to soar in the air above!

What had once been a heavy burden now became the very thing that enabled the birds to go where they could never go before . . . and at the same time, truly fulfill the destiny of their creation.

My friend, the duties and responsibilities you count as burdens today may be part of God’s plan for your life, the means by which your soul is lifted up and prepared for eternity. Don’t be afraid of the pressure. Remember that pressure is what turns a lump of coal into a beautiful diamond.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 5:1-12 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, February 8 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:02:33 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, February 20th 6:30pm

"Pardoned by Grace"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night.

Pardoned by Grace - Drug addict and alcoholic Scott Highberger overcomes his demons and finds religion. After serving time, he becomes a pastor and runs a successful prison ministry.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Chair-Assisted Strength & Mobilty Class

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:57:25 GMT

BEGINNING FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13TH AT 6:00PM

This chair-assisted strength and mobility class is designed to help participants improve balance, flexibility, and overall strength in a safe, supportive environment. using a chair for stability and confidence, we will focus on gentle movements that support everyday activities such as standing, walking, reaching and maintaining independence.

This class is appropriate for all fitness levels, including those with limited mobility, balance concerns, arthritis or those returning to movement after time away. Exercises may be done seated or using the chair for support, and participants are always encouraged to work at their own pace. The goal is not perfection, but progress-caring for the body while honoring its abilities.

Join us the 2nd & 4th Friday evening of every month!

Wednesday Evening Bible Study

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:23:12 GMT

Wednesday Evening Bible Study

Have you ever considering coming to Wednesday Evening Bible Study and Prayer Time? If you used to attend and don't anymore, have you considered coming back?

We are starting a new series called "Phlippin' Through Philippians." The Book of Philippians is a letter form the apostle Paul to the church in Philippi and is often called the "Letter of Joy," because it focuses on helping us find contentment and jot in Christ in the midst of suffering. Won't you come join us as we learn about humility (the "mind of Christ"), perseverance and unity as we partner in sharing of the Gospel?

Meet with us in the sanctuary each Wednesday evening at 7 o'clock!

Being a Good Neighbor

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:33:44 GMT

Being a Good Neighbor

But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.

Luke 10:33-34 NIV

While I haven’t enjoyed being out in 10 degree weather, the recent snow storm has given each of us the opportunity to help someone else. Even as I write this (on Monday morning), the sound of snowblowers is echoing through my neighborhood. Those who own them have cleared their driveways and are now clearing their neighbors’ driveways of snow. It’s a good thing to see! Edmund Burke once said, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”

Here’s how it works in my corner of the neighborhood. Marjorie stores her snowblower in her garage through the spring, summer and fall and then I bring it to my shed around Thanksgiving, clean the spark plug, oil the moving parts and get it ready for the winter months. Then, when the snow flies, I gas it up, clear the snow from her driveway, continue removing the snow from Nick, Casey and Kendra’s driveway (located between Marjorie’s house and mine) and then I clear my own driveway. The arrangement works out really well, don’t you think? You see, for me to stand by and do nothing while others need help, would make me as guilty as if I was the one causing their discomfort. I hope I never pass up the opportunity to show the people God places in my path what kindness, mercy, and compassion look like. And I hope I always appreciate my neighbors’ willingness to let me serve them during these bitter winter months.

Perhaps you’ll recall that Jesus told a story about a good Samaritan. He talked about a man who had been stripped, beaten, and left for dead. A priest and a Levite, where were both considered holy men of that time, passed him by and ignored his pain. But it was a Samaritan, who was considered a social outcast, who took pity on the man. The Samaritan not only took care of him in that moment but also left money for the innkeeper and asked him to look after the man until he was well. Jesus says that the Samaritan was the man who was the neighbor.

The think is, we all have ways, both big and small, that we can be a good neighbor in so many areas of our life. It doesn’t have to be as dramatic as rescuing a blooded man on the side of the road (although that could be the case). It can be as simple as bringing a meal to a sick neighbor, stopping by the house of an elderly friend to see if he or she needs anything, welcoming the kid who roams the neighborhood into your home for a cookie and a glass of milk, or listening to a coworker who’s going through a hard time.

God has placed us in unique areas of our world where He calls us to be His hands and feet, to love the hurting, to take care of the sick, and to carry each other’s burdens when we can’t carry them alone. That’s really what life is all about. Where can you help today? Where can you make a difference? Where can you be a good neighbor today?

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 4:12-23 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, February 1 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords! (Yes, that Scripture is correct. Because of the snow cancelation, we’ll be pushing the preaching schedule back a week).

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

No Comparison!

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:44:52 GMT

No Comparison!

we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.

Galatians 5:26 The Message

I’ve been doing social media since AOL’s Instant Messenger all the rage and sending PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement since 2003 but something interesting has happened as we’ve begun to document our lives on Facebook, X, Instagram, Snapchat, and whatever has been invented while I typed this sentence. We’ve never had so many ways to compare our lives to other people. We know what our friends are eating for breakfast, if they’re drinking a fruity drink on a beach in Florida, when their kids make honor roll, and . . . Lord, help me . . . we’ve even seen photos of vacations from more locations than anyone ever needs to see while we’re stuck here in the frigid North. All those feelings of inferiority we used to only feel when everyone’s Christmas newsletter arrived are now available to us every day via our phones, tablets, and computers.

Social media shows us that everyone else’s house is prettier, their meals taste better, their spouses are more romantic, and their kids are smarter than ours. We can get caught in a never-ending loop of comparison, and nothing makes us feel more unsettled. I guess there’s a reason for the quote, “Comparison is the thief of joy,” because you can always come up short in your own mind when you lose sight of your blessings while counting what someone else has, or at least what they appear to have.

Social media is just a snapshot of our lives. A quick, fleeting moment that’s well filtered and often not very indicative of real life, which may involve a dog throwing up on the kitchen floor and dinner burning and the fact that your spouse is on your last nerve.

My friend let’s keep in mind that we all have unique gifts, callings, joys, and sorrows. Life is too short for comparison, and it only hurts us to focus on what we don’t have instead. We each need to walk our own road and not spend time looking left or right to see what everyone else is doing, especially because we never know what road someone else is traveling. Sometimes when we look beneath the surface, things aren’t always as they appear. That person with the designer kitchen and perfect kids may be hurting even when it all looks shiny on the outside.

Let’s encourage each other to be the best version of who God has called us to be. Let’s cheer each other on in our victories and successes. Let’s be honest with each other when we’ve failed and feel inadequate and hurting. Isn’t that how we build real relationships anyway? God has far more interesting things for us to do than to spend our time comparing our lives to someone else’s. Embrace the gifts you’ve been given, my friend, and walk your road with the security that can only come from God.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 4:12-23 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, January 25 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Does God Build With Weak Things?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:17:31 GMT

Does God Build With Weak Things?

The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.”

Genesis 12:1-2 NIV

We all have doubts, don’t we? When circumstances get too big or expectations seem different from what we want, doubts start creeping in. What if this isn’t the right thing? What if I heard God wrong? What if I make a huge mistake? What if I totally fail my kids and they end up living in a van down by the river?

We get scared, don’t we? We’re no different than anyone else. We all like to feel in control of every part of our lives and it’s hard to surrender that control. It’s hard to say, “I trust you, no matter what.”

I’m sure you realize by now that one of the few constants in life is that things will always change. Sorry about using that word. You probably like “change” as much as the next person. We hate change. It leaves us feeling unsettled, unsure, and insecure as we try to find new footing in different circumstances. But the thing about moving forward is that it requires venturing into new, uncharted territory.

Do you ever feel like God is holding a big megaphone saying, “Hey, you! YES, YOU OF LITTLE FAITH. I have a plan .”

Abram had no idea what God had in store for hm. His mind couldn’t imagine what God was going to do. And yet he packed up his camels, his turbans, and everything he had, loaded up his family, and headed to a strange land. He was the original

Grapes of Wrath story. How could he do that? In one word . . . FAITH. He had faith that God wasn’t going to do him wrong. He had faith that God wasn’t going to lead him to a place with no provision for him and his family. His faith in God’s promises allowed him to step out into the unknown.

I’m not sure where life is headed this year, but by faith, I know God is already there. I’m determined to trust God’s plan. The voice of destiny is God’s voice. What about you? Do you believe that God has your best interests in mind? Are you willing to trust His way first?

God, the chief architect and builder is asking us to step out in faith, trusting His way. And yes, He can, indeed, use our weak faith to build a mighty thing from our little lives. If we trust Him to lead the way into the unknown.

There’s my challenge for you, my friend. Trust God as He leads you into the unknown of 2026. Follow closely on His heals. Keep your ears tuned to His voice. And believe, in faith, that He knows the way ahead.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Jeremiah 29:1-14 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message this coming Sunday, January 18 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Service Not Servitude

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:33:43 GMT

Service Not Servitude

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Galatians 5:13 NIV

Serve others? You’ve GOT to be kidding! Friend, I don’t need to tell you that we live in a selfish, self-centered world where 99% of people are trying to get to the front of the line, be the first to be served, and have the best of the best. But what a difference a few letters can make! Consider those two words service and servitude . Most dictionaries usually define servitude as “bondage.” Synonyms include words like slavery, compulsory work, or labor as punishment. Servitude conjures up images of work from which there’s no escape.

It's amazing that servitude shares the same dictionary page as service . In reality, the meanings of those two words couldn’t be further apart. Service is everything servitude is not. Service means “to assist,” “to give aide,” and “to help.” No coercion lies behind those words. Service implies an authentic willingness to offer help . . . to help simply because help is needed.

In Galatians, the apostle Paul reminds us about our reality as Christ-followers . . . We are free! Free from coercion. Free from guilt and punishment. Free to live as children of our heavenly Father. God demands nothing from us. Jesus already completed what the Father required. Christ willingly suffered and died . . . and in power and glory our Savior rose again! Christ did it all so we could be free.

Before today gets any older, why not take a few quiet moments to reflect on your freedom in Christ. Find comfort in the arms of your heavenly Father as He whispers how precious you really are to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to protect you from an attitude of servitude and to fill you instead with an eager willingness to serve others with joy and gratitude.

In fact, please pray this prayer with me: Lord, impress on my heart today the reality of the freedom You won for me at Your cross. I’m free! Free! Free, now, to serve You and others in love. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Psalm 29 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, January 11 , as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords !

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Notes to Self

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:52:58 GMT

Notes to Self

As we all look forward to a New Year, I know I’m yearning for a simpler range of life experiences. The Advent and Christmas seasons were happy holidays, brought normal times with settings and experiences that made me feel more comfortable. And yet, if we were to look at the full range of our daily experiences this past year, our reality was probably something very different. The days in front of us in 2026 will inevitably provide an extensive array of experiences that evoke feelings ranging from sadness and struggle to growth and pride, and more.

I told my church family this past Sunday that I love New Years Day! Think about it. We have a choice starting tomorrow. We can resist the reality of having to deal with potential discomfort and uncertainty, times when we’ll sometimes feel upset. Or we can embrace every experience God allows us to live, including all the highs and lows. We can choose to accept all the blissful moments and the frustrating ones and everything in between. Let’s face it . . . Life isn’t always happy and comfortable 24/7. It’s well-rounded and it’s ever-changing.

Embracing the full range of life’s experiences between now and the end of 2026 means embracing every moment with our full presence, remaining open and vulnerable to reality, being gentle with ourselves when moments are tougher than we expected, and practicing sincere gratitude to God whenever possible. Starting a new year means accepting life as it is, and accepting ourselves as we are. It means not expecting the best to happen every day along the way, but instead accepting what happens with each step, and making the best of it with God’s grace. It may not always be easy of course, but it’ll be worth remembering.

The key is keeping the right thoughts at the top of your mind. And maybe that begins now by writing some notes to yourself. And after you’ve written them, review them daily until they become ingrained in your mind. Those memorized notes can help you stay on track in different areas of life by empowering you to make the best and most effective use of the ever-changing reality that lies before you in 2026. Let me suggest some “Notes to Self” that might serve as examples for yours:

Note to Self: Happiness is letting go of what you assume your life is supposed to be like right now, and sincerely appreciating it for everything it is. So, RELAX. You are enough. You have enough. You do enough. Breathe deep. Let go, and just live right now in this moment.

Note to Self: When things aren’t adding up in your life, begin subtracting. Life gets a lot simpler when you clear the clutter that makes it complicated. Bring your attention back to what’s important and move forward.

Note to Self: You can’t control how other people behave. You can’t control everything that happens to you. What you can control is how you respond to it all. Your strength is in your response.

What notes to self are YOU going to write? Do it today or at least before the New Year gets too old.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 9:35; 10:8-23 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, January 4 , the first Sunday of a brand new year dedicated to worshiping the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Community Blood Drive

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 12:33:06 GMT

American Red Cross Community Blood Drive - January 21, 2026

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 from 1pm - 5:30pm we will be hosing one of our quarterly blood drives in the Fellowship Hall. This is a great opportunity to help save a life by donating much-needed blood. Even if you can't donate, you can help by spreading the word to neighbors, family & friends. Call 1-800-733-7867

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time?dt=WB:PL:DR:PM&zipSponsor=17112

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 12:30:35 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, January 16th 6:30pm

"The Case for Christ"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night.

The Case for Christ is a 2017 American Christian drama film directed by Jon Gunn and written by Brian Bird, based on a true story and inspired by the 1998 book of the same name by lee Strobel. The film stars Mike Vogel, Erika Christensen, Faye Dunaway and Robert Forster, and follows an atheist journalist who looks to disprove his wife's Christian faith.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Face to Face with Mystery

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 12:41:35 GMT

Face to Face with Mystery

Today we come face to face with the mystery and wonder of the unique event described in John 1:1-16. God broke through into our time and world to be with us. This is the moment toward which or Advent preparation pointed us. This is the unbelievable moment when God touched this earth of ours in a unique way, when God visited us on earth in the flesh of a little Child. This Child brings to us the promise of a new beginning, a promise freighted with hope, a promise that fills us with inner joy, an inward peace and stability that no one will ever be able to take away from us.

As God comes to us again this Christmas to renew and strengthen us through the gift of Jesus, God doesn’t ask us to blind ourselves to reality. God doesn’t ask us to close our eyes to the hungry and disenfranchised. God doesn’t expect us to make believe that everything is OK in this world and in our lives.

Think again of the world in which Elizabeth and Mary lived: death and disease, poverty and ruthless power, human life held cheap. Yet they continued to live in hope because something extraordinary, something from the world beyond them was unfolding before them. Zechariah and Elizabeth, hopelessly old, were given a child to prepare the way for the One who would bring light and life into the darkness of this world. Righteous Joseph and the young virgin, Mary, carrying the One who would set us free from in. No wonder they were filled with inner joy.

Tomorrow we will celebrate, in all its fullness, the good news of Christmas. The Word became flesh to live with us, share our life and conquer death. The Word comes to give us power to become the children of God. The Word comes to be with us all the way, in every way, always.

May you celebrate the birth of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, with the fresh vision of a child. And may God’s Son, Jesus Christ, lead you to hope, peace, joy and love as you anticipate His coming again in triumphal glory! Have a Merry Christmas!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Psalm 148 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, December 28 , the last Sunday you’ll have to worship the King of kings and Lord of lords this year!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Don’t Suffer Twice

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:55:52 GMT

God’s Work of Art

Don’t Suffer Twice

Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

Matthew 6:27 NIV

I’m not sure where I was when I saw the church sign, but its statement smacked me between the eyes. It said, “Worrying means you suffer twice.” And I’ve been thinking about it ever since. Do you find that statement to be true, yet you still catch yourself worrying when you’re in the middle of a situation where the outcome seems unclear?

I guess it’s human nature to want to know all the things that will happen over the course of the next day, a week, or a month. It gives us an illusion of control if we can plan for scenarios A, B, and C. Sadly life doesn’t really work like that, and so we can find ourselves worrying about our finances, our marriage, our kids, our health, our job situation, our friends . . . and on and on. The list is really endless. But here’s what I’ve found: most of the things I worry about the most never actually end up happening. And even when they do, they’re almost never as bad as I imagined them to be. I totally get that bad things can and do happen all around us and to us, but worrying about all of those what-ifs doesn’t change one thing . . . except for maybe our blood pressure and our stress level. And in all our worrying and imagining of worst-case scenarios, we never account for all the grace and mercy God will pour out in our lives if we do actually find ourselves in the middle of the worst thing we could have imagined.

I try to keep this in mind every time I feel myself begin to worry about situations I can’t control. Life can be hard and scary, but worrying about this thing or that thing isn’t going to be what gets us through any of it. Only when we keep our eyes on Jesus, knowing that He’ll work even the worst situation out for our good, is what can help us keep our perspective and faith in check. And like that church’s sign said, “Worrying just means we suffer twice.”

So the next time you start to feel that familiar worry rise up in you like the fantastic beast it can be, remember that God has you in the palm of His hand and that all the worrying in the world isn’t going to add one single hour to your life. However, trusting Him is going to make your life infinitely better and filled with peace. And isn’t that what the world is really looking for?

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 1:18-25 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, December 21 , the fourth Sunday in the season of Advent!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

God’s Work of Art

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:59:17 GMT

God’s Work of Art

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4 NIV

I had a few minutes to do nothing the other day, so I was scrolling through Facebook because, I confess, I’m a Facebook voyeur. I often don’t post anything personal, but I like to see the personal stuff others post. Sorry if that sounds freaky. Anyway, I saw this picture someone posted of the beautiful pieces of sea glass a friend had found on the beach that morning. Some of you know how I feel about the beach. Even though I like jumping the waves, I’d rather not find sand where the sun doesn’t shine, if you know what I mean. But I love finding sea glass.

Many years ago, before humankind knew about the importance of things like protecting the environment and taking care of Planet Earth, people used to feel free to throw their trash into the ocean because I guess they assumed the ocean was vast enough to be their own personal dumpster. Maybe they thought their trash would go out to a part of the ocean no one ever sees? I don’t know. But if you’re a child of the sixties like I am, you might remember the commercial that featured the crying Native American who was sad about all the litter across America. He scared me straight.

Anyway, all those bottles that were tossed in the ocean over the years end up being broken into shards of glass as they’re pounded by the waves. They’re tossed about and hit sand and rocks and those sharp, jagged pieces of glass eventually get polished into smooth, elegant pieces that look like jewels and are little treasures that wash up on the beaches.

When I saw that picture of my friend holding all that beautiful sea glass, it made me think about how much you and I are like all those broken pieces of glass. We have sharp edges, we’re broken, and certain parts of our lives make us feel like we’re beyond usefulness or purpose. But God uses the waves and the rocks in our lives, the obstacles that often seem like they’re going to be the final straw that will break us, to create something new and even more beautiful than what we once were.

The Lord hones out our sharp edges, polishes our hearts, and makes us into His very own beautiful works of art. Because it’s often after we’ve gone through the hardest situations and trials that we’re the most effective and best version of ourselves and God is able to use us in other people’s lives to encourage them and sustain them as they go through hard times. And it helps us to remember in our own lives that when difficult times come, we have a God who makes all things beautiful in the end. I’m not sure how God feels about sea glass, but I know for sure that He loves you!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading James 5:7-10 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, December 14 , the third Sunday in the season of Advent!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Unlikely Warriors

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:29:01 GMT

Unlikely Warriors

The Best Nap Ever

When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”

Judges 6:12 NIV

Have you ever had times in your life when you’ve just felt stagnant? You knew where your life was headed but then it seemed to stall out a little or take you in a different direction that you didn’t necessarily want to go. Me, too. The truth is that we all get tired and lose our way.

I just happened to be reading through the book of Judges the other day and I came across the story of Gideon in chapter 6. The Israelites had been invaded by the Midianites and were totally oppressed by them. In the midst of all that was a guy named Gideon who was threshing wheat in a winepress. Normally he would’ve threshed his wheat out in the open so the wind could separate the chaff from the grain. Winepresses in Old Testament times were tall stone basins, designed to drain off the wine as one trampled it underfoot. But Gideon was afraid of the Midianites and was hiding in the winepress.

While Gideon was hiding out, an angel appeared to him and said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” I mean, you gotta love angels who deal in irony. Mighty warrior? Gideon was hiding! He was threshing his wheat in fear, and yet the angel called him a mighty warrior.

The angel had come to tell Gideon that God was going to use him to deliver the Israelites from Midian. At first Gideon didn’t believe it. In fact, he asked God for a sign two different times to make sure he’d heard God right. Ultimately, Gideon ended up being exactly what the angel called him . . . a mighty warrior. He defeated the Midianites using only three hundred men. Do you see what God did there? He called Gideon to something he never could have imagined for himself. That’s what God does.

God sees what we can’t see. He sees something where there’s nothing. Even though I’ve read the story of Gideon and had that revelation before, I saw it with fresh eyes the other day. I needed a reminder that God sees something in me that I don’t see in myself. I see all my insecurities and worries and just general yuck, but He looks at me and sees something entirely different. He sees something He can use for His plans and purposes.

But here’s the kicker . . . God sees you the same way! You may not know what that looks like right now, but God does. I’m sure this has been a tough year for some of you. Maybe God is changing your heart about some things and keeping your heart hoping for others. Maybe you’re still looking for answers but at the same time realizing that knowing all the answers doesn’t require much faith.

All that to say this . . . Listen for God’s voice and try to see more of what He sees in you. God looks at the part of you where you see nothing and He sees a mighty warrior. Don’t give up, Mighty Warrior! Get out of your winepress and let God reveal the potential He sees in you!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouraged today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Matthew 3:1-12 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, December 7 , the second Sunday in the season of Advent!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

BOOK DISCUSSION

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:22:42 GMT

Saturday January 17th 9:00am - 10:30 am

Grab your copy of Angels at the Table by Debbie Macomber and join us on January 17th for a book discussion in the Sisters in Joy room.

This is a joyous and whimsical holiday novel with angels Shirley, Goodness & Mercy delivering laughs, love and a charming dose of angelic intervention. The book is available on Amazon for $8.00.

New Paragraph

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:08:21 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, December 19th 6:30pm - DOUBLE FEATURE

"Dr Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas & The Best Christmas Pageant Ever"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night.

�� Double Feature Christmas Movie Night! ��
Get ready for a holly-jolly evening as we bring two holiday favorites to the big screen! First, laugh along with Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch That Stole Christmas , then enjoy the heartwarming chaos of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever . Cozy up, bring your Christmas spirit, and come hungry— a delicious food will be served to make the night complete.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

The Best Nap Ever

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:48:09 GMT

The Best Nap Ever

I’ll refresh tired bodies; I’ll restore tired souls.

J eremiah 31:25 The Message

As I write this, two days before Thanksgiving Day, 30 days before Christmas, and 36 days until the end of this year, I can almost hear the door shut on one year and another open on a New Year. I can almost see the finish line of 2025, but I’m so tired that I have no idea how I’m going to make it there. I still have projects around the house to finish, sermons to write, special events to plan for, and countless items on my honey-do list. True confession? All I really want to do is take a nap and then binge watch some Hallmark Christmas movies. I know that sounds ambitious, but I like to have some goals.

Here’s the point: we all reach points in our life when we’re like, “Check, please. I think I’m done.” But life still goes on, and there are Thanksgiving meals to make and groceries to buy and Christmas gifts to order from Amazon and work projects that have to be finished and chicken that needs to be cooked before it goes bad and you have to throw it out. [Side note . . . I really wanted to make a joke about how you know when the chicken has gone bad . . . when it starts smoking and wearing little black leather jackets. See how tired my brain is right now?]

But you know what? We have a God who understands that life can wear us down. He made us to need rest, which is why all the health articles tell us we should be getting at least eight hours of sleep each night. We function better, we think more clearly, and our moods are infinitely better.

Often, it’s not just our physical bodies that need rest. It’s our souls. The physical tasks can wear us down, but it’s often the mental and spiritual battles that feel like they’re going to kill us. But God never meant for us to walk through them alone. He promised to refresh our weary souls. He knows the battles we face, that the daily grind and just life in general is hard. We just need to go to Him and ask Him to refresh the places in us that feel like they’ve reached an end. And hey, even Jesus enjoyed a good nap every now and then!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouraged today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Isaiah 2:1-5 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, November 30 , the first Sunday in the season of Advent!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

The God Who Sees

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:18:04 GMT

The God Who Sees

She [Hagar] gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen ^[ ^a ^] the One who sees me.”

Genesis 16:13 NIV

Here’s the thing about life. It’s going to be hard sometimes. The end. Thanks for reading. Oh, by the way, feel free to have that printed on a T-shirt.

Do you know the story of Hagar? Her story began when God promised Abram an heir, yet his wife, Sarai, had yet to get pregnant after many years of trying. Sarai decided she was going to help God out and had her maidservant, Hagar, conceive a child with her husband Abram. Shockingly, the plan didn’t go so well, and Sarai became terribly jealous of Hagar and mistreated her, causing Hagar to run away. Who could’ve seen that coming besides everyone involved? But you know, I have trouble judging Sarai because I too have made some really bad decisions on an impulse to help God out. Because, you know, He’s just the Creator of the universe and probably has needed my help. Right?

Anyway, Hagar ran away with her son, Ishmael, and found herself in the middle of a desert with no food or water. Hagar felt that all hope was gone when, suddenly, an angel of the Lord showed up. He told her what to do, and she knew that God hadn’t forgotten her. And so she gave God the name El Roi, which means “the God Who Sees.” She’s the only person in the whole Bible to give God a name. I think it says a lot about the heart of God that He met her there in the desert, in the midst of her hopelessness. Hagar was a minor character in the unfolding story of Abraham, yet in God’s economy she was no less important. God saw her. And God provided for her.

Maybe, like me, you feel like your life is small potatoes in the grand scope of all God has to deal with. I’m just an average guy, a man trying to be the best husband for his wife, a son trying to care for an aging mother, a granddad trying to be a cool Pappy to my grandkids and love God and teach His people to walk humbly with Him. Does any of that really matter in light of all that’s happening in the world?

Hagar’s story is a reminder to me, and it should be to you, that we serve El Roi, the God Who Sees. He sees all the small details of our lives. He sees our hopes, our dreams, our heartbreaks, our triumphs, and our struggles. He sees who we are, who we hope to be, and who we can become. It can be so easy to feel that we’re overlooked as we just go about our daily activities like laundry, grocery shopping, bill paying, and going to work . . . but we have a God who sees us.

And if we believe He sees us, then what’s the point in stressing about figuring life out as if we’re on our own? Let’s admit that we don’t have all the answers. We don’t have to come up with some grand scheme because we have a God who sees us and wants to be a part of everything we do and everything we are. He meets us in the deserts of our life and promises to give us everything we need.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouraged today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, why not consider reading Luke 1:68-79 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, November 23?

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Have You Considered Saying Yes?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:50:18 GMT

Have You Considered Saying Yes?

Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Mark 10:21-22 NIV

I’ve always thought the story of the rich young ruler is so heartbreaking. This wealthy young man runs to Jesus, falls on his knees, and is excited to learn more about His teachings. Jesus lists the commandments, and the ruler proudly claims that he’s kept all of them. But Jesus looks past the surface and tells him that he must sell everything he has and give it to the poor. The young ruler decides almost instantly that this is a step too far and walks away sad.

My thoughts go to two places: Part of me wishes that Jesus could’ve met him halfway. You know, maybe asked him to give up a little of his wealth. You know? Baby steps. But then I wish the young ruler could’ve seen that what he would gain by following Jesus would ultimately be so much more than any comfort he’d find in his worldly possessions.

Maybe those are my thoughts because I’ve been the rich young ruler. I’ve run to Jesus more times than I can count, excited about the possibility of a new adventure or ministry and then ultimately decided it was more than I wanted to take on. I’ve patted myself on the back for how good I am. I mean, just the other day I didn’t use my favorite phrase (“You can’t fix stupid!”) when that lady cut me off in traffic and almost caused a wreck. In my own eyes I’m like an angel on earth! I’ve built myself up, only to realize that anything good in me is really just a momentary illusion when I come face-to-face with the holiness of God.

Maybe we both need to face the bold reality that sometimes, as much as we love God, we’re limited because we hold on to things He’s asked us to surrender. God invites us into this new thing, but we grip our wealth, our fears, our insecurities, our safety nets so tightly because we don’t really believe that God is going to give us everything we need. And the reality is that He’s going to give us so much more.

How different might that rich young ruler’s life have looked if he had said yes? How different would our lives look if we said yes? What if we took the leap, let go of the familiar and comfortable, and said yes to Jesus? He’s just waiting to take us to places we never could have imagined!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs challenged or encouraged today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, why not consider reading Isaiah 65:17-25 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, November 16?

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Blessed

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:33:04 GMT

Blessed

“Am I now seeking human approval or God’s approval? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still pleasing people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Galatians 1:10 NIV

I have a confession: I am a people pleaser. I want people to like me. I want everyone to think I’m nice. Misunderstandings make me cringe, and controversy makes me want to run and hide. When I was growing up, my parents expected me to do my best (not unnatural). So, I bent over backward to please my teachers, my peers, and my parents by always doing what was expected. I’ve always liked to blend in and not open myself up in a way that may cause other people to say, “Well, that’s weird.”

Now that I’m a pastor, I sometimes find myself wondering if I’m taking the church in the right direction, if I should be doing more as the pastor, and if I should be asking more from my church family.

I’m sure you know that we live in a world where approval matters. Just look at social media. X, Instagram, and Facebook are all geared around getting likes or having people tell us we’re winning at life. We want our homes to be beautiful, our kids to be on the honor roll, and our marriages to be awesome. In short, we want to appear to be blessed.

The problem is that we’ll always have critics. People will always find a way to criticize anything. We all want 5 stars on our reviews, not one. Sometimes our loudest critics are our own family members. Maybe you felt that you could never be smart enough or athletic enough. We should have been doctors. We can spend our entire lives trying to please our critics, and ultimately, they’ll never be satisfied. There’s always something else to criticize.

Which is why you and I need to remember that the only approval that matters is God’s. Nobody knows you like God knows you. You can’t know someone’s marriage or life unless you’ve lived it. We’re all good at putting on a brave face and acting like everything is okay even when we’re hurting inside. And since only God knows us inside and out, His approval is what matters.

What will make us stand out in this world is looking different. Our relationships should look different. Our kids should be raised to love Jesus and put Him first. We need to lay down what we want for what Jesus wants. That’s the key to living life with the security that can only come from God, because when our security comes from knowing who we are in Christ and what He has done for us, others’ opinions matter less. And we realize we’re so very loved.

I encourage you to find the purpose for which you were created and quit worrying about what others think. Because when we’re doing what God created us to do, we’ll find fulfillment that no worldly approval can offer. We become secure in the choices we make for ourselves in our marriages, with our children, and in our careers, knowing that we have the approval of the only One who matters, the only One we’ll stand in front of at the end of our lives and from whom we hope to hear, “Well done.”

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Haggai 2: 1-9 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, November 9.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

CHRISTMAS DECORATING

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:51:16 GMT

DECK THE HALLS WITH BOUGHS OF HOLLY!

The Christmas season is almost here, and we need your help to make our church shine with holiday cheer! Join us on Saturday, November 23rd , as we decorate the sanctuary and fellowship areas for the Christmas season.

We’ll start immediately after Worship Service, and there will be plenty to do — from hanging wreaths and stringing lights to setting up the nativity and Christmas trees. Everyone is welcome, and no decorating experience is needed — just bring your Christmas spirit and a willingness to help!

✨ Let’s come together as a church family to make this season bright.

MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK !

FALL WORK & CLEANING DAY

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:37:16 GMT

Fall Work & Cleaning Day

YES, THERE'S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO DO!

Come Help lend a hand on Saturday November 8th @ 8:00am to spruce up Mt Laurel Church of God. We will be cleaning, and making general repairs around the church and if weather cooperates , painting the parking lot space lines on our parking lots.

So bring your buckets, shop vacs, tools and elbow grease and let's pitch in to do some maintenance and cleaning around the church to get it ready for Advent!

MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK !

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:30:22 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, November 21st 6:30pm

"The Most Reluctant Convert"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "The Most Reluctant Convert" An elder C.S. Lewis looks back on his remarkable journey from hardboiled atheist to the most renowned Christian writer of the past century. The Most Reluctant Convert features award-winning actor Max McLean as the older Lewis and Nicholas Ralph -- breakout star of PBS Masterpiece's All Creatures Great and Small -- as young Lewis. Beautifully filmed in and around Oxford this engaging biopic follows the creator of The Chronicles of Narnia from the tragic death of his mother when he was just nine years old, through his strained relationship with his father, to the nightmare of the trenches of World War I to Oxford University, where friends like J.R.R. Tolkien challenge his unbelief.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

A Month of Gratitude

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:23:40 GMT

A Month of Gratitude

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

In just a couple of days it’ll be November, the month traditionally devoted to gratitude. I’m sure you’ve seen the calendars or websites devoted to helping you give thanks for at least one of God’s blessings for each day of the month. Or perhaps you’ve seen people give thanks for their blessings according to the alphabet. Truth be told, I started my alphabet of thanks but got hung up at the letter C. Read on and discover why . . .

I’m thankful for aardvarks, apples, aunts, and art, bees, butterscotch, bacon and beds. But I’m really thankful for common courtesies! As you look at my list of common courtesies for which I’m thankful, maybe you have one or more you’d like to add to the list. Respond to this email and let me know what they are! Here are the common courtesies I’m thankful for:

1. When someone sends you money on your phone be sure to notify the sender once you receive the money and remember to say thank you. It costs nothing.

2. Turn the volume down when you're watching a video, playing music, or playing a game on your phone in a public place or, better yet, use headphones.

3. Show respect for others. When appropriate, say please, thank you, and excuse me. After you receive a gift, make sure you write a thank you note or follow up with a phone call, email, or text message. Do not use the word “shut up.” It’s offensive!

4. Always leave the last piece of food for the person who bought it unless they insist they won't eat it.

5. Always apologize when you do something wrong. When you physically or emotionally hurt someone, apologize even if it’s an accident. If you make a mistake, try to make amends whenever possible.

6. When someone is having a conversation, don’t interrupt. If you must interrupt a conversation, make sure you say, “Excuse me, I’m sorry to interrupt but…”

7. When you change your plans, let others know. Honor your word. If you commit to plans, make sure you show up. If something comes up (which it always does), make sure you contact others immediately.

8. If you stay the night at someone's house, make the bed or fold the blankets before you leave.

9. Respect the needs of others in public. Don’t talk obnoxiously or loudly in public. Be aware of your surroundings and the people in the vicinity. Use your cell phone in a private place.

10. Don’t answer a phone call while you’re engaged in conversation without excusing yourself.

11. Never embarrass another person. It’s NOT polite. In fact, it’s rude and mean and only serves to make you look like a bully. If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything.

12. When refusing an invitation, be kind and honest. You can’t attend every function so sometimes you’ll need to politely decline an invitation. Remember it’s okay to decline an invitation but it’s wrong to lie to someone.

13. Respect your elders. Always be polite to adults and treat them with respect. Go out of your way to help elderly people by holding the door open. Consider actually talking with them. That may put a smile on their face.

14. Respect other people’s property. Treat other people’s possessions like they were your own. If you lose or ruin something that belongs to someone else, fix or replace it.

15. Give genuine compliments. A fundamental rule of good manners is to give. When you meet someone, you can always think of a genuine compliment to give, along with your attention and interest. Be generous with sincere words of praise, warm greetings, sympathy, or whatever is appropriate to the occasion.

16. Act and look your best. Take time to care how you present yourself, both in appearance and in manners.

17. Seating in crowded places. If seating is limited, and you’re sitting, offer your seat to a woman who’s standing (older woman takes precedence over a young woman).

18. Learn people's names. It’ll mean SO much to them.

19. Clean up after yourself at home, at work, at a friend’s house.

20. Push your chair in when you leave a table. Don't make someone else do it for you.

21. Reach out to people who are grieving. If you don’t know what to say, just be there with them.

22. Don’t ask for a lift and then make the person wait for you. Instead, position yourself at a convenient place so they don’t have to go out of their way to pick you up.

23. Don’t always be the receiver in a relationship. Try to also give, no matter how small.

24. Offer to serve others.

25. The world isn’t interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of others.

26. Don’t comment on other people’s physical characteristics unless, of course, it’s to compliment them.

27. When people ask how you are, tell them and then ask how they are.

28. When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

29. Speak highly of your parents. Respect them, even if there are things about them you don’t like. If you can’t do that, don’t talk about them at all. It looks bad to insult or speak badly of the people who brought you into this world or raised you. Don’t wash dirty family laundry in public. It is negative and rude.

30. Be polite to people who serve. Make eye contact and turn off your phone when talking to the cashier at the fast-food restaurant or at the grocery store. Respect the server at the restaurant. Say thank you when you receive your food or change.

31. If you answer a call because you're in no situation to speak, quickly send a text message asking them to text or call you after a period of time. It might be an emergency.

What common courtesies would YOU add to this list? Let’s not only be thankful for them. Let’s put them into practice!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, November 2.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Mixed Blessings

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:20:35 GMT

Mixed Blessings

“ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who ^[ ^a ^] have been called according to his purpose. ”

Romans 8:28 NIV

As the many campers entered the state park to enjoy their outdoor vacations, the park ranger warned them all that bears were raiding the campground due to a shortage of their natural foods.

“Be sure to love up your food in your vehicles at night,” he said. “If you leave your ice chests, coolers and food boxes out, the bears will destroy them.”

Sure enough, each night the bears came, knocking over trash receptacles to get at the garbage inside. After a few nights of those raids, one camping group didn’t heed the warning, and left their food outside. The bears destroyed their campsite while enjoying the easy pickings.

“We want our money back!” the group demanded. “We didn’t count on this!”

Apparently those folks would accept the trees, the majestic mountains, and the fresh air, but not the bears. God made all those things, however. I wonder that maybe that group might have been better advised to listen to the ranger’s warning and enjoyed that natural area and its native inhabitants as God had prepared it.

Then a question formed in my mind. How many times have I been willing to accept only part of God’s plan for me? I’ve probably said it many times, if only to myself: “Give me your blessings, Lord, but spare me from the challenges and problems of life.”

The fact is that all God allows me to experience is for my good and for my best development as His child. The next time I encounter “bears” in my life, I hope I’ll not run from them, but rather face them head-on (listening to any appropriate warnings), learn from them, and grow to be all that He intends for me to be.

Let’s thank God for all of life, for the challenges and the blessings, as we seek His wisdom and let Him be in control. Let’s keep our eyes constantly on Him.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Romans 3:19-28 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, October 26.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Transforming Prayer

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:21:49 GMT

Transforming Prayer

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”

Matthew 5:43-45 NIV

Jesus isn’t interested so much in what we DO, but in the transformation of our hearts. In a conversation with someone the other day, they asked, “Do you think most Christians have given 100% of their hearts to Christ?” Perhaps I answered too quickly when I said, “Ha! Most Christ-followers haven’t completely submitted their will to Christ’s will. There are still rooms in their hearts that they haven’t yet turned over to Him.”

What do YOU think? By God’s grace and our cooperation, over time, some of the rooms in our hearts are gradually being opened and cleansed, and fresh, life-giving air is beginning to blow through them. However, there are other rooms in our hearts that may still be shut tight against the healing, renovating power of God. Jesus wants the whole you. So He begins to knock on those doors of self-righteousness, fear of others, resistance to “outsiders,” and hatred of enemies.

You see, God loves all His children, obedient or not, just or unjust. Jesus wants to give you more spiritual power through the Holy Spirit, who calls you to go beyond the “usual.” You’re called to be perfect, to be complete, just as our Heavenly Father is perfect. In Christ, God gives you His love so you can be conformed to the image of His Son, who forgave those who crucified Him and offered His death for all.

I know that Jesus command to love your enemies is very difficult, so I’ll be praying that the Holy Spirit of love continues to take more control of more of your life. Why not choose to give God a little more of your heart today?

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Luke 8:1-18 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, October 19.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Useless Anger

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:25:22 GMT

Useless Anger

“Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret. It leads only to evil”

Psalm 37:8, NIV

My wife and I were driving along while we listened to Sirius channel 114 (Fox News) on the radio. Anger seemed to flow through me as I listened to news of the latest shooting and church fire at a Michigan Morman church. Suddenly Pamela cautioned me, “Your foot’s getting heavy.” I was racing along, exceeding the speed limit. My anger could have led us into a nasty car wreck.

Does injustice anger you as much as it does me? Reports of violence across our nation. Thousands dying in earthquakes. A plane crash with no survivors. The innocent face of a child looks out from a missing person ad: Kidnapped!

I feel helpless in a violent society that leaves behind so much suffering. Runaway teens exploited and abused on Times Square. Victims of drunk drivers. All that angers me!

Webster defines anger as an “impulse to retaliate.” But how can we fight against the wrongs and hurts of society? My helplessness in the face of wrongs and injustice leaves me feeling frustrated. Life seems cruel with little I can do about it.

But God is showing me something. The wrongs in this world are like my neglected lawn. Overgrown grass at spots and weeds in other all need an aggressive lawn mower. The trouble is that I can cut only one swath at a time. I need to persist and whittle away at the grass, cutting around and around my yard until the lawn is restored to order again. Until next week when it needs cutting again. An endless task that, hopefully, will soon be finished for the season.

Here's the good news that you’ve been looking for this week . . . The Lord doesn’t expect me to restore order to the world. And He doesn’t expect you to restore order to the world either. That’s His job. Our anger and frustration only serves to hinder God’s work. Instead, we can contribute our energies to a genuine need. Or we can intercede in prayer for some sore spot on the earth. Or we can share our faith with someone who needs hope and peace.

Will you determine with me to cut our swath where God is calling us, doing our part, as we trust God to cure the ills and injustices of the universe. Getting angry will only get us into trouble. We can fight the injustices of this world by being faithful to the Lord who will make everything right in the end.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading 2 Timothy 2:8-15 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale on Sunday, October 12.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

2025 Fall Festival

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:47:58 GMT

Fall Festival - Friday October 31st 5pm - 7pm

Join us at the church for our Annual Fall Festival, Friday October 31st 5pm -7pm

FREE SNACK FOODS & BEVERAGES ~ GAMES & CRAFTS

Meet & Greet the West Hanover Fire Dept & South Central EMS.

& TRUNK OR TREAT

Stop out before regular door to door trick or treat and have some fun!

New Paragraph

Mission Spot Light

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:44:52 GMT

MISSION SPOT LIGHT

PAXTON MINISTRIES

Paxton Ministries is a nonprofit organization operating in the Harrisburg are providing affordable housing to adults in need. They are dedicated to shining Christ-like love into the shadows of the lived of those dealing with poverty, mental illness, and intellectual disabilities.

Working together with staff, volunteers and community supporters the ministry strives to provide the following:

- Safe and fully equipped housing options : comfortable spaces of peace, beauty and security that residents are proud to call "home".

- Practical assistance in many different forms: three meals a day, medication supports, healthcare coordination, and so much more.

- Cre that affirms God-given dignity, encourages holistic wellness, supports recovery and independence, and celebrates each person's skills and interests.

Above all, they display the love and compassion of Jesus Christ, in whose name it is their privilege to serve. As they celebrate 40 years of faithful service, the words of Isaiah 58 inspired by their founders continue to inspire them today:

"If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday."

New Paragraph

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:36:54 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, October 17th 6:30pm

"Disciples In The Moonlight"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "Disciples In The Moonlight". In the not-too-distant future, the United States bans the Bible and replaces it with a government approved version. Risking it all, a small group of Christians tries to smuggle the true Word of God to underground churches throughout the Midwest.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

What Voice Are You Listening To?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 11:34:00 GMT

What Voice Are You Listening To?

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Jesus – John 10:10

There’s this belief floating around—that God is mostly interested in rules . . . that following Jesus means saying no to joy, freedom, or anything fun . . . that He’s kind of a killjoy. But that’s not what Jesus says. Jesus’ words recorded in John 10:10 flip that belief on its head. He didn’t come to limit your life. He came to fill it. To restore it. To give it meaning and joy and purpose. But this verse also introduces a choice. Because while Jesus came to give life, there’s another voice in the mix. A thief. One who came to steal, kill, and destroy. So here’s the real question: Whose voice are you listening to? I think this is the question every Christian needs to wrestle with.

Jesus was saying that there are false shepherds, leaders who don’t care for the sheep. Leaders who use people to gain power. Leaders who run when things get hard. Jesus didn’t have to name names. Everyone knew about whom He was talking. The Pharisees. The religious leaders who had twisted their position into something self-serving. The ones who used broken people to make a point. Like the lame man at the pool. Like the blind man Jesus healed. Like the woman caught in adultery. The Pharisees did care for them. They used them. So when Jesus started talking about thieves who harm the sheep, the picture was clear. It was a warning, not just to the leaders, but to anyone who might be following the wrong voice.

There are a lot of voices trying to shape your life. The voice of our culture says, “Do what makes you happy.” The voice of shame whispers, “You’re not enough. You’ll never be enough.” The voice of comparison tells you, “You’re behind. You’re missing out.” Even well-meaning voices around us can pull us toward fear, pressure, and burnout. These voices might sound reasonable, even comforting at times, but they don’t lead to life. Not real life at least. Like drinking salt water, these voices seem to satisfy for a moment, but they only leave you thirstier and more hollow than before. That’s what the thief does. The thief, the devil, distorts good desires, hijacks your attention, and pulls you away from the One who actually knows you, really loves you, and really wants the best for you. Jesus is offering something different, but you’ve got to listen for His voice. And follow it. If you’re wondering how to tune into Jesus’ voice and quiet all the others, try this for the next week.

1. Re-read John 10:1–18. Take 10 minutes each day. Sit with the passage and ask: What does this show me about who Jesus really is?

2. Write down one dominant thought. What’s been taking up my mental space lately?
A fear? A desire? A lie? Ask yourself: Is this the voice of Jesus the Good Shepherd or something else?

3. Take one small step. Maybe that step is a break from social media. Maybe it’s replacing one podcast with prayer. Maybe it’s calling someone who always speaks life into you.
Whatever it is, do it today.

You were made for more than survival. You were made for life to the fullest, but that life starts by listening to the right voice. So again, I ask, “Whose voice are you listening to?” Jesus came to give you more than survival . . . more than religion . . . more than pressure to perform. He came to give you life. Full, rich, eternal life. But you’ve got to decide which voice you’ll follow.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Galatians 3:23-29 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale AND to celebrate World Communion Sunday on Sunday, October 5.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Have We Forgotten About Iryna Zarutska?

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:28:44 GMT

Have We Forgotten About Iryna Zarutska?

“Do not deprive the foreigner or the fatherless of justice, or take the cloak of the widow as a pledge.”

Deuteronomy 24:17 NIV

The memorial service for Charlie Kirk, viewed by millions of people worldwide this past Sunday afternoon, should have restored any doubt that the power of God’s Word and the effectiveness of a Chrisitan’s witness are both very powerful here on planet Earth. For the past two weeks, the news cycle has been inundated with testimonies about Charlie’s character, his faith story, and the success of Turning Point USA. I’m overjoyed that our world has heard the power of the Christian faith because it’s been fleshed out by people as talented and faithful as Charlie and Erika Kirk. Even though Charlie and I weren’t close friends, I’m sure from glory he was hoping someone would have read 1 Corinthians 11:1 where the apostle Paul said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” I think he would have us follow his example because he followed the example of Christ Jesus.

While we certainly should celebrate, applaud, and imitate the tremendous faith of Charlie and Erika Kirk, part of me wonders if those in the media have forgotten about a young woman who lived in Charlotte, North Carolina. Do you remember Iryna Zarutska? On August 22, 2025, at the East/West Boulevard station on the Lynx Blue Line, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who had fled her country because of the Russian invasion, was fatally stabbed by Decarlos Brown, Jr. In Huntersville, North Carolina, Iryna took various jobs and began learning English. Her boyfriend gave her driving lessons, since her family had never owned a car. Iryna was enrolled in college classes and worked at a pizzeria in Charlotte. On the night of the attack, Iryna had finished her shift at the pizza shop and was commuting home when, for no apparent reason, Mr. Brown stabbed her in the neck, leaving her to bleed to death there on the commuter train. According to the New York Post, Mr. Brown told his family he stabbed Iryna because he believed she was reading his mind.

Perhaps you’ve heard the following quote attributed to Edmund Burke: "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." While there’s some controversy surrounding whether Edmund Burke actually said that, the truth still remains. When good people do nothing but stand by and watch monsters like Decarlos Brown, Jr. senselessly murder innocent people like Iryna, those who do nothing become monsters themselves. At least four people who sat opposite Iryna on that commuter train did absolutely nothing in the first minute and forty seconds to help her. Perhaps, if we had been in their positions, we would have reacted similarly. No one knows. But there’s a part of me that wonders if Iryna will ever be celebrated for who she was. Or will the news cycle roll forward and forget about her young life?

Let me encourage you to do something when you see someone in trouble, even if it costs you something. In the days and months ahead, I’m sure you’ll be reminded of the senseless killing of Charlie Kirk, but will you remember the senseless killing of Iryna Zarutska? When you witness injustice, will you use your voice to stand up for the voiceless? Follow the ministry of Erika Kirk and TPUSA as she follows Jesus Christ, but please don’t let the name Iryna Zarutska disappear into obscurity.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Jeremiah 32:1-15 and 1 Timothy 6:18-19 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale on Sunday, September 28.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Community Blood Drive

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:02:49 GMT

American Red Cross Community Blood Drive - September 24th

Wednesday, September 24th from Noon - 5:00pm we will be hosing one of our quarterly blood drives in the Fellowship Hall. This is a great opportunity to help save a life by donating much-needed blood. Even if you can't donate, you can help by spreading the word to neighbors, family & friends. Call 1-800-733-7867

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time?dt=WB:PL:DR:PM&zipSponsor=17112

Mission Spot Light

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:51:50 GMT

MISSION SPOT LIGHT

FRUITBELT FARMWORKER CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

FFCM is a mission serving the spiritual, social and physical needs of the migrant workers in south-central PA. The ministry was formed in 1989 when the migrant committees of Adams, Franklin & Cumberland counties came together to help fulfill the needs of these migrant workers. Each year over 2,500 workers help on 130 farms with the harvest of apples, peaches, cherries and pears. The workers come from Mexico, Haiti, Jamaica, Honduras & Guatemala and stain in over 400 camps in the area.

FCCM helps to provide personal care kits, jackets, blankets, hats & gloves, along with many other clothing needs to the workers. They build relationships with them and most importantly provide spiritual care. One of the things the workers request most is prayer... prayer for them and prayer for their families. They have many, may workers who give their lives to Jesus after hearing the message of salvation.

We here at Mt. Laurel support this amazing mission by providing monetary donations along with clothing, especially sweatshirts, baseball caps, blankets and personal care items from our Community Clothing Closet. We are proud to partners with FFCM in continuing their ministry pf spreading the love of Christ to these workers who all come from countries of great poverty.

New Paragraph

Copy of All-Church Picnic

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:37:43 GMT

Annual Church Picnic

September 21st 1pm

Join us at HM Levitz Memorial Park, Grantville PA for the Annual Church Picnic. September 24th 1pm - ? The church will provide the main dish. Please bring a covered dish or dessert, your favorite drink and willingness to have a blast! Finish out the day with an ice cream bar.

New Paragraph

It’s Time to Get to Work

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 11:33:38 GMT

It’s Time to Get to Work

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters”

Colossians 3:23 NIV

Two days ago was Labor Day, our national celebration of the American worker. Did you work on Labor Day? When I was a kid, my Dad used Labor Day to catch up on mowing, maintenance around the house, and taking a nap. He worked super hard all year long, including on Labor Day.

Most of us can’t remember the struggles of the American worker during the late 1800s when working conditions were deplorable and wages were miniscule. The average worker faced long hours and poor conditions. My grandsons might gripe about doing their chores today but even children in the late 19 ^th century worked long hours in dingy factories to help their families make ends meet. After the railroad strike of 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a bill making Labor Day a national holiday to recognize organized labor’s efforts to achieve a higher standard of safety and provision for the average worker.

One day, a grandfather was telling his grandkids about his coming to America. He told of the trains and ship that he took from his home in Eastern Europe. He told them about being processed at Ellis Island and how he had gone to a cafeteria in lower Manhattan to get something to eat. There he sat down at an empty table and waited for quite some time for someone to take his order. But no one came. Finally, a woman carrying a tray full of food sat down opposite him and explained to the man how the cafeteria worked.

She said, “You start at that end” . . . pointing to a stack of trays . . . “and then go along the food line, picking out the food you want. At the other end, the cashier will tell you how much you have to pay for the food you’ve chosen.”

The grandfather paused to reflect for a moment and then said, “I soon learned that’s how everything works in America. Life’s a cafeteria here. You can get anything you want . . . even very great success . . . if you’re willing to pay the price. But you’ll never get what you want if you wait for someone to bring it to you. You have to get up and get it yourself.”

My friend, the difference between where you are now and where you may want to be . . . whether you just began a new school year or started back to work after Labor Day . . . can be summed up in one word: WORK. Isn’t that true of our spiritual growth, too? While we depend on the Lord to help us through this life, He asks that we partner with Him and apply ourselves to the task to which He’s called us. Climbing the ladder of success at school or work, or in our Christian life, requires that we work at it with all our hearts!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. Because Pastor Dale and Pamela will be away on vacation from September 3 until September 20, you’re encouraged to still attend and support your church family at the Mt. Laurel Church of God when Pastor Dustin white will be filling the pulpit. To prepare for Sunday, September 21 ^st , you might want to consider reading 1 Timothy 1:12-17 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale on Sunday, September 21.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Does God Care?

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:25:10 GMT

Does God Care?

“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.”

Luke 12:6 NIV

Does God care about you? Does He know your name? Does He love you or are you lost in the crowd? If questions like those trouble you, you can be sure that they trouble everyone. But you can stop your questioning, because God does love you.

When I was a kid, I always wanted to grow up to be a doctor. The picture that made the deepest impression on me was one where a doctor is sitting by the bedside of a little girl, praying, watching, waiting hopefully for the crisis to pass. God is like that. Jesus is the Great Physician. Have you ever seen a shepherd out on the hillside caring for his sheep? He’s one who knows and leads, and guides his own flock. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”

My father was a friend to me. Some of my earliest memories are of riding in the pickup with him, listening to his advice, hearing his stories. I knew that my Dad would do anything for me. I knew that he loved me and protected me. God is like the best in our earthly fathers. God is also like a mother. “As one whom his mother comforts, so will I comfort you.”

No matter what the world believes or knows about you, no matter how low you think you may have sunk, a mother will still believe and still be good to you. So, when the uncertainties of this world attack you, don’t ever forget that short sentence you probably learned as a little child at your mother’s knee . . . “God is love.” He really does care about you.

May God help you in the midst of all the confusion and doubts that may fill your mind today, so that you may find perfect peace and confidence in the fact that God really does love and care for you.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Luke 14:1, 7-14 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, August 31.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

It Matters What You Think!

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:35:34 GMT

It Matters What You Think!

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV

Call me strange, but I believe that a person’s thoughts shape his or her character. The inner anatomy of a person’s soul reveals a person’s true spiritual condition. There are those who would say, “My thoughts are private. No one gets arrested for thinking evil. The domain of the mind is private turf. As long as I act civilly, no one can charge me with wrong behavior.”

My friend, that line of thinking is very deceptive. It’s a tragic delusion of the mind. It leads to a “do as I say, not as I do” kind of mentality.

But Jesus said there’s a link between thought and action. “ You have heard it said, ‘You shall not commit adultery; but I say to you, that anyone who looks on a woman to lust for her has committed adultery with her already in his heart ’” (Matthew 5:27-28). He was saying that the thought is the same as the act.

The Bible places blame for s sinful thought life on the fact that our minds have been blinded by the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4). Satan is the great deceiver who is always trying to attack the human mind. In fact, the more I think about it, the more I think the mind may be the real battleground where spiritual warfare happens.

God can’t be fooled by external conformity to right morality and social custom. Psalm 94:11 says, “The Lord knows the thoughts of humankind.” He calls for us to renew our minds. Even though we’re often blinded by sin and tainted by the fall of Adam, our minds can be transformed by the saving grace of God. Staying true to our faith in Christ can help us bring our thoughts under the lordship of Jesus.

For most of us, it’s a daily battle. The apostle Paul writing to believers in Corinth said, “We’re taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). The battle of the mind is won by a daily surrender to Christ. That’s the only defense against the dirt this world tries to shovel into our minds.

But there’s also a very practical way to capture our minds. We’re given a great tool in Philippians 4:8: “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

What will YOU be thinking about today, my friend? If you want your thoughts to be acceptable in God’s sight, think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy! You can’t go wrong thinking about those kinds of things!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Jeremiah 1:4-10 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, August 24.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Feet!?

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:18:29 GMT

Feet!?

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. ”

John 13:14 NIV

In a recent message I said, “There are two kinds of people in our world, those who divide people into two groups and those who don’t.” Biblically, I think there ARE two kinds of people in our world . . . those who serve without giving it a second thought, and those who like to be served. My church family is probably tired of me saying that service is not an option for the Christian. It’s an expectation. Practically speaking, haven’t you noticed that there are people who go out of their way to serve others and there are people who make life all about themselves, no matter what they’re doing or where they’re going?

One of the greatest moments in the life of Jesus is recorded in John chapter 13. On the night before He would give His life on the cross to redeem humankind, Jesus knelt before His disciples and washed their feet. Normally a chore that was performed by a household servant, that night, in a rented room, Jesus took the servant’s position. And when He was finished, He said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”

I don’t understand how God can be so kind to us, but He is. In Christ, God kneels before us, takes our feet in His hands, and washes the dirt of this world from them. And as Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He was washing our feet. That was us being cleansed, not from our dirt, but from our sins.

Did you notice what He told Peter in John 13:8? “If I don’t wash your feet, you aren’t one of my people.” He said that because we can’t remove our own sins. We need Him to do it.

To put our feet in Jesus’ basin is put the filthiest parts of our lives in His hands. You can imagine that in Jesus’ age, people’s feet would have been caked with mud and dirt. The household servant would have seen that the guests’ feet were cleaned. Jesus is assuming the role of the servant, offering to wash the grimiest part of your life. And then He commands . . . not suggests . . . that we, also, serve others in the same way.

While we can, indeed, forgive others when they sin against us, we also can serve others with the same kind of love that Jesus served His disciples. Doing so will require us to become humble as we set aside our own schedules, our own agendas, and our own priorities so that we can put others before us.

How can you wash someone else’s feet today? How will you serve others? Let’s make a difference in our world today by NOT demanding first place in line, by NOT running ahead of others, but by assuming the role of the servant. If we’re going to turn the tide of selfishness in our culture, it must begin with each of us. Go ahead. I dare you to put others first today!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Isaiah 5:1-7 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, August 17.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Do We Really Care?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:32:45 GMT

Do We Really Care?

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves”

Philippians 2:3 NIV

It’s time for a pop quiz. I’m sure you’ll know the answer to the quiz, unless you weren’t in worship with me this past Sunday. Here’s the one question on the quiz . . . “What was the one take-away from this past Sunday’s message?” In fact, so I don’t get any complaints, I’ll make this quiz a fill-in-the-blank: When life is __________, God is __________. Time’s up. Pencils down. Here’s the answer: When life is difficult , God is good . If you really want the whole message, check out our Facebook page (Mt. Laurel Church of God) or search “Mt. Laurel Church of God” on YouTube.

Let’s face it. Some of the members of our church family are going through some difficult times. Lynn is still on the mend. Gloria is still wearing a boot on her foot. Bill, though home now at this writing, is waiting for Mim to come home from the hospital. And Craig . . . who expects to wake up from surgery not being able to swallow? Oh, the things we take for granted!

My challenge and encouragement for you today, my friend, is: What are you doing to show that you care about these people? Theodore Roosevelt is credited with saying, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” No one is quite sure who first said, “Actions speak louder than words,” but it’s true, isn’t it?

Even though the North American Indians had no written alphabet before they met the white man, their language was far from primitive. Their vocabulary was as large as that of their French and English conquerors. Often, their expressions were far more eloquent. In an Indian tongue, for example, the concept for the word friend is beautifully stated as “one-who-carries-my-sorrows-on-his-back.”

A friend or family member who comes to you for solace very often wants nothing more than your presence, your listening ear, and your quiet caring. A young man discovered this shortly after his marriage. His wife often came home from her job telling of the difficulties she faced during her day. His response was to offer suggestions and give solutions. His wife finally said to him, “I’ve already solved the problems of the day.”

The husband asked, perplexed, “Then why are you telling me about them?”

She replied, “I don’t need Mr. Fixit. I need a loving listening ear.”

The friend who provides both physical and emotional shelter is a true haven, one who helps another weather a storm in safety. Some of you may have the opportunity in the coming days and/or weeks to be a friend who is just present and not expected to have all the answers. You say you “care,” but will you be willing to put feet on your prayers and BE THERE for that someone who needs you to love them and care for them?

People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, August 10.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

50 Years of Change

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:17:17 GMT

50 Years of Change

“Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account.”

Ecclesiastes 3:15 NIV

It was an event I was both dreading and looking forward to . . . the reunion of the Central Dauphin High School class of 1975. The only other reunion I attended was my 5 ^th year reunion in 1980 and that was held at a local country club. I never attended another one because I’d rather not surround myself with inebriated people. This year’s reunion was held at Duke’s Riverside Bar and Grill in Wormleysburg, PA ( dukesbarandgrille.com ) and it included a buffet and cash bar, so I wasn’t paying for others to drink themselves under the table.

There were almost 500 students in the class of 1975 so obviously, even in high school, I didn’t know everyone in high school or at the reunion. Think about your high school. What social groups were there? The nerds, jocks, college preps, business kids, the Goths who always wore black, the loners who never really associated with anyone, the druggies or stoners, the artsy kids, the brains, and the populars. What group would you have been lumped into?

At this year’s reunion, I learned that time was not on our side. Time can be an enemy or a friend. The guys who took pride in their long hair in the ‘70s were bald at the reunion. Time had given the cheerleaders as many wrinkles as anyone else. And there was a poster with the pictures of 55 classmates whose time had run out and were no longer with us. All of us knew time had changed us.

I confess that I haven’t stayed in touch with many of my classmates after graduation. Life happens. Pamela and I were married the year after I graduated and started our family almost immediately. The friends I had in high school went to college or careers. You might ask, “Why would anyone want to keep in touch with classmates from 50 years ago?” Because we were friends. Because God loved every one of us. Time doesn’t change that.

I spent 8 years with my classmates because I had moved from Enhaut when I was in 4 ^th grade. Getting my diploma shouldn’t be an excuse for not keeping in touch with what was happening in their lives. I’ve come to learn that every relationship we have is a gift to be cherished and with today’s technology there’s no excuse for not staying informed. I’m not saying that we have to constantly communicate with everyone we meet, but I regret not staying connected with some of my high school friends. Had I kept in touch, I could have supported them through the personal loss some of them suffered. I could have prayed for my friends as they faced challenges and cheered their victories.

I know that the busyness of our own personal lives and careers makes it hard to keep up with old friends. But I came away from that reunion wondering . . . “If we’re too busy to nourish old relationships, then maybe we’re too busy.” How is it with you? How are you being intentional in maintaining your friendships . . . even if they’re 50 years old?

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, August 3.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

NERF NIGHT

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 13:35:04 GMT

NERF NIGHT - Saturday August 2nd

Join us in Fellowship Hall for another Nerf Night 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Bring your own Nerf weapons & darts.

Eye protect is recommended for children under 18 years old and for anyone who values their eye balls.

Persons of all ages, genders, size and nationalities are welcome!

One rule applies to all children and adults - NO CRYING!

NOTE: There will be a target range available for those who don't want to be a human target. However , as soon as you shoot at someone else, you become eligible to be shot at.

at 8:00pm ALL persons will be expected to help clean up the gym.

Free Movie Night

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 13:07:58 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, August 15 6:30pm

"THE BOYS IN THE BOAT"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "THE BOYS IN THE BOAT". Out of the depths of Depression comes an irresistible story about beating the odds and finding hope in the most desperate of times - the improbable, intimate account for how nine working -class boys from the American West showed the world at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin what true grit really means. Based on the New York Times #1 bestselling book about a stunning American Olympic triumph in Nazi Germany.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Book Discussion Group

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:23:53 GMT

Sisters In Joy - Book Discussion Group

Ladies... join us for our next book discussion on Saturday, September 20 from 9:00- 10:30am in the Sisters in Joy room. We'll be discussing: Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life , by Joanna Weaver.

The book encourages readers to find a balance between the active life of service and the contemplative life of intimacy with God. It offers guidance on how to deepen one's devotion, strengthen service, and do both with less stress and greater joy. It's an invitation to embrace both the "Mary" and "Martha" aspects of faith, finding a way to connect with God in the midst of a busy life.

Please contact Tammy Swink if you have an questions or need help finding the book.

Ladies Lunch Bunch

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:13:45 GMT

Ladies' Lunch Bunch

ATTENTION ALL LADIES'

Gather together with other Ladies at Manda Hill Diner (257 N Hershey Rd) for Ladies' Lunch.

ALL are welcome, Thursday, August 14th 11:30am

Please RSVP by August 12th to Pamela if you're planning on going.

More of Him . . . Less of Me

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:28:15 GMT

More of Him . . . Less of Me

“Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.”

Psalm 40:5

A few days ago, I woke up with these seven words on my mind, “ More of You, Lord, less of me. ” I knew it had to do with the way I’d felt when I went to bed the night before. I was frustrated with emotions that I thought I shouldn’t have had, feelings that I knew I had to deal with if I was going to find any peace moving forward. I had two choices. I could either deal with the emotions or I could bury them in the recesses of my mind.

I didn’t like either choice. But those words kept running through my mind like the banner that runs at the bottom of Fox News . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

Could it be that you, too, need to pray the prayer I’ve been praying over and over since that day? We know that when we don’t have it in us to deal with something, God certainly does.

When I struggle to forgive . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

When I don’t understand and don’t know which way to go . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

When I can’t change my circumstances or someone else’s actions . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

When I feel lost and lonely . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

When my emotions feel like they’re getting the best of me . . . More of You, Lord, less of me .

I confess that too often I try to deal with things on my own instead of trusting Him. But the truth is, every day, in every situation, I need more of Him and less of me . I’m guessing that you could say the same thing because you’re just as human as I am. But praise God! He’s always God!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, you might want to consider reading Luke 11:1-13 to get yourself ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, July 27.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Real Men

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:45:25 GMT

Real Men

“ searched for a man among them who would build up a wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one.”

Ezekiel 22:30 NASB

We have a men’s ministry here at the Mt. Laurel Church of God that we call “Iron Workers.” It’s based on Proverbs 27:17 that says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

When I’m asking the Holy Spirit to help me find a relevant topic to discuss or teach at our Iron Workers’ meeting, one nagging question keeps coming to my mind . . . “What is a real man, anyway?” What is a real man as God looks at him? God’s perspective is a great deal different from the media hype and the flamboyant perspective of our present culture. The prophet Ezekiel, writing at least twenty-five-hundred years ago, said that God searched then, too, for a real man.

A real man is authentic and genuine. He never hesitates to stand alone for a just cause. A real man has the fortitude to do the right thing no matter what the cost might be. A real man isn’t tainted by the philosophy that “might makes right,” or that it’s all right to do something as long as nobody gets hurt.

There are times when a real man is afraid. Even the writer Ernest Hemingway defined courage as “fear that has prayed.” A real man would be a fool to fear no danger, but when he confronts it, he stands his ground without boasting.

A real man knows who he is and is secure in himself. He doesn’t need liquor to bolster his courage to face another day. A real man is strong, but his strength is under control.

A real man is never too macho to lead his family in prayer, to be in corporate worship, and to acknowledge that the greatest Real Man who ever lived was Jesus Christ, who alone faced the supreme test of death and triumphed over it. A real man is never ashamed to walk in Christ’s footsteps and to identify with His movement.

A real man? Chances are he’ll go unnoticed by the press or the TV crews, but be sure, God notices real men!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please remember that this coming Sunday, July 13, will be Patriotic Sunday at the Mt. Laurel Church of God. Dr. David Smith will be leading worship and reminding us to remember our history as Americans who have been blessed by Almighty God.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

His Way or Your Way?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:40:36 GMT

His Way or Your Way?

Today’s Scripture for you to read: Numbers 20:8, 11

Do you know when you’ve failed at something, or does someone have to point it out to you? That all probably depends on what you thought was expected of you, right?

In the Old Testament book of Numbers, you’ve read that Moses was a failure in front of God’s people. But, interestingly enough, only Moses and God knew about it. You see, the word went through the crowd that Moses had hit that ole rock, and water gushed out! The people thought Moses was hot stuff because he had satisfied their latest complaint of no water. Now he was their hero.

But God had given Moses some boundaries. He had said, “ Speak to that rock.” But Moses, in his anger and frustration, didn’t do what God expected of him. No, Moses decided to do God’s work in his own way. Instead of speaking to the rock, Moses struck the rock . . . not just once, but twice! And that’s when things went off the tracks. (If you don’t know what Moses’ punishment was, read Numbers 20:12)

I hope I don’t need to tell you that the power of God is in His Word. He spoke the world and humankind into existence. He spoke Lazarus out of the grave. He spoke and satan hit the road running. But how often do we choose to hit, yell, stomp, and kick to get things done, instead of believing God’s Word for our lives?

Where in your life today are you going to do things your way? Are you assuming, just because you’re a child of God, that He’ll endorse whatever you’re planning to do? After all, look at the stats. Others may think you’re great, but what’s your standing with God? Don’t you think that since the Lord put boundaries on the ocean that He has boundaries for you, too? Let’s pray and ask God to help us know Him better and the power of His Word in our lives so we’ll do things His way today and every day . . . instead of doing things our own way.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading this Scripture passage . . . 2 Kings 5:1-14 . . . so you’re ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, July 6, 2025.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:35:31 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, July 18 6:30pm

"DOLLY PARTON'S COAT OF MANY COLORS"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "DOLLY PARTON'S COAT OF MANY COLORS". Coat of Many Colors details Dolly Parton's upbringing in 1955 as her family struggles to live in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, putting a strain on love and faith. (Alyvia Alyn Lind) aspires to be something greater but must cope with Family troubles, including the premature birth and death of a baby brother. Doll's mother, Avie Lee Parton (Jennifer Nettles) uses the baby's blanket to make Dolly her patchwork coat of many colors. Although Dolly is at first proud of it, she change her mind after school bullies make fun of her. Meanwhile, Dolly's father, Lee Parton (Ricky Schroder) suffers a personal crisis brought about by the baby's death combined with the depression of his wife and drought which threatened his tobacco crop. Eventually, faith brings the family together again.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

The Power of Touch

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 12:15:16 GMT

The Power of Touch

Today’s Scripture for you to read: Matthew 9:18-26

I hear too many Christians say, “I’m a private person” and they rarely share their needs with others. I can understand that attitude to a certain extent. With the proliferation of social media, the details of a person’s private life can quickly become public knowledge if it’s shared by the wrong person on Facebook, Instagram or X. Ironically, some of those same people who say, “I’m a private person” also expect their pastor to read their minds and somehow know what’s happening in their lives. News Flash! We pastors aren’t all-knowing! That quality belongs to the Three members of the Trinity, my friends. Which brings me to the Scripture mentioned above . . . Matthew 9:18-26.

That woman had a hidden need that those around her knew nothing about. Maybe you have a hidden need, too. That woman had tried every available means to meet her need, but nothing worked. Mark 5:26 tells us that she had spent all her money and her condition was only growing worse. What a terrible place to be. To struggle with a private physical condition and forced or compelled to keep it to oneself.

But then something changed. She admitted her need and went to Jesus. Do you wonder, when nothing else worked, why she went to Jesus as her last resort ? Maybe she created plenty of other excuses for not approaching Him earlier . . . She was a woman . . . a woman with a bleeding disease . . . forced to be called “unclean” and compelled to live outside the community. Does she sound like a “private person”? One day she came to her senses and, despite the crowd and although He was on His way to the home of Jairus, the leader of the synagogue, to heal his daughter, the woman put aside her need for privacy and went to Jesus. “One touch of the hem of His garment” she reasoned. “Just one touch!”

Never be afraid, my friend, to go to Jesus OR to your pastor with your “private” situation. Jesus is never too busy. And God forbid that your pastor is too busy to sit down with you and listen. Start with the faith you have and reach out to the hem of Jesus’ garment. You have to start somewhere! A person doesn’t have to have a seminary degree to experience the power of Christ is his or her life. This woman’s faith was what prompted her to reach out to the Lord. And Jesus said it was her faith that healed her.

My friend, when will you lay aside your excuses, forget the failures of the past, and press through the crowd to reach out to Jesus? By faith, take hold of Him. He’ll do the rest. Never, never underestimate the power of a touch of faith. And never underestimate the love that your church family is waiting to show you regardless of your “private” situation.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading this Scripture passage before Sunday, June 22 . . . 1 Kings 19:1-15 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, June 22, 2025.

Oh, one more thing . . . Because Pastor Dale will be away on vacation at Camp YoliJwa from the afternoon of June 22 until the evening of June 28, there will be NO PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement on Wednesday, June 25.

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Called to Community

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:23:03 GMT

Called to Community

How many friends do you have? How many of those friends can you really trust with anything? How many of those friends encourage you, challenge you and help you grow in your faith? In this age of social media, when many people claim to have hundreds or thousands of “friends,” the truth is that most are acquaintances or merely people with whom you share a digital picture or shoutout. Today I want you to look around and take stock of your relationships. How many Christian and/or non-believing friends do you have? Obviously, you’ll deeply trust those who share your faith in Christ . . . or you should. But I digress. Why should you surround yourself with Christian friends?

1) They’ll support you. Wouldn’t you think that your Christian friends typically have good, godly values? Hopefully they’re part of a church family and understand the meaning of being part of a community and taking care of others. When you struggle with tough issues, they should give you encouraging words, a hug or be there for you.

2) They should ask tough questions. When you’re struggling, most people will ask “what’s wrong?” You likely say, “nothing.” But a Christian friend will dig deeper and won’t let you off the hook so easily. They’ll want to know how you really are. You may not like it, but a Christ-follower should work with you to be less like you and more like Jesus. No matter what you might be going through right now, let your Christian friends press you with tough questions. It’ll help you open up and get past anything you’re dealing with.

3) Christian friends should hold you accountable. When was the last time you heard “we missed you at church”? When your Christian friends ask that question, they’re merely showing that they care about you and don’t want you to get off the spiritual track. God’s Word calls us to community, not to being loners. It’s our job to encourage our Christian friends to answer for their decisions and choices, even if they don’t like being held accountable.

4) Christian friends should provide wise advice. I know, everyone has an opinion. But the advice of your true Christian friends is rooted in love and really meant to help you. A good Christian friend will point you to God’s Word so you can find the guidance you need. Christian friends will guide you with God’s principles and offer you advice that’s genuine and honest.

5) Christian friends should pray for you. And who couldn't use a little more prayer sometimes? I hate to see someone on Facebook say, “Sending good vibes.” Good vibes? What in the world are good vibes? Christian friends will pray for you and ask God to help you. When you become really close, they’ll even pray with you. There’s no closer bond than the ability to talk to God together with your Christian brother or sister.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Please don't separate yourself from your non-Christian or not-actively Christian friends. They bring their own benefits and challenges. God wants us to make disciples that make disciples. So, why not look at my five characteristics above and evaluate how good of a Christian friend YOU are, not just to your Christian friends, but your non-Christian ones, too? We’re all in this together, one big family of sinners looking for ways to cope with this crazy world until God calls us to glory.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading this Scripture passage before Sunday, June 15 . . . Proverbs 3:1-12 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale Proverbs 3:1-12 this coming Sunday, June 15, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:59:33 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, May 16 6:30pm

"INVINCIBLE"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "INVINCIBLE". Life long football fan Vince Papale ( Mark Wahlberg) sees his wildest dreams come true when he becomes a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. While teaching at his high-school alma mater in Pennsylvania, the 30-year-old gets a chance to try out for his favorite team and, except for kickers, becomes the oldest rookie in the NFL history who never played football in college.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

How to Deal With Someone Who’s Causing You Grief

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:37:51 GMT

How to Deal With Someone Who’s Causing You Grief

If I saw you as God sees you, what would I see? If you saw me as God sees me, what would you see? If you saw that person who’s causing you grief as God sees them, what would you see?

Is there someone in your church, in your neighborhood, in your family, at your workplace or in your school who’s hurting you, resisting your friendship, or saying bad things about you? If not presently, maybe there’s been someone in your past, and perhaps there will be one in your future. If you know anything about me and my personality, you know that I wrestle with being a people-pleaser. Yet in every church I’ve ever served there’s been one person who’s said, “I’m never coming back to your church as long as you’re the pastor there!” That hurts!

One of the frustrating things about Jesus is that He asks us to do the seemingly impossible. Do you want an example? How about, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

It's hard to love someone who’s acting in an unlovable way towards you. Maybe that person is your spouse or your family member or even someone in your church. How then can we practice what Christ asked of us? Where can we start?

I’m not going to pretend that this will be easy, but if you can see that person as God sees them, you will (or God will) have something to build on. Ask yourself, “If I saw __________ as God sees him (or her), how would I see him (or her)?”

What do you see, what do you hear the Father saying to you?

God is love. God loves that person who’s causing trouble for you. That fact doesn’t justify their behavior or minimize how they’re making you feel, but it’s a Divine perspective that we often forget, and one you’ll need to remember if you’re going to move towards love, rather than away from love. Seeing people as God sees them is the first step towards love.

Are you willing to take that first step? There will be other steps you might need to take before you’re ready to confront and correct that person, but don’t worry about those steps yet. Just take this first step. You’ll be glad you did.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading these portions of Scripture before Sunday, June 1 . . . Genesis 5:21-24 and Judges 4:4-10, 12-16 to get ready to hear God’s message through our guest speaker, Pastor Steve Lindemuth, this coming Sunday, June 1, 2025.

One more note . . . Because Pastor Dale will be serving as a counselor at Camp YoliJwa’s Camp HOPE from Saturday, May 31 until June 6, there will be NO PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement on Wednesday, June 4 (Truth be told, he won’t even have access to his cellphone next week! YEA!)

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Perfect in Every Way?

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:28:09 GMT

Perfect in Every Way?

This is going to sound unbelievable, but recently someone contacted me and asked if I could help them with their pride. Their actual question was, “How can I become more humble?” This impressed me for two reasons. (1) Most people don’t recognize pride in their lives and, (2) it they do, it’s not likely that they’ll be brave enough, or humble enough, to find help.

So I got to thinking . . . What practical things could we do that might lead us to humility? Here’s what I came up with. Maybe you could add to the list. They are; talk less, reveal less, and invest more.

1. Talk less. Giving up the need to always have an opinion, an answer, or a solution for everything, is a nice break from the pressure we feel to have an opinion, an answer, or a solution for everything. There’s a reason why many monks took vows of silence. They believed that by merely talking less, a person could experience God more, and the experience of humility that pleases Him.

2. Reveal less. Avoiding every opportunity to draw attention to ourselves or our accomplishments will surely lead to more humility. It’s amazing how easy it is for us to sneak self-flattery into our conversations.

3. Invest more time alone with Jesus. When we spend time in silence and solitude with our Lord, the meek and humble Jesus rubs off on us. His character slowly changes our character, especially in the area of pride.

So if you want to be more humble, a good place to start will be to talk less, reveal less, and invest more time alone with Jesus.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Acts 16:9-15 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Let’s Take That Mountain!

Wed, 14 May 2025 12:03:28 GMT

Let’s Take That Mountain!

I’m sure you’ve noticed that people are busier than ever these days. There seem to be so many tasks to be done and opportunities to take advantage of that it’s hard to determine what’s best in a world of good and better. When we haven’t determined our priorities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and exhausted.

When we read about the life of our Lord Jesus, we see that He knew His mission and stayed true to it. He came to earth to fulfill His Father’s plan for Him, and at the end of His life, He could say with integrity that He finished what God had sent Him to do (John 17:4). While hanging on the cross, He cried, “It is finished” (John 19:30).

I’m sure you realize that you don’t have unlimited money to buy whatever you want, and nor do you have unlimited time to do whatever you want. God has determined that there are only 24 hours in a day. That’s 168 hours in a week. God expects you to be a good steward of your time and grow in effectiveness for His Kingdom. Perhaps we should take the words of Moses to heart: “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Ps. 90:12). Thankfully, you have this promise to cling to: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).

So how can you establish Biblical priorities (assuming that you want to) that help you be effective for God’s Kingdom. Maybe these questions will help you think about your priorities: (1) What are the non-negotiables in my life? (Things that I, as a follower of Christ, am commanded to do.) (2) What are the negotiables in my life? (Things I’d like to do but are flexible or not critical.) (3) How do I know what my priorities should be and then live them out?

In regard to developing any priorities, I’ve always said, “A person does what he or she wants to do.” Having said all that, consider the following thoughts in light of YOUR priorities:

Is God Himself your #1 Priority?

Shouldn’t your relationship with the Lord be your first priority that influences all other priorities? Anything else, even if it appears to be a spiritual activity, should take second place to keeping God first in your life.

Priority #2 – Spouse

If you’re married, your second priority is your spouse. Do you have a plan for developing love for your spouse? Are you trying to “out-serve” your spouse above other activities?

Priority #3 – Family & Home

How well are you managing your home? What areas do you need to work on? Do your parents have needs that you should be meeting?

Priority #4 – Church

Being part of and serving in a Bible preaching and teaching church is a non-negotiable aspect of every believer’s life. Are you consistently attending worship with the body of Christ? Or are you merely showing up? Is your church training you to be a disciple of Jesus and not merely one of His followers? Out of the 168 hours in your week, are you giving God at least one of those in worship?

Priority #5 – People without Christ in your community

Putting this last doesn’t mean it’s not important to God because it is. How are you letting your “light” shine? Is your living giving others a “good opinion” of God? The Christian life is about relationships, starting with the most important— your relationship with God—and working out from there!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Acts 16:9-15 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, May 11, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Do You Have the Right Priorities?

Wed, 07 May 2025 12:16:25 GMT

Do You Have the Right Priorities?

In regard to developing any priorities, I’ve always said, “A person does what he or she wants to do.” Having said all that, consider the following thoughts in light of YOUR priorities:

Is God Himself your #1 Priority?

Priority #2 – Spouse

If you’re married, your second priority is your spouse. Do you have a plan for developing love for your spouse? Are you trying to “out-serve” your spouse above other activities?

Priority #3 – Family & Home

How well are you managing your home? What areas do you need to work on? Do your parents have needs that you should be meeting?

Priority #4 – Church

Priority #5 – People without Christ in your community

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

VBS 2025 - MAGNIFIED

Mon, 05 May 2025 13:05:42 GMT

Vacation Bible School 2025 - MAGNIFIED June 16th, 18th & 20th

THIS IS A FREE EVENT
REGISTER at - https://vbspro.events/p/mtlaurelcog or mtlaurelcog.org

3 Days of VBS - June 16th, 18th & 20th 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Kindergarten through 6th grade

This year’s theme, MAGNIFIED, invites kids to explore the wonders of God's creation and discover how even the smallest things reflect His greatness. Through engaging Bible stories, fun activities, music, and crafts, children will learn that:

God sees me ~ God made me ~ God cares for me ~ God loves me ~ God is faithful

Each evening is packed with excitement, learning, and opportunities to grow in faith. Whether it's through interactive lessons or joyful songs, your child will experience the joy of discovering God's love.

**** ADULT CLASSES WILL BE OFFERED AS WELL EACH NIGHT

New Paragraph

Free Movie Night

Mon, 05 May 2025 12:22:51 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, May 16 6:30pm

"CAPTIVE"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "CAPTIVE". Brian Nichols (David Oyelowo) becomes the subject of a citywide manhunt after breaking out of a courthouse jail and killing four people. His frantic escape brings him to the apartment of Ashley Smith (Kate Mara), a single mother and recovering methamphetamine addict. Held hostage by Nicholas in her own home, the scared woman looks for guidance from "The Purpose Driven Life," Rick Warren's best-selling, inspirational book. As she reads aloud, Ashley and her would-be killer come to a crossroad.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Community Blood Drive

Mon, 05 May 2025 12:07:23 GMT

American Red Cross Community Blood Drive - June 25th

Wednesday, June 25th from 11:30am - 4:30pm we will be hosing the first of four quarterly blood drives in the Fellowship Hall. This is a great opportunity to help save a life by donating much-needed blood. Even if you can't donate, you can help by spreading the word to neighbors, family & friends.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time?dt=WB:PL:DR:PM&zipSponsor=17112

Baby Bottle Blessing Campaign

Mon, 05 May 2025 12:05:04 GMT

Baby Bottle Blessing Campaign May 11 - June15 2025

Your loos change can make a difference in the life of an unborn child and its mother and father who may be considering and abortion! In 2024 there were 1,038,000 abortions, the highest number in over a decade and the second time there have been over a million abortions provided in the US formal health care system since 2012.

Fill your baby bottle with loose change, cash or check (made out to Mt Laurel Church of God) and return it no later than Father's Day June 15th during worship. As you fill your baby bottle, as God to change the hearts of women who may be facing the emotional turmoil of an unplanned pregnancy.

Your change can change a life!

Living in the Future?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:28:46 GMT

Living in the Future?

^{“

Altogether, Enoch lived a total of 365 years. Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away” – Genesis 5:23-24 NIV}

^{“By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.” – Hebrews 11:5 NIV}

^{Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” – Jude 14-15 NIV}

^{Too many people are living in the past. Enoch, however, was a man who lived in the future. His whole biography in the Bible is wrapped up in the second coming of Jesus Christ.}

^{Enoch preached the second coming.

“See, the Lord is coming” was his message, and he wanted everyone to hear it. It wasn’t easy to preach to the crowd that lived before the flood, but Enoch was faithful to his message.}

^{Enoch practiced the second coming.

He walked with God. 1 John 3:3 states, “All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.” That means that we must live as though Jesus will return at any moment. John warned that some believers will be ashamed before Jesus when He returns. (See 1 John 2:28).}

^{Enoch pictured the second coming.

One day he was gone! Enoch was “taken away.” He was taken out of this world and into the next by God. He was taken away before the great flood that judged the earth! And Enoch didn’t have to die! Imagine that! Because he pleased God and walked faithfully with Him.}

^{I know I’ve often encouraged us to live in the moment. That yesterday is gone and tomorrow isn’t here yet, but maybe, just maybe we should be living in the future as we look forward to Christ’s return. And perhaps, if we look forward to His coming again, we’ll see how wonderful the present can become with our Savior Jesus!}

^{Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement.

If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 21:1-19

to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, May 4, 2025.}

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Praying From A to Z

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:32:29 GMT

Praying From A to Z

^{“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”}

^{Matthew 6:6 NIV}

^{Here we are, smack dab in the middle of Holy Week. Heavy on my mind today is the picture of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane on the night before He was crucified and after the last meal He shared with His disciples. In a way, it almost feels like God was saying, “Go to your room!”}

^{“Go to your room, shut the door, and think about what you’ve done!” As a kid I hated those words. Being sent to my room as a child was the worst! I was expected to lie on the bed and do nothing but think about why I had been sent there. There were no video games, no stereo, no television, no computer and no telephone in my room. Just the bed, the dresser, my desk and sheer boredom.}

^{If my parents were lucky, the boredom put me to sleep for a while and gave them some relief, but usually the punishment served its purpose. I lay there staring at the ceiling, listening to the sounds of my siblings playing outside. I vowed not to repeat my offense if they would ever let me out of that bed room!}

^{As I grew up in my faith, I don’t mind when God sends me to my room. Now it’s not as a punishment but a haven. In the late hours of that Maundy Thursday night, did Jesus feel that God had “sent Him to His room” for something He had done? Jesus knew what was going to happen the next day. So, there in the garden, He prayed.}

^{When life doesn’t go the way I want it to go, God calls me to my room. He’s there, waiting for me. There I can close the door on temptation and shut myself in with God. As I pray for strength to overcome the pull of sin, there in the quiet of my room, He pours His strength into me. As He knelt there in the Garden of Gethsemane, the human part of Jesus must surely have hungered for God’s strength to face what was coming.} ^{“Not My will but Yours be done,”} ^{Jesus prayed. And God’s strength reminded Him that, even though His disciples were sleeping while He was praying, His Father had heard every word.}

^{Are you weary, my friend? Is the weight of responsibility or temptation weighing heavily on you? Go to your room! Meet with the Lord your God and receive His strength.}

^{Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement.} ^{If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading John 20:1-18} ^{to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, April 20, 2025. And don’t forget that worship begins at 10:00 am, not 10:30! Why not consider joining us in the cemetery at 6:00 am for Sunrise worship?}

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Go To Your Room!

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:30:42 GMT

Go To Your Room!

^{“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”}

^{Matthew 6:6 NIV}

^{Are you weary, my friend? Is the weight of responsibility or temptation weighing heavily on you? Go to your room! Meet with the Lord your God and receive His strength.}

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

This Means War!

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:06:39 GMT

This Means War!

“ For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. ²⁴ What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? ²⁵ Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!

So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature ^[ ^a ^] a slave to the law of sin.”

Romans 7:22-25 NIV

We can all relate to that fierce battle described in Romans 7. We love God. We’d do anything for Christ who died and rose for us. We really do want to obey God’s Word and do His will. But there’s another force at work in us, isn’t there? It’s our human nature. Our mind tells us one thing, but our body tells us another. My body says I’m not hungry, but my mind says it sure tastes good. My body says “I’ve had enough,” but my desire says “I need just a few more bites of that cheesecake.” My spirit says, “Read the Word!” by my eyes say “I’m sleepy. It’s time for bed.” It’s a battle!

I don’t need to tell you that there’s a war being fought, but it’s fought in small daily battles. There’s a winner in each skirmish, and the one who wins most will eventually gain the victory. If the Spirit controls the body most of the time, we’ll lead Godly lives and reap eternal rewards. If we allow our human nature to control our actions more often, we’ll lose. Our lives will end in destruction, and the enemy will have gained the victory.

But wait. Before you start waving your white flag, you need to remember that we’re not fighting with ordinary weapons. Paul wrote this in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

Your weapons are mighty weapons, my friend. They’re prayer, faith, praise, trust, steadfastness, and long-suffering. They’re reading the Word of God and believing His promises. You’re part of God’s mighty army! He’s the great General, and the victory has already been won at the cross of Christ. He’s waiting for you to enlist and to enjoy the victory with Him. Now stop your

sniveling, determine to let the Holy Spirit rule your body, pick up your spiritual weapons, and get out there and win one for Christ!

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Luke 19:28-40 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Lions Recycle For Sight

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:03:04 GMT

Help give sight to those in need

Mt Laurel Church of God is helping the local Lion's Club collect old eyeglasses. A box has been placed in the front Narthex where you may place your old eyeglasses. The Lion's Club would be glas to recycle them because they recognize the urgent need for corrective lenses by those who may not be able to afford them.

New Paragraph

Free Movie Night

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:54:58 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, April 18 6:30pm

"A Carpenter's Prayer"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "A Carpenter's Prayer". A Carpenter's Prayer is a faith-based film inspired by a true story, following a pastor and his family's journey to build a new church in 1970's rural Michigan, where an unlikely source of hope, a troubled carpenter, becomes their key to redemption.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

It’s All in How You Look at It

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:49:06 GMT

It’s All in How You Look at It

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Philippians 4:8 NIV

One rainy day a woman overheard someone say, “What miserable weather!” She looked out her office window to see a big fat robin using a nearby puddle of water for a bathtub. He was splashing and fluttering and thoroughly enjoying himself. The woman couldn’t help but think, “Miserable for whom?” In other words, it’s all a matter of perspective.

Lincoln Steffens, an American investigative journalist, learned that lesson as a young boy. He was watching an artist paint a picture of a muddy river. He told the artist he didn’t like the picture because there was so much “mud” in it. The artist admitted that there was mud in the picture, but what he saw was the beautiful colors and contrasts of light against the dark.

Steffens later wrote this: “Mud or beauty? Which do we look for as we journey through life? If we look for mud and ugliness, we’ll certainly find them. They’re there. Just as the artist found beauty in the muddy river, because that’s what he was looking for, we will find, in the stream of life, those things that we want to see. To look for the best and see the beautiful is the way to get the best out of life each day.”

I guess what Lincoln and I are trying to say is what the Bible says, too. What you see is what you get. How we think is what determines our attitude and outlook on life at any given moment. Some people complain because God put thorns on roses, while others praise Him for putting roses on thorns. It’s really all in how you look at it.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Philippians 3:3-14 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, April 6, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Growing Old

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 12:25:06 GMT

Growing Old 

“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”

Proverbs 16:31 NIV

Growing old, like taxes, is a fact we all must face. With some people, growing old isn't the same as growing up though . As we grow old, change becomes more difficult.

As we grow old physical changes in our bodies put on the brakes. You begin to huff and puff when you used to rip and zip. You prefer sitting more than standing . . . watching more than doing . . . forgetting your birthday rather than remembering it. Mentally , your aging brain longs for relief. You can't remember like you used to, and you don't respond like you ought to. You start thinking more about yesterday and tomorrow in heaven and less about today. Emotionally , you begin to have strange fears and feelings you once swore you'd never feel. You might even start:

· Being negative, critical, and downright ornery at times.

· Being reluctant to let those who are younger take more responsibility.

· Feeling unwanted and "in the way."

· Being preoccupied with "what if" more often.

· Feeling forgotten, unloved, lonely, and passed by.

· Resisting the need to adjust and adapt.

All this. . . and so much more . . . is worsened by the memory of those days when you once were so very efficient, capable, needed, and fulfilled. When you look in the mirror, you notice that the fingers of age have begun to scratch their marks on your house of clay . . . and it's hard to believe your twilight years could be of any worth. How wrong and destructive are those thoughts! How quickly does that thinking sentence you to the prison cell of self-pity, doubt, depression, uselessness, and grief.

Do you realize that God's patriarchs were among His most prized possessions? Abraham was far more effective once he grew old and mellow. Moses wasn't used with any measure of success until he turned eighty. Caleb was eighty-five when he began to enjoy God's best goals. And Paul was used so very effectively during his last days as he wrote words of encouragement in letters that we cherish today!

Far be it from me to deny the fact that growing old has its difficulties and heartaches. But to see only the hot sands of your desert experience and miss the refreshing oasis here and there is to turn the latter part of your life's journey into an arid, tasteless endurance that makes everyone miserable . . . especially yourself.

My friend, do you realize that God has decided to let you live this long? Your old age is NOT a mistake . . . NOT an oversight . . . NOT an afterthought. Don’t you think it's time to let God control your emotions, cool your tongue, and soften your smile with a refreshing drink from His oasis? Won't you allow Him to refresh your life by submitting to His will, even if it's late in life? Use your older years to share your fondest memories with those closest to you. Begin praying about your future as you allow God to use you as His valuable vessel of faith.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Joshua 5:9-12 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, March 30, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Windows to Your Heart

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:52:20 GMT

Windows to Your Heart

“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”

Matthew 12:34 NIV

I can’t imagine a world without words. Can you? You may be aware that my wife and I “inherited” my Mother’s dog, Millie. Millie, an 11 pound Havanese, was simply too energetic for my almost 88 year-old mother to care for alone. So, Millie came to live at our house. Over the last year, I’ve learned to like Millie. The only problem Millie and I have is that we don’t communicate well. Millie will sit in front of me and stare at me, as if I’m supposed to be able to read her thoughts. Obviously, I can’t. So, I’ll run through her list of possible needs . . . Do you need to go out? Are you hungry? Do you want food? Do you want to go for a walk? Do you want to play? And every once in a while, I’ll say a key word that will prompt a response from Millie. She’s teaching me that words and how we say them, are vitally important. In fact, words are the windows to our heart.

Author J. Allan Petersen tells about a flight he took on a 747 out of Brazil. He was awakened from sleep by a strong voice announcing, “We have a very serious emergency.” Three engines had quit because of fuel contamination and the fourth was expected to go at any second. The plane began to drop and turn in the night, preparing for an emergency landing.

At first the situation seemed unreal to Petersen, but when the flight attendant barked, “Prepare for impact,” he found himself and everyone around him praying. As he buried his head in his lap and pulled up his knees, he said, “Oh, God, thank You. Thank You for the incredible privilege of knowing You. Life has been wonderful.” As the plane approached the ground, his last cry was, “Oh, God, my wife! My children!”

Petersen survived. As he wondered about the airport in a daze, aching all over, he found that he couldn’t speak. But his mind was racing. What were my last words? What was the bottom line? As he remembered, he had his answer: relationship. Reunited with his wife and sons, he found that all he could say to them over and over was, “I appreciate you, I appreciate you!”

Do you ever listen to what you’re saying? Have you told that person who matters to you most how you really feel? I don’t need to tell you that we live in a very tenuous world where life often hangs by a mere thread of existence. My friend, don’t assume that those who are closest to you know what’s in your heart. Tell them. Tell them regularly. Tell them what they mean to you. And tell them now. Yesterday is but a memory. Tomorrow may never come. But you have today. Make sure your dearest friends and family members know how much you love and appreciate them.

Thanks for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, please consider reading Isaiah 55:1-9 to get ready to hear God’s message through him this coming Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in your faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Can You Be "Spiritual But Not Religious?"

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:33:22 GMT

Can You Be "Spiritual But Not Religious?"

“Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!"

Isaiah 30:18 NIV

When life and hope crumbles, when happily ever after becomes happy never after, you could blame God. If God loved you, or if God was really good, bad stuff wouldn't happen. Then abandonment issues gear up and loneliness nibbles at your soul. Assuming the worst of God won't help, my friend, and nor is it accurate. "Yet," Isaiah said.

In the midst of all your awful, hear God's heart in hardship. God's actions are based on God's character, and the Lord longs, earnestly wants, to show you grace.

Why not start here. Write down the crumblings in your life. Pen and paper. Remember those? The act of physical writing externalizes the words and their weight. Speak God's words over you and your list: "I long to be gracious to you. I will rise up . . . powerful, mighty action . . . to show you compassion. I am riling up heaven to love you in your agony." Repeat that aloud until the truth sinks into your soul. You are loved. God is with you, rising up with grace and compassion.

Dear God, take my friend's list. Help him or her receive Your grace and Your compassion, right now!

If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Deuteronomy 26:1-11 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in the faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Rise Up

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:11:08 GMT

R ise Up

“Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!"

Isaiah 30:18 NIV

In the midst of all your awful, hear God's heart in hardship. God's actions are based on God's character, and the Lord longs, earnestly wants, to show you grace.

Dear God, take my friend's list. Help him or her receive Your grace and Your compassion, right now!

Called to pray for you, teach you and encourage you in the faith,

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:56:10 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, March 21st 6:30pm

"Ice Bound"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "Ice Bound", In this adaptation of a true story, Ohio physician Dr. Jerri Nielsen (Susan Sarandon) is stranded at a research station in Antarctica. Nielsen keep[s her distance from the other researchers, until she dins a growth in her breast and shares her concerns about it with Big John Penny (Aidan DeVine) and Claire Furinkski (Cythia Mace). After discovering that the lump is cancerous Nielsen, creates her own method of chemotherapy and fights to survive the deadly winter.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Be Honest

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:03:01 GMT

Be Honest

“But Martha, the dead man's sister, protested."

John 11:39

Perhaps you remember the account of the death of one of Jesus' best friends. Lazarus? Read about it in John chapter 11. I'm sure He had His reasons for not rushing to the town of Bethany when He received news that Lazarus was so sick that he would soon die. I'm sure He knew He was going to do a big miracle. A bring-someone-back-to-life moment.

As He opened His mouth to speak the divine command, Martha, Lazarus' sister, spoke up with the honest truth that was on her heart: "Lord, he's gonna stink!"

But that didn't throw Jesus off. The truth that Martha was thinking didn't mess up Jesus' plan. At least she was honest with Jesus. He answered her without rebuking her and told her that they were going to see God's glory. And then He proceeded to do the supernatural, bringing her brother, Lazarus, back to life.

You and I need to be honest with God, too, even if it means admitting that we're thinking about mundane things that we don't think God would be concerned about. Truth be told, God is as much a detail person as He is a big-picture person. God knows your thoughts and how you think. He's the One who designed your brain!

If we're honest with God, that means we're being honest with ourselves, too. And if we need to tell God that a situation is going to be messy or smelly, He's going to say, "It's okay. I'm going to show you My glory not matter what the situation might be." And, by the way, God is okay with messes.

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Luke 9:28-43 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, March 2, 2025.

^{Pastor Dale}

Enjoy the Quiet

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:44:47 GMT

Enjoy the Quiet

“All the lands are at rest and at peace; they break into singing."

Isaiah 14:7 NIV

After every storm in life, a kind of calm descends. This happens in the most mundane ways. Maybe you've experienced it? You hear the deafening calm after the baby goes to sleep. It happens at more heartrending moments too, like when the house becomes eerily quiet after the last teenager moves out. Whatever the tsunami you've experienced . . . an illness, a heartbreak, a job loss . . . it'll be followed by a calm, an emptiness, a dead space.

Our temptation is usually to fill that space with more activity. We go looking for something . . . noise, commotion, relationships, anything to fill that void. We volunteer for one more job at church or get coffee with one more friend or take on more hours at work or start some new venture.

Don't! Be still for just a moment. Enjoy the quiet while it lasts. There's nothing wrong with that space. It's not empty. It's filled with silence. It's not wasted. It's restful. Soon enough you can add back all those good activities, if you want to.

For now, put on another pot of tea, go to your favorite chair, and just enjoy the quiet. Because even that quiet is a gift from God.

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Luke 6:27-38 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, February 23, 2025.

^{Pastor Dale}

Community Blood Drive

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 16:49:31 GMT

American Red Cross Community Blood Drive - February 26th

Wednesday, February 26 from 11:30am - 4:30pm we will be hosing the first of four quarterly blood drives in the Fellowship Hall. This is a great opportunity to help save a life by donating much-needed blood. Even if you can't donate, you can help by spreading the word to neighbors, family & friends.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time?dt=WB:PL:DR:PM&zipSponsor=17112

He Bends Down

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 13:10:23 GMT

He Bends Down

“I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!”

Psalm 116:1-2 TLB

Sixty-one years have passed since I finished first grade. I still remember how my teacher made me feel. She was loving, creative, and thoughtful . . . the kind of teacher every child dreams of having. When her students spoke to her, she bent down to their eye level and listened to every word, no matter how trivial they might have been. Her warm smile let me know that I mattered and that she wanted the best for me. Needless to say, I fell in love with my first grade teacher.

When you and I face challenges, it’s easy to view God as a stern teacher. Maybe you imagine Him standing tall in the lofty sky, laughing at your problems or punishing you when you make a mistake.

But here’s the wonderful truth about God. Just as my first grade teacher met me at my eye level, your loving Savior “bends down to listen” to you. He’s not too far away to hear your prayer for mercy. Keep coming to Him and pray as long as you have breath. He’ll never tire of bending down to listen to your every need. In fact, why not fall in love with Him all over again today!?

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Jeremiah 17:5-10 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, February 16, 2025. Don’t forget: This coming Sunday you’ll be able to have your blood pressure taken from 9:00 am until time for Sunday School at the Mt. Laurel Church of God!

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:27:41 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, February 28th 6:30pm

"Average Joe"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, Free Movie Night. "Average Joe", The true story of high school football coach Joe Kennedy who finds himself in a fight for religious freedom after he's fired for publicly taking a knee in prayer after each game.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Choosing a Positive Attitude

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:24:55 GMT

Choosing a Positive Attitude

Every aspect of your life will be better if you choose to have a more positive attitude. Every relationship will be stronger. Every decision will be easier. Every problem will present with it tremendous opportunity. Every bad day will be a little less bad. Every good day will be a little bit better. A positive attitude keeps your mind open. A positive attitude can help keep your blood pressure lower. A positive attitude changes everything.

Here’s something else about positive attitudes. Let’s admit this up front: maintaining a positive attitude day in and day out is a mighty big challenge. I’m sure you’ve noticed that we’re surrounded by negativity. The media is packed with negativity. It’s widespread on social media. We hear it from coworkers, friends, family members and even some of our fellow church members. It’s literally everywhere.

Viktor Frankl, a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp during World War III said, “Everything can be taken from a person but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way.” No one can choose your attitude for you. Only you get to choose your attitude each day. Contrary to what some people believe, no one and nothing is able to choose it for you.

You and I must make a conscious choice everyday, a choice that says “today I’ll be in charge of my attitude and I will not allow anyone or anything to rob me of that precious life changing choice.” Then you need to fight to make it happen. But how? How can you choose to have a positive, Christ-like attitude each day? Let me offer some suggestions. They help me, but honestly, I still lose the fight too often. Here we go:

1. Focus on what you’re grateful for. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate them. Keep a gratitude journal where you write down what you’re thankful for each day.

2. Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire and encourage you. Positive and supportive relationships can have a huge impact on your attitude. Surely you know some people who annoyingly see the bright side of everything. Let them annoy you a little more often because a positive attitude can be more contagious than a negative one if you’re exposed often enough.

3. Be aware of your thoughts and emotions. When negative thoughts pop up, try to be aware of them and replace them with more positive and constructive ones.

4. Instead of dwelling on problems, focus your energy on finding solutions. This proactive approach can boost your confidence and create a more positive attitude.

5. Participate in activities that make you feel joy . It could be hobbies, sports, music, spending time in nature, or other creative pursuits. Regularly participating in those activities can boost your overall mood.

6. Limit your exposure to negative news, social media, or conversations. Instead, seek more positive and uplifting sources.

7. Use positive affirmations to reframe your attitude. Tell yourself encouraging statements about your abilities, worth, and potential. If that sounds hokey to you, don’t worry. It absolutely works!

8. Admit to yourself that failure is a natural part of life . Instead of dwelling on mistakes or setbacks, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Doing so will help you maintain a positive attitude even during challenging times. Failure is never final unless you decide to make it so.

9. Laughter is a powerful tool for lifting your spirits . Learn to laugh at yourself and don’t take yourself too seriously. Share laughs with friends. Get involved in activities that make you smile. If you can’t find a single thing to laugh about during your day, do what I do. Find a mirror and have yourself a big ol’ laugh.

10. Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrate your progress and give yourself credit for your efforts. You’re still trying, you’re still fighting the fight, you’re still on your way to choosing a positive attitude. I can’t think of too many more things more positive than that.

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, February 9, 2025. Don’t forget: This coming Sunday is Scout Sunday at the Mt. Laurel Church of God!

^{Pastor Dale}

Men's Prayer Breakfast

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 13:08:52 GMT

MEN'S PRAYER BREAKFAST - MEN OF COMMITMENT

PLEASE REGISTER BY MARCH 12th SO WE KNOW HOW MUCH FOOD TO MAKE.

Join us in Fellowship Hall on March 15th @ 8:30am for a FREE Men's Prayer Breakfast. A Guest Speaker will bring the message.

A love offering will be accepted.

Grab the other Men in your life and join us for this time of food, fellowship & Worship!

God has called out to each of us.

No matter where you are on your

journey, we all benefit from

looking at and hearing God's

Word together.

Join us for breakfast, fellowship,

and a guest speaker. This is a

great opportunity to get to know

the other men of the church,

share experiences, and grow your

faith to become the man God

wants you to be.

We'd love to have you come to our prayer breakfast

visit: www.mtlaurelcog.org/mens-breakfast to register and let us know you will be joining us.

How Close IS God Anyway?

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:58:52 GMT

How Close IS God Anyway?

I think I’ve finally figured out why the world is in the shape it’s in . . . Too many people think God is far away and doesn’t care to be involved in the events here on planet Earth. And because they believe that God is far, far away, they think they can do whatever they want and He won’t know or care. I think this explains why they don’t believe God loves them or cares about them, especially in tough times. They couldn’t be further from the truth!

He does love you, you know. He sees you. When you laugh and your heart is full. And in those awful times when it hurts so much you go numb.

He enjoys spending happy days with you. He loves it when you dance the dance of joy, and He sends the sweetness of His presence to increase your delight. He also understands your fight to trust Him on the bad days. On those bad days He comes whispering love and peace. “Remember My goodness,” He says. “I’m dedicated to meeting you right there in the middle of trouble, whether you caused it or not.”

God’s really not far away. In fact, He’s as close as your next breath. Think about that for a moment. What could be more intimate than your breath?

Can you hear His whisper? “Make Me your refuge,” He says. “I’m your strong tower. I’m the rock where you can stand steady. I’m willing to shelter you beneath My wings. Even as a nursing mother never forgets her baby, I could never forget you. I stand like a momma bear over you. I’m here. Always.”

Wherever you’re reading this, I’d like you to pause and take a deep breath. Let God’s love penetrate the chaos of your busy day. Let Him still the raging storm within your heart. He is good. He will never abandon you. He cares about everything you care about.

If you have trouble believing that God is this close, we need to talk. I’m here for you. Call me any time of the day or night at 717-658-6707 . . . and I’ll listen to your worries and pray for you.

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Jeremiah 1:4-10 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, February 2, 2025

^{Pastor Dale}

The Joy of Serving Others

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:12:29 GMT

The Joy of Serving Others

I’ve noticed lately that there are two basic kinds of people in our world . . . those who serve others and those who sit back and wait to be served. Which group do YOU fall into?

If you’re a Christ-follower, you know that serving others is important. I’ve often said, “Serving, for the Christian, is not an option. It’s an expectation.” What, if anything, do we get out of serving? When we serve others, not only are we doing good for others, but we’re also doing something that brings us joy. Serving can be part of a powerful spiritual journey, bringing us closer to God and deepening our faith.

At the heart of Christianity is the idea of service. Jesus taught us that when we serve others, we’re serving Him. The Bible is full of passages that encourage us to serve. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Similarly, in Galatians 5:13, Paul urged us to “serve one another humbly in love.”

Service is more than just a way to help others. It’s a way to connect with God. When we serve, we can be praying. Serving isn’t just a physical expression of our faith, it’s a spiritual expression of our faith, and it increases our understanding of God’s love and grace. As we serve others, we become more aware of our role in God’s plan.

When we serve others, we’re fulfilling a divine purpose. When we serve, we’re providing a source of joy and hope to those around us. By serving others, we’re bringing light and love into their lives. As we serve, we’re reminded of the importance of compassion and kindness.

Serving also allows us to take our eyes off of ourselves and focus on others. It’s easy to get caught up in our own worries and problems, but when we serve, we can find joy in helping someone else. As Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Serving also has its own rewards. When we serve, we’re not only helping others, we’re also helping ourselves. Serving can be a source of joy and satisfaction when we see the tangible results of our service. Serving others can be a rewarding experience when we get a sense of accomplishment. Serving can also be a way to practice humility and to become more compassionate and generous. In serving, we can gain a deeper appreciation for our own blessings, and we can be reminded of the importance of gratitude and thankfulness.

Finally, serving can bring us closer to God. When we serve, we can’t help but be reminded of God’s selfless love and generous grace. We can recall that humility, compassion, and generosity were and are part of Jesus’ character. Serving is a powerful act of devotion, a way to express our love for God and our gratitude for His mercy and grace. By serving others, we can bring light and hope into the lives of others.

Why not take a “serving” inventory today? How are you serving others? Each month, I publish a list of areas where the people of the Mt. Laurel Church of God can serve. Sometimes I see people step up and jump into one of those areas. Sometimes I wonder if they even look at the list. What’s your “serving” inventory say about your willingness to serve others? I’d love to hear where you’re serving others!

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading John 13:1-17 and John 19:17-18 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale as we celebrate Feetwashing and Communion this coming Sunday, January 26, 2025

^{Pastor Dale}

A Cure For Selfishness

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:35:59 GMT

A Cure For Selfishness

I have a confession to make. I’m not always easy to live with. Obviously, if you’re my wife or my Mother, that’s not new news to you. But for those of you who think your pastor or this pastor is merely one notch below God, keep reading.

This past Friday, I woke up in a pretty good mood. Don’t be surprised if that doesn’t surprise you. Truth be told, I can be hard to live with at times. And this past Friday was one of those days.

It started when I didn’t get my own way. It was my day off and I had plans that just didn’t happen. But instead of moving on, my attitude got worse. I grumbled around the house, taking out my frustrations on my Mother (yes, she’s now a part of our household), my wife, and even on the dog. I grumbled because it seemed like I was doing everything for everyone else and no one was doing anything for me. Selfishness personified, right?

Don’t EVEN try to tell me you never have days like I had last Friday. Isn’t there a selfish vein in each of us? Isn’t that our old, pre-Christian nature trying to get the upper hand? It is indeed. So what can we do to combat that selfishness when it rears its ugly head? What can we do to stop being selfish? Let me offer some suggestions that worked for me.

1. Evaluate your attitude. It's important to remember that it’s normal (though not good) to be selfish from time to time. Sometimes we go through phases of life where we’re more self-focused. Are you selfish with your time? Your resources? Your attention? Or are you neglecting the needs of other people who rely on you in some way? Once you pinpoint the problem, you can start making a determined effort to change. It may take time and a little practice. Last Friday it took me most of the day. Eventually, you'll find that you’re better able to recognize selfish behavior and more skilled at addressing it before it becomes a serious problem.

2. Pay attention to others. Paying attention to others and listening to what they say is important if you want to stop being selfish. Active listening can help you focus on the needs of others, help them to feel valued, and take the focus off of yourself. To listen actively, you’ll need to be fully present in the moment. Pay attention to what others are saying and how they’re saying it. Show interest in others by taking the focus off of you and putting it on others.

3. Be aware of your thought biases. How we think can affect how we interpret and interact with our world. Because I thought everyone was aligned against me this past Friday, I made poor decisions that led to selfish behavior. I blamed those who were closes to me for making me feel like a slave. My self-serving bias led me to feel that their normal requests were making me work hard on my day off and I blamed my family members for my lousy attitude. That “thinking” bias cause me to see things only from my own perspective. But when we’re aware of those thinking errors, we can make an effort to consider different ways of seeing situations can help reduce both bias and selfishness.

4. Volunteer to help others. Serving others is a great way to turn your focus from yourself to others. While serving others is certainly a great way to help make the world a better place, evidence also suggests that servants will eventually reap God’s rewards. Serving others can reduce loneliness and increase social interaction. It can improve our ability to deal with stress. Serving others can help us form new friendships and even fight against feelings of depression. And because serving others requires us to focus on something outside ourselves, it can go a long way toward reducing selfishness.

5. Show gratitude. Gratitude involves appreciating the good things in life and the people we should cherish more than stuff. Practicing gratitude can reduce self-centeredness by helping us focus our attention on the people we love and respect. One strategy to help increase appreciation for others is to keep a gratitude journal. Spend a few minutes each day writing down a few things you’re grateful for. Focusing on the people who bring happiness to your life can reduce self-centeredness and selfishness.

By late in the afternoon last Friday, I had finally come to my senses and apologized to my Mother, to Pamela and to Millie (our dog). I think all three of them forgave me and showed me grace to try again the next day. Swallow your pride, kick your selfishness to the curb, and try to out-serve the people in your life. While we walk on this planet, we’ll always wrestle with selfishness, so do your best, with the Holy Spirit’s help, to overcome it . . . or at least minimize it each day.

Let me know if I’m NOT the only person who wrestles with selfishness. Write to me at Kingdomguy@gmail.com and let me know what YOU do to fight against selfishness.

Oh, one more thing . . . If you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading John 2:1-11 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, January 19, 2025

^{Pastor Dale}

A Word for the New Year: Consistency

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 14:09:13 GMT

A Word for the New Year: Consistency

The questions are different, but the answers are the same.

What will protect us against foolish extremes?

What characterizes those who are habitually successful in sports, sales, or some other skill?

What single quality in a business builds respect better than any other?

What builds security in relationships?

What makes you choose a particular brand name over all the others?

What’s needed most by parents in the home?

What takes you back to the same restaurant time after time?

What do you want most from your mailman, dry cleaner, or church family?

What will add more effectiveness to your witness for Christ than anything else?

The word is consistency . Steadiness. You can count on it. It’ll be there tomorrow just like it was yesterday. It’s free from moods, sudden changes, or fads. Early in the day or late at night, consistency stands firm. When pain or hardship bites, consistency doesn’t bleed. When the majority is tired and irritable, consistency is stable and resilient. Consistency isn’t insensitive or boring, but reliable and faithful. It’s the stuff mothers are made of when their little ones get sick.

Consistency is seen in faithful employees who show up on time, roll up their sleeves, and commit themselves more to doing the job than watching the clock. Diligence is consistency’s brother, dependability its partner and discipline its parent.

When shifty, rootless times lob ridicule and criticism, consistency stands and takes it as silently as a bronze statue stands against the wind. Consistency doesn’t know ups and downs, highs or lows, rainy days or Mondays. It hates tardiness and absenteeism. Consistency thrives on sacrifice and unselfishness. It’s an obvious mark of maturity that hangs in there day in and day out in spite of everything that could get you sidetracked.

Paul had consistency in mind when he told Timothy to “be ready in season and out of season . . . “ (2 Timothy 4:2). When he encouraged the Galatian Christians, he was thinking about consistency, “ . . . let us not lose heart . . . for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary” (Galatians 6:9).

James called consistency “ . . . endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect . . .” (James 1:3b-4).

But best of all, consistency is best seen in Jesus “the same yesterday and today, yes and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). When you need Him, He’s there. He’ll be there this year even when you don’t think you need Him.

Consistency. It’s a jewel worth wearing, the anchor worth weighing, the thread worth saving. It’s the battle worth winning. This year, show up early, be positive every day, and be consistent.

Oh, one more thing . . . I f you’re a regular attender or member of the Mt. Laurel Church of God, consider reading Isaiah 43:1-7 to get ready to hear God’s message through Pastor Dale this coming Sunday, January 12, 2025

^{Pastor Dale}

It Was a Simple “Yes”

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 13:29:26 GMT

It Was a Simple “Yes”

One of my favorite places to visit when I walked where Jesus walked in 2022 was the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth, Israel, built over the cave that tradition says was the home of the virgin Mary. In fact, why not take a few minutes and read Luke 1:26-38 , the dialogue between Gabriel and Mary. It’s important because it offers a pattern for our preparation for the coming of Christmas day.

When you read that conversation, you’ll notice that Mary, probably aged 14, wasn’t asked to do anything herself, but to let something be done to her. She wasn’t asked to give up anything, but to receive an incredible gift. She wasn’t even asked to lead a special kind of life. She was simply asked to move forward with her marriage to Joseph, to live the life of a craftsman’s wife. That was just what she had planned to do before she was told that something out of ordinary was going to happen to her.

What was Mary’s response to all that? A simple “Yes” to God. “Let it be with me according to your word.” Her “Yes” implied a trust that was without limit and established a pattern for you and me to imitate.

Maybe for you, the first “Yes” to God’s initiative happened when you heard the Holy Spirit asking you to invite Jesus into your life. And when you said “Yes,” the power of Christ permeated your very being. Your first “Yes” was like Mary’s, without condition and without reservation. And ever since that day, God hasn’t asked you to do more than Mary did. You’re not asked to cultivate a spiritual hot-house kind of life. You’re not asked to deny your humanity or do anything out of the ordinary.

What God does ask of you is your flesh and blood, your daily life, your thoughts, your service to others, your words, your ordinary human joys and sorrows. God asks you to offer yourself, all that you are, just as you are, and to let the Holy Spirit work God’s will in you. Then, like Mary, you can become a Christ-bearer in your part of the world, right where you live and love and work and play.

The first Christ-bearer’s “Yes” was spoken for herself. If you want God’s will to be completed in you, then you must personally echo that surrender of faith. As we wait for the coming of Christmas, Mary is our model.

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, December 22, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Luke 1:39-55 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

Oh, one more thing . . . Because next Wednesday, December 25, is Christmas Day, I’ll be spending it with my family and my Lord and there will be NO PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement. Who wants to read emails on Christmas Day anyway?

^{Pastor Dale}

Prince of Peace

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:31:39 GMT

Prince of Peace

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 NIV

Isaiah didn’t, couldn’t, stop with just one prophetic name for the coming Messiah. God’s gift in the coming Savior was inexpressible. Still, Isaiah tried to express it. He reached for name after name, struggling to communicate the greatness of the coming gift. Wonderful Counselor wasn’t enough. Mighty God wasn’t enough. Everlasting Father wasn’t enough either. So, Isaiah added one more name: Prince of Peace.

Where do you need peace in your corner of the world today? Obviously, nations are still battling with nations. Do you need peace in your family relationships? Peace in your marriage? Is there conflict at work? Too much stress at school? Are you wrestling with peace in your own soul?

Jesus is the true source of lasting peace. Only Jesus can calm your restless heart and bring calm to your conflicted soul. Only He can settle your debt of your sin with a holy God. And the good news is that He did just that! Be at peace today, my friend!

Isaiah said in chapter 26 verse 3, “ You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you .”

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, December 15, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Luke 3:7-18 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

A Reason For Hope

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 20:10:04 GMT

A Reason For Hope

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 7:21 NIV

This past Sunday, December 1, was the first Sunday of Advent. This week’s theme is hope!

Let there be hope this Advent season, but let it be for the right reasons.

Young Mike said, “I’m a Christian. I know I’m a Christian because I’ve given my life to Jesus, who’s my Lord and Savior. I go to church every Sunday. I read the Bible a lot; boy, do I read the Bible. I wear T-shirts with ‘Jesus is Lord’ printed on them in bright colors. I listen to Christian music and volunteer at my church.”

Old Joe said, “I hope I’m a Christian. I think I act like a Christian maybe half the time. Many times I don’t feel close to God; days go by when I don’t go near the Bible and I forget to pray; I work, I watch TV, I drink a few beers now and then. I hope the Lord will have mercy on me when I die. I hope. When I do pray, what I say is, ‘Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.’”

Which of those two is closer to the kingdom of heaven? As you get ready for Christmas, are you hoping in your own accomplishments or in the saving power of the coming Christ Child?

Lord of Advent, God of Hope, help us to recognize Your will in the events of our daily lives. Fill us with Your hope, Your joy, and Your love for all people. Amen.

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, December 8, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Luke 3:1-6 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

Thanksgiving: A Way of Life

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 13:08:39 GMT

Thanksgiving: A Way of Life

Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.

Micah 7:8b NIV

Thanksgiving is so many things to so many people. It’s part of our call as Christians. Not just this week . . . not just tomorrow . . . but every day of every year we’re charged with being thankful for God’s bounty, which even includes those often unwelcomed challenges that push us to grow. It’s a day on the calendar in November. It’s a prayer, silent or aloud, when we feel particularly blessed.

Thanksgiving, the day on the calendar, is marked by food, gathering, and remembering. The whole landing at Plymouth Rock thing wasn’t a big deal in our family. Yes, we visited that rock when I was a kid, but a rock beside the shore wasn’t a significant player in our family stories. My father’s family came to this country early in the 20 ^th century from Germany. I still remember visiting one of Dad’s aunts who only spoke German. Needless to say, it wasn’t an exciting visit for a ten year-old. Our Thanksgiving dinners, often around my grandparent’s table in Enhaut, were very much about thanks for God’s blessings of family, friends and countless cousins.

As the years have accumulated since that little ship hit the coast of Massachusetts, that story has moved further into the mist. So what do we do with Thanksgiving now? Should we read the historical research that reminds us that those first Pilgrims weren’t all very nice people and that their arrival wasn’t necessarily a hit with the native peoples? What about all the other people who arrived on these shores at different times and in different places? It’s certainly wonderful that they survived the trip across the pond and set up housekeeping in this strange, unfamiliar place.

I think Thanksgiving, just before the season of Advent, is a wonderful opportunity to sum up all the gifts of the year, to celebrate what we’ve learned about being good stewards of the world we live in and to open our hearts to more learning about how it all works and what we can do to be good citizens of the world.

It should be a day to look at the people that have historically had itchy feet and a passion for exploration and those who were passionate about their own piece of geography, with no desire to go anywhere else. What gifts do they bring to our understanding of each other? How can we learn from each other’s ways and longings? How do their stories inform our thanksgivings?

No, Thanksgiving should be more than a day. It should be a way of life. The day gives us a chance to collect all the pieces of our gratitude and share those stories with friends and family around a table. But the day should also remind us to be thankful for all the blessings and challenges God gives us every day. It’s not just about the turkey!

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, December 1, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

Light in the Darkness

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 12:15:10 GMT

Light in the Darkness

Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.

Micah 7:8b NIV

I experienced the deepest, thickest darkness during a tour of Luray Caverns in Virginia. The guide had taken us into an inner chamber of the cave and warned that the lights would go off. His simple statement didn’t prepare me for the blackness that surrounded me in an instant. I looked around but saw nothing. I wiggled my fingers in front of my face but couldn’t see a trace of movement. My only comfort was the guide’s voice piercing the space, reminding me that I wasn’t alone.

Just like that cave, life sometimes sends us into suffocating darkness. We long to get out, but we can’t see one inch in front of us and nor can we find a path to safety. The only thing we can rely on is the voice of our Guide.

Maybe you’re sitting in the darkest of circumstances right now. Maybe you’re wondering if there’s any way out, any way to escape. What can you do when fear overwhelms you? Open your eyes to the light of the Lord Jesus. Listen for His voice. Find comfort in His presence. He’s your Guide, your Light, and your Salvation.

As you go about your day today, look for glimpses of Jesus in your circumstances. Maybe, just maybe, you’ll see Him reflected by a Christ-follower near you.

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, November 24, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Ephesians 1:15-23 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

Where Our Liberty Ends

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:45:07 GMT

Where Our Liberty Ends

No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.

1 Corinthians 10:24 NIV

“We should not look after our own advantage but after that of our neighbor,” is a better translation of the verse noted above.

One day a man was arrested. The judge said, “Why did you hit your neighbor on the nose?”

“I was exercising on my lawn,” the man replied. “My neighbor came along and as I swung my arms up and down and sideways, I hit him on the nose. Haven’t I the liberty, your honor, to exercise on my own lawn?”

“Yes,” answered the judge. “But remember, your liberty ends where the other’s nose begins.”

We Christians have the utmost freedom, but we must exercise restraint for the sake of others. The apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:23, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything—but not everything is constructive. ” For example, it’s not wrong to be kind to an unbeliever, but to be seen coming out of a bar or tavern with one might be offensive to a weaker Christian, or may give a misleading view of your character to the unbelieving world. So, while you have the freedom to come and go, shouldn’t you limit your actions to what is good and helpful to others? In other words, the unbelieving world is watching you, Christian. And so are those who are weaker in the faith who look up to you who are more mature. It’s not a question of personal advantage but one of thoughtfulness for others. Matthew said that Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 28:20).

As you go through your day today, free from the chains of sin, keep in mind that you’re also called to share the love of Christ. Use your freedom, then, not as a stumbling block to others, but to teach them the way of self-denial so that they’ll see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, November 17, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from Mark 13:1-8 . Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.

^{Pastor Dale}

Like a Weighted Blanket

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:44:01 GMT

Like a Weighted Blanket

My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

Psalm 119:50 NIV

^{Let me tell you about one of my many quarks. I need to sleep under a blanket whether it’s during a hot summer night or the dead of winter. For some reason, the weight of a blanket allows me to sleep much more soundly. While I haven’t yet invested in a weighted blanket, I understand that they’re excellent in preventing or dealing with anxiety. Not to mention that they’re fairly expensive, too. Research suggests that a weighted blanket can calm an anxious, fidgety, or traumatized person and can have a measurable “settling” effect for those who struggle emotionally.}

^{I would imagine the effect is similar to swaddling a newborn (Guys, if you’re not sure what that is, ask your wife or girlfriend). Tucked snugly into the wrap-around blanket, a person, whether child or adult, feels secure, calmed, and comforted by the weight and warmth that enfolds them.}

^{We need to admit that we’ll sometimes go through seasons of anxiety (perhaps like the one that ended on election day this week). Knowing you’re being held by a God who’s your comfort in suffering means allowing yourself to notice the “weight” of an embrace you might not physically feel but is nonetheless real. God is your weighted blanket. Holding you. Stilling your restlessness. Speaking His gentle words to your turmoil-filled soul. Calming your anxious heart. Will you allow God’s blanketing presence to be your comfort in your pain today? When you’re too numb to notice, the Lord is your strong arms, holding you. His healing words are a grown-up lullaby for your soul!}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, November 10, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from} ^{Job 42:1-17} ^{. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Christmas Tea

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:42:25 GMT

~ SAVE THE DATE~

CHRISTMAS TEA - Saturday December 21st

Mt Laurel Church of God - Fellowship Hall

Any lady who enjoys celebrating the birth of our Savior is invited.

More information coming soon.

New Paragraph

Free Movie Night

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:25:06 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, November 15th 6:30pm

"12 Mighty Orphans"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "12 Mighty Orphans". Based on a non-fiction book, Twelve Mighty Orphans: The inspiring true story of the Mighty Mites who ruled Texas football by Jim Dent. During the Great Depression, Rusty Russell gives up a privileged position to coach football at an orphanage in Forth Worth, Texas; whipping his young players into shape, they soon became an inspiration to their city, state and entire nation.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

The Secret of Contentment

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 11:34:37 GMT

The Secret of Contentment

^{But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.}

^{1 Timothy 6:6-7 NIV}

^{Forgive me for sounding like an old man with this statement, but have you noticed that the one word that characterizes our world today is . . . entitled. A person with an entitlement mentality has a narcissistic personality. He or she feels that they deserve special treatment or is owed a favor when they’ve done little or nothing to earn it. People with an entitlement mentality often interpret constructive feedback as a personal attack. Entitled people believe they can do no wrong and therefore they’ll often do things outside the bounds of the law. People who have an entitlement mentality are often hypersensitive to suggestions that their work could use improvement. They feel they’ve “arrived.” Entitled people think they should have everything they want, often without doing anything for it.}

^{The opposite of entitlement is contentment. At age 14, Andrea Jaeger won her first professional tennis tournament. At 18, she reached the finals of Wimbledon. At 19, a bad shoulder all but ended her career. Any other world-class athlete might have become bitter or discontented with life at that point. Andrea, however, pointed her competitive spirit in another direction. She created a nonprofit organization called Kids’s Stuff Foundation that tries to bring joy to children who are suffering from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Her work there has also inspired her to take on-line classes in nursing and child psychology.}

^{Andrea Jaeger not only created the program, but runs it full-time, year-round, without any compensation. “I’m inspired by these brave kids, and humbled,” she says. “They lose their health, their friends, and sometimes their lives. And yet their spirit never wavers. They look at life as a gift. The rest of us sometimes look at ourselves as a gift to life. You get very spoiled on the professional tennis tour,” she added with a twinkle in her eye. “The courtesy cars, the five-star hotels, the thousands of people clapping for you when you hit a good shot. It’s easy to forget what’s important in life . . . serving kids with cancer causes me to forget that a lot less.”}

^{How is it with you? Soon we’ll stop hearing about all the superior qualities of the two presidential candidates and life will return to some kind of normalcy. Where do you see yourself in the grand scheme of things? What are you entitled to? Do you think the rest of the world exists for your pleasure? Do you believe you should have everything you want without investing blood, sweat and tears to achieve it? Maybe it’s time for you to reflect on the meaning of life and your role in this world. Let’s not forget that even our next breath is a gift from God. Be content with what you have and grateful that you have it.} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Fall Festival

mad64u@gmail.com — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 12:13:56 GMT

Fall Festival - Thursday October 31st 5pm - 7pm

Join us at the church for our Annual Fall Festival, Thursday October 31st 5pm -7pm

FREE FOOD ~ GAMES FOR THE LITTLE ONES ~ PUMPKIN DECORATING

& TRUNK OR TREAT

Stop out before regular door to door trick or treat and have some fun!

New Paragraph

“What Should You Do When Someone Hates You?”

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 12:07:04 GMT

“What Should You Do When Someone Hates You?”

^{I’m realizing more and more that you and I are in the midst of a spiritual war with unseen spiritual forces. Whether your battle is happening in the public school district, at your workplace, in your neighborhood, in the political arena or, God forbid, in your church, you who are faithful Christ-followers have a target on your backs because you are choosing to stand with Christ on the side of the truth of God’s Word.}

^{With less than two weeks until election day, our ears continue to be filled with all kinds of rhetoric that’s both unscriptural and ungodly. Let me encourage you to stand firmly on the truth of God’s Word. Don’t forget that our one true God is stronger than the devil. Keep the words of Peter always before you:} ^{“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings”} ^{(1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV).}

^{I’m not sure what your battle is against today, but know this . . . You are NOT without proper weapons in that battle! The apostle Paul said this in his second letter to the Corinthians: “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.} ^{The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ”} ^{(2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV).}

^{When you’re standing toe-to-toe with your enemy, whether he’s your child’s school teacher who insists on pushing his liberal atheistic agenda, your coworker who insists that an unborn child is merely a mass of tissue, your neighbor who refuses to clean up his junky yard, or a fellow church member who hates your guts, let me remind you how Jesus wants you to deal with your enemies.}

^{Love your enemy!} ^{Jesus said in Matthew 5:43-44, “} ^{You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”} ^{I know . . . that’s easier said than done, right? I don’t think Jesus expects us to slobber all over our enemies, but He does expect us to show His Father’s kind of love that’s recorded in 1 Corinthians 13. Show God’s kind of love to those who hate you. Don’t reciprocate their hate.}

^{Forgive them} ^{. Paul said in Ephesians 4:32,} ^{“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”} ^{I know what you’re thinking. It’s super hard to forgive that person who refuses to even talk to you or text you or respond to any of your attempts to communicate with them. But since God has forgiven you much, find it in you to forgive that person who hates you. Unforgiveness is a burden that keeps you chained to your past and incapable of reaching your future. When you forgive those you hate, it brings you freedom. Forgiving releases your heart from carrying around resentment and bitterness.}

^{Pray for them} ^{. Are you praying for those individuals who refuse to even worship with you? I am. Why? Because Jesus told us in Matthew 5:44 to “pray for those who persecute you.” It’s impossible to hate someone you’re praying for! Pray for that person who has hurt you, broken your heart or betrayed you, and you’ll find that as you ask God to move in his or her life your hurt will slowly fade.}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, October 27, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from} ^{Job 42:1-17} ^{. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

“Sacred Scars”

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 11:28:33 GMT

“Sacred Scars”

^{“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.”}

^{Isaiah 49:15-16 NIV}

^{How many people do you know who bear scars? Maybe you’re one of them. Some wear scars on their body. Some wear scars on their soul because of the pain of the past. Each scar tells a story of a moment or a season etched in us forever.}

^{Maybe you’ve been burned or cut or raked over. Are you still wondering why? Why did that happen? Why would God allow such pain? Those are fair questions to ask, and you should ask them. But maybe it would be more effective to ask God to speak to your pain.}

^{Jesus was pierced on purpose. His pain left the most powerful, sacred scars in all of humanity. Christ’s scars remind us of His great love for us. One day, if you belong to Jesus, you’ll see the scars in the palms of His hands. Only the Savior of the world could take the most brutal and bloody wounds and turn them into a beautiful canvas to display His majesty. And if He could do that with His wounds, He can do it with yours.}

^{My friend, thank Jesus today because He endured the pain on your behalf. May you remember His love in every painful thing.}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, October 20, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from} ^{Mark 10:35-45} ^{. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

“Too Weak to Care”

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 10:22:27 GMT

“Too Weak to Care”

^{Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep.”}

^{1 Kings 19:3-5 NIV}

^{Funny thing about we humans. We work so very hard to hide our weaknesses especially when disappointment, rejection, or depression threatens to flatten us. When someone asks how you are, what do you say? Chances are your response is, “I’m fine,” choking on the words. “How’s life? It’s okay,” we answer. And the pain of the truth writhes inside us.}

^{Intellectually even if we can hide our feelings from those around us, we know we can’t hide them from God. So what’s the point of trying? Too often we’d rather die . . . figuratively or not . . . than admit our weakness to Him or to others. You’ve probably been there. Crises seem to pile one on top of another. The intensity of your distress seems to increase exponentially with each passing hour. You’d pray but for some reason you can’t seem to muster the energy or the desire to do so.}

^{Funny thing is that God knows that, too. His response to your disappointment, rejection, or depression is no different than it was millennia ago when He observed Elijah’s weakness. And Elijah’s weakness, perhaps like your very own, was so profound that he begged to die rather than have to go on. But God didn’t turn His back on Elijah and nor will He turn His back on you. He sent an angel to Elijah to touch His hurting, drained, nothing-left-in-the-tank servant.}

^{So keep your eyes open today, my friend. Perhaps today, when you least expect to, you’ll see one of God’s angels, sent to help you in your time of distress or depression. Why would God do that for you? Because your weakness sends an alarm to God who dispatches the help you need exactly when you need it. That’s how much He cares for you!}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, October 13, God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from} ^{Job 23:1-7} ^{. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

“Instant Versus Patient”

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:36:43 GMT

“Instant Versus Patient”

^{“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.”}

^{Colossians 1:9-11 NIV}

^{I send a text and impatiently watch the blinking dots as I wait for a reply. Three to five minutes seems too long to have to microwave food. A minute-long wait at the traffic light is long enough to make me wonder if it’s defective.}

^{So much of our living today is geared to the instant. Even the name of Instagram is based on the words, “instant camera” and “telegram.” Instant is our preferred way of life.}

^{But I have a feeling that instant isn’t God’s way of operating. He seems to take a longer view of our lives. If I pray about something and don’t get an instant answer, what does that mean? Should we hit “resend” on our prayers because God didn’t seem to get them yet? Or does God want to help us extend our endurance so we can make it beyond instant?}

^{Patience is part of the fruit of the Spirit (See Galatians 5:22-23). Patience is evidence that God is at work in us. Sometimes His answer is no! Sometimes He answers with a yes! But sometimes His answer is to give us patience rather than instantly fixing our situation.}

^{My friend, today remember that instant answers aren’t always the best answers. May God help you learn to be patient today!}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, October 6, we’ll be celebrating} ^{World Communion Sunday} ^{with the ordinances of Feetwashing and Communion. God’s message through Pastor Dale will be from} ^{John 6:51-58.} ^{Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or before watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:03:32 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, October 18th 6:30pm

"The Forge"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "The Forge". A year out of high school with no plans for his future, a boy is challenged by his single mom and a successful business man to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayer of his mother and biblical discipleship from his new mentor, he begins discovering God's purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

“Hearing Around Corners”

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:10:34 GMT

“Hearing Around Corners”

^{“In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help.

From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.”}

^{Psalm 18:6 NIV}

^{Because of the layout of our home . . . the living room at the front and master suite at the rear . . . my wife and I can rarely hear each other unless we’re within one room of each other. A common shout in our house is, “I can’t hear you! I’m at the other end of the house.”}

^{But God is zero rooms away from you. He’s with you. He’s in the thick of it with you. No matter what obstacles, deflections, barriers, corners, or noise cancelling stands in the way, you can be assured that when you’re in distress, the cry of your heart reaches Him, touches Him, and, moves Him to action.}

^{He’s not hampered by what hampers you in your communication attempts with those you love. There are no misunderstandings on His part. He doesn’t “mishear” what you’re saying. He can’t lose a word or an intention.}

^{How does that change your perspective when the fairy tale you’d hoped for seems more like a horror movie, when chronic pain or multiplied grief or an endless string of natural or man-made disasters knocks you off your feet?}

^{My friend, you don’t have to shout. He’s zero rooms away. Trust God. He can hear you! His nearness means more than you could ever express.}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, September 29, Pastor Dale will be bringing the message from God to you based on} ^{James 5:13-20} ^{. Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.} ^{We’ll also be presenting Keegan Dalton for the Lord’s blessing!}

^{Pastor Dale}

“In the Middle of the Night”

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:25:08 GMT

“In the Middle of the Night”

^{“ rise before dawn and cry for help;

I have put my hope in your word.

My eyes stay open through the watches of the night,

that I may meditate on your promises.”}

^{Psalm 119:147-148 NIV}

^{You may or may not know that Pamela and I have a new “family” member. My mother has bequeathed us her puppy, a 10 month old Havanese, the kind of dog that, if I saw someone walking one on the street, I’d yell, “Hey, get a real dog!” Don’t be alarmed. My Mother is still with us, but Millie was just too energetic for her to handle on a full-time basis. So, Millie now lives with us.}

^{And you may or may not know that I hate waking up in the middle of the night. Mostly because my mind begins to think, and when that happens, I can’t seem to turn it off. Maybe I should pray the prayer an old pastor would pray, “O Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.” Which would put him right back to sleep.}

^{But not me. “My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your (God’s) promises.” It happened Monday night this week. Pamela was away having a sleep study done and Millie and I were home alone. At 1:00 am, 3:00 am, and again at 6:00 am, Millie woke me so we could go outside and scan the horizon for Pamela, her other human. After falling back into bed, instead of listing my loved ones and all their concerns, I lay awake, cursing our cute little puppy under my breath. Instead of trying to remember a biblical promise, I lay there complaining because my sleep was interrupted. I should have cried for help, and put my hope in God’s Word, but I grumbled until I fell back to sleep.}

^{In the quiet darkness, what do you do? Do you ask God to send you a word? Does the Holy Spirit prompt your memory with a Bible passage, lyrics, or a remembered conversation?}

^{Maybe you need to do what I need to do . . . offer names to Him in our sleepy stupor. I know I need to lift my Mother in prayer, because she awakens in the quiet darkness, too, not because of Millie, but because of health issues. I know I need to whisper a prayer for those who have no one to pray for them: the wanderers, the homeless, the lonely, the elderly.}

^{And perhaps, somewhere in the middle of all that, I’ll fall asleep because God, in His mercy, will grant me the peace of rest and restoration . . . in spite of Millie’s whimpers to pee in the middle of the night. I mean, how big can a 9 pound puppy’s bladder be?}

^{O Lord, when we awaken, may we listen for Your whisper and then rest in safety and assurance that all is in Your capable hands. Amen.}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, September 22, Pastor Dale will be bringing the message from God to you based on} ^{Psalm 1.}

^{Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

“Do You Fear Bad News?”

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:05:44 GMT

“Do You Fear Bad News?”

^{Surely the righteous will never be shaken;

they will be remembered forever.

They will have no fear of bad news;

their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.}

^{Psalm 112:6-7 NIV}

^{Depending on when you read this, it might be that time again . . . time to see what’s happening in our world. Time to watch the nightly news. Today is a day of national remembrance of the events of September 11, 2001 and many of you may hear recollections of that day when four coordinated terrorist attacks were carried out by al-Qaeda, an Islamist extremist group.}

^{The nonstop news reports may also feature the latest commentary on last night’s presidential debate. (I’m writing this on Monday, so we’ll assume it happened on Tuesday evening this week). Your source of news and information may also focus on other not-so-good events that happened so far this week.}

^{Am I the only person who feels like standing in front of my TV before watching the news and loudly shouting, “Jesus is Lord!” to remind myself who’s truly in control of this world and so I can be prompted to trust the Lord when I hear about the latest mass shooting, or see video coverage of grown-ups behaving badly? When controversy and culture-shift cause me to question both the leadership and lordship in this country, those words, “Jesus is Lord!” help to keep me focused and grounded.}

^{The psalmist says the righteous “will never be shaken” and “have no fear of bad news,” but I confess that I’m often shaken to the core with anxiety about the world my children and grand-children are inheriting.}

^{British theologian John Stott once said we should approach each day with a Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other. God calls us to be in the world but not of the world, so I can’t just ignore what’s happening in the news.}

^{This question remains then . . .} ^{How can we maintain this delicate balance of trusting God while living among often untrustworthy voices?} ^{The psalmist says the answer lies in having a} ^{“steadfast heart.”} ^{That word steadfast means to stand firm under difficulty, to never waver.}

^{May God strengthen your heart and mind today and always, my friend, as you live for Christ with the knowledge of God’s Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit who lives in you!}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, September 8, Pastor Dale will be bringing the message from God to you based on} ^{Mark 8:27-38} ^.

^{Consider reading this Scripture before coming to worship or watching on Facebook so your heart is ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.}

^{Pastor Dale}

All-Church Picnic

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:34:36 GMT

Annual Church Picnic

September 22nd 1pm

Join us at HM Levitz Memorial Park, Grantville PA for the Annual Church Picnic. September 24th 1pm - ? The church will provide meatball sandwiches. Please bring a covered dish or dessert, your favorite drink and willingness to have a blast! Scavenger Hunt complete with prizes and a White Elephant Auction. Finish out the day with an ice cream bar.

New Paragraph

Free Movie Night

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:30:39 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, September 20th 6:30pm

"Lifemark"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "Lifemark". Lifemark is a 2022 American Christian dram film by director Kevin Peeples and starring Kirk Cameron, adapting the true story of the adoption of David Scotton. David's comfortable world gets turned upside down when his birth mother unexpectedly reaches out to him. With the encouragement of his adoptive parents, he embarks on a journey of discovery that leads to a staggering truth from his past.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Men's Prayer Breakfast

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:24:43 GMT

MEN'S PRAYER BREAKFAST - MEN BEING ENCOURAGED TO ENCOURAGE OTHER MEN

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS SEPTEMBER 30TH

Join us in Fellowship Hall on October 5th @ 8:30am for a FREE Men's Prayer Breakfast. Guest Speaker Brian Hoke will bring the message.

A love offering will be accepted.

Grab the other Men in your life and join us for this time of food, fellowship & Worship!

God has called out to each of us.

No matter where you are on your

journey, we all benefit from

looking at and hearing God's

Word together.

Join us for breakfast, fellowship,

and a guest speaker. This is a

great opportunity to get to know

the other men of the church,

share experiences, and grow your

faith to become the man God

wants you to be.

We'd love to have you come to our prayer breakfast

visit: www.mtlaurelcog.org/mens-breakfast to register and let us know you will be joining us.

Midweek Encouragement - "How to Know if Your Great Idea is From God”

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 11:50:54 GMT

“How to Know if Your Great Idea is From God”

^{Did you ever have what you thought was a great idea for your church or for your ministry? How can you know if your great idea is from God or from some unmet need in your own life?}

^{We pastors are always getting inspiration. Sometimes those “eureka moments” are from God and sometimes they’re not. Just because an idea isn’t from God doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea. Have you noticed that even non-Christians often come up with good ideas, too?}

^{Here’s the thing. If you’re involved in your local church or para-church ministry, have you noticed how time consuming it can be? As a church leader or servant in the local church, do you find that you barely have enough time to do the things God has clearly asked you to do, let alone finding time to do those things God hasn’t asked you to do? So I ask again, “How can we know if our ‘great idea’ is from God or not?”}

^{First, ideas that originate with God tend to haunt us like Dickens’ three spirits. On the other hand, if you forget the idea, there’s a good chance it wasn’t God’s idea. Ideas that have their origins in our imagination or ego tend to shrink over time. Ideas that have their origins from God tend to grow over time.}

^{If that’s true, wouldn’t we do well to let our ideas sit for a while? You bet! If you’re a leader or servant in your church or para-church ministry, consider putting your idea on the shelf for a few days or weeks. Most ideas can wait. If your idea whistles at you every time you walk past that shelf, it might be from God. But remember, that whistling sound might just be an inner-ear problem, so consider getting a second or third opinion from a trusted Christian friend before implementing your “great idea.” Ask someone what they think of that light bulb over your head without suggesting that God put it there. When we say to people, “I think God is telling me . . .”, we intimidate and close down feedback we might need to hear.}

^{I know you think your great idea is from God, but you might be wrong. Give it some time and if God wants you to do it, nothing will be able to stop it from happening.}

^{For those of you who will be worshiping at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, September 1,} ^{Pastor Cheryl Dorman} ^{, our guest speaker, will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{Luke 9:23-27} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Little-G Gods”

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:26:59 GMT

“Little-G Gods”

^{Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.}

^{Deuteronomy 4:39 NIV}

^{After escaping from a culture where most people worshiped all kinds of little-g gods, the newly freed Israelites faced old temptations. Worshiping idols, a hangover from their many years in Egypt, seemed logical. It was much easier to worship a stone-god they could see than the God they couldn’t see, even if He had been responsible for their escape.}

^{Let’s not be too quick to overly criticize the Israelites, however. Today we’re also tempted to turn to the visible . . . our bank accounts, our families, our occupations, our long-held religious traditions . . . imagining that} ^these ^{provide safety and security. But none of us is exempt from difficulties. When the Israelites, in fear during God’s seeming absence, wanted to worship idols, Moses spelled it out: No pretend-god could lead them with fire and clouds, deliver them with God’s presence and great strength. No other!}

^{No matter what falls apart in our lives, there is no other God! Not stuff or status or safety. Not even how we’ve always “done church” is sufficient to see us through. The one true God has rescued us, loved us, led us. Nothing, nothing, nothing changes that. Nothing ever will. You, my friend, can take that to heart. God is in heaven. God is on earth. And that about covers it.}

^{Dear God, even though I can’t see You, I know You’re here. Thank You for being the One!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, August 25,} ^{Pastor Dale} ^{will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{John 6:56-69} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Promise Keeper”

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:13:58 GMT

“Promise Keeper”

^{God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.

Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?}

^{Numbers 23:19 NIV}

^{Have you ever been lied to? A blatant falsehood, an unfulfilled promise, or a change of mind that leads to backtracking? When someone isn’t truthful with you, the whole foundation of your world shifts. What you thought was true isn’t. The person you thought you could believe can’t be believed. And each step of trust in the future is a little harder to come by.}

^{If you’ve been betrayed and lied to, let God’s Word bring order to your upside-down world. People may deceive and mislead, breaking promises and failing to be forthright. But “God is a human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.” When someone speaks and fails to act, God can be trusted to keep His word. When people let you down, He follows through on every promise. Trust Him and believe today.}

^{Lord, thank You for being a truthful, steadfast, and trustworthy Promise Keeper. Amen.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, August 18,} ^{Pastor Dale} ^{will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{Ephesians 5:15-20} ^{. And remember, you’re invited to come at 9:00 am for Food and Fellowship in the Large Fellowship Hall before Sunday School at 9:30 am.}

^{Bring your favorite vacation picture to share, too!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Not Lone Rangers”

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 11:37:22 GMT

“Not Lone Rangers”

^{“Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do.”}

^{Exodus 4:14-15 NIV}

^{When God spoke to Moses through the burning bush, Moses refused God’s calling because it seemed impossible. He rattled off many obstacles, and God countered each one with His own abilities. Moses ran out of excuses, then finally landed on an obvious problem: “I can’t speak to people in power. I stutter.”}

^{“Nothing is impossible for Me,” God said long ago, and reminded Moses of His very God-ness. Still Moses refused. “Send someone else.”}

^{I love God’s solution. Our fear doesn’t change God’s calling of us, but it usually opens the door to what God wanted all along. God sent Moses’ brother Aaron, who evidently had a good command of the language and his own tongue. With God’s words poured into Moses and then through Aaron, the whole nation of Israel would be saved.}

^{The seemingly impossible calling of ours to be God’s people in this world, to declare freedom to others as those early leaders did, cannot be a solo task. A team helps us live out God’s dream for humankind. Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto, his faithful and trustworthy companion, to get the job done.}

^{My friend, whatever you’re facing today, whatever challenge appears to loom larger-than-life before you, please know that you’re better with a team that complements your own gifts, abilities, and talents. Pray that God will help you move past your fears as you partner with Him and others to successfully have the victory!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, August 11,} ^{Pastor Dale} ^{will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{Ephesians 4:25-5:2} ^{. And remember, we’ll be participating in the ordinances of feetwashing and Communion in 10:30 am worship.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "A Perfect Life”

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:54:20 GMT

“A Perfect Life”

^{“And, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.}

^{Hebrews 5:9 NIV}

^{I finally did it. I painted it. Let me back up a couple of months. When my daughter and son-in-law planned to remodel their kitchen, Pamela asked what they were going to do with their old island. We recently replaced our pressure-treated wooden deck with composite and Pamela thought Megan’s old island would be a useful addition. But before we could let it set out in the weather, I told Pamela that it needed to be water-proofed. So we bought some clear oil-based marine varnish to paint the island. But then we went on vacation to Family Bible Camp at Camp YoliJwa for a week (see} ^{www.campyolijwa.org} ^{). After we returned home, the busyness of life filled my schedule and soon Pamela and I went on vacation to Bethany Beach. And the island continued to sit on our carport, covered with a plastic tarp. After being home from the beach for nearly a week, I finally varnished the island . . . but it just didn’t look perfect. So I spray painted it with white Rustoleum outdoor paint and finally finished it. I think it’s finally ready to use. It’s not perfect, but it’s finished.}

^{Another young couple, Tyler and Rebecca, had big plans, too. Together they bought a farm on which to raise their children. Becky homeschools the kids, tends the garden, and milks the goats. Tyler counsels troubled kids at an inner-city school and spends Saturdays remodeling their turn-of-the-century farmhouse.}

^{The one hitch in their plan is Tyler’s perfectionism. He won’t install so much as a cove molding unless he can lay it exactly right. Obviously, progress has been painfully slow. Becky says, “I told him that completion is a form of perfection, and he just needs to get it done!”}

^{She’s right about that. Perfect often does mean complete. And that’s the sense of the word as it’s used in the book of Hebrews. Jesus, though God, experienced all that we do. Yet Jesus had to suffer and die. With that, He entered fully into our experience. And because Jesus did that, we can enter fully into His. He suffered to become like us. In our suffering, we become like Him.}

^{In our journey to Christlikeness, we cannot bypass pain and suffering. And like the apostle Paul, we shouldn’t want to, because through occasional suffering we can experience Jesus’ life. So, if you’re looking for the perfect life, follow Jesus everywhere. Your life may not be perfect . . . as in ideal and without pain . . . but it’ll be complete if you’ve given your life to Christ.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, August 4, Pastor Dale will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{John 6:24-35} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:09:35 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, August 16th 6:30pm

"Unsung Hero"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "Unsung Hero". When David Smallbone's music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States to search for a brighter future. Struggling to make ends meet, the couple soon realize the talents of their children, who go on to become two of the most successful acts in contemporary Christian music.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Staying Sharp”

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:58:23 GMT

“Staying Sharp”

^{“With the historical events of this past weekend and the criticism aimed at President Biden during the prior months regarding his alleged mental deterioration, I’m more convinced than ever that my mind is a muscle that needs to be stretched to stay sharp. Our brains need to be prodded and pushed so they perform well. If we allow them to get idle and lazy, those muscles will become pitiful masses of flab in an incredibly brief length of time.}

^{What can we do to stretch our minds? What are some good mental exercises that will keep the cobwebs away? Let me encourage you to always be involved in these three activities: read, talk, and write.}

^Read! ^{One day you may be too crippled to move on your own strength or too poor to travel, but between the covers of a book are ideas that are waiting to give you the joy of discovery. Before William Tyndale died and while he was in prison, he asked the governor for a warmer cap, a piece of cloth to patch his leggings, but above all to have his Bible, his grammar book and his dictionary so he could spend time in study.}

^{The power of your understanding is magnified through reading. Read wisely. Read widely. Read slowly. Make reading part of your daily schedule because reading attacks the hardening of your mind.}

^Talk! ^{Conversation is the oil that keeps our mental machinery running smoothly. The give-and-take of daily conversation provides the grinding wheel to keep our brains sharp as we get older. And by all means, don’t allow your conversations to be limited to shallow, predictable, obvious topics. Leave the discussion of people and the weather to your local source of news and information. Dig into issues, ideas, controversial topics and things that really matter. Ask and answer “why” and “how” rather than “what” and “when.” Socrates was considered wise, not because he knew all the answers, but because he knew how to ask the right questions.}

^Write! ^{Thoughts unscramble themselves when they pass over the lips and exit through our fingertips. Our brains get more creases when we put down our thoughts on paper or through the keyboard. So, why not start to journal this summer? Before you throw a book at me, hear me out . . . A journal isn’t a diary. A journal doesn’t record what you} ^do ^{. It records what you} ^think ^{. It spells out your ideas, your feelings, your struggles, your discoveries, your dreams. A journal helps you articulate} ^{who you are} ^{. Who knows? Your memories might make the bestseller list in the year 2030! At least your journal will tell your great grandkids about YOU!}

^{I’ll bet your mind is alive and active today! Reading gets those mental juices flowing so you can talk to someone about them. Writing lets you share those thoughts with the next generation! So keep that gray matter between your ears sharp and you won’t ever be accused of being senile or old!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, July 28, Pastor Dale will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{John 6:1-21} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Why, God?”

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:03:50 GMT

“Why, God?”

^{“David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.”}

^{1 Samuel 30:6 NIV}

^{Sometimes it can seem as if the trials in life will never really end. On Saturday, June 29, Pamela and I attended the Celebration of Life for a former elder who served with me at the Plainfield First Church of God. His sister had died almost exactly two years before he did. As his sister-in-law’s parents were driving home from the service, a 20-year-old drunk driver ran into them head on, putting them both in intensive care. Surely that family is asking, “When, oh God, will these trials and sufferings end?”}

^{Maybe you’re either beginning a season of difficulties, or you’re in the middle of one, or you’re just ending one. Whether the trial is relational, financial, physical, or spiritual, it can be extremely draining and discouraging. And you know as well as I do that problems don’t happen in a vacuum. There are always new emergencies and troubles to deal with that make life even more difficult.}

^{Yet the Bible says that God is always good. “The Lord is merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6). Obviously that can be a hard truth to accept when you’re going through a trial, because you only have a limited perspective on your dark moments. You can see you’re being affected in the moment, but you can’t see the bigger picture of what God is accomplishing during those dark times.}

^{If you want God’s best for your life and want to be used by Him, at some point you’ll travel the road of adversity. During those times, you’ll have to trust that God wants only what’s ultimately best for you. Keep this in mind though:} ^{The dark moments of your life will last only so long as is necessary for God to accomplish His purpose in you.}

^{Take a few minutes and read} ^{1 Samuel 27:1-8} ^{. David had been anointed king of Israel by the prophet Samuel while the king at that time, a man named Saul, was still alive. David didn’t have it easy. In addition to waiting years for God to give him the thrown, King Saul wanted to kill him and anyone else who helped him. You can’t blame David for being full of despair. Everything was going wrong. He was unfairly targeted by Saul, driven from his homeland, rejected by his new neighbors, and constantly under the threat of attack. His family was taken captive, and his people were turning on him. If there was ever a moment for David to wonder what God was doing, that was it. Yet David did what we all should do when the dark moments of life overwhelm us: “David strengthened himself in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6). Instead of doubting God, David spent time in His presence, reminding himself of the mighty God he trusted and served.}

^{Let’s face it. Trials are confusing and never easy to endure. But God uses them to develop important character traits in your life. You can profit from your troubles if you trust Him. David did, and he passed those tests of faith. God taught David through the affliction he faced, and He’s teaching you, too.}

^{I know what you’re probably thinking. “Why does it have to be so painful?” I wish I had a simple answer for you, but there are none. God’s discipline and instruction are unique to each person. God must get your attention, teach you to turn only to Him, and train you to minister to others who have hurts (see 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Usually that requires touching an area that’s deep in your soul. But know this . . . He’s doing something immensely important in and through you. God would never allow you to suffer without a significant reason or permit your trouble to continue a minute more than necessary.}

^{So don’t run from your problems. Face them with faith in God, knowing that He won’t give you more than you can bear.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, July 21,} ^{Pastor Dustin White} ^{will be bringing the message from God to you from} ^{Galatians 1:1-9} ^.

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Don’t Hold On To It Too Tightly”

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:18:29 GMT

“Don’t Hold On To It Too Tightly”

^{“Therefore you will be among the first to go into exile; your feasting and lounging will end.”}

^{Amos 6:7 NIV}

^{What do you consider absolute necessities in your life? During these recent 90 degree days, maybe it’s your air-conditioned house or your pool. What could you not live without? What would utterly devastate you if you lost it? Is it a relationship, a possession, or a certain situation in your life? Here’s a better question to answer . . . Is it more important to you than God?}

^{Maybe it’s time you considered how tight a hold it actually has on you, because it could become counterproductive and even dangerous. What would you do it God asked you to give it up? Could you obey Him? Does the thought of letting it go cause you to feel anxious?}

^{For some people, their finances are central. They devote most of their time, energy, and attention to gaining it and keeping it. Do you regard wealth as the key to your worth, power, and influence? Does the thought of losing it keep you up at night? Maybe this question doesn’t apply to you, but} ^{how much time do you spend each day thinking about your finances compared to the amount of time you meditate on God’s Word?}

^{It there’s something keeping you from trusting and honoring the Lord, it’s called an idol, and God isn’t going to allow you to keep it in your grasp. If you’re looking for anything other than God for your sense of acceptance, accomplishment, and security, you’re headed for serious trouble, my friend, because it won’t last long. Sooner or later, you’ll come to understand that} ^{anything you hold too tightly, you’ll lose.}

^{If you read Hosea 10:1-3, you’ll discover that God’s people, the Israelites, valued their prosperity so much that they forgot God. Because of their affluence and military victories they had become full of pride and didn’t think they needed God anymore. (Sound familiar, U.S. of A.? You removed prayer, the Bible and God from our schools and see what’s happened.) When God called them to repent, they refused to obey His commands or let Him back into their lives. They just weren’t willing to give up their wealth and comfort for Him and, in the end, it cost them everything.}

^{According to Amos 3:7, God sent prophets to Israel and Judah before sending His judgment. The same is true today. Through your pastor and His Word, God wants you to know what’s going on and what His plan is for you. However, no matter what the circumstances might be, your most important responsibility is to trust and obey Him. If there’s something you’re honoring above God, He’ll let you know that He’s not happy about it and He’ll call you to lay that person, possession, or situation down on your own.}

^{What I want you to know is that God won’t share the control of your life with something or someone else. Jesus said,} ^{“No one can serve two masters; for either he’ll hate the one and love the other, or else he’ll be loyal to the one and despise the other”} ^{(Matthew 6:24). My friend, you’ll neither honor God nor help yourself by having a divided heart.}

^{Today, please make a decision regarding what will rule your life once and for all. Please surrender whatever is coming between you and the Lord. The good news is that no matter what God wants you to give up, you can be certain that your life will be much better without it in the long run. God isn’t punishing you by taking that precious thing from you. He’s getting you ready for something better.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, July 14,} ^{Pastor Nate Buck, Executive Director of the Eastern Regional Conference of the Churches of God, General Conference,} ^{will be bringing the message from God to you!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "God Created Playtime”

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 12:20:04 GMT

“Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand”

^{Why are Christians so serious? I can’t help but notice that many believers don’t seem to be enjoying life. Why do so many Christians seem to be missing out on enjoying the life God has given us? I wonder if the whole idea of playtime has been reduced to a worldly status. Do we think of relaxation or playtime as cheap entertainment rather than meaningful enrichment with positive spiritual, personal, and relationship benefits? And so I’m wondering . . . what are some of the benefits of play in the life of a Christian?}

^{Let me tell you what’s changed in my life recently. It’s a dog. My mother bought Millie, a Havanese puppy late last year and, because she’s so energetic, she now lives with Pamela and me. All nine pounds of her are wound tighter than a clock spring. When I have a stressful day, it’s easy to get caught up in that stress, and it just lingers. But as soon as I step inside our back door, Millie is waiting with wagging tail, standing on her hind paws, to welcome me home. And all she wants to do is play. She loves when I play ball with her or when I chase her from one end of the house to the other. Immediately, the stress doesn’t seem so much. Could it be that Millie’s passion for playing is helping me, too? Did you know that research has shown there are benefits to playing? It increases our optimism and improves our mental health. Play helps us have a better outlook in life. Thanks, Millie.}

^{I also think there’s a restorative part of playtime. Some people claim to feel more energized, more relaxed, more rejuvenated. I wonder how much of our stress is because we don’t take time to play.}

^{I think there are relational benefits to playtime, too. At my church’s First Friday Fellowship each month, those who play pickleball seem to build a kind of relational trust. I think that when you play with someone genuinely, you feel safe with that person. And when you feel safe with someone, it builds trust.}

^{Could play also have spiritual benefits, too? If we never play, I wonder if our view of God is always serious. Maybe that’s why, as kids, we wanted to go out and play in the snow. Instead, we protect our health from the cold and from possible falls, when in reality, God really wants us to put fear aside and have a snowball fight.}

^{Play helps us not to be defined by a difficulty. It helps us see life as more than something that’s challenging. It helps us see that our joy isn’t dependent on our health. I’m learning that play helps me be in the moment because I don’t think you can play and not be in the moment. Play frees us from yesterday, gives us pause to tomorrow, and allows us to just be present. Kids do that so well. They’re just there. They’re not worried. They’re just there. I think we can learn a lot from kids in terms of playing in the moment.}

^{So, my friend, today I want you to find some time to play. Play with the dog. Play a board game with your spouse. Take the kids to a park and play} ^{with them} ^{rather than watching them play. And I think you’ll discover that your playtime will lead to a more relaxed you.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, July 7, the message will be based on}

^{Ephesians 2:11-22}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:49:26 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, July 19th 6:30pm

"In His Steps"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "In His Steps". When a homeless man interrupts the comfortable routine of First Church of Raymond, life will never be the same for the apathetic congregation.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand”

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 11:50:08 GMT

“Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand”

^{I’m sure you’ve probably seen this analogy done as part of a children’s chat somewhere, but the principle still applies to our daily lives. Take a bucket and put as many rocks in it as you can. Then, put in as many pebbles as you can. Finally, place in that bucket as much sand as will fill in around the pebbles. Now imagine what would happen if you did that in reverse! You start with the sand, then put a few pebbles on top, and then there wouldn’t be any room for rocks.}

^{What this illustration is really about is time management. The rocks are what you and I absolutely have to get done each week. If you don’t do a rock in your business, family life, or spiritual life, things will fall apart. Each rock is critical. A rock has the greatest return on your investment.}

^{Pick two rocks in different areas of your life: career, spiritual life, relationships, your health, and your faith community. Block those items on your calendar.}

^{Now, decide what other activities you need to do, but it’s not the end of the world if they don’t get done. Those are the pebbles. Put those in your calendar, too.}

^{Everything else is sand. Let the sand fill in only around what you’ve already blocked out on your schedule each week.}

^{Christ-followers who are living with God’s purpose in mind decide what the rocks in their lives are for each day, each week, each month, each year, and for their whole life. Doing this will help keep you focused on His purpose and be proactive, rather than being reactive and doing the urgent but not the important items.}

^{Average Christ-followers do it backward . . . like they do with most activities in life. They allow the sand to come in, hustle to put in a few pebbles, and usually have no room left for the rocks.}

^{Let me encourage you to choose one day each week to decide what your rocks, pebbles, and sand are going to be. Maybe Sunday evening would be a good time for you to sit down and do your Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand. Whatever day of the week is best for you to do this, take one hour and identify two rocks in each of those major areas of your life for the next week and put them on your calendar. Then identify several pebbles in each of those areas for the next seven days of your life. Now, you’re good to go. Now you know where you’ll be investing your life with God’s plan in mind.}

^{Remember: Not everything has the same return on the investment of your time. Prioritize those activities you have to do in three levels:} ^{Rocks – the essentials . . . Pebbles – things that need to be done . . . and Sand – the everyday things} ^{. Oh, by the way . . . don’t be afraid to get the input of others regarding those Rocks in your life. Someone else may have some wisdom about whether those rocks are really the rocks.}

^{About 100 years ago, Charles Schwab, the famous president of Bethlehem Steel, wanted to increase his personal efficiency and the efficiency of key people in his company. Ivy Lee, a highly respected “efficiency expert” approached Schwab and said,} ^{“I can increase your people’s efficiency and your sales if you’ll allow me to spend just 15 minutes with each of your executives.”}

^{Mr. Schwab asked how much that would cost, and Lee told him,} ^{“Nothing, unless it works. After three months, you can send me a check for whatever you feel it’s worth to you.”} ^{That was an offer Schwab couldn’t refuse. The next day, Lee met with Schwab’s top executives, spending just 15 minutes with each person and saying the exact same thing each time.}

^{He asked them to promise him that for the next 90 days, each evening before they left their offices, they would make a list of the six most important things they had to do the next day and number them in order of their importance. Lee told each person to scratch the item off their list when they finished and if they didn’t get it done that day, move it on to the next day’s list. That was all he said. After he spoke with the past employee, he left the offices of Bethlehem Steel and didn’t return again.}

^{Three months later, Schwab looked over the results and was so impressed that he sent Lee a check for $35,000! Back then the average American worker was paid $2 per day! Schwab valued Ivy Lee’s contribution to his efficiency 17,500 times that for just a few hours.}

^{Friend, what things really matter in your life? What activities need to be put aside so you can accomplish what’s really important?}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, June 30, remember that we’ll be enjoying our annual patriotic service in the sanctuary, followed by our 5th Sunday Covered-Dish lunch in the Large Fellowship Hall.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - Learning in the Valley”

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:37:44 GMT

“Learning in the Valley”

^{“Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.”}

^{James 5:10 NIV}

^{Believe it or not, low points in your life are much better teachers than your high points. In Psalm 23:4, David wrote,} ^{“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”}

^{When you’re in the valley, it may seem as though the walls are closing in around you and there’s no escape. You may think,} ^{“Is this it? Is this all there is? Is this the end of my story?”} ^{But be encouraged: the valley isn’t the end. In fact, God may just be taking you through the valley to teach you what you need to know so you can reach and truly appreciate the mountaintops.}

^{Things will change because God’s will for you is “good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2). However, right now, there could be something in the valley that God wants you to learn. So consider how He’s working in your life as you learn this lesson:} ^{”You learn more in your valley experiences than on your mountaintops.}

^{Take a minute or two and read James 1:1-8. James was writing to Jewish Christians who had been driven from Jerusalem by the persecution of the Jewish authorities (See Acts 8:1-4). They were away from their homes and families and not welcomed by their new communities.}

^{Those believers in the early church were enduring persecution and starting to turn on one another. So James encouraged them to be patient and trust God. He wrote in James 5:11,} ^{“As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”}

^{My friend, maybe your trials today are also exposing areas of anger, bitterness, or unforgiveness and you’re finding it difficult to persevere. If so, you’re starting to understand what God wants you to learn through your trial. Remember, you’ll be blessed if you endure, so embrace what He’s teaching you. Whatever the reason for the trial, God never means it for your harm. Rather, He means it for your good, so you can become everything you were created to be and experience His abundant blessings. So why not respond in a way that honors Him today? Stay close to Him in prayer and through His Word. Obey whatever He’s telling you to do. Learn through your valley experiences so God can prepare you for the mountaintops, because your story is far from over. The best is still to come.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, June 23, the message will be from this Scripture:}

^{2 Corinthians 6:1-13}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Loving Your Neighbor”

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 11:27:33 GMT

“Loving Your Neighbor”

^{“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”}

^{Matthew 19:19 NIV}

^{God must have thought the command to love our neighbors was pretty important because it’s repeated at least four times after the book of Matthew. So who is this neighbor and why is he or she so important for us to be told no less than five times to love them?}

^{The obvious easy answer is . . . he’s the guy I live next to, the person you borrow the hedge trimmer from, the woman from whom you borrow a cup of sugar when you’re making that cake, the older lady you shoot the breeze with on a Sunday afternoon. But doesn’t the term neighbor include more than that? How about the person you work next to, the guy who tunes your car, or even the person sitting next to you at the ball game? Those persons are your neighbors, too. Are we supposed to love them too? According to the Bible, the answer is yes! Jesus didn’t say, “Love the people who live near you,” or “Love the people you know and are comfortable with.” He said, “Love your neighbor,” which in reality means everybody.}

^{Don’t let the word “love” offend you. Expressions of love can take many forms. Just this past Sunday afternoon someone rang our doorbell. Standing there was my 10 year-old neighbor Nick and his 19 year-old red-headed cousin. “Mr. Dale, can we borrow your wheelbarrow? We’re doing some clean up in the yard and we’ll be sure to put it back.” Obviously I said “Sure! Any time!” Expressions of love can be a smile, a kind word, a helping hand, an attitude of forgiveness or even loaning them your wheelbarrow.}

^{Maybe you’re thinking, “Oh sure, this is all nice but you don’t know the kind of guy I live next to.” While that’s true, I also know that many times a person’s reaction to you is the reflection of what you’ve shown them. Maybe now is the time to evaluate how you’ve treated your neighbor.}

^{This past Saturday, just as I was pushing my lawn mower from the shed to the driveway, I heard someone shout, “Mr. Dale, it’s about time you mowed that lawn!” I had been away at Camp YoliJwa last week and my grass was longer than any of my neighbors. The person who had shouted to me was one of the girls who lives next door, one of my neighbors who had just mowed her lawn. “It’s your peer pressure that’s making me mow my lawn today!” I shouted good-naturedly just before I pulled the rope to start it.}

^{Here’s what I want to encourage you to do. If you have any tools or items you’ve borrowed from your neighbors and “forgot” to return them, return them. Take something to your neighbor the next time you visit instead of only going to him or her when you want something. And by all means, if you don’t even know your neighbors’ names, you’d better begin there! Everyone likes to hear his or her name shouted across the neighborhood!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, June 16, the message will be from this Scripture:}

^{Proverbs 3:1-12}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Faults are Thick Where Love is Thin”

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 13:55:29 GMT

“Faults are Thick Where Love is Thin”

^{“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”}

^{1 Peter 4:8, NIV}

^{Did you ever notice that we often put ourselves in the best light, even when we’re putting others down? Perhaps that’s human nature. I think Jesus had another word for it. See if you notice it in His words recorded in Matthew 7:3-5.}

^{“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.}

^{Have you ever noticed . . .}

^{When others are set in their ways, they’re obstinate . . . but you’re firm and resolved.}

^{When your neighbor doesn’t like your friend, she’s prejudiced . . . but when you don’t like her friend, you’re a good judge of human nature.}

^{When he takes time to do things well, he’s lazy . . . but when you do so, you’re meticulous.}

^{When she tries to treat someone especially well, she’s buttering up the person . . . but when you do so, you’re being thoughtful.}

^{When he spends a lot, he’s a spendthrift . . . but when you overdo, you’re generous.}

^{When he finds many flaws in how things are done, he’s critical . . . but when you do, you’re perceptive.}

^{When she’s mild-mannered, you call her weak . . . but when you are, you’re gracious.}

^{When he dresses well, he’s extravagant . . . but when you do, you’re tastefully in style.}

^{When she says what she thinks, she’s spiteful . . . but when you do, you’re being honest.}

^{When he takes great risks, he’s foolhardy . . . but when you do, you’re brave.}

^{My friend, God has given us His Word to serve as a mirror of our souls. Let me encourage you to take some time and stand before His mirror. Is your life too critical lately? In our relationships with others, let love rule the day because God’s kind of love does, indeed, cover over a multitude of sins. Tone down that critical spirit and try to see the best in others through the eyes of Christ’s love. And if you’re reading this week’s Mid-Week Encouragement and think you’re perfect, I’d LOVE to meet you!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, June 9, the message will be from this Scripture:}

^{Mark 3:20-35}

^{Pastor Dale}

Patriotic Worship Service

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:38:30 GMT

Sunday JUNE 30th ~ 10:30 am - Fellowship Hall

Y ou're invited to out annual special Patriotic Worship Service.

Sunday, June 30th, 10:30am in Fellowship Hall.

New Paragraph

Free Movie Night

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:32:16 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, June 21st 6:30pm

"One Life"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "One Life". The true story of Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker and humanitarian who, in 1939, helped to arrange the escape of 669 predominantly Jewish children from Czechoslovakia in a race against time before the Nazi occupation closed the borders.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Have Grill Cook Out

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:26:27 GMT

Monday JUNE 17th ~ 4:00pm Until sold out

Do not bother cooking on Monday June 17th.

Stop by the Mt Laurel Church of God "Have Grill" Cook Out. Purchase a Hot Dog, Hamburger or some French Fries for dinner. Enjoy your food inside Fellowship Hall or wrap it up to-go.

Don't forget to grab a Soda Float and a Drink!

New Paragraph

Midweek Encouragement - “Overexpecting”

Wed, 15 May 2024 12:24:55 GMT

“Overexpecting”

^{If you really think about it, our world is full of overexpecters. They’re in every profession, most of our schools, many of your local businesses, and even in some homes and churches.}

^{To the overexpecter, enough is never enough. There’s always room for improvement, always an area or two that isn’t quite up to standards, always something to criticize. Always. The overexpecter uses words like “ought” and “should” and loves to use sentences that include “must” and “more.” For the overexpecter, “work harder” and “reach higher” are the rule rather than the exception. When you’re around an overexpecter, you get the impression that no matter how hard you’ve tried, you haven’t measured up. And what’s worse,} ^{you never will} ^{. Oh, overexpecters won’t ever say that, but their message oozes from their frowns and glares. Sooner than later your motivation is whittled to nothing as demands and expectations replace enthusiasm with guilt. Pretty soon you realize that you’ve become a slave of the impossible.}

^{Stay around an overexpecter long enough and the fun fades, laughter leaves, and only the tyranny of the urgent remains.}

^{The problem with overexpecters is that nobody can muster up enough courage to tell overexpecters where to get off. And so that little child loses his love for art because he’s told time and again to stop coloring outside the lines. Yes, I’m sad to tell you that some parents are overexpecters.}

^{Because nobody is bold enough to confront an overexpecter, a wife’s joy around the house erodes because she never seems able to please the man she married. Yes, I’m sorry to tell you that some husbands are overexpecters.}

^{That gifted and competent employee gets an ulcer because the boss finds it next to impossible to say two monosyllabic words . . . “good job.” Sadly, some employers are often overexpecters.}

^{The once-dedicated, motivated pastor in a small church finally decides to go back to his or her secular employment because they realize, no matter what they do, they’ll never be able to please their church families. Yes, church members are often overexpecters.}

^{And yes, congregations can get tired of being beaten up and bruised by jabs, hooks, and uppercuts from pulpits. Some pastors are often overexpecters.}

^{So what’s the answer? Surely it’s not the opposite extreme. Mediocrity can’t be healthy. Life without challenge is almost as exciting as watching grass grow. Sorry, I don’t have all the answers, but when I think about my own tendency to overexpect, six words help me a lot.} ^{Honesty . . . reality . . . acceptance . . . tolerance . . . acknowledgement . . . encouragement.}

^{Shouldn’t Jesus be our model? He promised people “rest” if they’d just come to Him. And He certainly never held before them an endless list of unrealistic expectations. He even said His yoke would be “easy” and His burden “light.”}

^{All of us need a big dose this southern advice:} ^{When I works, I works hard; When I sits, I sits loose; When I thinks, I falls asleep.}

^{Let’s keep our expectations realistic. The next time your employees, or spouse, or pastor, or congregation, or children don’t meet your expectations, ask yourself if perhaps you’re being a little bit over-demanding.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, May 19, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{Acts 2:1-21}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “The Forward Look”

Wed, 08 May 2024 13:19:15 GMT

“The Forward Look”

^{Before you read this week’s PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement, pull out your Bible and read Luke 9:57-10:2.}

^{Why were the laborers few (Luke 10:2)? I think there were many reasons. One of the main reasons is given in Luke 9:62 . . . too many people look back.}

^{Can you imagine how hard it would be to plow a straight row in a garden while looking back? I’m no farmer but I do know that plowing isn’t easy work. The farmer must fix his eyes on a distant point and maintain that straight, steady line. Looking back is asking for a crooked line and a ruined field.}

^{In my years in the ministry, I’ve seen many Christians start serving the Lord and then they look back. Why do they do that? Two little words give the answer . . . “Me first.” Two disciples in Luke 9:57-10:2 said, “} ^{Let me first . . .} ^{” If a person is going to work in the fields, he or she must put self last and the Lord of the harvest first. When a Christian insists on having his or her own way, the fields will never be prepared for the harvest.}

^{Proverbs 4:25 says,} ^{“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.”} ^{Jesus warned us in Luke 17:32 to “Remember Lot’s wife.” She looked back and was judged instantly. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14,} ^{“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”} ^{That, my friend, is the forward look of faith that leads to victory and vitality in the Christian life.}

^{The same can be said for an entire church, too. Do many in your church family bemoan “the way it used to be” as they recall the glory days of their church’s history? Always looking back to the bygone “good ole days” and never looking forward to what God still has in store for your church is a recipe for failure and can result its death.}

^{Don’t you think Jesus had a forward look while He lived and served here on earth? You bet He did! Paul wrote in Hebrews 12:1-2,} ^{“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Luke says this about Jesus’ forward-looking attitude, “As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem”} ^{(Luke 9:51-53).}

^{There’s certainly a time to look back . . . perhaps a church’s anniversary Sunday or All Saints Day . . . but when a Christian or a church fails to look ahead, stagnation and self-centeredness will be the result.}

^{My friend, keep your eyes firmly focused on Christ as you plow a straight line forward with the Spirit’s help today. And may God help you bring in a harvest of new believers for His kingdom!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, May 12, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{Luke 24:44-53}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Worship Services Can’t Be Served Smorgasbord”

Thu, 02 May 2024 16:45:45 GMT

“Developing a Rhythm of Life”

^{Forgive me if it seems like I’m always talking about myself or what I do, but I am what I am. And if it seems like I’m always talking about worship, it’s because that’s what we disciples of Jesus will be doing 24/7/365/forever in heaven.}

^{One thing I’ve learned about God’s dealing with people is that He does it in togetherness. The children of Israel moved together across the wilderness. The young, vigorous ones probably wanted to move at twice the pace. The young mothers with babies and toddlers needed to take it easy. The oldest probably never wanted to move at all. It took a lot of give and take, a lot of consideration for the condition of the other guy, a lot of accommodating. But when it was all over, except for those who died along the way, they all got from} ^here ^to ^there ^{together. They all obeyed the sight of the cloud and fire, the sound of the trumpets. They all grumbled and were punished together, but together they also saw the waters part, rods bud, and fire come out of heaven. They knew each other well. They did it} ^together.

^{My calling, in however long God gives me with my church family, is to get them from here to there together. God has called me to lead them together and help them feel all one.}

^{Maybe you’re familiar with the pagan deity Janus. He had two faces. One faced looked forward and the other looked back. Any church family will become two-faced when the conservatives attend the one consistently “straight” service while the “progressives” experiment with the latest in contemporary. Maybe that’s why I’m glad we worship in one worship service here at the Mt. Laurel Church of God. We try to put elements of both old and new in whatever we experience, but we try to pace ourselves to go forward experiencing everything together.}

^{Some older ones grumble. Some younger ones want to experiment more. I expect both reactions and encourage them to be considerate of each other’s feelings.}

^{Hopefully, when our worship service is over, we’ve grumbled and endured together, but hopefully we will have seen God’s glory together, too. And hopefully we’ll all loose some of the old and together we will have all gained some of the new. And through it all, I hope we’ll continue to be a Body together . . . conservatives and progressives trying to put it all together together! After all, every vehicle must have both gas and brakes. That’s the best way it gets from here to there.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, May 5, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{1 John 5:1-6}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Developing a Rhythm of Life”

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:10:42 GMT

“Developing a Rhythm of Life”

^{Do you ever feel like your life is out of sync? Is your everyday life in disarray? In this constantly changing world do you find it hard to find a routine that results in peace? A fellow pastor recently admitted that his life had become like a campfire with no space between the logs. Because a campfire needs air to burn well, his life had become cold and lifeless because he hadn’t allowed space for God in the midst of all his activities.}

^{I’ve discovered that the rhythm of my week needs to include more than just doing good things. My life’s rhythm must include space for time with God. I’m so thankful that God’s rhythms don’t ever change. Every day He causes the sun to rise and set, even if I can’t see it because of the clouds. Every night He causes the moon and stars shine. The tides ebb and flow at His command. The spring flowers bloom and the summer sun will eventually arrive to warm us. And, in its time, the winter will return to give the earth rest. Psalm 74:16-17 says, “} ^{The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon. It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.”}

^{Are you including time for the Lord in your daily rhythm? Or is your daily schedule so packed with “doing” that there’s no space for God? I think we all need to let God teach us to take one day at a time. Let’s allow Him to discipline us to create healthy rhythms that include daily time for rest, daily time for Scripture and prayer, and daily quiet time with Him. A rhythm of daily life that includes space for God will always burn brightly!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, April 21, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{1 John 4:7-21}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “God Blesses Us with Prayer”

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 18:42:25 GMT

“God Blesses Us with Prayer”

^{Lately, I’ve been thinking about the benefits of being a Christian. Obviously, there are so many that I hardly know where to start. I can easily write about the gifts of justification, sanctification, or adoption (and many others similar to it). But today, I’ll keep it simple. Let’s focus on a blessing that we may sometimes overlook — the blessing of the gift of prayer.}

^{Isn’t it amazing that the God of the Bible allows His people to communicate with Him through prayer? Sometimes take this access we have to God for granted, but if you pause and think about the different dimensions of prayer and just how good our access to God is, it’ll bless your soul.}

^{Think about it . . .} ^{We have 24/7 access to God.} ^{In the middle of the night when everyone else is unavailable, God is up, ready and willing to hear your prayer. That’s amazing! You might have close family members, friends, and other relationships where people are helpful to you in many ways, but they can’t always be there for you because they’re not always available. But God is constantly accessible. The Lord doesn’t need sleep. He’s always awake. You can always go to Him . . . at 2:00 am when your screaming baby won’t sleep, at 6:30 am when you’re anxious and scared about facing the day, at noon when the day isn’t going how you planned. This 24/7, 365 access to God we have in prayer is surely miraculous.}

^{Have you noticed that} ^{we don’t need to use physical words when we pray?} ^{Someone once told me “God loves cubicle prayers as much as He does public prayers, too!” It’s true! Because God is omniscient (all-knowing), He can understand what you pray in your mind with 100% accuracy, every single time. Yes, using words and praying out loud is essential. Soundless prayers shouldn’t make up 100% of our prayer lives. Sometimes words aren’t possible, so know that God gets your thoughts.}

^{We don’t need to always pray long-winded prayers.} ^{I’m not against long-winded prayers. My prayer times with the Lord are some of the best parts of my day. But there’s a time and place for everything. Sometimes your prayers will be long-winded and other times they simply won’t be. Sometimes, you’ll be able to just say a quick prayer, move forward, and trust God with the results.}

^{A certain Christian leader was serving on a panel discussing a tough cultural topic. He was asked a hard question and didn’t know how to respond. He knocked his pen from the table to buy himself time to pray quickly and silently in his mind as he picked up his pen. In that brief moment, the Lord gave him a response. Those kinds of little prayers throughout the day are powerful.}

^{Prayer changes things.} ^{God’s plan includes the end result of everything that happens, but He also chooses how He makes the ends happen. He sometimes uses your prayers to accomplish the ends. Too often we treat prayer as something we should do only to sustain us, to give thanks, and to ask for general things. Those things are good — very good. but don’t forget that God is a Father and you’re His child. As His child, you’re free to pray specific prayers for things you want to see happen. Pray big, bold, specific, prayers.}

^{Prayer changes you} ^. ^{Prayer can change things, but sometimes it doesn’t. Why? Sometimes your prayer may not align with God’s will. That’s a good thing because God knows better. And yet, even if prayer doesn’t always change your circumstances, prayer often changes you. The Lord meets with you when you pray. He changes your character and gives you what you need to get through your situation, even if He doesn’t give you exactly what you want.}

^{Often, we take this blessing of prayer for granted, but when we reflect on the gift of prayer and the many ways in which prayer is a blessing, it’ll help us appreciate this great gift from God.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, April 21, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{John 10:11-18}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Why Encourage?”

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:58:07 GMT

“Why Encourage?”

^{Sometimes I wonder why I even write PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement each week. A few of you respond every week to tell me how my God-given words have touched you when I didn’t even know what you were going through. I can only guess that some who receive this email in their inbox and simply say, “Eh! I’ll just delete that. I don’t need to hear with PD’s saying this week.” And still others probably don’t even check their email, let alone read them. So why do I write PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement each week? Because I believe a person is never more Christ-like than when a person is full of compassion for those who are down, needy, discouraged, or forgotten.}

^{Woven into the fabric of the book of Acts is the quiet life of a man who’s a stranger to many Christians. Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement,” was a native of the island of Cyprus. Barnabas encouraged his friends at Jerusalem who were literally “under the gun” as they faced financial and spiritual hardships. But the comforter from Cyprus gave them all he had by selling a parcel of land and donating the proceeds to the believers there.}

^{The next time Barnabas is mentioned is in Acts 11 as he went looking for Saul of Tarsus, an outcast because of his previous life. Barnabas stuck his neck out for that new Christian by taking him by the hand and leading him to Antioch to introduce and endorse Saul to the leaders at Jerusalem.}

^{Don’t you think we need the ministry of encouragement today more than ever? Maybe you’re familiar with someone in need of financial encouragement. A student away at school . . . a young couple struggling to make ends meet . . . a divorcee struggling to get her self-assurance back . . . a forgotten servant of God working in an obscure and difficult ministry? You can be a Barnabas to those people.}

^{Today may present you with the opportunity to encourage those who are lonely, needy, discouraged, or forgotten. This coming Sunday, why not sit beside someone you don’t know and ask God for an encouraging word, or invite them out to lunch? When so many are quick to find fault with someone else, be different. Find something good to say. Be a Barnabas!}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, April 14, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{Psalm 4}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:03:46 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, April 19 6:30pm

"God's Not Dead 2"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "The Blind". In 1960s Louisiana, future "Duck Dynasty" star Phil Robertson falls in lover and starts a family, but his demons soon threaten to tear everyone apart. As he seeks to conquer the shame of his past, he ultimately finds redemption in an unlikely place.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Spring Work Day

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:49:01 GMT

Spring Work Day, Saturday April 13th

Plan NOW to come and help lend a hand at the Mt Laurel Church of God. We will be doing some painting, patching, cleaning & general fixing up around the church. THERE WILL BE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO DO!

SATRUDAY APRIL 13 TH @ 8:00AM

(Rain date of May4th)

Bring your buckets, shop-vacs, tolls and elbow grease and let's pitch in to do some maintenance and cleaning around the church … inside & outside!

MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK

Midweek Encouragement - “You Are Able!”

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:41:46 GMT

“You Are Able!”

^{““I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”}

^{Philippians 4:13 NIV}

^{Are you ever down on yourself and feel that you can’t do anything well? Do you ever envy other seemingly talented people because it seems like there’s nothing they can’t do? Well, today I want you to know that there isn’t one story in the Bible where God calls someone to complete a task or complete a mission that’s beyond their capability. Not one! David defeating Goliath. Gideon victoriously overtaking the massive army that opposed him. Peter walking on water. Countless stories . . . and yours is the same!}

^{The hard part is remembering that you’re capable of running the race God has for you . . . not someone else’s race or the impossible standards the world or you have placed on your shoulders.}

^{Today, trust that God has given you every tool you need to not just get through your day but to set an example in strength, vitality, and competence. When you partner with Jesus, you’ll witness His supernatural invading your natural! When that happens, your limitations are where His abilities begin and nothing is too hard for Him.}

^{Isn’t it comforting to know that the One who knows everything you’ll face today has already determined that you’re capable to get through whatever life throws at you today?!}

^{Lean into His guidance. Trust His provision. Show up trusting that His strength in your weakness is more than you need! My friend, you are capable because God has equipped you! Has God ever let you down?}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, March 31, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{Mark 16:1-8}

^{Pastor Dale}

One last note . . . Because PD and Pamela are running away to a cabin in the woods next week, April 1-4, there will be no PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement on April 3. It’ll return on April 10.

Midweek Encouragement - “Useless Anger”

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:45:23 GMT

“Useless Anger”

^{“Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.”}

^{Psalm 37:8 NIV}

^{I was driving home from visiting someone in the hospital today and I was listening to a talk radio station. The person coming through my car’s radio was discussing the political situation, the war in Ukraine, the controversy over Israel’s “abuse” of Gaza . . . one issue after another. Anger flowed through me as I listened because most, if not all, of those issues are out of my hands. Before I knew it, I noticed my right foot getting heavier and my little car going faster on the expressway. I was racing along, exceeding the speed limit. My anger could have led me into a disastrous wreck.}

^{Injustice angers me. Media reports stab me with reports of violence. Wars and reports of thousands of casualties. Special reports about human trafficking. Lately I’ve been feeling helpless in a violent society that leaves behind too much suffering. And every time I check the mailbox at church I weed through pleas for help from ministries trying to care for runaway teenagers and victims of drunk drivers. All that angers me!}

^{Webster defines anger as an “impulse to retaliate.” But what can I do to fight against the wrongs and hurts of society? My helplessness in the face of wrongs and injustice leaves me feeling frustrated. Life seems so cruel and there’s little I can do about it.}

^{But God is showing me something. The wrongs in this world are like my neglected back yard during a wet summer. When mowing season rolls around, those overgrown weeds and grass will need an aggressive lawn mower. But I can only cut one swath at a time. Soon I’ll persist and whittle away at the grass, cutting round and round the yard until the lawn is restored to order. Until the next week . . . when it’ll need cut again. The days of that seemingly endless task are coming soon.}

^{Here’s the good news I want you to hear in this week’s PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement. The Lord doesn’t expect us to restore order to the whole world. That’s His job. Our anger and frustration only hinder God’s work. Instead, we can contribute our offerings to genuine needs. Or, better yet, we can intercede in prayer for some sore spot on this earth. Or share our faith with someone who needs to hear some really good news.}

^{My friend, as we cut our swaths where God calls us, doing our part, let’s trust God to cure the ills of this universe. And when we let Him do what He does best, we’ll sleep better and drive a little slower. Let the Lord show you how useless your anger is. Let Him be part of your plan to help others in need.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, March 24, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{John 12:12-16}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “When Life Seems Out of Control, What Can You Control?”

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 12:16:41 GMT

“When Life Seems Out of Control, What Can You Control?”

^{Trust me when I say that I’m not a control freak. But I know I’m not alone when I say that lately things seem to feel a little overwhelming. In this year of 2024, many people are faced with issues that have the potential to make life pretty complicated. Have you been feeling that so many things are out of your control that you feel like giving up? I sat down the other day and made a list of some things that we, as individuals, can control. See if you agree.}

^{1. Your thoughts and actions.} ^{You can focus on what’s going right or what’s going wrong. What you think is how you feel so why not focus on the positive aspects of life! You get to choose how you speak to yourself, in a positive or negative way! Why not try to eliminate negativity and focus on your blessings?! Your thoughts are in your control. No one can make you think one way or another or make you act one way or another. You choose!}

^{2. Your level of productivity.} ^{From the moment you wake in the morning, you get to choose how productive you’ll be. Whether its in your work, with your family, or in your friendships, you get to control whether you’ll waste time or put it to good use. I think each of us can also control the goals we set for ourselves. You and I determine how fervently we’ll push to reach those goals . . . or whether we want to throw in the towel and quit.}

^{3. Your view of yourself.} ^{You can’t control what other people think of you, but you can control what you think of yourself. Everyone will form their own opinion of you, but what matters is how you see you. Choose to be confident today and see what difference it makes in your level of perceived control.}

^{4. Your work ethic or what you give your energy to.} ^{Every single day you can control the level of energy you choose to put in to grow your knowledge and success. Few people are overnight successes, but if you choose to work hard daily, success will probably come.}

^{5. Your schedule.} ^{No one else can control how you invest your time. You have control over where you go, how long you’re there, and how full your calendar becomes. Why not develop a routine? If you include one thing in your schedule you KNOW you can do each day, you’ll control whether you feel successful and accomplished. Even something as small as making your bed each day can feel rewarding if YOU choose to make it. You do make your bed each morning, don’t you? (Don’t tell me. I don’t want to know!)}

^{6. How you treat others.} ^{You and only you can control your spiritual growth. You choose to follow the Golden Rule (Luke 6:31 in case you didn’t know it)! You can’t control how people treat you, but you can control how you treat others.}

^{7. What you eat.} ^{Don’t you think it’s true that what goes in is what shows on the outside? I’m going to sound like a hypocrite here, but the better you eat, the better you’ll feel both physically and mentally. No one can force you to eat something you don’t want. Unless, of course, you’re a kid and your mother says, “That’s what for dinner.” Even then you control whether you’ll eat it or go to bed hungry.}

^{8. Your level of honesty with yourself and others.} ^{Honesty truly is the best policy because it fosters better relationships with others and with yourself. Only you can control whether you’ll lie to get by or whether you’ll be honest with yourself and others.}

^{9. What you allow in your head.} ^{We used to hear, “Garbage in, garbage out.” The TV shows you watch, the articles you read, the websites you view, the podcasts you listen to, all have an impact on your perspective, your worldview, and your attitude. Put good things in and you’ll feel better.}

^{10. How clean your space is.} ^{You can control how clean your house is, how cluttered your closets are, and even how clean your car is. I’m still convinced that my car is faster when it’s clean. Go ahead. Prove me otherwise!}

^{My friend, don’t you think it’s time to take responsibility for your choices and stop blaming Biden or Trump or Congress or CNN or Fox News? It’s time that each of us lives each day intending to be productive, positive and grateful. I may not agree with everything Timber Hawkeye has done or written, but I can’t agree with this quote: “You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.”}

^{Tell me what YOU believe are on your list of what you can control and maybe I’ll consider adding them to my list. Thanks for reading this week’s PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement.}

^{For those of you who will be in worship at the Mt. Laurel Church of God this coming Sunday, March 17, my message will be based on this Scripture:}

^{Psalm 51:1-12}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “How to Get More from Your Church’s Corporate Worship Service!”

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:38:17 GMT

“How to Get More from Your Church’s Corporate Worship Service!”

^{Hopefully you’re not one of those Christians who moans, “But I just don’t get anything out of the worship service.” Often, when believers share those kinds of feelings, it’s because they didn’t personally prepare themselves for worship. If we think we can haphazardly enter a worship service and assume it will be engaging because it’s a spiritual activity, we’re way off base. If you assume it’s the responsibility of your pastor and church leaders to give you a good worship experience, think again!}

^{I’ve been around the worship block long enough to know that there are practical and spiritual actions you can do to prepare your soul for corporate worship at your church. If you find yourself wanting more out of your church’s worship service, take ownership and consider doing one or more of the following:}

^{Get ready for Sunday morning worship on Saturday night.} ^{Instead of making Saturday night your time for self-indulgence and leisurely activities, consider making it a time to start preparing yourself for the Lord’s Day. Why not turn off the T.V., leave that party, and put your phone on silent mode before the clock strikes eleven?! Enjoying Sunday worship starts on Saturday night. Be intentional about how you spend your Saturday evening and be extra sure to get a good night’s sleep.}

^{Read the sermon text in advance.} ^{Your pastor will be glad to give it to you. Just ask him. Reading the sermon text in advance can help you get more out of your pastor’s sermon. It’s not hard to see why. By taking 5-10 minutes to read and meditate on the text your pastor is preaching from, you’ll position yourself to listen better. You could even personally study the book of the Bible your church is studying in your personal devotional time. By doing so, you’re already meditating on God’s Word. Trust me. You’ll feel more engaged during the sermon.}

^{Arrive 15 minutes earlier than normal.} ^{I know. That’s not always possible with three kids. Sunday mornings can be rough for moms with children. As best as you can, show up 15 minutes early so you don’t feel rushed entering the service. By showing up a little early, you might even be able to personally connect with someone else or find an area where you can serve (which will help the church). Whatever you do, don’t show up late. Don’t come into the sanctuary as the invitation to worship is announced or during the first song.}

^{Stay 15 minutes after the service.} ^{Do you sprint to your car after the service so you can get the best seat at the restaurant? Don’t! Make it your goal to connect with at least one other person before you leave the church. Remember that, by connecting with someone you don’t know, or encouraging someone who’s downcast, you display an attitude that says the whole morning wasn’t about you.}

^{I get it. You might not be able to practice every one of these tips. That’s fine. But if you want to be more engaged with your church’s worship service, consider these practical actions you can take. Obviously, the Holy Spirit is the One who uses God’s Word to build you up in your faith, but these practical steps can help you get more out of the worship service.}

^{Let me add a bonus one, one you’ve heard me offer before: remember that the worship service isn’t all about you and your preferences. You won’t like every song or every point of the sermon. Someone may rub you the wrong way before, during or after the service. But instead of thinking the worship service is mainly for what you can get out of it, focus your mind on God’s majesty, on the love of Christ, and less on yourself. If you practice these tips, I guarantee you’ll leave your church’s worship service better than you entered it.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Men's Prayer Breakfast

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:06:18 GMT

MEN'S PRAYER BREAKFAST - MEN OF INTEGRITY

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS MARCH 10TH

Join us in Fellowship Hall on March 16th @9am for a FREE Men's Prayer Breakfast. Guest Speaker Isaac Patterson, President of Hot Frog Print & Media will bring the message. A love offering will be accepted.

Grab the other Men in your life and join us for this time of food, fellowship & Worship!

God has called out to each of us.

No matter where you are on your

journey, we all benefit from

looking at and hearing God's

Word together.

Join us for breakfast, fellowship,

and a guest speaker. This is a

great opportunity to get to know

the other men of the church,

share experiences, and grow your

faith to become the man God

wants you to be.

We'd love to have you come to our prayer breakfast

visit: www.mtlaurelcog.org/mens-breakfast to register and let us know you will be joining us.

Holy Week & Easter Activities

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:05:34 GMT

H oly Week & Easter Activities March 24th - March 31st

Sunday Morning, March 24th, 10:30 am - Palm Sunday Worship Service

Wednesday, March 27, 7:00pm - Wednesday Evening Bible Study & Prayer Time; Youth Group

Thursday March 28th, 7:00pm - Maunday Thursday Service- Feetwashing & Communion in Fellowship Hall.

Resurrection Day, Sunday, March 31

6:00 am - Sunrise Service in Mt Laurel Church of God Cemetery

7:15am - Breakfast for everyone in Fellowship Hall

10:00am - Resurrection Day Worship Service with Reception of New Church members!

There will be no Sunday School on Easter Sunday morning. Join us again on April 7th at 9:30am for Sunday School.

HE IS NOT HERE, HE IS RISEN!

Free Movie Night

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:22:23 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, March 15, 6:30pm

"The Case For Christ"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for, "The Case For Christ". In 1980, Lee Strobel's (Mike Vogel) award-winning, investigative reporting earns him a promotion to legal editor of the Chicago Tribune. Things at home aren't going nearly as well. His wife Leslie's (Erika Christensen) newfound faith in Christ compels Lee to utilize his journalistic and legal training to try and disprove the claims of Christianity, pitting his resolute atheism against her growing faith.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - “What in the World Are You Talking About?”

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:03:57 GMT

“What in the World Are You Talking About?”

^{“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”}

^{Luke 6:45 NIV}

^{What do you usually talk about? Researchers used to say that women talk more than men, but a 2007 study said otherwise. According to researchers at the University of Arizona, we men talk just as much as women. Using digital voice recorders over an eight-year period, researchers studied how many words hundreds of American and Mexican college students spoke over several days. The students carried the voice-activated recorders for almost all of their waking hours, on average about 17 hours a day. The study found that women spoke 16,215 words a day, while men spoke 15,669.}

^But ^what ^{do you talk about? We talk about the weather, about our favorite sports team, about the price of gasoline, and about our kids and grandkids. We talk about the delicious food we had at the local diner and for which candidate we’ll be voting in the fall. We talk about our family members and our local elected officials and about the return of warmer temperatures. But do we talk about the One who gave His life to make a life-changing difference in us?}

^{A certain woman was visiting her brother and his family one time when her nephew stopped in the midst of his play and steadily gazed up at her. “What are you thinking about?” she asked him.}

^{“You’re a Christian, aren’t you, Aunt Mae?” he finally asked.}

^{“I hope so, dear,” she replied.}

^{“But you never talk about Jesus,” he said. “If you loved Him} ^{very much} ^{, wouldn’t you talk about Him sometimes?”}

^{Aunt Mae, taken aback a bit, stammered a reply: “We may love a person without speaking of him,” she said.}

^{“Can we?” her nephew asked innocently. “I didn’t know that. You talk about Daddy and Momma and your brothers and sisters all the time. And you talk about other people, too . . . even me. But not Jesus.”}

^{“Well, yes,” Aunt Mae admitted, her heart quickened with conviction. “I suppose that’s been so.”}

^{“Let’s talk about Jesus sometime,” her nephew suggested before getting up to go outside to play. And then with a backward wink, he added, “’Cause I love Him, too, and I like to talk about Him.”}

^{We talk about what and who matter the most to us. And what we say reveals how we feel about them. Have} ^you ^{talked about Jesus lately? Do you frequently mention His name in conversation with not only other Christians, but with unbelievers? I really don’t believe we can love Him without talking about Him. Do you? Do you love Him? Do you talk about Him? If not, why not? Maybe you should see what Mark 8:38 says about this, too. Let me know if your conversations change to include Jesus! :o)}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - “Are You Praying for President Biden?”

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:17:42 GMT

“Are You Praying for President Biden?”

^{Before you go any further, let me first confess that I’ve been seeing President Biden as a source of entertainment, rather than the leader of the free world. I’ve come to the realization that Scripture calls me and each believer to pray for him, not make fun of him. God’s Word puts a huge emphasis on authority and organized religion as an irrevocable part of God’s plan for the world. We’re commanded in Scripture to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2) and I think it’s time we take this command seriously, especially in this election year.}

^{Paul wrote,} ^{“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”} ^{(1 Timothy 2:1-2). Part of what we, God’s people, should do when we gather for worship is pray. Sometimes that means praying for those in leadership positions. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 teaches us to pray for those in authority, not only for pastors and ministry leaders, but for all Christians.}

^{First, Paul said to pray for “kings.” The use of the word “kings” can literally mean kings, but also applies to those with}

^{governing authority in any area. This principle applies to prime ministers, governors, and, yes, even President Biden.}

^{Second, Paul used the expression “all who are in high positions.” We should pray for those who hold high-level leadership positions. You may not particularly like your president, governor, or township supervisors, but notice that Paul didn’t say, “pray for those in authority if you like them” or “only pray for those in authority if they’re Christians” or “only pray for your leaders if you agree with them.” No, whether you agree with their views or not, God’s people are called to pray for those who hold distinguished leadership positions. Even parents, pastors, and managers who hold authoritative positions deserve our prayers. If we spent more time praying for our leaders and less time critiquing them, maybe we’d find fewer things to gripe about.}

^{Are you praying for President Biden in worship on Sunday mornings? The pastoral prayer is one of the most important parts of Sunday worship and is a great time to practice praying for those in authority. Why pray for President Biden and other leaders in worship? It demonstrates to guests that your church is about more than just your church. By praying for less-than-ideal leaders, you demonstrate that, while you may not agree with their behavior, you can still treat them as people created in the image of God. You demonstrate that fallen leaders also need our prayers, and you practice Jesus’s admonition to pray for your enemies. Praying for other pastors and churches in your area encourages a spirit of unity in your community and shows that you want to build not only your church but God’s Kingdom in your area. Praying for other churches also helps fight against jealousy and envy.}

^{But what should you pray for those in authority? Three quick things come to my little mind. Pray for their} ^health ^{. Our President is not a young man. I’m sure he’s dealing with the effects of older age. Pray that he stays healthy until the new president takes over in January of 2025. Pray for God to give him} ^wisdom ^and ^discernment ^{. Pray that he’ll have} ^{success in things that honor God and failure in things that don’t.}

^{It’s always a blessing to pray for leaders because you’ll reap the results of their God-given help. In this election year, let’s be intentional in praying for those in authority.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "What to Do for Lent”

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 14:24:25 GMT

"Could Quitting the Internet Transform Your Mental Health?”

^{I know today is Heart Day but today is also Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the season of Lent in the church year. The 40 days of Lent is supposed to remind us of the great sacrifice of Jesus when He gave up His life so those who believe in Him as Savior can have forever life. As a Christian, hopefully you remember God's grace and mercy on a daily basis but, if perhaps you've strayed and allowed life's distractions and busyness to take the place of your time with God, then Lent is a beautiful opportunity to re-orient and re-align your mind and heart. During Lent we should pray more, fast more and give more.}

^{I’m sure you’ve heard people ask, “So, what are you} ^giving ^{up for Lent?” Some people will abstain from or fast from something for forty days. Fasting in Lent directly correlates to Jesus' time of fasting in the desert for 40 days before He started His public ministry. When we traditionally think of fasting, we lean towards going without food or drink for some time. Many believers, on this Ash Wednesday, will fast for the day and remember that the Lord is the provider of our spiritual and physical needs. When it comes to fasting for Lent, the options are limitless. The first thing you should do is pray and ask the Lord to lay something on your heart that perhaps you’ve allowed to become an idol, a distraction, or a roadblock to your faith.}

^{If you tend to overindulge in sweets regularly, to the point where you almost make yourself sick, maybe you should fast from candy for forty days. If your coffee habit has turned into more of an addiction, and the employees at Starbucks know you by name because your purchases have been paying their salaries, maybe you could make coffee at home for the Lent season. If every morning you wake up exhausted, but can't stop binging on streaming services late into the night, you could leave your television off for the next 40 days. (It} ^does ^{have an off button, you know). Those are just examples. The principle behind fasting is that we give up something that might be taking the place of God in our lives so we can focus more on Him.}

^{Lent is based on three pillars: fasting, prayer, and giving to others. If you don't feel a personal conviction to give something up for Lent, maybe you could consider} ^starting ^{something new over the next forty days. Have you been slacking in your prayer life recently? Before you start your day, set a five-minute timer and talk to God. Have you tried to get involved in a local charity but can't find the time? Make it a priority to contact the coordinator and sign up to serve. How’s your Bible reading and study time going? Use the Lenten season to read a few extra chapters each day, journal what the Lord is saying in His Word to you, and take some time to meditate on the timeless truths of Scripture. Your choice to add something during this season should be bathed in prayer and careful consideration.}

^{Whatever you choose to do to observe or not observe these days leading up to Easter, I’m sure that meditating on this good news will bring you a new appreciation for Jesus’ love for you . . . especially on this Heart Day:} ^{"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”} ^{(John 3:16)}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 12:57:05 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, February 16 6:30pm

"The Blind"

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Could Quitting the Internet Transform Your Mental Health?”

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 15:02:52 GMT

"Could Quitting the Internet Transform Your Mental Health?”

^{I heard the statistic again yesterday. “One out of every four of us wrestles with some form of mental illness.” When I mentioned that in a recent church meeting, we laughed and looked at each other, wondering who that “one” was. Actress, singer, and entrepreneur Selena Gomez thinks she has the answer to better mental health . . . quit the Internet.}

^{In a 2022 interview on Good Morning America, Selena said this,} ^{“I haven’t been on the Internet in four and a half years. It’s changed my life completely. I’m happier, I’m more present, I connect more with people. It makes me feel normal.”} ^{I wonder . . . could she have something there?}

^{Selena doesn’t spend time scrolling. She still snaps selfies or writes content but now she hands it over to her team to post. No scrolling. No Tiktok rabbit holes. No comment sections.}

^{I recently told someone,} ^{“I don’t surf Facebook like I used to. I don’t need to be knee-deep in the drama of other people’s lives and I feel so much less stressed because of it.”}

^{So, if you’ve noticed that I’m not as present on Facebook or social media as much as I used to be, now you know why. Why do I need to know all the juicy gossip people are posting? Why do I need to know why someone who used to be part of my church family has chosen to worship elsewhere? Isn’t that} ^their ^{business? Isn’t that an issue between them and God? Don’t they have the freedom to make the choice to worship wherever they want?}

^{I get it. Social media platforms are a key way for normal people to stay connected. Our society has integrated social media into our way of life. But when is too much too much? When does our interest in what other people are doing or where they’re going or what they’re eating or with whom they’re worshiping start to interfere with the relationship we have with ourselves?}

^{So I went to my Facebook feed and started to pull some weeds. I chose to unfollow some of the caustic people who were always posting negative comments. I snoozed other people for 30 days, hoping they’ll see the “error of their ways” and become more positive. I blocked other groups and businesses because they just don’t offer anything to help me where I am right now. And yes, I even unfriended others. If that sounds “unchristian,” get over it . . . I refuse to let some people rob my joy, ruin my day, or make me feel guilty. Oh, I’m still on Facebook, but only because my church’s page is connected to my page and we live-stream our worship on Sunday mornings. I’m choosing to be mentally healthier, more spiritually influenced by Christ, and more peacefully functioning as a joy-filled disciple of the King of kinds and Lord of lords.}

^{No, I didn’t quit the Internet like Selena did. Who can afford a “} ^team ^{” of social media influencers like she can? But I did choose to stop being such an Internet voyeur. Gone is a whole lot of worry, stress, and anxiety. Now I only see what I want to see and read what is good for my spirit and soul.}

^{What about you? Do you become stressed over what your “friends” are posting on the book of faces? Are the texts you’re receiving making you worry? Are you becoming jealous because your friend vacationed in Disney and you’re stuck here in the cold north? Maybe quitting the Internet will transform} ^your ^{mental health! Let me know how it works for you!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Information is Power”

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:48:00 GMT

"Information is Power”

^{Here it is again. Another Mid-Week Encouragement about the power of the tongue. I’m sorry if you’ve heard this all before, but why do we humans keep abusing each other with words? Last week I encouraged us all to take every thought captive. This week I’m going to encourage us to think before we speak.}

^{Let’s face it. Words have power. Their meaning forms ideas that shape our beliefs, drive our behavior, and ultimately, create our world. Their power rises from our emotional responses when we read, speak, or hear them. The word “fire” spoken while barbequing, or in the workplace, or in a crowded theater, will produce three completely different but powerful emotional reactions.}

^{Inappropriate words directed toward other people can do great harm, but how many times each day do we allow our words to attack ourselves? We say things like, “I hate my hair,” “I’m so stupid,” “I’m such a klutz.” Words directed at our own selves bring so much negative energy into our lives. God’s Word says that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). That’s not a metaphor. That’s the truth.}

^{And when we participate in gossip, don’t you find that the harm goes both ways? To other people and toward ourselves, too? Often I hear people share “information” about others and I wonder if that’s just a kinder way of sharing gossip. When we share information about others, aren’t we lifting ourselves to a higher place in an attempt to avoid the trouble we’ve heard about in the lives of other people?}

^{Let me cut to the chase here. Let’s go back to 1752 when a group of Methodist men, including John Wesley, signed a covenant that every man agreed to hang on his office wall. The six articles of that solemn agreement will surely help us avoid the sin of gossip. Here they are:}

^{1. I will not listen to or willingly ask about news that has happened to someone else.}

^{2. If I do hear any news about another person, I will not believe it.}

^{3. If I do hear any news about another person, I will, as soon as possible, talk to that person first.}

^{4. Until I talk to that person, I will not write or speak one syllable of it to any other person.}

^{5. After I have spoken to the affected person, I will not share their information with any other person unless I have their permission.}

^{6. I will not make any exception to any of these rules.}

^{One last word of advice . . . Always remember that the person who tells you “don’t tell this to another soul” has probably already told all the souls you know. Whoever gossips to you will be a gossip of you.}

^{Guard your tongue to keep gossip far away! Just saying!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Capturing Our Thought Life”

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:50:55 GMT

"Capturing Our Thought Life”

^{Do you realize that our thoughts shape our character? The inner anatomy of our minds reveal our true spiritual condition. Inner deceit is as evil as a criminal act.}

^{Many of us think our thoughts are private. Surely no one gets arrested for thinking evil. But is the domain of the mind private turf? Wouldn’t you think that as long as we act civilly, no one can charge us with wrong behavior because of what we’re thinking. Think again, my friend.}

^{That whole line of thinking is really deceptive. It’s a delusion of the mind. Jesus said there’s a link between thought and action.} ^{“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’} ^{But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:27-28 NIV). In other words, the thought is the same as the action.}

^{How controllable is your thought life? Is it like an untamed river rushing down a canyon? Unchecked it could wipe out your reputation, ruin your career, and hurt people very badly.}

^{The Bible puts the blame for a nasty thought life on the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4). Satan is the deceiver. He tries to control the human mind. In fact, our minds are probably the real battleground where spiritual warfare happens.}

^{While some people are concerned with external appearances, God looks on the thoughts and intents of our hearts. He’s never fooled by outward conformity to what’s expected by our society. Psalm 94:11 says} ^{“the Lord knows the thoughts of person.”} ^{So what does God expect of our thought life?}

^{God calls for a renewal of our minds. Even though you’re blinded by sin and affected by the fall, your mind can be transformed by the saving grace of God. If you’ve given your life to Christ, He has begun to bring your thoughts under His lordship.}

^{Obviously, being rescued by Jesus hasn’t prevented your mind from thinking nasty thoughts. It’s a daily battle. The fortress of the mind, under the new management of the Holy Spirit who came to live in you on that first day can help you take your thought life captive. That’s 2 Corinthians 10:5:} ^{“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God,} ^{and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.} ^”

^{Let me give you a very practical way to capture the mind. It’s found in Philippians 4:8:} ^{“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”} ^{Focused thoughts are the best guarantee of an inner pure thought life.}

^{If you want your thought life to be pleasing to God, stay focused on Christ. He’ll help you think about true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy things. And day by day, you’ll take your thought life captive. It’s a process . . . so don’t give up!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Don’t Allow the Few to Affect Your Joy”

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 15:10:18 GMT

"Don’t Allow the Few to Affect Your Joy”

^{The number of times I’ve thought about this and even done this over the past few months has prompted me to put hand to keyboard. If you’re a regular reader of PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement, you already know the inner workings of my brain, but I just had to share this.}

^{Here’s the question that I’ve been wrestling with lately . . . Why do I allow the actions of a few people to affect my attitude toward all people? Last week’s Mid-Week Encouragement may have been a direct result of that question, too. Let’s admit it. Not everyone is stupid. So why do I allow the stupidity of a few to affect my level of joy? Whether I’m driving or interacting with people, why do I allow the attitudes and actions of a few to rob my joy?}

^{One thing is certain. There will always be selfish, self-centered people in our sin-filled world, in our communities, in our schools, at our workplaces, and yes, even in our churches. There will always be people who want to do what THEY want to do, regardless of what anyone else wants. Obviously, this is nothing new. Way back in Judges 21:25 we read this, “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.” I get it. Human nature hasn’t changed. Even today, everyone seems to do as they see fit. Part of me wants to say, “Let’s chalk up the selfishness of the few to their sin nature and love them nonetheless.” Isn’t that what Jesus would do? But if each of us did what we saw fit to do, wouldn’t we have chaos in our world? You bet we would!}

^{I think I have an answer or two to my dilemma. First, let me speak to you who are the few who are doing as you see fit, regardless of what anyone else says or does. If you’re of sane mind, try putting yourself in the place of “the many” for a minute, to see how you would feel if the tables were reversed. How would you} ^feel ^{if other people disregarded your advice, your admonition, your leadership, or your wishes. You’d feel very small and insignificant, wouldn’t you?}

^{Now I need to speak to me (and this might be the best solution to this issue for all of us). From this moment forward, I refuse to allow the selfish few to rob my joy. I refuse to allow bad drivers to ruin my day. I refuse to allow the self-centered few to suck me into their egocentric worlds. I refuse to allow the voices of the negative, egocentric few to overshadow the collective voice of the many. I refuse to let others rob my joy!}

^{Thirty-four years ago, one of my seminary professors required me to read Viktor E. Frankl’s} ^{Man’s Search for Meaning} ^{. Viktor was a survivor of the Nazi concentration camps. In his book he wrote,} ^{“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”} ^{When I recall that statement, my life can turn around completely. I confess that I don’t always keep that statement before me (I probably should print it out and tape it to the wall in front of my desk). I confess that in my people-pleasing nature I have a tendency to allow other selfish people to rob my joy. No more! I refuse to give up my last human freedom. I refuse to allow the few to rob the joy I get from serving the many.}

^{What about you? Is there someone, or a few people, who, because of their selfish, self-centered obnoxiousness are threatening to rob} ^your ^{joy? DON’T LET THEM! You have the freedom to choose your attitude! You have the freedom to choose joy! I leave you with the words of the apostle Paul from Philippians 2:5, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” Don’t allow the few to affect your joy!}

^{PS: Anyone want a long-sleeved shirt that says, “You can’t fix stupid”?}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Can We Fix Stupid?”

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:04:51 GMT

"Pancakes and Forgiveness”

^{“Even as fools walk along the road, they lack sense and show everyone how stupid they are.”}

^{Ecclesiastes 10:3 NIV}

^{I finally did it. I ordered the shirt. If you haven’t been with me lately, the shirt to which I’m referring is the one that says, “You can’t fix stupid.” I finally ordered and received it from Amazon. But, sadly, I haven’t worn it yet.}

^{Wouldn’t you admit that we live in a world full of stupidity? Stupid acts done by stupid people with stupid motives. I think Forrest Gump said it best when he said,} ^{“Stupid is as stupid does.”} ^{Some people get really upset when I mention stupid people because they think I’m being unkind. In reality, I’m just being realistic. Maybe I should start with this question, “What makes a person stupid?” I really think it’s a willingness to be wise in their own eyes. We who claim to be Christ-followers believe that we’re not the center of the universe. Unfortunately, stupid people believe and act as if they are, and that's what causes problems for all of us. Isaiah 5:20 says this:} ^{“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light

and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.”} ^{If that doesn’t sum up the world we’re living in, I don’t know what does!}

^{If we can’t fix stupid, what CAN we do? We can correct ignorance. Ignorance is different than stupidity in that ignorance isn’t willful. There are plenty of things we know we don't know. A person should own the fact that he or she is a work in progress and should try and learn something new and unlearn something old every day. An intelligent person knows he or she needs to adjust their thinking or behavior each day. Let me give you an example.}

^{A savvy executive hired a new employee. On the first morning, the new hire reported for work, the executive handed him a broom and said, "I like my people to learn this business from the ground up. I’d like you to begin today by sweeping the work area.”}

^{The new employee was offended. “What! You want me to sweep the work area? I have a graduate degree in management from a famous university.”}

^{The executive responded, “Oh, that's right…. I should have known. Give me the broom, and I'll show you how to sweep the work area.”}

^{Since I was 16 years old, I’ve worked at many different businesses, taking different roles in different industries and occupations. I always knew I had to prepare to do work in the future for which I didn’t have the present skills to accomplish. How did I do that?}

^{First, I recognized my ignorance. I knew that for all I knew, there was so much more I had yet to learn. I made myself like a sponge and tried to find the best person to work with and study with. The first solution to stupidity is humility.}

^{Second, I was always willing to learn and become more responsible. Getting an M. Div. was a no-brainer because I knew I had to learn everything I could about being the best pastor and leader I could be. The second solution to stupidity is being rooted in intentionality.}

^{Third, I’ve always tried to be a reader. A steady influx of Biblical wisdom and fresh inspiration can keep our hearts humble, and our souls refreshed. The third solution to stupidity is rooted in being holy.}

^{Let’s face it. We’re in a race with no clearly defined finish line. So, we must always be ready for whatever comes our way. Let’s stay thirsty for Scriptural knowledge and never become dehydrated. Christ’s living water must motivate us to be our best for God’s kingdom. So even though you may see me wear “the shirt,” let’s not worry about the stupid that surrounds us because it’s selfish, undisciplined, and worldly. Instead, let’s focus on fixing our ignorance and living a life of faith for Christ! We might not be able to fix stupid, but we can do our best with the Spirit’s help, to not become stupid ourselves.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Pancakes and Forgiveness”

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 12:32:01 GMT

"Pancakes and Forgiveness”

^{One Saturday morning, six year-old Billy decided to make pancakes for his parents. He rooted through Mom’s kitchen cabinet and finally found a big mixing bowl. In her drawer full of kitchen utensils, Billy found just the right mixing spoon. Pulling a chair up to the counter, he opened the cupboard door and pulled out the heavy flour canister, knocking off the lid and spilling much of it onto the floor.}

^{With his hands he scooped up some of the flour from the floor and dropped it into the bowl, mixing in most of a cup of milk and adding some sugar, leaving a floury trail on the floor wherever he walked.}

^{By now Billy was covered with flour and very frustrated. He had seen his mother do this countless times and she made it look so easy. He wanted to surprise Mom and Dad and show them that he could be a big boy, but things were quickly turning from bad to worse. He didn't know what to do next. Should he put it all in the oven or on top of the stove? But he didn't know how the stove worked!}

^{Out of the corner of his eye he saw his kitten licking from the bowl of pancake mix and reached to push her away, knocking the egg carton to the floor. Frantically he tried to clean up the monumental mess he had made but he slipped on the eggs, fell, and got his pajamas white and sticky.}

^{Just then he looked up . . . and saw Dad standing at the door. Big crocodile tears filled his eyes. All he really wanted was to do was something good, but he had made a terrible mess. He was ready for a scolding, maybe even a spanking, but his father just stood, watching him. Walking through the mess, Dad picked up his crying son and hugged him, getting his own pajamas white and sticky in the process!}

^{My friend, that's how your heavenly Father deals with you and me. You try to do something good with your life, but it often turns into a mess. Maybe your marriage is a little sticky or you’ve insulted a friend, or you’ve become frustrated with your job, or your health has taken a turn for the worse.}

^{Sometimes all you can do is just stand there in tears because you can't think of anything else to do. And that, my friend, is when God bends down, picks you up and tells you how much He cares. He forgives you when you make a mess of your life. Just because you mess up every now and then, don’t stop trying to “make pancakes” for God. Just because you make a mess trying to do something kind for someone else doesn’t mean you should stop trying. Sooner or later you’ll get it right, and the people whom you’re trying to serve will be glad you kept trying.}

^{As you charge into a New Year, do you have any wounds that need to be healed before you take another step? Do you have a friendship that needs mended? Is there someone you need to forgive . . . maybe even yourself? Don’t EVEN expect to arrive at December 31, 2024 without dropping an egg or two on the floor . . . or spilling some flour . . . or making a mistake that you feel God could never forgive. Remind yourself that God can forgive you . . . and will forgive you when you mess up again . . . and you will. Is there someone YOU need to forgive? Is there a Billy in your life who needs picked up, dusted off, and shown God’s unconditional love through you?}

^{Until next week, I leave you with these words of Jesus . . .} ^{"Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven”} ^{(Luke 6:37, NIV).}

^{May the forgiveness of Almighty God, our gracious Lord, be yours to share with others in this New Year!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:57:56 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, January 19 6:30pm

"An Interview With God"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for a double feature movie night. "Elf & A Christmas Carol". Elf starring Will Ferrell as the lovable elf, Buddy and A Christmas Carol, starring Alastair Sim as the coldhearted businessman, Ebenezer Scrooge.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Wednesday Night Bible Study

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:44:58 GMT

Wednesday Night Bible Study - END TIMES

Beginning January 3, 2024 at 7:00pm , our Wednesday Night Bible Study will be experiencing a New Year and a new start, not with a study of Genesis, but with a 13 session of THE END TIMES.

We will look at various Scriptures from Acts, John, Mark, 2 Thessalonians, Joel, Malachi, Ezekiel, 2 Peter AND Revelation!

These studies from both the Old and New Testaments will address many questions. We'll start with Acts 2 because the outpouring of the Holy Spirit after the resurrection of Jesus signaled the beginning of the last days.

Plan to join us on starting January 3rd at 7:00pm as we dig into God's word ... and spend some time in prayer too!

B ring your Bible! Invite a friend

Come join us as we study God's Word!

Midweek Encouragement - "To Humble Shepherds”

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:59:45 GMT

"To Humble Shepherds”

^{He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly.}

^{Luke 1:52}

^{Why did God choose to have the message of the Savior’s birth come first to shepherds, of all people? Why not the mayor of Bethlehem, the town council, the village rabbi, a prominent businessman? Why shepherds, of all people?}

^{Was it because other people were too busy or preoccupied to listen? Can that happen to us too? Was it because the way God was doing things wasn’t the way they would have done them? Can that happen to us too? Or had others actually turned their backs and purposely ignored the gift God was giving? Can that happen to us too? Was the stable setting too humble for more “refined” folks to visit? Could we be guilty of that attitude too?}

^{Or did God choose to give the announcement of His Son’s birth first to the shepherds to let us know that everyone is welcome? The Candle of Joy or the Shepherds’ candle glows brightly enough to assure us that there’s none too poor, too lowly, too dirty, too humble, too despised to be excluded from God’s circles of light.}

^{But humble is the way to come.}

^{Your little ones, dear Lord, are we,}

^{And come your lowly bed to see;}

^{Enlighten ev’ry soul and mind,}

^{That we the way to you may find.}

^{Who’s the most humble person you know? Would that person agree with your opinion of them? As you move through this last Wednesday before the celebration of Jesus’s birth, I dare you to seek out the lowly, the marginalized, the rejected, the poor and dirty . . . and lift them up in a way that would make God pleased.}

^{And may you approach the Christ Child, our Savior Jesus, on bended knee!}

^{Wishing you the merriest of Christmases and the happiest of New Years!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "How to Keep Your Cool During the Holidays”

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:38:17 GMT

"How to Keep Your Cool During the Holidays”

^{If you’re anything like me, you try to do as much as you can during the holiday season. And, if you’re anything like me, you might wonder, “How do I keep my cool and stay calm as I look forward to celebrating Christmas with family and friends?”}

^{Wouldn’t you agree that the key to staying calm during the holidays is to remember what's important? Christmas isn't about having the perfect decorations or spending the most money on presents. It's about celebrating the birth of Christ, being with family and enjoying each other's company. Celebrating the New Year gives us a chance to start fresh and plan for God’s future. Keeping our focus on the things that truly matter can help us maintain perspective and appreciate the holidays for what they really are. Don’t forget that there are many ways to celebrate and concentrate on experiences instead of stuff.}

^{Obviously, we’re not limited to one specific way of celebrating. You’re not obligated to follow all of the traditions passed down from generation to generation that may not fit your current lifestyle or who you are. Instead, why not create new traditions that reflect who you and your family are and what’s important to you all. Can I suggest some meaningful ideas to help you make the most of your holidays?}

^{1. Set aside an hour or two each day to spend with your family members, but make sure it's quality time. Consider kindly asking everyone to} ^{put down their devices} ^{for this short time and focus on face-to-face conversation.}

^{2. Have a game night, or talk about your favorite holiday memories. Pamela and I love having Friday night pizza and game night with our three grandsons and Megan and Bryan. We order pizza from our favorite pizza parlor, play UNO or a simple “no thinking” kind of game, and just BE together.}

^{3. Here’s an idea I’m planning to start this week . . . Go for a walk with your spouse or significant other to enjoy the lights around town. Take your time and dress warmly so you don’t have to rush back home to get warm. And you might want to consider wearing an orange vest so you’re visible to cars passing by. Safety first, right?!}

^{4. Take a moment each day to appreciate the simple moments of joy. A few minutes without the loud (but enjoyable) Christmas music can serve to refreshen even the most stressed mind.}

^{When you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the activities of the season, take a few moments to get centered. Distance yourself from those difficult situations, and go somewhere to get some breathing space. Take a few moments to clear your mind and whisper a prayer asking the Spirit to restore your peace. Then, when you feel ready, return to the situation with a calmer mindset.}

^{One final thought . . . When it comes to life, try not to let the small stuff get you down. I realize that it can be difficult to ignore the little annoyances and obstacles that come up during this season, but try to keep them in perspective. Focus on the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in the details. Look beyond the momentary frustrations and see the beauty of the reason God sent His Son to rescue you. Whatever you do, don't let minor mishaps ruin your day. Take them in stride and adjust as needed. I’m convinced that when we practice gratitude, we’ll avoid getting caught up in the small stuff. Take a few moments to appreciate the little joys of the holidays. Whether it's spending time with family, celebrating traditions, or baking cookies, focus on what you’re thankful for.}

^{Whatever you do, don't put too much pressure on yourself. The holiday season is often full of activities and social obligations, but it's important to give yourself a break. Balance work, family, and social commitments with relaxation, self-care, and some much-needed "me time." Trying to do too much is a surefire way to feel overwhelmed and exhausted and to become the Scrooge that no one likes.}

^{Pastor Dale}

First Friday Fellowship

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:54:59 GMT

First FRIDAY Fellowship - EVERY MONTH!

Join us in Fellowship Hall @ 6:30 until you want to go home for a time of Fellowship & Fun. Enjoy a game of Pickleball, play a board game or slam dunk a basketball.

Bring some snacks to share and your favorite drink.

First FRIDAY Fellowship will take place on the First Friday of every month.

Fellowship allows us to build those lasting relationships so we're never by ourselves in the world.

Free Movie Night

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:40:53 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, December 15th 6:00pm

DINNER & DOUBLE FEATURE

"Elf & A Christmas Carol"

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Alarm Clock Time”

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:34:40 GMT

"Alarm Clock Time”

^{“And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”}

^{Romans 13:11-14 NIV}

^{Have you ever noticed how wrist watch time is different from alarm clock time? A glance at the watch on your arm doesn’t change the direction of what you’re doing at the moment. But the penetrating ring of an alarm clock startles you and stimulates you. When your alarm goes off, you move!}

^{God’s time is alarm clock time. In Romans 13:11-14, Paul sounded the Advent alarm. “. . . understanding the present time . . . “ Now is the time to change and live for God. “. . . because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”}

^{Do you realize that the end event Paul was talking about is the imminent return of Christ, the event that will make Christ fully known and finally as Judge and Redeemer. God’s plan for humankind, focused in Christ, is soon coming to a climax. The countdown that was set into motion by His miraculous birth will soon be approaching zero. At any moment God’s future will become our present. My friend, the great day of Christ’s return is near!}

^{That’s why Paul calls us to live in the very dawn of that day. We’ve been sleeping long enough. We’ve been staggering around in the dark. Jesus Christ is our Light. He can drive the darkness from our eyes and the fear from our hearts.}

^{Advent waiting is living in the light of Jesus’ return. The Bible says that works of darkness can’t be done when that light shines on us. That’s why Advent asks us to examine our behavior and remember Bethlehem. Into the manger came One who could do for us what we couldn’t do for ourselves. He came to take away the burden of our deeds of darkness.}

^{When, with repentance and humility, we accept God’s gift of forgiveness, we put on the} ^{“armor of light.”} ^{We receive a power that makes it possible for us to be wide-awake and living} ^{“decently, as in the daytime.”}

^{That, my friend, is what Advent is all about . . . learning to live in the light of Christ, and not walking in the darkness anymore.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Are You an Optimist or a Pessimist?”

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:32:47 GMT

"Are You an Optimist or a Pessimist?”

^{I “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”}

^{Philippians 4:8, NIV}

^{Which are you? An optimist or a pessimist? The pessimist will see a glass filled to the half-way point with water as being half empty. The optimist sees the same glass with water being half full. The optimistically creative person will see it as a vase for a rosebud. The optimistic pragmatist will see that water glass as a way to quench one’s thirst. The optimistic Lutheran pastor will see that glass as water to bless for baptism.}

^{Personally, I prefer to be an optimist. Perhaps the following will tell you why.}

^{Two frogs fell into a deep bowl of cream.}

^{One was an optimistic soul;}

^{But the other took the gloomy view,}

^{“I shall drown,” he cried, “and so will you.”}

^{So with a last despairing cry,}

^{He closed his eyes and said, “Good-bye.”}

^{But the other frog, with a merry grin}

^{Said, “I can’t get out, but I won’t give in!}

^{I’ll swim around till my strength is spent.}

^{For having tried, I’ll die content.”}

^{Bravely he swam until it would seem}

^{His struggles began to churn the cream.}

^{On the top of the butter at last he stopped}

^{And out of the bowl he happily hopped.}

^{What is the moral? It’s easily found.}

^{If you can’t get out, keep swimming around!}

^{Keep swimming, my friend, and, with God’s help, you’ll end up on top!,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "The Forgotten Giant”

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:23:51 GMT

"The Forgotten Giant”

^{I Once again there was a battle between the Philistines and Israel. David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted. And Ishbi-Benob, one of the descendants of Rapha, whose bronze spearhead weighed three hundred shekels (about 7½ pounds) and who was armed with a new sword, said he would kill David. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, “Never again will you go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel will not be extinguished.”}

^{2 Samuel 21:15-17, NIV}

^{Everyone knows the story of David killing the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17), but did you know there was another giant in David’s life, one whom David wasn’t able to kill?}

^{Isbi-benob was his name, and, like Goliath, he was a Philistine. David bravely faced the enemy, but the giant was too much for the king! It took Abishai, David’s nephew, to rescue the king from certain death.}

^{Can I suggest a few lessons we can learn from this story of the forgotten giant?}

^{1. God doesn’t always choose to do the miraculous.}

^{God directed the stone from David’s sling when he faced Goliath, but when it came to Ishbi-benob, God used Abishai’s sword. Sometimes God does the unusual. More often, He uses what’s available to get the job done.}

^{2. Giants have a way of coming back!}

^{We never outgrow temptations and trials. Yes, as a young man, David killed Goliath, but as an older man he faced one of Goliath’s relatives! “Watch and pray” is sound spiritual advice for every Christ-follower, because you never know when there will be another giant lurking around the corner.} ^{“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”} ^{(1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV).}

^{3. You can’t always win the battle alone.}

^{Years before, David was the only hero when Goliath was killed, but the next time he faced a giant, David needed help. His nephew Abishai had proved to be a headstrong and fiery young person, and David hadn’t always agreed with what he did. But Abishai (with all his faults) was the man God used to save the king’s life. When you arrive in heaven one day, you might be surprised to find out how many other Christ-followers were used by God here on earth to help you along the journey of life.}

^{Today, as you go about your final Thanksgiving preparations, let me challenge you to look for God’s hidden hand working through people you least expect to help you as you overcome the giants in your life. Thank God for those people and depend on the Lord, but don’t hesitate to accept help from others! And who knows? Maybe you can be an Abishai to someone today!?}

^{Knowing my limitations and thanking God for those who can help,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Direction at Night”

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 17:48:04 GMT

"Direction at Night”

^{I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me.

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken} ^.

^{Psalm 16:7-8 NIV}

^{I recently had cataracts removed from both of my eyes. Before that surgery, driving at night was starting to get a little dicey. Driving at night is always more difficult than driving during daylight hours because it’s more difficult to see what’s ahead. Did you ever drive at night without your headlights on? About fifteen years ago Pamela and I were taking an autumn drive in her convertible on moon-lit night. The moon seemed so bright that I surely thought I could turn off the headlights and still see. I was wrong. Driving without lights was impossible.}

^{King David, who wrote Psalm 16, was a military person. He understood the need for good light at night. He understood the need for protection from being afraid. As God’s teachings filled his mind he could “see” even on the darkest night, and with God to protect him from fear, he had direction for his life.}

^{Maybe you’ve been feeling like you’ve been living in a constant “night.” Has bad news and uncertain times made you feel that the world is a dark place? Like King David, you can say to God, “} ^{You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand”} ^{(Psalm 16:11 NIV).}

^{God is available to you through His Word, the Bible. Sometimes He speaks through others. Sometimes, if you’re still and quiet, God will speak to you through the voice of the Holy Spirit.}

^{When you need direction in that dark night of your soul, it’s best to look where the light is shining. Follow God’s voice to see His path that leads back to joy. Pray this prayer with me please:}

^{O God, my Father, my life is feeling dark, even during the daylight. Turn me always in the direction of the true light that comes from You. Help me to hear You speak and give me guidance that meets my needs today. Help me to know the truth and to act in ways that are just and right. Fill my life with joy . . . the joy that comes from being at Your side. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:10:04 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, November 17th 6:30pm

"A Dog Named Christmas"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for the movie "A Dog Named Christmas". A tale of a young man with a learning disability, names Tod McCray (Noel Fisher) living with his parents in the rural Mid- West. The story takes places over a two-week period during the Christmas holidays when the local animal shelter launches an "Adopt a dog for Christmas" program. The plot traces the way a wonderful dog transforms for the better the lives of the family that adopts him - and the way an intellectually disabled young man demonstrates the depths of his affinity for animals.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Do You Love Your Church?”

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:41:12 GMT

"The Last Word”

^{I love my church, but I wasn’t there this past Sunday. I was celebrating a homecoming service with a church of twenty attenders 100 miles away. After watching my church’s worship service on Facebook, I wish I’d been there because it was obviously a Christ-centered, Spirit-led, God-honoring service.}

^{How was your church’s worship service this past Sunday? In asking you that, I hope you found some joy and blessing in all that took place—even if the worship service may not have been the greatest. If you were there, why not use these questions to evaluate your experience:}

^{Did you pray to hear God’s voice before you entered the service?} ^{If you did, take some time to meditate on what the Lord said to you. Don’t let any negatives drive out God’s voice. If you didn’t pray that prayer, make a commitment to do so before this coming week’s worship service.}

^{Could you worship God without feeling that your life was threatened?} ^{If so, you had a blessing many in the world don’t have. Some worshippers were imprisoned or killed this past Sunday because they worshiped Jesus with others. Don’t forget that reality.}

^{Was there something going on in your life that clouded the way you experienced worship this past weekend?} ^{Was it unconfessed sin in your life? Were you worrying about something? Were you angry or impatient? Were you frustrated because of unanswered prayer? Whatever it was, other things can always distract us from seeing God when we attend worship. Be honest with yourself if that was the case for you this past weekend. Start to prepare your heart on Saturday so you’re ready for worship on Sunday morning.}

^{Did your worship leader and pastor honor God?} ^{Even if you think they didn’t do everything as well as Franklin Graham, I hope you’ll keep praying that you and they will keep growing in the days to come. The worship leader and guest pastor at Mt. Laurel brought me into God’s presence even as I watched a prerecorded version of worship. Now that’s honoring God!}

^{Did you encounter other believers who genuinely and humbly love the Lord?} ^{Even in the messiest churches, God has His people. Don’t miss them. And don’t take them for granted. Thank God for them! They’re the bright spots in any church family.}

^{What one part of that time with other believers was most meaningful to you?} ^{I hope, if you went to worship with the right spirit, that you didn’t go looking for something not to like. I hope you felt the Spirit’s presence at some point. Linger there in your mind.}

^{Did you hear the Word of God preached this past weekend?} ^{Maybe you wished it was presented more clearly or passionately, but you were privileged if you heard any of it at all. Jesus is largely unknown among 4.6 billion people, and more than 3,000 people groups around the world haven’t yet been reached with the Good News yet. Only God’s grace made it possible for you and I to hear His Word proclaimed with boldness this past weekend.}

^{Do you love your church?} ^{Have you communicated that love for your church family and those who lead her? Don’t take those worship leaders and pastors for granted from week to week. Even though they’re very human, they stand between you and a powerful God. Be thankful they’re willing to risk their lives so you can love your church!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "The Last Word"

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:26:38 GMT

"The Last Word”

^{You know who they are. Some people like to have the last word or the last text in the string of texts or the last email response. I don’t know why that is, but it just is. I’m not faulting them. That’s just how they’re made.}

^{This “last word” thing reminds me of a parking lot story. A woman in a fancy luxury car was waiting patiently in a grocery store’s parking lot for a parking space to open. She drove up and down between rows until finally she saw a man with a cart full of grocery bags head for his car. She followed him and parked behind him, waiting while he opened his trunk and put the bags in it. Finally, he got into his car and backed out.}

^{Just as she was getting ready to pull forward into the space, a young man in a little sports car . . . coming from the opposite direction . . . turned in front of her, zipped into the space, got out of his car, and started walking away. You can imagine that the woman was livid! She shouted from her big luxury car, “Hey, young man! I was waiting for that parking space.”}

^{The teenager responded, “Sorry, lady, but that’s how it is when you’re young and quick.” She instantly put her car in gear, stomped on the gas pedal, and crashed into the sports car, crushing its right rear fender.}

^{Now it was the young man’s turn to jump up and down, shouting, “What are you doing?”}

^{The woman in the big luxury car calmly responded, “Well, son, that’s how it is when you’re old and rich.”}

^{Wouldn’t you think that most of this world’s problems and conflicts could probably be resolved if, instead of retaliation and revenge, apologies were made all around? There are exceptions, I’m sure . . . like the evil attack of Hamas on Israel. But when it comes to parking lot skirmishes, putting others’ needs before our own seems to be the way to go. And certainly, saying, “I’m sorry” would seem like the best last word to say to someone we’ve offended.}

^{Hey, let’s try putting others before ourselves until next Wednesday and see what happens. Send me your stories and see if it works for you!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:42:21 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, October 20th 6:30pm

"Michael"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for the movie "Michael". When jaded journalists Frank (William Hurt) and Huey (Robert Pastorelli) along with "angel expert" Dorothy (Andie MacDowell), travel to a small town in Iowa to investigate a story, they find Michael (John Travolta), a disheveled man claiming to be an angel. But Michael is less than angelic: he drinks, smokes and basks in the attention of women. As the group travels to Chicago, Michael teaches them about relationships, fait and miracles, suggesting that he may be exactly whom he says he is.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Loneliness Doesn’t Have to Be"

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 12:16:05 GMT

"Loneliness Doesn’t Have to Be”

^{Forgive me if it seems like I’m harping on this subject, but ever since the COVID pandemic of 2020, we Americans are lonelier than ever. I’ll go so far to say that we’re lonelier than we realize. And a lot of people don’t appreciate how much of their spiritual and emotional well-being has been disrupted by loneliness.}

^{Recently, the U.S. Surgeon General’s office said that we’re spending more and more time alone. Our American culture itself is fostering an individualism that encourages us to keep living this way. If you think this is an essay bashing social media, don’t. Certainly, anything that’s not controlled can adversely affect our well-being, whether it’s being overly immersed in Instagram or in chocolate syrup. So, read on . . .}

^{God believes that to belong is to be connected, known, and loved. As Christians, our union with Christ means that we can enjoy supernatural unity with one another and with the Trinity even if everything in our culture challenges that fellowship. A lonely life creates burdens we were never made to carry. More than ever, we need each other inside the church and out.}

^{If the antidote to loneliness is being connected, how do we do it? Obviously, online shopping and self-checkouts at the grocery store will not soon go away, so it’s time to choose the opposite. Loneliness is a pain that drives us into the shadows. It’s become ingrained into our daily lives, but it doesn’t have to. You don’t have to cave to a false sense of connection.}

^{I confess that I’m as guilty as the next person when it comes to hyper independence, that need to be able to take care of all things all the time by myself. Wouldn’t you say that some degree of loneliness is necessary though? Aren’t there times when we all need time alone? You bet! Even Jesus got up early and went out to a solitary place to be alone with His Father. But when we realize that the feeling is out of our control, we’ve got to bring it back to a better balance between the need to be alone versus being lonely.}

^{Confronting loneliness begins when we pause to reflect on the decisions we’re making on a daily or weekly basis that make us feel disconnected and isolated. When we recognize that we’re okay with always being alone, we need to find ways to step outside of that. Finding someone to talk to and making a more conscious effort to reach out to others is a great place to start.}

^{Realizing that loneliness is a very common thing also helps us choose to limit it. Asking ourselves if there are any connections or relationships that we want to tap back into before it’s too late is good too. Let’s realize that everyone we see, everyone we pass in life, has a very rich inner life that we’ll never really know. In a bigger way, we all have a connection with all other people, but we just never see it because our touches with each other are so fleeting and temporary. Even if a person might just be in the background of your story, they have a whole rich life outside of that brief moment in yours.}

^{It’s easy to get caught in our own bubbles and our own little lives and move through life wearing blinders. Instead, let’s be intentional in really seeing others. The ripple effect or impact we can have on others when we’re just being kind to those we’re passing on the street might make a huge difference in their attitudes and actions. A simple hello or a smile could change the course of their day and turn their worlds upside down. Loneliness doesn’t have to be a pandemic if we all choose to connect!}

^{I’d love to hear how YOU’RE connecting with others. Tell me how your smile or your small act of kindness turned someone’s loneliness into connection again!}

^{Pastor Dale}

First Friday Fellowship

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 18:21:00 GMT

First FRIDAY Fellowship IS BACK!

Starting October 6th @ 6:30pm, First FRIDAY Fellowship IS BACK! Join us in Fellowship Hall for a time of Fellowship & Fun. Enjoy a game of Pickleball, play a board game or slam dunk a basketball. Bring some snacks to share and your favorite drink.

First FRIDAY Fellowship will take place on the First Friday of every month.

Fellowship allows us to build those lasting relationships so we're never by ourselves in the world.

Midweek Encouragement - "The Bonds of Friendship"

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 17:18:54 GMT

"The Bonds of Friendship”

^{He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”}

^{A British newspaper once offered a prize for the best definition of a friend. From the thousands of responses they received this winning entry: “A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out.”}

^{We all need true friendship. All of us need someone with whom we can share our hopes, our fears, our wants, and our suffering. Even Jesus needed close friends to complete His mission here on earth.}

^{Jesus had The Twelve, men He had chosen to stay with Him throughout His earthly ministry. Among those men that He called friends, three enjoyed a special bond with Jesus. Peter and his brothers James and John were in the Lord’s inner circle and were His very close friends. Jesus allowed them to see and hear things that weren’t available to the others.}

^{That trio was there at the Transfiguration when Jesus revealed His glory to them (Matthew 17:1-9). They were the only disciples present when He raised the daughter of a synagogue leader from the dead (Mark 5:37-42). They were with Jesus when He faced His night of anguish and pain in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-34).}

^{After Jesus’ return to heaven, Peter and John established a much more amazing legacy of service than the rest. Peter founded and led the church in Jerusalem and wrote the letters that carry his name. John, who lived the longest of the Twelve, wrote the fourth Gospel, three epistles, and the book of Revelation.}

^{Peter, James, and John were ordinary fishermen when they first met Jesus, but because they enjoyed such a special friendship with Him, they made the biggest impact for Christ in the world.}

^{I tell you all that to say this . . .} ^{the way to receive the very best God has for you, and to make the biggest impact on your world for Him, is to cultivate a friendship with Jesus Christ} ^{. His love will not only motivate you to obey Him, but His power will work in you to do wonderful things for God’s kingdom.}

^{So how’s that going for you? When was the last time you spent time with Jesus, the One you claim is your Friend? This coming Sunday is World Communion Sunday. I can almost guarantee that a church near you will be celebrating Jesus as they meet with Him at the Lord’s Table. Will YOU be there as Jesus’ friend?}

^{Pastor Dale}

Church Picnic

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:44:42 GMT

Annual Church Picnic

September 24th 1pm

New Paragraph

Midweek Encouragement - "How To Limit Offending People"

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:43:40 GMT

"How To Limit Offending People”

^{If there’s one thing I’ve learned through 31 years of pastoral ministry it’s this: Never underestimate your ability to offend. I don’t need to tell you that people are easily offended, and sometimes we can be easily offensive. Put those two together and you’ve got trouble. The writer of Proverbs put it this way, “It’s easier to break into a fortified city than to regain trust and loyalty once it’s been lost because you offended a person” (Proverbs 18:19).}

^{I know what some of you might be thinking. “But speaking the truth will offend people. The gospel is offensive: 1 Corinthians 1:23 and Galatians 5:11. Besides, Jesus offended people: Matthew 13:57 and Mark 6:3.”}

^{That’s not the kind of offense I’m talking about.}

^{I’m referring to an offense that’s not necessary, or one that could be avoided. There’s an offense that comes because we’ve said or done something stupid or insensitive. Why would I want to offend someone if I didn’t need to? If I need to I need to, but if I don’t, why would I want to? Four times God’s Word tells me to avoid offending or placing a stumbling block before people: 1 Corinthians 8:9 and 10:32, 2 Corinthians 6:3, and Romans 14:13.}

^{I remember a pastor at a conference saying, “The only way not to offend people is to say nothing, do nothing, and be nothing.” The people around me burst into applause and cheered. But I couldn’t help but think that some had interpreted that as permission to offend.}

^{I think we have to realize that some people offend because they’ve been offended, and that’s their way of striking back. I wish Paul hadn’t said, “Don’t return evil for evil,” but he did (Romans 12:17).}

^{Despite our greatest efforts, we’re still going to (hopefully unintentionally) offend someone. Is it possible to limit the times we offend others?}

^{Ask yourself these four ‘offense-limiting’ questions before you say or do anything that has the potential of being offensive:}

^{1. How might my words or actions offend this person?}

^{2. Do I care if I offend them?}

^{3. Should I care if I offend them?}

^{4. Can I achieve my objective in a way that might be less likely to offend?}

^{A good rule to live by is this: If you have to ask yourself if what you’re about to say or do will be offensive, it’ll probably be offensive. Let’s try to have the mind of Christ as we live with and interact with others.}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "What about Fear?”

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:33:59 GMT

"What about Fear?”

^{What does the Bible say about fear? Is fear a sin? What does God say about sin? Maybe you’ve asked yourself one of these questions recently. After all there’s no shortage of things to be fearful of in our world. Over the next couple of weeks, I want to look at fear in the Bible and see how we should respond to fear. We’re going to look at the most common Bible verses about fear and then look at what they teach us. So, let’s dive in!}

^{Bible Verses About Fear In The Bible}

^{There are way too many Bible verses about fear in the Bible to look at each one individually here. So instead, let’s look at some of the highlights so that we can understand what the God’s Word wants us to see. Then we will look at what these verses teach us.}

^{· Isaiah 41:10 - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.}

^{· 2 Timothy 1:7 - For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.}

^{· Proverbs 1:7 - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.}

^{· 1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.}

^{· Matthew 10:28 - Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.}

^{· Psalm 34:4 - I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.}

^{· Joshua 1:9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.}

^{· Ecclesiastes 12:13 - Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.}

^{· Psalm 23:4 - Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.}

^{That’s only a small sampling of what the Bible says about fear. So what can we conclude about this topic until next week?}

^{It’s helpful to know what the Bible says about fear, but we still need to know what that looks like in our life.}

^{1. There are different kinds of fear in the Bible. First there’s the “What ifs” of life. That’s the spirit of fear that many people walk around with. Are you aways afraid of what} ^could ^{happen? God says that kind of fear can do a lot of damage.}

^{The second kind of fear is actually good for us . . . it’s the fear of the Lord. All through the Bible God says we should fear Him. Fearing God, respecting Him, leads to life and brings wisdom, provides refuge, and shows our reverence for God. When we fearing God, we love Him and submit to Him even in times we can’t understand. This fear gives Him authority over our lives as we place Him above everyone and everything else.}

^{2. There will be things we’re afraid of. That’s natural. In most cases, we can’t control it. How we respond to fear is more important than what we feel. If you feel afraid, that’s okay. We’re all afraid of somethings sometimes. Whatever you’re facing, or will face, know that it’s okay to feel afraid. Whenever an angel appeared, the first words out of his mouth was,} ^{“Do not be afraid.”} ^{That’s not a condemnation, but rather was an acknowledgement of what their listener was feeling and letting them know nothing bad was going to happen.}

^{The Bible does often say, fear not. But that command is based more on our actions and not our feelings. Feeling afraid is okay, letting fear run our lives is not okay.}

^{3. Fear shouldn’t control your life. Paul emphatically told Timothy that} ^{God had not given him a spirit of fear, rather of power, love, and self-control} ⁽ ^{2 Timothy 1:7} ⁾ ^. ^{Paul wasn’t telling Timothy it was wrong to be afraid, rather not act out of fear.}

^{Does fear rule you? Don’t let your fear keep you from experiencing life, from loving others, and even from approaching God. God doesn’t want that for you. He came to bring you life and life to the fullest. Fear can keep you from living the life He intends for you to live. That’s why God is constantly telling His people to not be afraid. You don’t need to live in fear, think in fear, or react in fear. God has given you a spirit of power, love, and self-control. You can fear not because God is bigger than whatever it is you’re afraid of.}

^{That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to fear. The things you fear may be worthy of being feared.} ^{But the God we serve is bigger.} ^{Peace isn’t found in the absence of the storm. Peace is found in the company of God, even in the midst of a storm. Fear doesn’t have to control your life, dictate your actions, and dominate your thoughts because God is in control, and He will lead you through the storms of life.}

^{4. Put your faith over your fear.}

^{It’s not that there aren’t things in your life that aren’t worthy of your fear. Rather we know a God who’s bigger and cares for His children. So, fear not and instead choose faith. That’s a decision each follower of Jesus must make. Will you choose faith over fear? Will you trust God even when it doesn’t make sense? Is your faith bigger than your fear?}

^{I don’t expect you to never be afraid. You will. But, at the end of the day what will win out? Will you take that step despite your fear? Or will you succumb to your fear and never dare go where God is leading.}

^{Anyone would be fearful about being thrown in a lion’s den, burned alive, nailed to a cross, chained in jail, or exiled to another country. But those persons mentioned in God’s Word didn’t let their fear overcome their faith. Rather than focusing on your fears, let’s focus on the One who’s bigger. If we do that fear won’t run our lives.} ^{Come back next week to PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement as we talk more about how the Bible can help us overcome our fears!}

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "Letting Jesus Live Through You”

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 14:56:29 GMT

"Letting Jesus Live Through You”

“ I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Galatians 2:20 NIV

What’s troubling you today? What concern is consuming you with fear and doubt? Do you realize that it’s not your place to worry about that situation? I’m writing to tell you that everything that concerns you is Christ’s responsibility to care for rather than yours. Do you realize that your job is to simply obey Him? It was David who wrote, “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands” (Psalm 138:7-8).

Many people dream of getting an unexpected inheritance from a wealthy relative. As a believer in Jesus, you’re the heir of the most lavish inheritance any person could ever dream to receive! Paul said, ““What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”—the things God has prepared for those who love him—” (1 Corinthians 2:9). The inheritance waiting for you from Jesus is so vast, so tremendous that you can’t even understand it with your finite mind.

If you don’t understand this truth, you’ll keep being distracted by issues that were never yours to worry about. And, what’s more, you’ll keep missing out on the blessings of God’s promised abundant life for you. So here’s what I want you to do . . . allow Jesus to live His life in and through you!

God’s not calling you to live an adequate life. He wants your life to be extraordinary. But if you’re going to experience that kind of life, you need to stop being distracted by surrounding issues and focus your attention completely on Him.

The God who rescued you can teach you how to live for Him. The Lord who forgave your sins and gives you a home in heaven can surely take care of all those situations that are threatening to pull you down. The Savior whom you trusted for your eternity is more than capable of taking care of all those matters that burden you each day. But you need to hand them over . . . hand over your worries to the One who created the universe. Then, you’ll be able to experience true life in Him!

Praying that you’ll hand over those worries to the One who made you and knows you!

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 12:43:41 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, August 18th @ 6:30pm

"The Resurrection of Gavin Stone"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for the movie "The Resurrection of Gavin Stone". A washed-up former child star, forced to do community service at a local mega-church, pretends to be a Christian to land the part of Jesus in their annual Passion Play, only to discover that the most important told of his life is far from Hollywood.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Fight All Your Battles on Your Knees and You’ll Win Every Time!”

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:18:25 GMT

"Fight All Your Battles on Your Knees and You’ll Win Every Time!”

Have you ever been wrongly accused by someone? Have you ever endured the anger or rejection of a loved one? Maybe some of the most hurtful situations you’ve experienced came through the condemnation of someone close to you. Whether or not you deserved that person’s criticism, the pain he or she inflicted probably devastated you and took a long time to overcome.

What’s usually your first instinct when your heart is broken by someone else? Maybe you jump to confront that person and accuse him or her of wrongdoing. And then you do everything in your power to make that person’s life miserable. When you’re faced with personal attacks, maybe you’re tempted to “fight fire with fire,” seek vengeance where you can find it, or give your attacker a taste of his or her own medicine.

But what does the Bible encourage you to do? God, in His Word, says we should resist those gut reactions. As a child of God, you have a responsibility to respond in a godly way when someone challenges you or offends you. That kind of response begins with going to God first. Here’s the principle I want you to hear and start practicing today . . . If you fight your battles on your knees, you’ll win every time.

The other day I was reading in 2 Samuel and was trying to imagine how devastated King David must have felt when his own son betrayed him. He was stuck in a lose-lose situation. He couldn’t regain his kingdom without hurting his son and many of his own countrymen and he couldn’t restore his relationship with his son while the kingdom hung in the balance. No slingshot or sword would solve his problem. But God could. Take a look at Psalm 3, written while David was fleeing from his son Absalom. David knew that the Lord God was his Shield.

God is your Shield, too. When people harbor unforgiveness and revenge in their hearts, disaster is quick to follow. They hurt the people around them and eventually hurt themselves. That’s why, when people attack you, you can’t resist out of fear or rage. You must be like David and have a battle plan. Your combat strategy must begin and end with getting on your knees and admitting that God is in control of your situation. He’ll handle everything for you if you’ll humble yourself and obey Him. Don’t be distracted by your own feelings, but put your focus on Him. Whenever you surrender yourself completely to God and trust Him with your struggles, you’ll find that He’s faithful to lead you to victory.

Are you facing a battle that seems like a lose-lose situation? Are you heartbroken by someone’s accusations? Take your trouble to God and surrender yourself to Him. Then spend time in prayer, asking God to draw you into intimate communion with Himself and allow Him to transform your life so you can affect the world for the sake of His kingdom.

Remember, you can stay firm in your faith only when you completely submit all areas of your life to God (See James 4:7-10).

Praying that you’ll find victory in Christ by kneeling before Him!

^{Pastor Dale}

Midweek Encouragement - "A Victim or a Victor?”

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:48:56 GMT

"A Victim or a Victor?”

One doesn’t have to watch the evening news to know that large-scale tragedies, natural disasters, pandemics or terrorist attacks happen on a daily basis. When those incidences happen, heated debates about God’s presence often arise. “Where is God in all this suffering?” people ask. “How could He allow something like this to happen? Doesn’t He care about our world?” When trouble comes, those questions are as inevitable as they are challenging.

And yet their impact pales in comparison to the doubts and emotions that you experience when you’re on the receiving end of a tragedy that hits close to home. When trials strike you with a force that knocks you off your feet, the pain and loss might be far more intense than you ever thought possible. In your darkest moments, you might question your ability to survive. Stunned and overwhelmed, your mind will look for explanations to which you can cling. You might even wonder, “What did I do to deserve this? Why would God allow this to happen to me?”

During those times of heartbreak, you might not know why this adversity has come to your life. However, you can always trust that God is with you and loves you. You can place your faith in His unfailing character, His unfathomable wisdom, and in the fact that He’s always in control.

As a child of a sovereign God, you’re never a victim of your circumstances! Even when you mess up, God loves you and is committed to the agreement He made with you when you invited Jesus to take center stage of your life. In Christ, God went to drastic measures to make sure that you’d be a victor, not a victim, when life throws you a curve ball.

Because God is sovereign, nothing touches your life without a purpose. You’re never merely a victim of an unfair world. God has an important purpose for refining you, which is to conform you to the image of His Son and glorify Himself through you. Remember, the deeper the cut, the more profoundly God will use you to do His work in the world if you’ll trust and obey Him.

Are you in the middle of a trial? Are you wondering why God has allowed such painful experiences into your life? If so, ask Him, in a humble and respectful way, why He permitted the adversity and what He wants you to learn from it. Avoid becoming bitter and resentful. Always remember that God is ultimately in control, His love for you never changes, and His will for your life is good. You’re not a victim! You’re God’s beloved child. He has an extraordinary plan for your life, so have faith in Him.

Not always understanding Him, but daily trying to obey and trust Him,

^{Pastor Dale}

VBS 2023 - KEEPERS OF THE KINGDOM

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 19:44:46 GMT

VBS 2023

Join us the first 3 Wednesdays in August (2nd, 9th & 16th) for VBS 2023 - KEEPERS OF THE KINGDOM. Kids at this VBS learn how they can be part of God’s kingdom through salvation in his Son and will be equipped with the armor of God to become Keepers of the Kingdom who stand strong in today’s battle for truth. Ages kindergarten - 6th grade. Our Youth (7th - 12th) meet every Wed. night as a group.

Parents are encouraged to attend with their children and participate in our adult class.

6 pm - 8pm with a lite diner at 5pm

Donuts & Devotions

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 19:27:36 GMT

IT'S BAAACK

Every third Sunday... We are bringing back Donuts & Devotions. Join us in Fellowship hall for Donuts & Devotions & LOTS OF FELLOWSHIP! 9:00am until Sunday School begins!

Interested in being a Mt Laurel Church of God Barista? Contact a church council member for more details.

A single person or a team can make it happen and help keep this Ministry going.

Midweek Encouragement - "The Time/Space Continuum"

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:51:31 GMT

"The Time/Space Continuum”

^{If you missed last week’s PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement, it was because I was on vacation at Camp YoliJwa’s Family Camp Week at Doubling Gap Center (check out their website at} ^{www.campyolijwa.org} ^{). Family Camp is a great opportunity for we pastoral-type people to be spiritually nourished while we spend time away with our family members and not have many pastoral duties.}

^{This year my wife and I borrowed a friends camper/trailer and stayed in “Campity,” a form of campground that included ten other recreational vehicles. At Family Camp, other families can sleep in hotel style rooms, in the main lodge, or in one of the newer cabins that are located on the other side of the lake.}

^{I was walking from the shower room on Friday morning when a fellow pastor said, “Wow! Where did this week go? I feel like we just got here and the week is over already!”}

^{And I asked that age-old question in response, “Why does vacation time seem to go so quickly and time at work seems to drag on seemingly forever?} ^{” The space/time continuum!}

^{When you’re on vacation, does it feel like you just arrived at the beach and it’s already time to leave? A recent article in the Journal of Consumer Psychology says that our brains really do perceive time as moving faster during certain activities. However, just like the old saying “time flies when you’re having fun,” researchers from The Ohio State University say it only applies to positive events.}

^{Researchers looked at how people perceive time when they’re anticipating the arrival of either a positive or negative event. For positive events, like an upcoming vacation, researchers say most of us feel like that activity is farther away than it really is. For instance, your trip to Hawaii may be a week away, but to you, it feels like a month away. Researchers also found that most people feel that happy events like a vacation last for a much shorter time than unhappy events.}

^{On the other hand, researchers discovered that negative events have the complete opposite effect on our brains. If you’re not looking forward to some unpleasant activity, like a} ^{dreaded work meeting} ^, ^{you feel like that meeting will begin any minute. And you also feel that time passes much more slowly in that meeting.}

^{Have you, like me, said, “Vacation’s over already? I just got here!”? If so, you were probably expecting that vacation to be super fun. When we expect to have a great weekend, it never feels like it’ll get here and, when it does, it feels like time flew! 46% of us who get ready for a much anticipated vacation feel that it just flies by.}

^{God, on the other hand, doesn’t have this problem. The apostle Peter wrote,} ^{“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day”} ^{(2 Peter 3:8 NIV). Why? Because God lives in the moment . . . something I’m trying to do more each day. God doesn’t wear a Rolex or even a Timex on His wrist. He doesn’t cross days off a calendar that hangs on His office wall as He anticipates His next event. He lives in the now. But how can WE do that?}

^1. ^{First, pay attention to the small things around you. Be thankful for them. Live for the moment and take notice of the small things. Try not to take leaps ahead in your mind but live in the now.}

^{2. Second, consider the needs of others.} ^{The next time you see someone walking in the rain, offer them your umbrella. That stranded motorist? Call for help. The elderly lady struggling with her groceries? Carry them for her. One of the easiest lessons for how to live in the moment is to do something for someone else without expecting anything in return. It not only helps you live in the moment, but improves that moment for you and someone else.}

^{3. Don’t worry.} ^{I know. That’s much harder than it sounds, but try to remember that worrying today won’t change what happens tomorrow. Every second you spend in worry about the future is a second of the present wasted. Because worrying takes you out of this moment and transports you into the realm of future possibilities, it's impossible to live in the moment and worry at the same time.}

^{If your vacation felt like it flew by this summer, consider life from God’s perspective. And if you’re a Christ-follower, you’ll be enjoying thousand-year vacations in the not-to-distant future.}

^{Living in the moment,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:27:13 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, July 21 @ 6:30pm

"A Week Away"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for the movie "A Week Away". The story of Will (Kevin Quinn), a teenager who has been struggling in the foster system following the loss of his parents. A string of trouble, capped off with stealing a police car, almost lands him in juvie - but a kindhearted woman and her son offer him another option. Instead of heading to a juvenile detention facility, Will goes to a week of Christian summer camp. Here he learns what it means to be a friend, trusted friends of his own, have faith and believe in something bigger than himself.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "What is a Hero?"

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:39:15 GMT

"What is a Hero?”

^{According to the dictionary, a hero shows great courage, achieves extraordinary feats, and has high moral integrity. Noble qualities, at least in theory. Heroes are those who risk much, and show enormous virtue. From a Christian perspective, a hero demonstrates the Biblical virtue of self-sacrificial love.}

^{When you see the best moments of someone’s life every day, you’re seeing a hero. But let’s admit it; in today’s American society we see far more people who are impressed with celebrity than with heroism. True heroism comes down to taking a risk in order to do the right thing, to stand for virtue and truth at the very moment those virtues are on the line. Daniel Boorstin, the late Librarian of Congress, famously identified a celebrity as someone who’s famous for being famous. Heroes, however, may not be famous at all.}

^{Heroism isn’t just about doing the right thing at great risk. It’s doing the right thing even when the world} ^isn’t ^{watching or applauding. Many of the most heroic acts performed in human history are unknown to me or you, but they’re not unknown to God.}

^{I don’t know who your heroes are, but I do know that your heroes tell me a lot about who you are. What our world applauds as a heroic deed tells us a lot about what we value as a people and what ideas we view as truly virtuous.}

^{You didn’t receive a PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement last week because I was with a lot of heroes at our church camp in the mountains north of Newville, Pennsylvania (} ^{www.campyolijwa.org} ^{) I served with many others who gave their precious time and energy to care for people who often have trouble caring for themselves, people who are developmentally challenged, physically disabled, or people who may be intellectually disabled. Perhaps we didn’t put our lives at risk to enhance the lives of our campers, but we treated our campers as if they had no disability whatsoever. Maybe we didn’t risk our lives as EMTs or fire fighters or police officers, but we did what Mister Rogers called “seeing a need and responding.” Fred Rogers said,} ^{“We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.’”}

^{I consider the people I worked with last week at Camp HOPE my heroes. They loved people who are made in God’s image, but who are often cast aside and considered unproductive by our society. We saw them and loved them through the eyes of their Creator God.}

^{Fred Rogers also said,} ^{“To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.”} ^{By allowing our campers to be heard, to feel loved, and to know that someone cares about them, we shared Jesus with them in a way that will not quickly be forgotten.}

^{To whom will you be a hero today? When God places someone in your path a person who might be difficult to love, how will you respond? Will you push them aside and focus on you or will you risk your comfort, sacrifice your schedule, and love that person exactly the way he or she is right there? The choice is yours. Be a hero today!}

^{Sharing Christ’s love,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Free Movie Night

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:39:36 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, June 16 @ 6:30pm

"On A Wing And A Prayer"

Join us in the our fellowship hall for the movie "On A Wing And A Prayer". In this extraordinary true story of faith and survival, "On A Wing and a Prayer" follows passenger Doug White's (Dennis Quaid) harrowing journey to safely land a plane and save his entire family from insurmountable danger, after their pilot dies unexpectedly mid-flight.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Be a Runner!”

Wed, 31 May 2023 19:18:44 GMT

"Be a Runner!”

^{“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!””}

^{Isaiah 52:7, NIV}

^{Everyone says, “Be careful where you plant peppermint.” There’s a good reason for that warning. Peppermint spreads and spreads and spreads. Plant it in one place and it’ll soon be in every place. I ought to know. When we moved into our house six years ago, we planted some peppermint in the flower garden on the east side of our house. While I love peppermint tea, I didn’t know I would have to love it THIS much!}

^{“Runners” are the reason peppermint spreads to quickly. As the plant grows, it produces roots that “run” away from the main plant and begin producing new plants. (So if you want some, let me know!)}

^{The empty tomb of Jesus made His disciples literally run with joy. When she saw the empty tomb, Mary Magdalene ran to tell Peter and John. Then they ran to the tomb:} ^{So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together.} ^{(John 20:3-4)}

^{Having witnessed the empty tomb, having seen the resurrected Jesus, all the disciples became full time-runners of the Gospel. Just like a runner root, our Savior’s followers began to share the Good News everywhere they went. That’s how the Gospel spread!}

^{The disciples ran with the message from Jerusalem and Judea, to Samaria and Syria, and from there to the ends of the earth. What began in one place soon ended up every place.}

^{Being rooted in Christ doesn’t mean remaining stagnant, staying stationary. Rather, God has made you to run with the message. He intends that you share the Good News of Jesus with others. Jesus came to “seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). He plants that same desire in the hearts of each person who’s rooted in Him.}

^{Does that mean you have to run as fast as you can to the nearest airport and fly around the world to share the Good News of Jesus? Does that mean you need to run to your car and drive across the country to spread the Gospel? Far from it!}

^{Someone really close to you . . . someone living next door, or working in the neighboring cubicle, or standing next to you at your child’s soccer game . . . someone like that needs to hear about the love and mercy of Jesus. You don’t need to run around the globe. Instead, start by running around the corner.}

^{And don’t be surprised when the love of God spreads and spreads. There are many people who desperately need to hear the Good News of Jesus and SEE the love of Jesus in action. What a privilege you have to be the one “who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings good news of happiness” (Isaiah 52:7)!}

^{Joining you in running to meet the needs of our neighbors and earning the privilege of sharing Jesus with them.}

^{Pastor Dal} ^e

Midweek Encouragement - "The Law of the Garbage Truck”

Fri, 26 May 2023 18:14:16 GMT

"The Law of the Garbage Truck”

^{“If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”}

^{John 15:10-11, NIV}

^{A story is told of a businessman who needed to get to the airport as soon as possible. He hopped in the taxi that had parked in front of his home and it took off for the airport. It was driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of it. The taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head out the window and started yelling at the taxi driver. The taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. He was really friendly.}

^{The businessman asked, “Why did you just do that? That guy almost ruined your car and nearly sent us to the hospital!”}

^{But that’s when the taxi driver taught the busy executive what he called, “The Law of the Garbage Truck.”}

^{The taxi driver explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.}

^{The bottom line is that successful people, people of faith, don’t let garbage trucks take over their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. Be determined to love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.}

^{An unknown author once wrote: “Life is 10%} ^what ^{you make it and 90%} ^how ^{you take it.”}

^{Determined to not allow the garbage trucks of life cover my joy with their smelly garbage,}

^{Pastor Dal} ^e

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Have Grill Cook Out

Mon, 22 May 2023 18:06:32 GMT

Monday JUNE 12 ~ 4:00pm Until sold out

Do not bother cooking on Monday June 12th.

Stop by the Mt Laurel Church of God "Have Grill" Cook Out. Purchase a Hot Dog, Hamburger or some French Fries for dinner. Enjoy your food inside Fellowship Hall or wrap it up to-go.

Don't forget to grab a Soda Float and a Drink!

New Paragraph

PATRIOTIC SUNDAY

Mon, 22 May 2023 17:51:34 GMT

SUNDAY JUNE 11 ~ 10:30AM

Join us Sunday June 11th for our annual Patriotic Service. The presentation of the American Flag and the Christian Flag by color guard will take place, sing patriotic hymns and learn how to properly fold the American Flag.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL TO FOLLOW SERVICE IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL

RIGHT NOW MEDIA - A Free gift for your family!

Fri, 19 May 2023 13:10:54 GMT

RIGHT NOW MEDIA

A FREE GIFT FOR YOUR FAMILY!

The Netfilx of Christian Bible Study

Experience the world’s largest customizable library of biblical video resources for every person in your church or ministry. Equip and inspire your people beyond Sunday. A streaming library of more

than 20,000 Bible study videos for leaders to share with their people. Something for everyone.

Every person in your church can access Biblically-based videos on topics like marriage, parenting, youth, recovery, leadership, finances and much more.

ALL FREE for Mt Laurel Church of God Members, Family & Guests

Download the RightNow Media app on your mobile device’s app store so you can have access to this resource in the palm of your hands!

registration page for MLCOG account - https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/mtlaurelcog

Text this custom text code MTLAURELCOG to 49775 . You will receive a text back, welcoming you to RightNow Media and will be provided with the invite link to register.

Midweek Encouragement - "Thinking We Can Do Better”

Thu, 18 May 2023 13:48:08 GMT

"Thinking We Can Do Better”

^{“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”}

^{1 Peter 5:6, NIV}

^{No matter where I go or to whom I speak, everyone has an opinion about how to run this world the} ^right ^{way. Many are quick to offer criticism about Grandpa Joe Biden’s latest gaff or about the most recent action (or inaction) taken by Congress. And how many times have we stood at our living room windows watching our neighbors as we say, “I wouldn’t have done it} ^that ^{way!” And who among us hasn’t thought, even if we haven’t said it,} ^{“If I was God, I would . . .”}

^{“Heresy!” you say. Come on. Be honest. Surely you’ve thought about what YOU would do to straighten out this world if you had unlimited resources, unlimited power, and unlimited time . . . like God does.}

^{There’s an old poem that tells of a woman who was walking through a meadow one day. As she strolled along, meditating on nature, she came upon a field of golden pumpkins. In the corner of the field stood a majestic, huge oak tree.}

^{The woman sat under the oak tree and began reflecting on the strange twists in nature.} ^“Why,” ^{she thought, “do tiny acorns grow on huge branches and huge pumpkins grow on tiny vines?” She thought,} ^{“God blundered with Creation! He should have put the small acorns on the tiny vines and the large pumpkins on the huge branches.”}

^{Before long, the woman dozed off in the warmth of the late autumn sunshine. She was awakened when a tiny acorn bounced off her nose. Laughing to herself, she changed her previous thinking,} ^{“Maybe God was right after all!”}

^{Let’s face it. In every situation, God knows far more about the people and circumstances involved than we can ever know. He alone sees the beginning from the ending. He alone knows how to create a Master Plan that provides for the good of all those who serve Him.}

^{Which reminds me of another quote I read some time ago.} ^{“Most people want to serve God, but only in an advisory capacity.”}

^{Where, my friend, are you today? Are you constantly criticizing God for the condition of the world or for the circumstances you find yourself in? Do you think you have a better way than the Creator of the universe? I guess what I’m really wondering today is . . . Are you trusting that God, not you, knows what’s best for you? If you are, then you’re ready to do whatever He wants you to do, go wherever He wants you to go, and serve in any capacity He calls you to serve. Because God knows why He didn’t put pumpkins high on big branches nor caused acorns to grow on the ground. And surely He knows the plans He has for you! So, trust HIM!}

^{Not always understanding but trying to trust God’s good and perfect will . . . at least most of the time,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Bad Influences”

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:18:57 GMT

"Bad Influences”

^{“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take

or sit in the company of mockers,”}

^{Psalm 1:1 NIV}

^{There was once a young woman who was being shown around a large coal-mining camp in West Virginia along with a group of businesspeople. All the others on the tour were dressed in jeans and work shirts, while she wore a sparkling white dress.}

^{As the group got ready to enter the shaky old elevator that would take them down the shaft into the underground coal mine, their guide paused and looked at the woman in the white dress.}

^{“Ma’am are you sure you want to go down to the mines?” he asked her.}

^{The woman, looking slightly offended, responded, “Well, why not?”}

^{The guide cleared his throat nervously. “You’re wearing a white dress,” he said.}

^{“Anyone can see that,” the woman answered. “There’s nothing to prevent me from wearing a white dress into a coal mine if I want to.”}

^{The guide nodded and shrugged. “Yes, ma’am,” he said as he closed the door to the elevator behind her and the others. “But there’s plenty to keep you from wearing a white dress} ^out ^{of a coal mine.”}

^{That guide knew that no matter how white her dress was when she went into the coal mine, it wouldn’t be white when she came out. Coal mines tend to rub off on a person, and that’s not just true of coal mines. It’s also true of other things . . . like habits.}

^{If you’re like most people, you have friends who don’t always make the right choices. You may even have some friends who almost never make right choices. You might feel like that woman: “There’s nothing to prevent me from hanging out with that person if I want to.”}

^{And you might be right. There may be nothing wrong with hanging out with that person. After all, didn’t Jesus tell us to love everyone, even those who often make wrong choices? But remember, habits . . . like coal dust . . . tend to rub off on a person. You may enter a friendship wearing a white garment of pure thoughts and good intentions, but your outfit might not stay “white.”}

^{The Bible says you’re much better off if you don’t “walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take” (Psalm 1:1). That doesn’t mean you should be rude or unkind to the people who seem to make a lot of wrong choices. It simply means that you should stay away from coal mines and bad influences because both tend to rub off on us.}

^{Today, ask God to help you be like that person described in Psalm 1:1, a person who doesn’t let others influence you to do wrong. Ask God to help you find satisfaction in His Word and keep a healthy distance from those who might influence you in the wrong way. Surely reach out and develop relationships with those who don’t yet know Jesus as their Forgiver and Boss, but watch that you don’t fall into their nasty habits.}

^{Praying that you’ll be a positive influence for Christ in others without allowing their sinful habits influence you,}

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Free Movie Night

Thu, 11 May 2023 21:05:52 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, May 19th @ 6:30pm

"Jesus Revolution"

Join us in the large fellowship hall for the movie "Jesus Revolution". In the 1970's, Greg Laurie and a sea of young people descend on sunny Southern California to redefine truth through all means of liberation. Inadvertently, Laurie meets a charismatic street preacher and a pastor who open the doors to a church to a stream of wandering youth. What unfolds is a counterculture movement that becomes the greatest spiritual awakening in American history.

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "All the Time in the World”

Thu, 04 May 2023 19:29:39 GMT

"All the Time in the World”

^“ Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

John 5:24 NIV

They call it Methuselah. It’s one of the oldest trees in the world. This ancient tree is a Great Basin bristlecone pine growing high in the mountains of Inyo County in eastern California. Scientists calculate that the tree is 4,854 years old. By the way, don’t try to find it. The U. S. Forest Department is keeping its exact location under wraps to prevent you and everyone else from taking a branch from it.

Think about the people who have come and gone while that tree has stayed standing. It’s lived through and beyond the lifetimes of Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, and George Washington. That tree has grown while Leonardo da Vinci and William Shakespeare have lived and died. That tree dates back even before the reigns of King David and King Solomon in ancient Israel.

Methuselah has seen individuals in many generations come and go, but our Lord Jesus isn’t among them. Jesus was alive before that tree sprouted, and Jesus will live forever, long after that tree is dead and gone. Jesus Himself has promised: I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, thought he die, yet shall he live.

Are YOU rooted in Christ? No matter how old you are, being rooted in Christ means being rooted in eternity. You’re alive in Christ now and forever. Death couldn’t defeat our Savior, and because of His cross and empty tomb, death won’t defeat you either. If your faith is in Him, you have life in Him . . . forever life! Consider the ways that truth changes your life in the here and now!

I think we’d all have to admit that this world is driven by the clock. Wasting someone else’s time or having someone waste your time is a huge offense. That’s because people feel as if they’re running out of time. Life today is go, go, go. All . . . the . . . time.

Today I’m writing to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way. Having the promise of eternity, you have time. In fact, you have all the time in the world . . . and beyond!

In Jesus, you can take time to pause and reflect on God’s abundant blessings. You can spend time in prayer. You can give someone else your time, listening to them and helping them. You can be generous with the time you invest with your spouse, your children, and your neighbors.

In Jesus, your time is NOT running out. Rooted in Christ, your time has only just begun!

Let’s thank Jesus for giving us eternity! He can teach us how to be generous with our time.

Knowing I’m going to live longer than Methuselah in the glory of heaven,

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Drinking Out of the Saucer”

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:03:19 GMT

"Drinking Out of the Saucer”

^“ But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

John 4:14 NIV

Did you know that the human body is 60% water? If you could separate the water in your body from the other stuff, the bones, brain, muscles and skin, you’d see that you’re mostly water. Obviously, that’s not a science experiment you definitely DON’T want to sign up to do!

I’m going to sound like an old guy when I say this, but I remember the day when very few people carried an adult sippy cup, water bottle, or drink container wherever they went so they could “stay hydrated.” When we needed a drink, we bent over a water fountain or took a glass to the faucet.

Did you know that plants are better hydrated than we humans are? Many plants are nearly 90% water. What appears to be mostly leaf, stem, and root is actually a whole lot of water. Jellyfish, however, make we human beings and plants seem dry in comparison. Those fascinating animals are 95% water!

In John 4:14, Jesus made a bold promise using water as a metaphor or word picture. The water He was describing is nothing like ordinary water. His water is filled to overflowing with power. The water Jesus offers is 100% holy, 100% life-giving, and 100% satisfying. His water is the Holy Spirit Himself.

John 7:37-39 says this, “On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.’ By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive.”

As a kid, I remember my grandmother serving coffee in china cups and saucers. That was back in the day when a good hostess used her very best china rather than pulling old mugs from the cupboard. The saucer under the delicate cup would catch any liquid that inadvertently overflowed from the cup. One particular pastor loved visiting Sadie, his favorite shut-in. His first question to her was always, “Sadie, how in the world are you today?” And Sadie would always respond, “I’m so blessed with the power of the Spirit, that I’m drinking from the saucer! ” Sadie considered her life so full of the Holy Spirit’s blessings and power that her cup of joy was overflowing and she was “drinking from the saucer.”

At the moment you invited Jesus to occupy the core of your heart, God gave you the Holy Spirit, filling you to overflowing with living water. Just as earthly water brings life and quenches thirst, the living waters of the Holy Spirit bring forever life and the soul-quenching gifts of God that flow from His presence in us.

This means, Christ-follower, that you’re not just 60% ordinary water; you’re also 100% living water! Christian, within you lives the powerful, life-giving Holy Spirit. In a world that’s parched and powerless, you’re a conduit, a channel of life that will never run dry.

Because you have drunk deeply of those living waters, your mind can stop being preoccupied with worry! You’re rooted and built up in Christ. Drink up! Out of your heart will flow rivers of living water! Those around you will see the difference, so be prepared to share the water of life, Jesus Christ, with them today!

Drinking from the saucer and blessed beyond measure,

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Are You Facing Forward?”

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:19:08 GMT

"Are You Facing Forward?”

When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. ¹⁷ As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!”

Genesis 19:16-17 NIV

It was Mother Teresa who said, “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” Seeing that quote makes me ask, “Where do you spend most of your time?” One of our human weaknesses is to live too much of our time looking back. Lot’s wife tried it, and the result was devastating. (Read the whole story in Genesis 19)

When middle-distance runner Glenn Cunningham (1909 – 1988) was at his best, he lost a race. He was running very swiftly and strongly in his peculiar way, tearing up the track. Certainly, victory was going to be his! Almost subconsciously, anxious to know how far back the second man in the race was, he glanced over his shoulder, lost his stride, and his competitor passed him and won.

One of the greatest servants of all Christian history was probably the apostle Paul. I think I can guess what the secret of his success might have been. In Philippians 3:13-14 Paul wrote, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on . . .” That was the key to his life. He forgot what was behind in the past and he moved to what was ahead to what was yet possible. Do you see what I’m saying?

When today dies, bury it! Get rid of it or it’ll become a weight on your back and chains around your feet. Consider each new day a new birth. In it lies the promise of an unspoiled day! A brand-new chance to make something new, to make something excellent, to lean toward God’s immortal character. Those who can see God’s tremendous possibilities are those who are willing to let go of a painful past and move forward and upward with faces fixed on a glowing future where Christ is already present with us to help us do the seemingly impossible! Are you ready to face forward?

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Free Movie Night

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:26:06 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, March 17th @ 6:30pm

"UP"

Join us in the large fellowship hall for the movie "UP". Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old balloon salesman, is about to fulfill a lifelong dream. Tying thousands of balloons to his house, he flies away to the South American wilderness. But curmudgeonly Carl's worst nightmare comes true when he discovers a little boy named Russell is a stowaway aboard the balloon-powered house. A Pixar animation..

Bring a chair, a drink & your favorite snack to share and enjoy this Free Movie & Fellowship!

Midweek Encouragement - "Thanks For Encouraging the Encouragers!”

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 15:04:02 GMT

"Thanks For Encouraging the Encouragers!”

I started writing “PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement” on this exact day in 2004! And ever since, my life has been so richly blessed by encouragers and their words of encouragement! I’ll bet yours has too! Those in the body of Christ who have received the gift of encouragement give strength to others. You know that the enemy tries to discourage God’s servants and His prayer warriors. The devil and his minions keep attacking those of you with the gift of encouragement by telling them it doesn’t make much difference, that no one notices, or that their time would be better spent somewhere else. As someone who has felt the hands of the encouragers push him forward and often prop him up, I’m here to tell the encouragers of this world that your words ARE making a difference!

It’s been a long time since I’ve been so discouraged that I was ready to quit. When I allow Him, the Spirit keeps me going when I feel like I’ve lost purpose or perspective. God knows when to send an encourager my way to remind me of the fruit He’s producing even when I think my labor is in vain. At just the right time, they point out the “good”! When I think about those times that I’ve felt disheartened, their words have propelled me forward.

“Encourage one another and build each other up….Encourage the disheartened” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 & 14)

Judas and Silas were encouragers because “they said much to encourage and strengthen the brothers” (Acts 15:32). Encouragers, please keep “saying much”! Don’t let the enemy silence you or distract you! Your gift is powerful! You strengthen this pastor! Behind every preacher, speaker, writer, missionary, or Christian counselor are the voices of their encouragers. They wouldn’t be serving where they are without you. I’ve recently learned that when the enemy takes down an encourager, many others are affected. In the same way, when an encourager is filled with God’s hope, truth, and perspective, many others are strengthened. Encourager, there might be some people into whom you’ve poured many words of hope, but perhaps you don’t see them right now. The apostle Paul said, “Don’t grow weary in doing good, because at just the right time you WILL see a harvest “ (Galatians 6:9).

I’m sure, like myself, there have been moments, days, and seasons when you’ve felt stuck in discouragement. It’s in those times that I’ve learned to call out to God for encouragement, and it always comes in the form of a kind word, a text, an email, a Facebook message, or even a card. And always when I’m unraveling and think I’ve had all I can take. In Psalm 10:17 God actually promises to send us encouragement and He uses you encouragers to do it! “You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry.” If you’re feeling down, discouraged, disheartened, or afflicted today, cry out to God to send encouragement your way. There was in the Bible a man named, Tychicus (try saying that 5 times fast), who influenced many others through his encouragement. In Colossians 4:8, Paul sent him out for the purpose of encouraging, “that he may encourage your hearts.” He’s mentioned again by Paul in Ephesians 6:22, “I’m sending him to you for this very purpose… that he may encourage you.” My friend, God has a whole army of encouragers waiting to be deployed! So if you need a little courage or strength today, ask Him for it!

Encouragers, thank you for your faithfulness! You’ve helped the rest of us more then you’ll ever know! God says, “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13). Your words of courage, truth and strength fight against the enemy’s lies of hopelessness and temptation. Your words have power! They’re God’s tools to keep others out of sin and away from believing Satan’s lies!

“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother (and sister) have refreshed the hearts of the saints” (Philemon 1:7).

Thank you, encouragers! You’ve given us not only encouragement but joy and in so doing you’ve refreshed our hearts. May God richly bless you because you’ve refreshed us! May you not grow weary!

Who are your encouragers? Consider sending them a word of thanks this week. Just like all the other believers gifted by the Spirit, they, too, need encouragement. They need to know that their words have made a difference and that they’ve made a lasting impact!

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Living Each Day Like It’s Your Last”

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 17:13:25 GMT

"Living Each Day Like It’s Your Last”

“Countless singers, poets, and armchair philosophers keep saying, “Live every day like it’s your last.” I get what they’re saying. None of us knows what’s just around the corner, good or bad, so we should take full advantage of every moment we’ve got. Obviously, I’m not saying you should do whatever you want without thinking about the consequences. What started this line of thinking in my pea-sized brain was how Jesus lived this week, Holy Week, His last week on earth as a human like you and me . . . well, sort of. Think about how Jesus spent His last week on earth and how we should live now . . .

Jesus took risks. He risked loving us to His fullest. He didn’t jump out of a plane, go bungee jumping or throw hatchets in a bar. He risked His life and went head to head against the Jewish religious elite. What risks will you take, no matter how big or small they are? They’ll pay off in the end. Well, maybe not throwing hatchets in a bar.

Jesus expressed His feelings. He used words AND actions to tell His disciples how much He loved them during the last meal they ate together. Don’t hold back sharing your emotions with those who are closest to you. You’ll feel better in the end.

Jesus didn’t procrastinate. If you have a list of chores to do, don’t put them off any longer. Get your paperwork done, do your laundry, and make that phone call you’ve been dreading. Can you imagine where we’d be if Jesus had said, “I think I’ll wait until next year to go to the cross”?

Jesus said “yes.” If your friends invite you out, don’t turn them down so you can stay home and watch Netflix. Jesus could’ve said no when He prayed in Gethsemane while His disciples were sleeping, but He said “Not my will, but Yours be done.” You’ll never know what God has in store for you, unless you say “yes” to Him.

Jesus followed His dreams. Instead of waiting until “the time is right” to send out that job application, do it today. Apply for the position you’ve always wanted. Maybe your dream isn’t as big as redeeming all of humankind, but you’ll never realize your dream if you don’t start to see it through now.

Jesus lived in the present. He didn’t regret the past. He knew what the future held, but more than anything, He lived in the moment. Why do you think Jesus never allowed stress to get in His way?

Jesus appreciated what He had. Do you? He knew He was the Son of God and He knew where He was going after His time on earth. He never drove an SUV or squirreled money away in a retirement fund, but He never complained about having to use a rock for a pillow either. I wonder if we realize how blessed WE are to have the friends, family, and our jobs? When we’re grateful for what we have, life will feel a whole lot brighter and the grass will be just as green on our side of the fence.

Jesus never sweated the small stuff . If you knew this was your last week on earth, would you worry about silly little things? Of course not, because doing so is a waste of time. Jesus knew the small stuff would be gone really soon. He lived with no regrets and prioritized His life according to His Father’s will.

How can you live each day like it’s your last? Look at how Jesus lived His life and what He had to look forward to. Why shouldn’t you live the way He did? You’ll be glad you did! As we come excitedly closer to Resurrection Day, perhaps we should pause, for just a few minutes, to consider what we would do if this week was our last week on earth. Doing so might affect how we spend the rest of our days until our last one finally arrives.

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

5th Sunday Covered Dish Lunch

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:44:53 GMT

5th Sunday Covered Dish Lunch

Sunday April 30th right after worship

Bring a dish to share with the church family and enjoy some great food & fellowship in the Fellowship Hall right after worship. Place settings & drink provided

Bring your friends and eat with us.

Midweek Encouragement - "Disappointments are Inevitable; Discouragement is a Choice”

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 11:30:26 GMT

"Disappointments are Inevitable; Discouragement is a Choice”

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

Habakkuk 3:17-18, NIV

Life doesn’t always turn out the way you think it should. In fact, it rarely does. If you’re like most people, your hopes and expectations almost always exceed your reality. Opportunities you were counting on don’t turn out the way you thought they would. People you thought you could depend on end up letting you down. Even the plans and expectations you designed for yourself are often frustrated. It’s all very disappointing.

What hope do you have? What opportunities, relationships, or situations are you reaching for now? What are you asking God to make a reality for you? There’s nothing wrong with having hopes and dreams. They’re motivators that help inspire us to do our best. But the harder you work to fulfill your hopes and dreams, the greater your potential for disappointment if they don’t come true.

During those times of disillusionment, will you allow your disappointment to dishearten you? Will you allow them to impede you from becoming everything God created you to be? Or will you rise up, learn from those setbacks, and move on? The decision is yours, so choose wisely.

Habakkuk pleaded for God to discipline the wickedness of his fellow citizens, but was discouraged when he discovered that judgment would come in the form of a Babylonian invasion. Yet, even though Habakkuk didn’t understand God’s ways, he still trusted in God’s wisdom. “I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength” (Habakkuk 3:18-19). That’s what you must do well, too, my friend, even when God’s answer to your prayers isn’t what you were hoping for. Trust Him, because He knows exactly what He’s doing.

Take a few minutes and read Psalm 73:1-12. There the psalmist decided to praise God no matter how disappointed he had become. He chose NOT to be discouraged because God was still FOR HIM, not against him.

How are you responding to the disappointments that have come to you? Are you angry, frustrated, and disheartened? Or are you saying, “Lord, I may not know why You allowed this, but I trust You, knowing that Your best for my life is still ahead”? Whenever you face disappointments, remember that your situation is in God’s hand and under His sovereign control. Meditate on the fact that He loves you unconditionally and is providing His very best for you. Recall the blessings He’s already given you. No matter what disappointments come, use them as stepping stones to greater faith.

Chose joy today, even in the midst of disappointments!

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Spring Clean Up

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 13:09:05 GMT

Church Spring Clean Up

Saturday April 22, 2023 at 8:00 am.

Join the church family as we gather together to spruce up the church. There is work to be done on the outside and inside of the church.

"Many hands make light work. "

Light continental breakfast items will be available.

Rain date of Saturday April 29th at 8:00 am

Midweek Encouragement - "Who Wants a Little Cheese with Your Whine”

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:38:01 GMT

"Who Wants a Little Cheese with Your Whine?”

"Do everything without grumbling or arguing.”

Paul, Philippians 2:14, NIV

I’m a listener. Whether I’m with my church family or at the grocery store or just waiting at the dealer to have my car inspected, my ears are listening to those around me. I don’t always respond to what I hear, but my ears are always open. I’ve noticed lately that many people in our world have a lot to say. The problem is that a lot of what they have to say is full of complaints about their situation in life. “I don’t have . . .” “I wish he would . . .” “What’s wrong with this world is . . .” “If I was in the White House, I would . . .” “Why doesn’t the governor . . .”

Rather than whine that we don’t have certain things in our lives or that something is wrong, we need to take positive action. With your permission, let me suggest four steps toward turning whining into thanksgiving.

1. Give something away. If you’re thinking about doing some spring cleaning, now’s the time to give something away. When you give something, you create both a physical and a mental space for something new and better to come into your life. Even though you may think you’re “lacking” something in life, when you give, you’re demonstrating that you have an abundance to spare . . . even if it’s something you haven’t used in the past two years.

2. Narrow your goals. Why do many people expect everything good to come to them all at once? When you focus your expectations on specific and reachable goals, you’re more likely to direct your time and energies to reaching them. Take a “rifle” approach to reaching your goals, rather than a “shotgun” approach.

3. Change your vocabulary from “I need” to “I want.” Let’s admit it. Most of the things we think we need are actually things we want. If we admit that we want them rather than need them, we’ll more likely be thankful for them as luxuries rather than necessities.

4. Choose to be thankful for what you already have. I know it’s not November yet, but wouldn’t you agree that gratitude is a choice we make daily? Every one of us has more things to be thankful for than we could begin to count in a single day.

Let me leave you with this . . . J esus can turn water into wine, but He won’t turn your whining into anything . Let’s try this for one 24-hour period . . . Let’s not grumble or complain or whine about anything. When you’re tempted to whine or complain or grumble about whatever doesn’t fit into your standard of living or agree with your long-held opinions, DON’T. Let me know how you did!

Choosing to say “Thank you,” rather than whining,

Pastor Dal e

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

OPEN GYM NIGHTS

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:29:42 GMT

OPEN GYM NIGHT

YOUTH Open Gym, 2nd & 4th Friday of every month, 6pm to 10pm

Basketball, Pickleball, Volleyball, Board Games & MORE!

Bring the family for Fun & Fellowship.

Code of conduct must be signed by parents & children

Midweek Encouragement - "Who Deserves Love?”

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:59:41 GMT

"Who Deserves Love?”

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Jesus, Matthew 5:44, NIV

I’m amazed at the power of grace-filled love! Recently I’ve seen Christ’s unconditional love change grumps into joyful believers and grouches into growing disciples. All because of caring love.

The year was March 17, 1994. They were on their way back from a meeting of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese. Father Demetrios Frangos and Father Germanos Stavropoulos were enjoying each other’s company when they were involved in a car accident. While they were waiting at a stoplight, a young woman high on PCP drove into their car. Both priests were killed instantly.

The woman, a legal secretary with a seven-year-old daughter, had no previous police record, but admitted to having used drugs for seven years. She was charged with vehicular manslaughter, second-degree murder and manslaughter. You can imagine what the media did with her reputation. Viciously they called her the “priest killer.”

While most members of their parishes petitioned the courts to sentence the woman with the most severe penalty allowable by law, one man, Father Demetrios’ son, George, responded with forgiveness, not anger. He offered to help provide the woman with a lawyer and hoped, if she was convicted, that the sentence would be short. He said, “The last thing my father would have wanted was to make an example of her. This woman is anguished and troubled to begin with. We have to look after the innocent one, the child. It is extremely important that her child be told that we forgive her mother.”

George Frangos loved his father and grieved for him, but more important to him than “legal justice” was “divine justice” . . . that the woman and her little daughter know the love of Jesus Christ. John Harrigan once said, “Those who deserve love the least need it the most.”

Is there someone in your life who has betrayed or offended you? Let me encourage you to use that situation to strengthen your ability to forgive . . . especially if they don’t deserve your love. Let’s see those moments as times to strengthen our skills of empathy and to show authentic pity for their brokenness. Remember, we’re all a result from, or a reaction to, the people we meet. Could it be that those who are hurting and who hurt others have just met some of the wrong folks along their way?

Show grace, offer forgiveness, and love unconditionally today . . . and every day. Why? Because God, in Jesus His Son, forgave us much when we gave ourselves to Him.

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Where’s the Beef”

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 13:59:09 GMT

"Where’s the Beef?”

Have you been hurt by someone in the Church? Maybe it was a leader, a pastor, or another believer. Maybe someone lied about you, stole from you, betrayed you, shamed you, ridiculed you or didn’t treat you the way you thought you should have been treated?

I’m not sure what the devil is up to lately, but through the last two or three weeks, he’s been very busy trying to drive a wedge of division into some of the ministries here at the Mt. Laurel Church of God. I refuse to let that happen. What about you?

Maybe I should start today with two “givens.” (1) None of us are without failures so we must be careful if we’re reaching to cast that first stone. (2) God loves everyone . . . no matter what they've done. As important as those two givens are, they’re not the most important things to remember here. Here’s the most important: You get to choose how you’ll respond to the things done to you.

Let’s admit it. Everyone hurts someone sometime. If you haven’t, we need to talk honestly. Every one of us does hurtful things occasionally. What we don’t realize is that, when we hurt others, we’re also hurting ourselves. Perhaps the place to begin is to decide if you’re hurting others because of an issue or situation in your life.

I’ve also learned that people who offer healing to others can only do so because they’ve allowed God to heal them. Maybe you’re hurting now. Will you allow God to use what happened to you for good?

What some damaged people do is to hold on to unforgiveness until it becomes bitterness in them. And when they become bitter people, they, in turn, hurt others. We don’t have to allow that though. We have the choice to become ministers of reconciliation and to share in the sufferings of Christ! Paul, writing to the Christians at Rome said, “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory ” (Romans 8:17).

If you’re willing to abundantly share in the sufferings of Christ, your comfort will abound through Christ . 2 Corinthians 1:5 says, “For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.”

If we remember that one of the greatest gifts we were ever given is forgiveness for all the nasty stuff we did to God, how much more so should we forgive others when they offend us! But be careful because forgiveness is rooted in love. And love is the fruit of forgiveness. Forgiveness starts with love and it results in love. We received forgiveness because God Himself who is love came to earth in the form of man (Jesus) to love us. He asks us to love others.

My friends, the way to find healing from the hurt that someone in your church has caused is to allow love to do its greatest work in you at the moment of your greatest pain. You remember God’s kind of love, don’t you? “ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

If you've been hurt by the church or someone in the Church, I'm so very sorry that happened to you. I may not be able to fully understand what you went through, but God does. He hasn't overlooked it. He’s for you. He longs to pour out His comfort on you. He invites you to sit with Him and cry, complain or question if you need to. I pray that His love will strengthen you so you’re willing to reflect His kindness and goodness to others who need to know Him too. Won’t you allow the head of the Church, Jesus, to heal you today?

Call me anytime, if I can help you heal,

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Save The Date - All Church Retreat

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 21:36:31 GMT

SAVE THE DATE - All-Church Retreat

SAVE THE DATE!

We'll join the Newburg 1st Church of God at our beautiful church camp, the Doubling Gap Center - Camp YoliJwa in the mountains north of Newville, Pennsylvania!

More details will be coming soon!

See more pictures at www.campyolijwa.org

Midweek Encouragement - "Odd Jobs in Jesus’ Name”

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 21:04:34 GMT

"Odd Jobs in Jesus’ Name”

"Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees.”

Amos 7:14 NIV

What was the oddest job you ever worked? Almost everyone has worked some kind of strange or peculiar job at some time in their career. Consider these oddest of odd jobs:

Iceberg Mover: This person tracks the location of icebergs and tows them out of shipping lanes, if necessary.

Safecracker: This person opens safes (legally, of course) when someone has lost or forgotten the combination.

Duck Master: This person leads ducks on a parade around the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee.

Before he became a prophet, Amos had a pretty odd job . . . a dresser or caretaker of sycamore-fig trees. Amos cultivated sycamore-fig trees. That involved cutting a small gash in each fig so it would ripen. Amos took inedible fruit and turned it into something delicious.

Like those sycamore-figs, Jesus was pierced by nails on the cross. God allowed His spotless and holy Son to be “pierced for our transgressions . . . crushed for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5). Unlike those sycamore-figs, however, there was nothing bad in Jesus that needed to be made good. In fact, He was quite the opposite! Jesus bore the consequences of our bad fruit, making it possible for us to bear good fruit.

Jesus’ love penetrates your sin-hardened heart and soul. By His wounds, you’ve been healed, forgiven. Now, because of Jesus, God’s love and love for others is maturing in you and blossoming in your life and in the life of every person who’s connected by faith to Jesus.

If you’re that closely connected to Jesus, you’re filled with unwavering joy! Since you’re intimately connected in a relationship with Christ, kindness sprouts from your words and actions. And all that is possible because Jesus was pierced for you!

Now, God has an odd job for you to do today. He asks you to bear good fruit in a world where very little good fruit is seen. People around you may be confused by the good fruit you’ll bear today in Jesus’ name. When those people see love, peace, and patience spouting out from your life, they might be fascinated or even suspicious. That’s okay! That’s what makes being a Christ-follower an odd job.

Keep on rejoicing in the One who was pierced for you and keep on bearing the good fruit that Jesus makes possible, even if others look at you in an odd sort of way!

Being a little odd for God’s kingdom,

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Free Movie Night

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 20:55:05 GMT

Movie Night - Friday, March 17th @ 6:30pm

"The Peanut Butter Falcon"

Join us in the large fellowship hall for the movie "The Peanut Butter Falcon". Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, runs away from a residential nursing home to fulfill his dream of attending the pro wrestling school of his idol, The Salt Water Redneck. On the road, Zak meets Tyler, a small-time outlaw who becomes Zak's unlikely coach and ally. Together, they set out on a wild, life-changing journey and try to convince Eleanor, a kind nursing-home employee charged with bringing Zak back, to join them.

Staring: Shia LaBeouf, Dakota Johnson, John Hawkes, Zack Gottsagen, Jon Bernthal, Thomas Haden Church, Bruce Dern, Jake Roberts, Mick Foley, Yelawolf, Lee Spencer

CANCELLED * Mt Laurel Church of God BUS TRIP

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 16:44:55 GMT

UNFORTUNATELY THIS BUS TRIP HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Mt Laurel Church of God Bus Trip - Friday April 28, 2023

Faith Liberty Discover Center - Philadelphia PA

The Itinerary:

6:40 am Arrive at Mt. Laurel Church of God upper parking lot to check in and load the bus.

7:00 am Leave from Mt. Laurel Church of God

9:30 am Faith Liberty Discovery Center (faithandliberty.org). Your ticket will let you in at 10:00 am.

During this approximately 90-minute visit, you’ll learn about the Bible’s influence throughout American history.

11:30 am After you visit the Faith Liberty Discovery Center, you’re free to visit other museums and attractions of your choice. You may wish to visit the Independence Visitors Center at 599 Market St (located one block from FLDC) to obtain tickets for certain locations such as Independence Hall, Constitution Center, Liberty Bell and more. A cafe is also conveniently located inside the visitor center. There are many museums and other sights to see within walking distance. Feel free to book timed tickets at recreation.gov for Independence Hall ($1.00). You may find the following very interesting: Independence Hall, The Constitution Center, The American Jewish Center, and the U. S. Mint.

3:45 pm Arrive back at the bus for loading.

4:00 pm Departing Philadelphia for dinner at Bird in Hand Family Restaurant and Smorgasbord. Your smorgasbord reservation (plus tip) is included in your trip cost.

8:00 pm Estimated return to the church.

To make your reservation, please complete the registration form and return it to Sharon Bargo with your check for $80/person. All reservations are non-refundable. If you cannot attend, you are responsible to make all arrangements with your replacement. The church will not be liable to find someone to take your place or transfer payments. All replacements must give their name and cell phone number to Sharon Bargo prior to departure.

Text or call her at (717) 691-5797 with any questions or concerns. Please make your check payable to "The Mt. Laurel Church of God."

Yes, you can invite your friends and family even if they aren’t members of the Mt. Laurel Church of God!

The cost of this trip will be $80 per person and includes bus fare, driver tip, smorgasbord dinner and tip, and the ticket to Faith Discovery Liberty Center. You will be responsible to pay for all other meals and other tickets to museums, etc of your choosing separately.

Midweek Encouragement - "No Boat, Just Jesus”

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 14:07:02 GMT

"No Boat, Just Jesus”

"’Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.”

Matthew 14:29 NIV

I want to share one “duh” fact with you today. Wood floats . Even a child knows that. For thousands of years people have known that. If you build a boat out of wood, it’ll float. That’s why countless generations of humans have been planting trees. To build boats.

Jesus spent a lot of time in boats with His disciples. He called some fishermen to be His followers. He and the disciples often used boats for transportation. They were very familiar with the way boats rise and fall as they float in the water.

There was one particular night on a boat, however, that was unlike any other night Jesus and His disciples had ever spent on the water. Jesus had gone off by Himself to pray in the hills above the Sea of Galilee while His disciples took a boat across the still waters of the lake. But soon the stillness became a tempest. The wind and the waves quickly and with little warning became angry.

And then, the disciples saw it. At first, it looked like a ghost in the middle of the storm.

But then, Jesus spoke as He walked on the water toward His friends: Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.

When they heard that, Peter did something very bold. While the other disciples sat in the safety of the boat, Peter asked Jesus if he could come and walk with Him. No lifejacket. No floatation device. Just the sustaining power of the Savior.

You probably know what happened next. Peter sank. Well, not immediately. He began walking on the water toward the Lord, but then fear gripped him as he considered his surroundings. Immediately, Jesus took hold of Peter’s hand, lifted him out of the water and walked back with him to the boat.

Bold, impetuous Peter stepped out of the boat, went to Jesus, began to sink, and had to be rescued. The other disciples clung to the boat and simply watched. Let me ask you . . . which is better?

Would you agree that stepping out in faith is always better than sitting back to watch in relative safety? Be careful as you answer that question.

I would contend that being deeply rooted in Christ doesn’t mean standing still. Being rooted in Christ, you can boldly go where few have gone before. Sending your roots deeply into Christ, you can boldly go wherever He calls you.

So go ahead! Venture out! Know that if you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, He’ll empower you to do what you never thought was possible. Why? Because He’ll be right there with you! Go ahead! Move forward into whatever storms life has in store for you. Step out in faith whenever Jesus says to you, “Come!”

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Feet First”

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:17:30 GMT

"Feet First”

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV

This coming Sunday, my church family and I will be starting a 43-day spiritual adventure. We’ll be looking for daily experiences with God, ways we can come to know Him in new and deeper ways, and we’ll be joining Him in the good He’s doing. One of the things I’ll be challenging us all to do is to be on the lookout for God-sightings . . . those unexpected ways where we see God’s hidden hand at work. Let me give you an example of a recent God-sighting.

Two months ago, for reasons known only to Vince (and God), he was let go from his job. Immediately, he and his wife asked the church family at Mt. Laurel to pray for a new job, preferably one that would offer a flexible work schedule or a second or third shift so Vince could continue to take his wife to and from her Monday, Wednesday, and Friday dialysis sessions. Vince even attended a forklift class so he could become certified to drive a forklift, just in case a job requiring that skill became available to him. We all prayed, believing that God already had a job for Vince. We just didn’t know where.

Our church also operates a Community Clothing Closet, a free source of new and gently used clothing and shoes available to anyone with a need. The Clothing Closet always receives much more clothing than it does shoes through the collection bin in our parking lot. About two weeks ago, someone from the local community donated a brand new pair of black, steel-toed shoes to the Community Clothing Closet. I can almost hear the Clothing Closet volunteers saying, “What in the world are we going to do with these size 10 steel-toe work boots? No one will EVER want these!”

Approximately two weeks ago, Vince applied for a job at a bakery in Marysville, Pennsylvania and was soon asked to interview for the job there. Our church family fervently prayed as Vince and his wife kept us updated about this potential new job.

This past Sunday, Vince told us that he had, indeed, been given the job at the bakery and would be starting on Monday, February 13. It’s also be a job that will let him work 2 ^nd shift so he can keep taking his wife to her dialysis appointments.

Here’s the thing though . . . Vince’s new job came with one requirement--steel-toed work boots costing $300 a pair. Now wouldn’t you know that those brand new, steel-toe work boots, donated to our Community Clothing Closet two weeks ago . . . about the same time Vince applied for the job at the bakery . . . are his size! Talk about a God-sighting! Is God good or what?

Here’s my question for you, my friend! For what have you been praying lately? Have you fully placed that need in God’s hands, trusting Him to meet that need? As Vince discovered, sometimes God begins to answer our prayers feet first! So don’t stop asking Him! Our thoughts are not His thoughts. God’s ways are so much higher than our ways. He already knows what you need and is working to meet your need. So keep praying! Keep trusting that our God’s got this . . . even if He moves feet first!

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Don’t Quit”

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 17:44:45 GMT

"Don’t Quit”

After returning home last night from six days in Omaha, Nebraska, I’m still trying to complete my to-do list. So if you’ve heard the following story, originally told by Charles Swindoll, be encouraged and wait for a fresh PD’s Mid-Week Encouragement coming next week!

Ignacy Jan Paderewski (1860-1941) was not only the Polish prime minister for a time, but was also a famous composer and pianist. In 1891 he was scheduled to perform at a great concert hall here in the U. S. It was an evening to remember . . . black tuxedos and long evening dresses, a high-society extravaganza. Also in the audience that evening was a mother with her fidgety nine-year-old son who was weary of waiting. Why, you may be wondering, would that mother take her youngster to such a high society shindig? Well, she was hoping her son would want to practice the piano if he heard the immortal Paderewski at the keyboard. So, against his wishes, he had to attend.

As his mother turned to talk with friends, her son could stay seated no longer. Slipping away from her side, the boy was strangely attracted to the black concert grand Steinway and its leather tufted stool on the huge stage flooded with blinding lights. Without much notice from the sophisticated audience, the boy sat on the stool and stared wide-eyed at the black and white keys. He placed his small, trembling fingers in the right location and began to play “chopsticks.” The roar of the crowd was hushed as hundreds of frowning faces pointed in his direction. Irritated, they began to shout: “Get that boy away from there!” “Who’d bring a kid that young here?” “Where’s his mother?” “Somebody stop him!”

Backstage, Paderewski overheard the sounds out front and quickly surmised what was happening. He grabbed his coat and rushed to the stage. Without one word of announcement he stooped over behind the boy, reached around both sides, and began to improvise a countermelody to harmonize with and enhance the boy’s “chopsticks.”

As the two of them played together, Paderewski kept whispering in the boy’s ear: “Keep going. Don’t quit. Keep on playing. Don’t stop. Don’t quit.”

And so it is with you, my friend! You hammer away at your project or that area of service that might seem as insignificant as “chopsticks” in a concert hall. And about the time you’re ready to give up, along comes Master Jesus, who leans over and whispers: Now keep going. Don’t quit. Don’t stop” as He improvises on your behalf, providing just the right touch at just the right moment. Don’t quit! Keep going! He’s there for you, helping you, guiding you, supporting you, loving you. What you’re doing today may seem quite insignificant to you, but with the Master’s help, you’ll make a huge difference to someone else, wherever you are! Keep going! Don’t quit!

Pastor Dale

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Free Movie Night

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 18:18:23 GMT

Movie Night - Friday February 17th @ 6:30pm

Join us in the large fellowship hall for the movie "Dog Gone". Based on the true story of a father and son who repair their fractured relationship during a forced hike of the Appalachian trail to find heir beloved lost dog, Gonker, this Netflix movie stars Rob Lowe, Kimberly Williams Presley, Johnny Berchtold and Nick Peine.

WARNING: You may need tissues

Mt Laurel Ladies' Retreat

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:36:39 GMT

Mt Laurel Ladies' Retreat

The Mt Laurel Ladies' Retreat will be held at the Doubling Gap Center this year.

Dates for the retreat are November 3rd - 5th, 2023

Your planning team is looking for volunteers to plan this years retreat.

WE LOVE NEW IDEAS!

New Paragraph

Red Bird Mission trip

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:26:27 GMT

Red Bird Mission Trip - July 30th - August 4th or 5th

If you are interested in going on the red Bird Mission Trip, the cost is $425 per person and the dates are July 30 - August 4th or 5th (return date is not set yet).

A portion of the cost will be underwritten by the Kitchen SS Class and Mission Commission

The first half of the fee is due by he end of February.

See John Beshore for more details

Check it out at www.rbmimssion.org

Midweek Encouragement - "How Thorough Are You?”

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:14:32 GMT

"How Thorough Are You?”

Like taxes, growing old is something we’re all going to face . . . if you’re not facing it now. I can’t tell you when growing UP stops and growing OLD begins. Unfortunately, some people grow old without growing up. Today I’d like to mention some signs along the way that suggest you’ve stopped growing up and are now growing old.

Physically , your aging body starts to put on the brakes. Have you noticed that you’re huffing and puffing more than you’re ripping and zipping? Maybe you’d rather sit than stand . . . to watch more than do. Mentally , your aging brain longs for some relief. Maybe you can’t remember like you used to or respond as quickly as you’d like to. You start thinking more about yesterday and less about today or tomorrow. Emotionally , you begin to experience strange fears and feelings you once said you’d never feel.

Are you . . .

. . . more negative, critical, and ornery at times?

. . . more reluctant to let those who are younger bear more responsibility?

. . . feeling unwanted or “in the way”?

. . . feeling guilty over past mistakes and wrong decisions?

. . . feeling forgotten, unloved, lonely, or passed by?

. . . resisting the need to adjust and adapt?

Thinking like that can sentence you to a prison cell of self-pity, doubt, depression, uselessness, and grief.

Hear me, my friend, when I say that in God’s eyes older people are among His choicest possessions! You’re read about them . . . Abraham was much more effective as he grew old and mellow. Moses didn’t reach any measure of success until he turned eighty. Caleb was eighty-five when he began to enjoy God’s best. And God really used Paul in his last days to write encouraging words in the letters we read today.

We all know that growing old has its difficulties, but let’s not miss the opportunities God gives us to enjoy the life He gives us NOW! God has decided to let you live this long. Your old age is not a mistake, an oversight on His part, nor an afterthought. Isn’t it about time you cooled your tongue, softened your smile, and started to enjoy the breath that’s still in your lungs? God put that breath there, my friend. Use it, as long as you have it, to give HIM praise!

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Growing Old”

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:09:09 GMT

"Growing Old”

Are you . . .

. . . more negative, critical, and ornery at times?

. . . more reluctant to let those who are younger bear more responsibility?

. . . feeling unwanted or “in the way”?

. . . feeling guilty over past mistakes and wrong decisions?

. . . feeling forgotten, unloved, lonely, or passed by?

. . . resisting the need to adjust and adapt?

Thinking like that can sentence you to a prison cell of self-pity, doubt, depression, uselessness, and grief.

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Ask, Listen, Trust”

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:02:47 GMT

"Ask, Listen, Trust”

It’s been almost four years since we planted a row of small trees behind our house here in Linglestown. Our grandsons were still small enough to ride their battery-powered John Deere Gator around the yard so I also “planted” a wooden stake beside each of the baby trees to try to protect them from being squished. Four years later, some of those little pine trees have grown taller than their protective stakes. Others simply won’t thrive. To be honest, I haven’t fertilized any of them, watered them or composted around them. Some just refuse to thrive while some are growing very well.

What makes the difference? Some trees won’t thrive while some trees simply won’t die. There’s an apple tree in my mother’s backyard that was blown over and snapped off by a fierce wind many years ago. I thought it was a goner for sure. But the old apple tree refused to die. The deer consistently eat it, in the summer the mower regularly whacks it, but that ugly apple tree continues to produce fruit.

I really think it’s all in the roots. Some of the little pine trees I planted in my backyard are consistently drowned by a stream that surfaces during heavy rains. Their roots get too wet and that stream washes away their nutrients. The apple tree in my mother’s backyard enjoys plenty of sunshine and rarely are its roots under water. The key to a tree’s health is in the health of its roots. It’s all in the roots.

God’s promises to us are like deep, vibrant roots. His promises run far back to the early eons of time. Moses recorded the first of them in Genesis:

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

God spoke those words to satan after Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit in Eden. That passage may not sound like much of a promise to you, but behind those words is God’s commitment to send you a Savior. Eve’s offspring, Jesus, came to crush the power of sin, death, and the devil.

God planted that promise as soon as the seeds of sin began to germinate on earth. The promise wouldn’t die. Satan tried to chop it down and chip away at it with all kinds of fierce threats like idolatry, wars, and temptation. Sometimes the promise looked like it had been blown over and crushed into a stump.

And yet, out of that stump came a shoot. And out of that shoot came a branch, leaves, and fruit. Jesus is the fruit of the promise God made in Genesis. The deep roots of God’s power and love will never die! And the amazing fact is that God made the power of that Promise available to YOU . . . today! So if you’re feeling defeated, washed away by the streams of stress and the winds of adversity, remember to put your faith in Jesus, my friend. He’s God’s unstoppable, incredible Promise of forever life to you. Sin and death will not win in your life if you’re rooted in Him.

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "A Living Stump or a Dead Tree?”

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:04:00 GMT

" Could This Be a Year of Uprooting? "

God’s promises to us are like deep, vibrant roots. His promises run far back to the early eons of time. Moses recorded the first of them in Genesis:

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Could This Be a Year of Uprooting?”

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 16:33:53 GMT

" Could This Be a Year of Uprooting? "

“You will bring them in and plant them on your own mountain, the place, O Lord, which you have made for your abode, the sanctuary, O Lord, which your hands have established.”

Exodus 15:17

On the Friday before Christmas, we, here in east Harrisburg, received almost two inches of rain in a very short period of time. That’s no big deal . . . usually. But as soon as the rain stopped, tremendously fierce winds started to blow. While I was resting in my Laz-E-Boy, relaxing because I had everything prepared for our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day worship services, I heard a loud CRACK! Looking out our patio door, I saw one of our neighbors’ fifty-foot tall pine trees laying in our yard. It had fallen just short of our roof and deck and missed our old shed and swing set completely. The wind had uprooted that huge tree with a vengeance! It reminded me of God’s people, the ancient Israelites and their temporary stay in Egypt.

Egypt wasn’t that great of a place for the Israelites, but it was home. Egypt had been their home for generations . . . 430 years to be exact (Exodus 12:40). They had put down roots. They had planted gardens. They had raised their families there. It was home.

But Egypt wasn’t the right home for God’s people. They were enslaved by Pharaoh, forced to work on his massive construction projects, and treated very poorly indeed (Until that last phrase, maybe you were thinking about your wife and the to-do list you haven’t finished). God had better plans for His people. In time, He uprooted them and took them away from their home in Egypt. He gave them a better home, planting them in just the right place . . . the Promised Land.

When God uproots His people, He does it with a plan and a purpose. Maybe God has physically uprooted you from your home. Perhaps God has uprooted you from your job. Maybe He’s uprooted a relationship or some plans you’d made for the New Year. An uprooting can be painful. It hurts and it can tempt you to think God is being needlessly harsh.

It might be hard to see at the time, but God uproots us in order to plant us in the right place. As you allow the Holy Spirit to work in you this year, God will uproot you from your sin and brokenness. His heart’s desire is to pull you up out of a bed of death so He can plant you in a garden of life. It was Jesus who said, “I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

When you gave your life to Christ Jesus, God planted you in Him. Deeply! Securely! In Jesus, you can have confidence that you’ll live someday in His Promised Land. Your eternal home is with your Savior in the land of life.

Knowing that should give you hope and peace for the times here on earth when you’re uprooted. Yes, uprooting can hurt. Yet, God uproots His people so they can set down eternal roots with Him in exactly the right place. Are you anticipating an uprooting this year? Trust God that He knows exactly what He’s doing!

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Looking Back . . . Moving Forward”

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:29:52 GMT

" Looking Back . . . Moving Forward "

Happy Last Wednesday of 2022! This period between Christmas and the New Year is when I like to take the opportunity to sit down to count the blessings God brought into my life in the last year. It’s also a great time to review the things I wanted to accomplish in 2022 and establish new goals and objectives for 2023. Maybe the following questions will help you “take a look in the mirror” and help you plan to be better in 2023:

Did I spend enough quality time with my friends and family?

Did I make any new friends?

Did I improve my physical health?

Did I learn anything new?

Did I experience anything new?

Did I help people without needing to take the credit for doing so?

Did I bring joy to someone?

Did I find ways to stretch myself and get out of my comfort zone?

If I find I came up short on anyone of those questions, then that’s an area that I should consider improving next year. How did you fair in answering those questions? What will you do about it?

I think it’s a good idea to make a list of the special events that will be happening in the coming year . . . birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, holidays . . . and then plan ways to make them unique and memorable. When I spend a lot of time focusing and investing my time on what God wants me to do and become, I discover that the payback in terms of personal satisfaction is huge if I’m pleasing Christ! What big events are you anticipating in 2023? Will you train to run a 5K? Take up a new hobby? What will you intend to do to try to get out of your comfort zone? Will you travel to an exotic location? Visit your family members who live far away and restore your relationship with them even if it won’t be comfortable?

If you want to be your very best for the Lord, what will you do to improve your spiritual growth? Maybe you’ll be more intentional in knowing who your neighbors are and how you can serve them. Maybe you’ll become bolder in sharing your faith story. This is going to sound like a selfish suggestion, but what will you do to be a better you in 2023? The better you personally become, the more interesting you’ll be to your peers, to those new friends you’ll meet, and to the people who claim to love you unconditionally.

No matter what the New Year brings, don’t allow your presumed failures, or the things that didn’t go according to plan this year ruin the new opportunities you’ll face in the coming year. Concentrate instead at what you did well, what you enjoyed doing, and focus on the positive things that happened in you and because of you. It’s always good to look back to see what went wrong, but dwelling on a painful past will prevent you from facing a new future with confidence and strength.

In the closing days of this year you’re in a unique situation to not only look back at how you’ve been blessed and forward to where you’re going, but to choose the attitude with which you’ll face the New Year. Let’s admit that life isn’t a success-only journey, but it becomes a success if we choose to look at the challenges, not as barriers, but as events from which we can learn. As we prepare to say farewell to 2022 and all it brought, I'm looking forward to new opportunities in 2023. I think it's going to be a great year! What about you?

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "3 Reasons to Go to Church on Christmas Sunday”

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 16:25:53 GMT

" 3 Reasons to Go to Church on Christmas Sunday "

You realize, don’t you, that Christmas Day falls on a Sunday every six years or so. Sadly, only 63% of churches will offer both Christmas Eve and Christmas Sunday worship services this coming weekend. Many Christians will stay in their matching PJs, focus their cameras, time, and energy on family gatherings, open their gifts, and enjoy a leisurely brunch and not even consider attending worship on Jesus’ birthday. After all, it’s hard to pull the kids away from their presents, get them to eat at least a little something for breakfast, and go to church all on the same day.

This trend is, in my humble opinion, a really bad one, and it’s one we should push back against. So let me offer you three reasons why you should go to worship with your church family this Christmas Sunday.

1. It’s Sunday! The main reason you should go to church this Christmas Sunday is because it’s the usual day we gather to worship the Trinity. Sunday is the Lord ’s Day! We gather on that day to celebrate, remember, and worship Him. This tradition has existed in the Christian Church since Christ’s resurrection approximately 2000 years ago. Why would we even consider breaking it just so we’ll have more time to open presents that will be broken in a couple of hours or returned the next day? Even if you’re out of town visiting family, surely you can find a way to go to church and worship the Lord God who thought enough about you to send Jesus to rescue you from your sins and offer you abundant life!

2. Going to church on Christmas Day is counter-cultural. I don’t need to tell you that our world has been trying to make Christmas a secular holiday since who knows when. Why do you think Christmas decorations come out in retail stores right after Halloween? Let’s take the time to put the cultural celebration of Christmas on the back burner so we can focus on the primary person . . . Jesus’ birth! Doing so will give you a way to buck the trend of our materialistic culture and remind it that there IS a reason for this season, and it’s not gifts, family, or anything other than Jesus. Be counter-cultural and focus on Jesus by going to church this coming Sunday!

3. Christmas is about Jesus! Despite what our culture says or what you may think, Christmas is only about Jesus. Sure, we’ll gather together with friends and family member this time of year. We’ll exchange gifts and eat our roast beasts. But none of those things are really what Christmas is all about. They’re all good activities, but when understood correctly, they point us to Jesus. They should never be the focus of this holy day. Christmas is only and all about Jesus. If you’re tempted to put Jesus on pause so you’ll have enough time for the cultural parts of Christmas, you’ll be missing the boat. Don’t let this world tempt you by taking your focus from where it should be. Keep it on Jesus, God’s gift of love!

So whether you’re at home or you’ve gone over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house this year, be sure to give Jesus your most focused attention in worship on Christmas day! I hope to see you there this coming Sunday! Why in the world wouldn’t you attend church to worship Jesus on Christmas Day? He left heaven to come for you, didn’t He? The least you can do is give Him an hour on His birthday!

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Midweek Encouragement - "Giving Yourself"

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 16:17:45 GMT

" Giving Yourself "

Christmas is all about a love that shows itself in giving. Just as Jesus is God’s gift of love at Christmas, so our Christmas giving should express our love. Be honest . . . How often are you tempted to give someone a gift just because they gave you a gift? You may not like to hear it, but Christmas is about giving, not about buying.

Whoa! What was that? I’ll say it again, slowly this time: Christmas . . . is . . . about . . . giving . . . not . . . about . . . buying. Think about that. Pray about that. And brace yourself . . . you’ll get little support from many people if you decide to take this conviction to heart. A secular, consumerist culture will poke a rude finger in your chest and say, “By whose authority can you say and do these things?”

Let’s think about the practical implications of that statement. Have you considered making some gifts with your own hands instead of ordering them from Amazon with the click of your mouse or a swipe of your finger? Have you considered giving the gift of yourself and your time instead of giving stuff that will end up in the back of someone’s closet or re-gifted to someone else? Why not give some of your famous home-baked goodies instead of another half-baked gimmick? I think you get the idea.

Once you decide that Christmas is for giving, not buying, your Christmas will begin to mean what it’s supposed to mean: love. And your Christmas will start to feel more like God’s love.

Why not ask the God of Advent love to help you be less concerned with buying and more concerned with giving this year?! Let me know how it works for you!

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this email with anyone you choose. And if for some reason you'd like to stop receiving PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send me an email ( kingdomguy@gmail.com ) and I'll accommodate your request.

Christmas Gift Extravaganza!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 17:05:22 GMT

Each year, the Dauphin County Children and Youth Agency collaborates with churches, businesses and individual donors to help provide Christmas Gifts for the children who are currently in their system. These children are growing up in less than ideal circumstances and could use our help.

We have committed to providing gifts for 20 children of the following ages:

2 Male, 2 Female of Newborn-2yrs
2 Male, 2 Female of 3yrs-5yrs
2 Male, 2 Female 6yrs-8yrs
2 Male, 2 Female 9yrs-11yrs
2 Male, 2 Female 12yrs and up

Our goal is to have at least 3 gifts for each age/gender we've committed to, ie. at least 60 gifts in all. The agency will be picking the unwrapped gifts up on December 1st , so we will need all donations by then. They will then take the gifts and set up a "Shop" at the Harrisburg Mall where the parents can come and pick out gifts for their children. When they've done this in the past, some parents said it was the first time they've ever been able to pick out Christmas gifts for their children.

There is a sign-up sheet at the back of the sanctuary, as well as a suggested gift list on the bulletin board, but please note that when you sign up for a specific age/gender, you are indicating that you will provide one gift, NOT that you will be the sole provider of all gifts for that child. There will be a collection box to place the gifts by the bulletin board. Thank you for your support and if you have any questions, please see Michelle Underkoffler.

Haiti Loving Hearts School Program

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 16:46:12 GMT

Through your kind contribution and the support of many other sponsors and churches, 187 students were able to attend school for the 2021/2022 school year! In light of the extreme and continuing hardships the people of Haiti endure, this was an amazing blessing for these children.

Our team is still not permitted to travel to Haiti amid the many dangers that continue to plague this country. We have overwhelming gratitude for Fritz Garcon and Watson Joseph who made this school year possible for these students. They ensured each of the 187 students were enrolled in school, attended regularly, and received the books they needed for their education.

Fritz Garcon is currently in the hospital in Borel receiving medical attention for his leg. He is improving daily but we ask for your prayers for his full recovery. Fritz has been an invaluable part of Haiti Loving Hearts since the beginning of the program. We are truly grateful for all he has done and continues to do for these children.

We will once again continue to enroll students in James Wallace (the school at the Church of God Borel Compound), Eben-Ezer, and Ecole Bon Berger De Coupon for the 2022/2023 school year. If you would like to sponsor a student to attend one of these schools, just make your check payable to Mt. Laurel Church of God in the amount of $150.00 and place in Terry and Lisa Bailey's church mailbox. (Please make a note in the memo "Haiti Loving Hearts"). As always, 100% of your contribution goes directly to Haiti for tuition and books.

We, along with the students and their families, thank you for your kindness in making it possible for these students to receive an education. If you have any questions about the school program, see Terry or Lisa Bailey.

Nursery/Toddler Teachers Needed

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 16:43:14 GMT

Your Help Is Needed!

If we want the Lord to bring new families with young children to our church family, we must be prepared to teach them, mentor them, and support the parents of those children. We can only do that with your help.

As our present children grow up, their needs will evolve. At the present time, we must make a Toddler Room available for those children who are no longer "babes in arms" and who need a little more room to learn. We have the trom, but we need YOU!

" How can I help? " you might be asking. We're looking for more helpers who can provide childcare in the Nursery and the new Toddler Room when that help is necessary . We're looking for people who are willing to have a lesson prepared for a Sunday when little ones come to us.

Is God calling YOU to be a helper or a teacher for little children? Do you realize that being a child's teacher is a while lot easier than teaching an adult or youth class? And being a helper is the least threatening position in our Sunday School.

If God is prompting you to come out of retirement or to begin being a child's Sunday School Teacher, please speak to Trudy Gutshall or Pastor Dale at your earliest convenience. Because when God decides to bring more children to us, we must be ready to teach them His Word and provide Christ-like examples to them. What are you waiting for? Talk to Trudy and/or Past Dale as soon as possible!

The Mission Board Needs Your Help!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 16:29:44 GMT

Missions

Love GOD + Love OTHERS + Change the WORLD

Those who serve on the Mt. Laurel Church of God Mission Board need your help in finding people with physical, financial, and spiritual needs. If you are aware of a family member, friend, coworker, classmate or neighbor who is struggling to make ends meet, who may be threatened with eviction, or who may need financial help to purchase food; please contact a member of the Mission Board listed below. Obviously our first priority is to help those "within the shadow of our steeple" living here in Piketown, Fishing Creek Valley, or West Hanover Township, rather than your friend who lives in southern California so we can also encourage them to begin a relationship with Christ or grow in their relationship with Him. Follow-up is important to us as we seek to introduce people to Jesus and encourage them to become reproducing disciples.

If you are aware of a local Christian-based organization who needs some help, please forward its contact information to a member of the Mission Board.

Thank you for having your ear to the ground and your eyes on the lookout for people who need a helping hand!

The Mt. Laurel Church of God Mission Board

> Holly Haig, Treasurer
> Lisa Bailey
> Terry Bailey
> John Beshore
> Rodney Underkoffler
> Pastor Dale (advisory member)

Food Ministry Volunteers

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 16:25:55 GMT

Be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share.....

1 Timothy 6:18

New volunteers are welcomed to join the Mt. Laurel Food Ministry. If you are interested in being a blessing by delivering meals to those who have had a death in the family, have a hospitalized family member, or are widows or widowers, please contact one of your Mt. Laurel deaconesses listed below:

Tonya Hartman 912-660-3513; Mim Strauss 717-574-1435; Sally Hamilton 717-599-5940

Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 21:10:28 GMT

Will You Help Us At The

We'll need help with:

> helping people cross the street

> serving food

> giving parking instructions

> being hosts and hostesses

> operating games

Come Monday, October 31, 2022 at 4:30PM and stay as long as you can!

Do you want to open your trunk and give out candy or treats?

We have a space for you.

See Trudy Gutshall or Pastor Dale to reserve your space.!

5th Sunday Covered Dish Luncheon

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 13:14:59 GMT

October 30th, immediately following Worship, join us in the large fellowship hall for a great meal as we eat and talk together!

Bring a dish (or two depending on the size of your family) to share with everyone else. Place settings and drinks will be provided.

Fall Work & Cleaning Day

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 12:28:16 GMT

October 22nd

8:00am until Noon

Are you ready for another Church Work Day? Let's all pitch in and do some projects to put a shiny face on the Mt. Laurel Church of God building and grounds!

Come at 8:00 am and stay as long as you can! There will be projects for ANYONE to do, so bring your grandkids, your paintbrushes, shovels, and grass clippers and come help!

If you have questions about what will happen, contact Marcel Smullen (717-525-1794), Mike Dalton (717-614-5786) or Greg Bargo (717-599-4911) at your earliest convenience!

Community Clothing Closet

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 13:16:32 GMT

Community Clothing Closet

Join Us the 4th Saturday Every Month

8:00AM - Noon

At Mt. Laurel Church of God

FREE CLOTHING

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

-Matthew 25:35-36