June 25, 2020

Welcome to TCFinTouch!
The e-newsletter of
Trail Christian Fellowship

We are gathering this Sunday, June 28!
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!

View this video by Pastor Travis for details ➤➤➤

Can't wait to see you!
7:15am | 9am | 11am
• All services in the Worship Center
• Children's Ministry and Youth Programs available at 9am and 11am
• Masks are recommended, but not required
Join the TCF family from wherever you're at!
The following services are available via live stream:

  • Sunday 11am
  • Wednesday 6:30pm

Miss a service? Get caught up with previous services on the trail.org archives
Next Week
Sunday, June 28
We continue exploring the depths of the book of Acts in the main Worship Center at:
7:15am | 9am | 11am
• Nursery, Children and Youth Ministries are provided at the 9am and 11am services
• The 11am service is live streamed on trail.org, Facebook, YouTube, and Vimeo
Wednesday, July 1
Now in the main Worship Center, we're currently going through the book of 1 Samuel on Wednesdays at 6:30pm
• Nursery, Children and Youth Ministries are provided
• This service is live streamed on trail.org, Facebook, YouTube, and Vimeo
Recent Teachings
Missed a message, or just want to hear it again?

Visit the sermon audio archive and catch up on our studies
From Our Pastors
Wisdom from Above

Who among you is wise and understanding? By his good conduct he should show that his works are done in the gentleness that comes from wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast and deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there is disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without pretense. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.
James 3:13-18 (CSB)

This passage, from the pen of the Lord’s half-brother James, practically preaches itself, doesn’t it? The context is about the way we talk , the way we use words . Chapter 3:1-12 warns about the misuse of the tongue (see especially verses 5-12). Chapter 4:1-12 describes the source of quarrels and fights among the Christians who were “ speaking evil of one another” (v.11).

Into this texture of tension, James, a pastor/apostle with a very pointed style, lays this clarifying message of wisdom. He addresses those who think of themselves as “wise and understanding.” Doesn’t this describe most people? Don’t we want to think of ourselves this way? Then he describes the two sorts of “wisdom” that people routinely use in daily life. These actually demonstrate whether or not a person is “wise and understanding.” Wisdom here does not mean the Greek idea of speculative philosophical discourse, but the Hebrew notion of practical common sense that produces a godly, virtuous, and productive life.

The two sorts of wisdom that James has in mind could not be more opposed to one another, either in their source or in their outcomes. One is from “below” and shows its colors in angry zeal (jealousy), a profound obsession with the Self in competition with other people (selfish ambition), overweening self-confidence (boasting), and practical denial of the Truth (living and speaking that is at odds with God’s ways). The result of this wisdom is chaos, anarchy, political turmoil (the actual definition of the Greek word “disorder”), and all sorts of bad behavior (evil/vile deeds). The source of this wisdom, says James shockingly, is earthly (in direct contrast with what comes from God), unspiritual (from the flesh rather than the Holy Spirit), demonic (originating in the Devil). Really James, don’t sugar-coat it! Demonic? Wow!

The other sort of wisdom has a profound gentleness about it. This word “gentle” is sometimes translated “meek” but it means strength under control, a safe, deep character. This wisdom is morally and ethically good (pure), committed to and experiencing peace (peace loving/peaceable), considerate, magnanimous, forbearing (this important NT word is sometimes translated “gentle” but is different from that in verse 13. See Phil.4:5). It is cooperative, considerate, compliant, open to reason, submissive (this Greek word means the opposite of obstinacy and self-seeking). And that’s not all! Real wisdom is “full of mercy and good fruits,” which refers to a compassionate heart always ready to help those in need. And it is “impartial,” meaning the utter absence of any sort of discrimination against anybody (a very hot topic these days). And finally, it is “sincere,” which is literally “un-hypocritical.” In other words, this way of living is not an act that people put on, but is a true and authentic reflection of God’s own character implanted in the redeemed human soul.

The source of this second kind of wisdom is God himself (from above). This is why James is so insistent (borderline gruff) as he exhorts his flock to plant a crop of goodness (harvest of righteousness) in peace, as true peacemakers.

Interesting, huh? Radically different ways of life (wisdoms) from profoundly different sources, with eternally contrasting results. Three guesses (from looking at the news and the net) as to which of these two sorts of wisdom our culture is operating in. Another three guesses as to where the Lord is guiding our hearts in this troubled world, especially with how we use our words.

Christians ask their pastors (or should ask them) how to respond to the turmoil in our country as genuine believers. It seems to me that we should consider being peace-sowers and Wisdom teachers, patient, kind, Gospel persons. We should be less fearful, less angry, and more confident of God’s work. Perhaps we should put our thoughts, blogs, posts, tweets and casual conversations through this wisdom grid and maybe press “delete” instead of “send.” Perhaps we should take a page out of Saint Francis of Assisi’s journal:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
where there is injury, pardon,
where there is doubt, faith,
where there is despair, hope,
where there is darkness, light,
where there is sadness, joy.

Oh, Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

Just a thought…
Pastor Rick
Take Note
MyTCF Account 
If you consider yourself a part of the TCF family, then stay connected with a MyTCF account! You can manage your contact information, register for events and give securely online. Members can view the directory.

Visit trail.org and click "MyTCF Login" from the top menu bar. Need a login?  CLICK HERE  then follow the instructions. Help each other put a face to the name and please upload a profile picture! ☺

Questions?  jacki@trail.org | 541.878.3501 ext709
Coming Events
Family Camp
July 9-12
Join us for outdoor fun and fellowship at beautiful Willow Lake! All ages welcome. Reserve your spot today!

For details and to make reservations, contact Debbie Conley:
541.878.3501 ext700 or debbie@trail.org
Child And Baby Dedication Ceremony
Sunday, July 19

If you would like to have your child dedicated, please read the Dedication brochure located in the Office and at the Information counter in the Worship Center Foyer (or online HERE ). Register at trail.org (space is limited, deadline is when all spaces are full or July 5).

Questions about scheduling?
Contact Jacki: 541.878.3501 or jacki@trail.org

Questions of a spiritual nature concerning child dedication?
Contact Pastor Travis Connick: 541.878.3501 or travis@trail.org
Baptism
Sunday, July 26 after Service

If you're ready to take this important step of faith, please listen to “The Obedience of Faith: Baptism" at the link below, or request a CD. After a brief conversation with a TCF Pastor,
you may register.
 
To speak with a Pastor, call the Church Office at 541.878.3501
Outreach
Global Prayer Answered

Thank you for praying for Bill and Ashley and family! They are back in the US from the Sub-Saharan. Please continue to pray for:
  • Their future plans
  • Good health and protection
TPC Baby Bottle Drive Extended

Pick up a bottle at TCF, fill it with your donations (money and/or check) and return it to the TCF Office by August 26 or to the TPC Office (2019 Aero Way #103, Medford, 97504)

You may also make a donation at their webpage: https://thepregnancycenter.us/
Green Bag Update
There’s been a 60% increase in the need for food and a 75% decrease in food donations
If you’d like to continue supporting the Eagle Point Food Project, donate at eaglepointfoodproject.com  or mail a check to: 

Eagle Point Food Project
P.O. Box 706
Eagle Point, OR 97524 
Eagle Point Food Project is a non-profit 501©(3) corporation
 
For food pantries and updates go to accesshelps.org
or call Access 541.779.6691 (Mon-Thur). 
Questions? email outreach@trail.org or call 541.878.3501 ext. 704
Box Tops for Education Update

Thank you for your contributions! With your help, TCF donated 6,300 points in 2019 towards school supplies for Navajo Mission Students. The Box Tops program is now going all digital. No more clipping, just download the app and choose McKinley Elementary School, 1201 N. Butler Ave. Farmington, NM (hint, search by zip code 87401 ) then scan your store receipts. Check out Boxtops4education.com for details. We’ll still accept unexpired clips at the Church Office/Willingheart Window and mail them to the school. 
Men's Ministry
Men's Outdoor Prayer Breakfast

Men are invited to join us for a free breakfast and devotional prayer time led by TCF Pastors or Elders. Donations gratefully accepted.

NOTE: We are currently meeting in the outdoor Pavilion.
Men's Bible Study

Discussion topics are centered on the previous Sunday's sermon. You can view/listen to Sunday services at trail.org or Youtube. We meet every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:00 pm.

Please contact Pablito for location!

Pablito: 949.246.9615 or pablito@trail.org
Youth Ministry
Teen Outing: South Umpqua Falls
Thursday, July 9
9am - 5pm

Cost $5. Permission slip required. Space is limited. Bring lunch, water bottle, sun block, modest swimsuit, towel and shoes for mild hiking.

Registration opens June 26 at trail.org.

Robert Milton: 541.878.3501 or  robert@trail.org  
Save the dates!
July 9
South Umpqua Falls . Meeting at the church at 9am and returning at 5pm. Things to bring: lunch, modest swim suit, sunblock, water bottle, and shoes for mild hiking. $5
 
July 26
Rafting. Leaving the church at 1pm and returning at 6pm. Things to bring: modest swim suit, sunblock, water bottle, and life jacket (optional). $15
 
July 30
Hike up Grizzly Peak. Meeting at the church at 10am and returning at 3pm. Things to bring: lunch, water bottle, hiking shoes, sunblock, and backpack (optional). $5
 
August 6
Lake of The Woods swim area. Meeting at the church at 10am and returning at 4pm. Things to bring: lunch, modest swim suit, towel, sunblock, water bottle, and fishing pole (optional). $5
 
August 20
Hike in the Sky Lakes wilderness. Meeting at the church at 10am and returning at 4pm. Things to bring: lunch, water bottle, hiking shoes, sunblock, modest swim suit (under hiking clothes), towel, and backpack (optional). $5
 
August 30
Rafting. Leaving the church at 1pm and returning at 6pm. Things to bring: modest swim suit, sunblock, water bottle, and life jacket (optional). $15
Children's Ministry
Dog Days of Summer
Wednesdays June 17 - August 26
Every Wednesday evening throughout the summer months, we offer “Dog Days of Summer”; TCF’s Children's Ministry for kids 4 years old through 5 th grade. Food is served at 6:35pm in the Pavilion, followed by Soccer skills training, and finishing with a lesson from God’s word. Our missions focus this summer is the Pregnancy Center. Children ages nursery through 3 years old meet in Room 2.

Questions? Debbie 541.878.3501 or debbie@trail.org

Note: Background checks are required for the safety of our children.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!" Philippians 4:4
July 20-21 OR July 22-23
Prayer Warriors by Email
If you would like to be a regular part of praying for the Children's Ministry and receive an email prayer letter periodically to keep up with what God is doing with the next generation, email debbie@trail.org to get on the list. This will be a blind copy email and your email address will not be shared with others.
Debbie Conley: 541.878.3501
Celebrate Recovery
  Celebrate Recovery
A Christian 12 step program for those struggling with addiction, abuse or other hurts, habits or hang-ups. We meet in the Fireside Room every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Come at 6pm for a free meal (donations welcome)! Social distancing required and hand washing/sanitizing required upon entrance, masks encouraged.
No nursery or child care program available at this time.
 
If you have questions call Paige Winfrey 541.821.0459 or send an email to  celebraterecovery@trail.org . You can also keep up with Celebrate Recovery on our   Facebook   page.

Area Events
June 4, 2020


Dear PBC Community,   
                                                                   
Fall enrollment is open and we are excited to announce the launching of our first Bachelor’s degree – Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. The Fall 2020 offering of a baccalaureate degree is exciting for three reasons:

Future Christian Leaders Educated Here
Students can now stay in the valley and receive an excellent baccalaureate degree while staying engaged in ministry at their church and our community.

Academic Value Increases
The academic value increases for PBC credits– both at the Associate level and the Baccalaureate level. PBC as an institution gains value in the higher education marketplace.

Positive Financial Impact
Students will not have to pay university level tuition and can potentially graduate debt free. Upon successful employment their degree increases their earning potential by approximately 40%.

As you can see, the step into four-year degrees will impact our Southern Oregon region for years to come and incrementally increase with each graduating class. Our philosophy is to add marketable programs/degrees as the needs of our region dictate.

We are open for Fall 2020 enrollment and plan to offer online and/or in person classes, maintaining COVID compliance. If you or someone you know may be interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree, call for an academic consultation at 541-776-9942 or go Here to register.

Feel free to contact me or Stuart Boyer, our Chief Academic Officer, if you would like to chat about how Pacific Bible College might fit your higher education goals and needs in this season of your education.

Blessings,

Mike Robinson
President, PBC
The 2020 Golf Challenge , features a four-person scramble with 7:15 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. shotguns and banquet seating at 6:30 p.m. Be a part of a long tradition while helping thousands of kids throughout the Rogue Valley. Youth 71Five Ministries is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit Christ-Centered organization supported through the generosity of individuals, foundations and businesses like you.
Redemption Ridge is looking for Care Specialists to work directly with the girls at Grace House. This is an amazing opportunity to affect the lives of hurting teenage girls. The job is located in the upper Rogue area. For more information please call Redemption Ridge 541.816.4415
Thank you for visiting TCFinTouch 
the weekly e-newsletter of
Trail Christian Fellowship
18881 Hwy 62
Eagle Point OR 97524
Church Office Hours:
Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
[ 541.878.3501 ] [information@trail.org] [ www.trail.org  ]