When you think of serving others, what comes to your mind? Is it something you should be doing because that’s what a Christian is “supposed” to do? Is it something you have to keep doing because that’s what a good Christian must do? Is it something you dread doing because you’re uneasy about having to serve certain people? Or maybe is it something you will never do because you’ve seen others taken advantage of? I’m sure a myriad number of ideas can come to your mind as you think about service. Unfortunately, when we think about serving (or not serving), we can start with the wrong reasons. And that doesn’t necessarily mean they are sinful, but they are not sufficient to motivate or sustain healthy service.
This Sunday, we are going to see how this was something the 12 disciples struggled with. Jesus had to challenge them to stop thinking that God’s kingdom works the same way our human systems usually do. He had to challenge His disciples to see that He is the starting point for true, healthy service. It is what He has done for us, the secure relationship with God that He has given us, which rightly motivates and sustains our service. In other words, our unity with Christ allows us to serve for the right reasons and in the right way. And as we serve Him and others that way, we reveal Jesus to those around us.
In preparation for Sunday, let me encourage you to read through Ephesians 2. As you do, reflect on who you were before Christ, what Christ has done to make you His, and who He frees you to be when you put your trust in Him for salvation. Jesus has given us everything, when we truly have claim to nothing. We couldn’t do anything to earn it, and we can’t do anything to keep it. But our relationship is still totally secure because of Him. Thank you, Jesus!
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Fall Children's & Teens' Programs & Back-to-School Bash |
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Fall Sunday & Wednesday programs for children ages infant through teens entering grade 12 begin in September (that’s just three weeks away!). We’d love to have your children and/or teens join us. Click here to sign up!
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We are hoping/planning to have our Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, September 10, as a follow-up from several of our children’s outreach events (Kids’ Week, Puppets in the Park, Thursdays in the Park, and AWANA). We need folks to take over different aspects of this event to make a fun carnival and additional touchpoint to the new families we have met over the past several months. Activities can include the bounce house, face painting, games (so many possibilities with this one!), snow cones, popcorn, beverages, hot dogs, or we are open to your ideas too! If you, your family, or small group would like to take responsibility for an activity, please contact Pastor Jeff as soon as possible. |
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Services
Sunday Worship & Sunday School @ 8:45 a.m. – In-person
Sunday Worship @ 10:30 a.m. – In-person and Livestream
Children (Summer Movies & Popcorn) @ 6:30 p.m. – In-person
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Job Postings
MVBC has a part-time job opening for two Custodian positions. Contact Linette Lukawitz for more information or click here for the job description.
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Senior Saints' Ministry
It’s been a little while since our Senior Saints’ Ministry has been able to gather for a time of fellowship so we’re hosting a cookout on Saturday, August 13, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. here at the church. Click here to sign up or sign up at the Connections Desk on Sunday so we can plan for food (we’re providing BBQ chicken). Please bring a side to share.
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Giving
You can still worship through giving from home. You may either mail checks to 517 Boston Post Road, Merrimack, NH 03054, or donate online here. To view last week's giving information, click here.
If you would like to give through MVBC to help some missionaries/ministries that are caring for Ukrainian refugees and their needs, please mark your giving "Ukraine Offering" online or on your offering envelopes.
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See you Sunday!
Pastor Dave
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MERRIMACK VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH | MVBC.ORG | 603-595-0955
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