Not Against Type, but Becoming and Embracing Freedom
May 5, 2022
“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1, NASB)
How many times have we heard someone say, “I was moved outside my comfort zone,” or, “that was so not me?” Not in a negative way, but in extending our reach beyond ourselves and bringing others into what was, until then, a limited circle. It is liberating in finding out that extending the love and care God has for us to others really is embracing our true selves.
So maybe it is not so much against type as it is becoming the person who God had intended us to be all along. Perhaps the other person we thought we were was the one that was against type – because lived experience taught us to raise a barrier beforehand so if betrayal or hurt did come it would not be unexpected and there was less investment or commitment of self. It is a cautious approach to life but it is also limiting. True, one is less likely to experience hurt, but there is also the possibility of missing some of the unexpected joys that can be found in life and in relationship with others.
Paul builds on the message of Jesus we find in the gospel of John: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly” and “If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 10:10; John 8:36 – NASB) The gracious, loving, and caring heart with which we have been blessed, is big enough to live through the good and bad. Jesus’ love was great enough to embrace all people, even those that He knew would betray Him (Jesus washed everyone’s feet around the table at the last supper). So rather than against type, perhaps life, the love of others, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the example of Jesus moves us to become the person God has called us to be as we embrace the freedom in our living to welcome others into our lives and to walk this journey together.
And life continues in the ministry and work of Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church. May we continue to pray for and remember one another as we experience life in all of its varied circumstances and emotions.
Pastor Carolyn
UPCOMING EVENTS
Forum and Book Signing – May 8
Our own Dr. Alean Saunders-Coffey will read from and sign copies of her book, The Beauty of Words: Poems and Essays for Uncertain Times, on Sunday, May 8, following the morning worship service.
Incarceration Pilgrimage – May 28 – June 1
Begins Saturday, May 28 – Contact Pastor Allison for details
40th Hunger Task Force Hunger Walk – June 5
Sign ups continue in the Narthex. Help HTF help others in the community.
Vacation Bible Camp
July 11-15, 8:30 am – 12 Noon
Click here to register online
Also registration forms can be picked up at church
At Monumental VBC, kids celebrate God’s greatness! Monumental is filled with awesome Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear, and touch! Sciency-Fun Gizmos™, team-building games, unforgettable Bible songs, and tasty treats are just a few of the standout activities that help faith flow into real life Plus, we’ll help kids discover how to see evidence of God in everyday life—something we call God Sightings®.
All Church Family Retreat
August 5-7
Theme: Restore Refresh Renew – Psalm 51:10 -12
Redwood Glen
Early Bird Registration until May 27
2022 Registration Form-F or
Download WORD version
Registration forms can be picked up at church
WEEKLY GATHERINGS
Saturday, May 7
10:00 AM – Time for Prayer (ZOOM)
Psalm 106
Sunday, May 8 (Mother’s Day)
(Sign ups continue for Hunger Task Force 40th Hunger Walk)
10:00 AM – Worship (In person, ZOOM, livestream)
11:45 AM – Forum – Reading and Book Signing
Tuesday, May 10
6:00 PM – Bible Study (ZOOM)
Wednesday, May 11
10:30 AM Prayer and Bible Study (ZOOM)
Thursday, May 12
6:00 PM Together in Spirit (ZOOM)
(Continue our study in II Samuel)
Saturday, May 14
10:00 AM – Time for Prayer (ZOOM)
1:00 PM – VBC Volunteer Meeting
Lakeshore ZOOM Information
Online: https://zoom.us/j/8599095914
Dial-in: 1 669 900 9128
Meeting ID: 859 909 5914
Password: 192833
One tap mobile: +16699009128
Contribute
Your ongoing support of the ministry of our church is greatly appreciated. We are checking the mail so feel free to mail your check or to contribute online.