Please check out the attachment to consider joining us on a 40+ Spiritual Fast for Set Free and our personal spiritual growth.

Thanks and God bless.

Chad McComas
Pastor

Paul is excited to share with his readers in Romans that when we accept Jesus Christ we have a new life. The old life under the law has been replaced with the new life under the control of the Holy Spirit. He highlights the life under the law in Romans 7 by clearly stating that we can’t live right when under the law. Yet when the Holy Spirit takes over our lives are totally changed! Romans 8 points out the freedom under the Spirit and the amazing things that happen under the Spirit. We will be looking at that today in our worship service.

FELLOWSHIP POTLUCK TODAY…

following the worship service. Plan to stick around to take time to get to know others in the fellowship. Why not sit with someone you don’t normally sit with. Expand your friendships.

CLASS ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS IS A BIG HIT…

it is called: “Balancing Life’s Demands…Biblical Priorities For a Busy Life.” We had over 20 people again this week and there is still room for more. Workbook is $7. Worship starts at 6:30 and the class starts at 7:00 pm. There is a video presentation and then some discussion on the lesson. These sessions build on each other so plan to come so you won’t miss a thing!

40 DAYS OF SPIRITUAL EMPOWERMENT START TODAY..

.I’m asking that we set aside 40+ days from February 18-March 31 to focus on a spiritual fast. Let’s set this time aside to focus on the Lord and allow Him to fill us with His Spirit. Let’s pray and seek His favor. Specifically let’s pray for a new ministry center that is large enough for all the ministry we do here each week. A Spiritual Fast means to intentionally choose to listen to Christian music and set aside all others during that time. We can choose to only read the Word and other Christian materials and watch only uplifting movies and programs. We can choose to spend more time with God each day than we normally do. This 40+ days is to put our focus totally on God and His work on our behalf as a church body. Are you in?

SOZO SESSIONS (3)…

the team is back up and running. They are doing one to two sessions on Friday nights. If you are interested contact Toti Enders 941-0630. These sessions are a great opportunity to focus on one’s connection with God and see what blocks there may be to a more abundant experience with God.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Ask the Holy Spirit who needs a word of support this week. You can write a encouragement postcard and have the church mail it.

PEOPLE WORKING A PROGRAM (3)…

On Tuesday nights there is a large group of women and a good group of men working through the 12-steps together. The 12 Steps are Biblically based and actually help one to take a clear look at himself/herself to see what is causing troubles and addressing those troubles. All who go through this process find amazing freedom as they work through the steps. A fear to be vulnerable and openly address one’s struggles keeps people stuck in life.

CLASSES ON SATURDAY MORNINGS…

remember that we have two options for Bible study classes on Saturday mornings from 10-11 am. There is a class in the Café going over Hebrews and a class in the room in the South West corner of the church that is going through Isaiah. I’m hearing good things about both classes. Why not come an hour earlier and attend one of these groups?

DEBI HAS A CD THAT WILL TOTALLY BLESS YOUR LIFE…

someone loaned a CD to Debi and I last week that make a huge impact on us. We have been sharing it with others and hearing how they are being blessed. Do you need a pick-me-up? Ask Debi to borrow the CD.

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

March edition is being worked on and put together. The theme is “built” off of Ephesians 2:19-22. I’m asking God for the last $250 we need to be able to go to press later this week. The papers are still going fast!

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

served over 30 families this week. The food drive last weekend netted 29 boxes of food for our pantry.

ROGUE RETREAT…

our board met for six hours last Sunday and worked closely with a consultant to improve our organization and board. It is helping us grow. We continue to see good progress in most of our people. Our eight apartments in Central Point should be open in early March.

POP OPEN CARDS…

we received an order from the Salvation Army in Indianapolis this week for 6,000 cards! They are having us put their logo on the back. We also send another 200 to an individual in Colorado.

MARRIAGES…

I’m concerned about the health of many marriages. I hear how husbands and wives are in a standoff and the deep love and respect is missing from their day-to-day experience. Many are just hanging on or are thinking of possible separation. I know how the enemy works hard at creating chaos in homes and relationships. I’ve experienced it as well. It takes a conscious will to build a strong marriage and relationship. It takes committed time and effort. It takes date nights and communication and forgiveness. It is a full-time job, but the reward is amazing! God created marriage and He continues to bless it as each partner plays his/her role. If you need help…ask God what needs to change. He is not helpless to give you all the wisdom and resources you may need to turn things around. We owe it to ourselves and our Lord to allow the Holy Spirit to empower our marriages.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS EXPLODING…

we have had a full house for several weeks with many new faces and lots of kids. God is doing something here and we need to join Him in His work. We need to have two baby sitters each week. It all costs $ and we can use donations to build this program. We can also use a bigger place! Pray with us. God is changing lives.

GOD HAS PLANS FOR EACH OF US HERE TODAY…

the only question is if we allow Him to have control.

Jesus told His disciples that He would never leave them or forsake them. He promised the Holy Spirit to come and live inside of us making His home with us. That Holy Spirit is on duty with us 24/7. It is His job to bring the presence of the Father and the Son to us each day. The Holy Spirit changes us from the inside. The Holy Spirit empowers us and inspires us. He leads us and convicts us. He warns us and cleanses us. He prepares us for the coming Kingdom.

THE NEW CLASS ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS…

with Pastor Harold called: “Balancing Life’s Demands…Biblical Priorities For a Busy Life” is a good course. WE had over 20 people last week and there is still room for more. Workbook is $7. Worship starts at 6:30 and the class starts at 7:00 pm. There is a video presentation and then some discussion on the lesson. 

40 DAYS OF SPIRITUAL EMPOWERMENT…. 

I’m asking that we set aside 40+ days from February 18-March 31 to focus on a spiritual fast. Let’s set this time aside to focus on the Lord and allow Him to fill us with His Spirit. Let’s pray and seek His favor. Specifically let’s pray for a new ministry center that is large enough for all the ministry we do here each week. A Spiritual Fast means to intentionally choose to listen to Christian music and set aside all others during that time. We can choose to only read the Word and other Christian materials and watch only uplifting movies and programs. We can choose to spend more time with God each day than we normally do. This 40+ days is to put our focus totally on God and His work on our behalf as a church body. Are you in?

SOZO SESSIONS (2)…

the team is back up and running. They are doing two sessions on Friday nights. If you are interested contact Toti Enders 941-0630. These sessions are a great opportunity to focus on one’s connection with God and see what blocks there may be to a more abundant experience with God.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY (3) …

I’ve been talking with Tina about our children’s ministry recently. She is determined to make it successful this year. She will need help. Do you feel called to help build this ministry to serve children and their families? Please call her at 778-5243. Our little children’s rooms are used by several organizations. We need more space for sure. Remember we have child care during the worship service each week. You will notice that we had some painting done this week in the larger room to prepare for a special mural for the children’s ministry.

YOUTH MINISTRY…

Stuart and I took our youth to roller skating last night at Roller Odyssey. They had a great time. We were talking around the table with John Enders and Donna Wilhelms about building up our youth program with more outings and events and perhaps another mission trip this summer. Will you pray with us about this? I always want the youth we have to have the opportunity to build great memories with youth events.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Lois Fritz called last night to share that her husband, Ed is doing much better! She thanks us for our prayers. 

Some of you will remember Doug Forrest. He used to attend here when we first started Set Free. He passed away on Thursday.

Micah Maeda, who attended her in our early days with his family Judy King and sister Kail, is in RVMC and not doing well.

PEOPLE WORKING A PROGRAM (2)…

On Tuesday nights there is a large group of women and a good group of men working through the 12-steps together. The 12 Steps are Biblically based and actually help one to take a clear look at himself/herself to see what is causing troubles and addressing those troubles. All who go through this process find amazing freedom as they work through the steps. A fear to be vulnerable and openly address one’s struggles keeps people stuck in life.

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

the papers were distributed this week. I ordered 17,000 this month. The subs went out and the inmates papers were mailed. Several locations were added this week. We are now starting to work on the March issue. Theme is “Built” from Ephesians 3. 

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

Tina is working hard on finding additional funds to help operate the pantry and cover come administration costs. She is moving into the small room off the youth room. Our numbers continue to grow.

ROGUE RETREAT…

we had a meeting on Thursday at the Library with representatives from local agencies to share with them who Rogue Retreat is and how we want to work closely with the various agencies serving people in Jackson County. Good turnout. Great connection. We made a short presentation to the city on Wednesday night about a grant we are seeking to purchase and tear down the white house next to the Riverside facility. We also received a check for $25,000 from the Oregon Community Foundation to help us pay off the remaining loan on the Grape Street facility. Sterling Savings Bank gave us $1,000 to help with a special job assessment and training program with Good Will. 

BOOK STORE (3)….

we just got in some LARGE print Bibles! They are only $12. We received a large number of good used books this week so our shelves are full! Check it out. We have one more of the books on the Holy Spirit that I’m using for my sermon series. Only $10. Remember we have “Freedom Through Forgiveness” books too.

POP OPEN CARDS…

we are still working on the Spanish cards. Our orders have been slow this month. We sent 100 to a woman in Bly, Oregon. Can you help us spread the word about these cards? I talked with the leader of a recovery house in Seattle this week. He used 100 of the cards around Christmas. I asked him when he was going to get more. He told me the guys are really bothering him to get some more. He laughed and told me that they were “addicted” to the cards.

YEAR END DONATION REPORTS…

were handed out and/or mailed last week. If you don’t get yours please let us know.

FINANCIAL UPDATE (2)…

due to the generosity of our people we were able to have enough funds to cover our expenses in January. January is always a tough month for church budgets due to many folk spending too much over the holidays. I’m noticing that those who have made new decisions to be generous this past year are giving more to the church. I hear that those who are actively tithing are finding God working miracles in their lives. The declarations at church are blessing many.

I was sidetracked this week by references to the Holy Spirit in the book of Ephesians. There is some powerful things Paul says about the Spirit and what He does for believers. I thought we could look at that today in our continuing study of the Holy Spirit. The more I read about the Spirit the more I learn and understand that the Spirit is the key to our “sanity” in this life as we wait for Jesus to come back to earth to get us. It is the Spirit’s job to get us all through and into the Kingdom. He is good at His job and will succeed as long as we allow Him to work inside us.

NEW CLASS THIS WEDNESDAY NIGHT…

Pastor Harold and I leading a new series on Wednesday nights called: “Balancing Life’s Demands…Biblical Priorities For a Busy Life.” The course is 10 weeks and has a workbook. Cost will be $7. We will start THIS Wednesday night, February 8. Worship at 6:30 and the class starts at 7:00 pm. Pray about being part of this class. It really looks good and will help all of us to stay Christ focused and centered in our daily walk. Have over 15 people signed up so far.

DEACON’S MEETING…

last week focused on some maintenance situations and then talked and prayed about moving. Asking God to open the doors for us and New Life. I’m asking that we set aside 40+ days from February 18-March 31 to pray specifically about this. During that time I’d like to suggest fasting in some form. Many of us can do a spiritual fast where we choose to listen to Christian music and set aside all others during that time. We can choose to only read the Word and other Christian materials and watch only uplifting movies and programs. This 40+ days is to put our focus totally on God and His work on our behalf as a church body. Are you in?

SOZO SESSIONS…

the team is back up and running. They are doing two sessions on Friday nights. If you are interested contact Toti Enders 941-0630. These sessions are a great opportunity to focus on one’s connection with God and see what blocks there may be to a more abundant experience with God.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY (2) …

I’ve been talking with Tina about our children’s ministry this week. She is determined to make it successful this year. She will need help. Do you feel called to help build this ministry to serve children and their families? Please call her at 778-5243. Our little children’s rooms are used by several organizations. We need more space for sure. Remember we have child care during the worship service each week.

LETTERS…EMAILS….

“The new Pop-open cards are very nice and fresh, by the way!” Larissa Owens, Owner of the Green Book

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Lois Fritz called last week and asked for prayer for her husband, Ed. His heart is bad and he isn’t doing well.
John & Michele Greb called and asked for prayer for Michele’s father, Wally. He is having heart troubles.

PEOPLE WORKING A PROGRAM…

On Tuesday nights there is a larger group of women and a good group of men working through the 12-steps together. The 12 Steps are Biblically based and actually help one to take a clear look at himself/herself to see what is causing troubles and addressing those troubles. All who go through this process find amazing freedom as they work through the steps. A fear to be vulnerable and openly address one’s struggles keeps people stuck in life.

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

took the February issue to press yesterday. It will be printed on Monday. We received enough ads and donations to cover another issue! Yeah. We take it one issue at a time. I had some interesting feedback on the topic of the last one. One church asked to be taken off our distribution list because the associate pastor felt we were teaching false doctrine and he had to protect his flock. Two other pastors commented on how much they enjoy the paper. Evidently we can’t please everyone, but they are reading it!

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

I turned in another grant to help cover expenses for this valuable ministry. This one was with the Chaney Family Foundation. I’m asking God for favor so we can expand our service. We are needing larger storage facilities. Please thank a food pantry worker for his/her dedication and service.

ROGUE RETREAT…

I had the opportunity to meet with the staff at the Housing Authority. We are partnered with them for 23 living units. Great group of people who are serving our community. They were very interested in what Rogue Retreat is doing. We heard some good comments on how the program is going and how we take care of our units.

BOOK STORE (2)….

we just got in some LARGE print Bibles! They are only $12. We also have two more of the books on the Holy Spirit that I’m using for my sermon series. Only $10. Remember we have “Freedom Through Forgiveness” books too. They are life changers.

POP OPEN CARDS…

we are still working on the Spanish cards. Our orders have been slow this month. We sent 100 to a woman in Bly, Oregon. Can you help us spread the word about these cards? I talked with the leader of a recovery house in Seattle this week. He used 100 of the cards around Christmas. I asked him when he was going to get more. He told me the guys are really bothering him to get some more. He laughed and told me that they were “addicted” to the cards.%3

has a job to do.  What is it?  We will talk about that today.  It is truly exciting to know God’s intention with His Holy Spirit in our lives.

NO CLASS THIS WEDNESDAY NIGHT…

Pastor Harold and I are getting ready for a new series on Wednesday nights called: “Balancing Life’s Demands…Biblical Priorities For a Busy Life.”  The course is 10 weeks and has a workbook.  Cost will be $6.  We will start on Wednesday night, February 8.  Worship at 6:30 and the class starts at 7:00 pm.  Pray about being part of this class. It really looks good and will help all of us to stay Christ focused and centered in our daily walk.

DEACON’S MEETING...this coming Wednesday night at 5:30.

SOZO SESSIONS (2)…

we have started back up with sessions on Friday nights by appointment.  We have a very committed team who are willing to share their time with those seeking breakthroughs in their relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Wounds are healed and hope restored.  If you are interested in one of these sessions talk with Toti Enders 944-0651 or make a reservation for a session through our office.  These are free.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY…

I’ve been talking with Tina about our children’s ministry this week.  She is determined to make it successful this year.  She will need help.  Do you feel called to help build this ministry to serve children and their families?  Please call her at 778-5243.  Our little children’s rooms are used by several organizations.  We need more space for sure.  Remember we have child care during the worship service each week.

LETTERS…

“Because I was moved, mail from the old prison is slowly catching up and your Christmas card arrived today.  I am touched you all signed it and it moved me to tears. You are all awesome!  Godly hugs to all of you.  Again, thank you for thinking of me.”  Adrian, Chico, California

“…I’m currently facing the rest of my life in prison….I have a simple request to ask.  I pray to have a pen-pal from your church, man or woman, believer or non-believer…”  Jeff Spoonire, #5395135, Snake River, 777 Stanton Blvd, Ontario, Oregon 97914

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Lois Fritz called and asked for prayer for her husband, Ed.  His heart is bad and he isn’t doing well.

Isaiah Bruhns, who used to come to Set Free and was part of our men’s house on Riverside at one time, passed away this week.

God wants to use all of us to touch the lives of others.  Like Jesus we connect to the Father and do His work.  Who can you write an encouragement card to today?  Who can you give a pop open card to?  Who to call?  Bless?

WOW!  GOD IS MOVING ON TUESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHTS (2)…

here at the ministry center.  Our Celebration Recovery team is leading men’s and women’s 12-Step study groups on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:00 pm.  We have over 20 women coming and a good group of men.  There is still room for anyone who is wanting to make a positive change in his/her life and needs the support of others who are also making changes.  Over the years I’ve watched amazing things happening in the lives of those who commit to these groups and follow through.  Our Thursday night CR is growing too.  Great spirit.  People excited about making new choices and changes.  Always room for more.  We need some people to come to just be support.  Can you do that?

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

working on February’s issue.  Plan to print late next week.  Theme is “Saved.”  Alex is struggling with a cover idea. If you have one share it with him.  I had a long email this week from a local assistant pastor taking me to task over my editorial on predestination.  He shared that I was wrong in my thinking and asked that we not bring the paper to his church any more.  I also had another area pastor tell us how good a job we are doing and renewed his church’s ad in our church director.  Had another pastor in the Grants Pass area call and share his church will be running an ad in our directory.  So, can’t please everyone, but God is using this paper to reach people.

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

had another 50 families this past Tuesday.  ACCESS gave us another refrigerator and freezer.  They are in Marc’s old office.  Not a inch to spare in this building.  We are maxed out.  Please let Tina and her volunteer crew know how much you appreciate their hard work.  Steve Gallatin started serving lunch this last Tuesday for the group.  He ran out of food!

ROGUE RETREAT…

our board met on Thursday.  We are all so thankful for how God has led this organization.  We are seeing doors opening and favor pouring out on us.  We applied for a city CBDG on Monday.  We are asking for funds to purchase and raze the white house next door to our facility on North Riverside.  We will also build a small parking lot, landscape and begin to raise funds to put a structure for a ministry for homeless women needing mental health support. (future)   We are looking for additional help for our children’s ministry on Monday nights.  Call Debi 951-6355.  We will also be needing another men’s life coach soon.  Call me at 951-6652.

BOOK STORE….

we just got in some LARGE print Bibles!  They are only $12.  We also have three more of the books on the Holy Spirit that I’m using for my sermon series.  Only $10.  Remember we have “Freedom Through Forgiveness” books too.  They are life changers.

POP OPEN CARDS…

we are still working on the Spanish cards.  Our orders have been slow this month.  We had an older woman from the Portland area call to get some.  She was excited about receiving one recently.  Another woman from Bly called and wants to get some.  The word is slowly spreading.

LET ME SUGGEST AN AWESOME BOOK ON PRAYER(2)..

.by Andrew Murray.  Randy had suggested it to me a while back. I’ve been reading in it and am going through it again.  Very powerful.  “With Christ in the School of Prayer” is the name of the book.  I can get one for you through Amazon for around $6.  I guarantee it will strengthen your prayer life and your understanding about prayer. It is blessing me!

 YEAR END DONATION REPORTS…

will be put together this week and mailed.

FINANCIAL UPDATE…

January is always a hard month after the holidays.  We are needing a good offering this week to make sure we have enough for February 1 expenses.

is an exciting one.  Once we can get an understanding on who the Holy Spirit is what His role is in our lives we discover a whole new existence as a believer!   The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the Father in heaven.  He sends the Holy Spirit to live inside us thus putting His Spirit in us.  He says that when His Spirit is in us He is able to change our hearts of stone and make them hearts of flesh.  His Spirit empowers us to follow God’s will and ways for our lives.  Jesus was lead by the Spirit when He was on this earth. It was the Spirit directing His life and His ministry. It was the Spirit who empowered Him to do the mighty miracles for the glory of the Father.  When Jesus went back to the Father He told His followers that He was sending the Holy Spirit to teach them all that He had taught and to be their counselor. It is the Holy Spirit who is with us 24/7, lives inside us, teaches us truth, convicts us, changes us, compels us and connects us to the Father. It is the Holy Spirit who leads us to say “Abba Father” to the Father in Heaven.  Today we will talk a bit about the life worth living with the Holy Spirit.

NO SECRETS OF THE VINE CLASS THIS WEDNESDAY NIGHT…

we finished the series.  I really enjoyed it.  It reminded me of very important truths for believers.  I’m praying about what God wants for us next.  Debi’s group will continue this week.

SOZO SESSIONS…

we have started back up with sessions on Friday nights by appointment.  We had two last night.  We have a very committed team who are willing to share their time with those seeking breakthroughs in their relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Wounds are healed and hope restored.  If you are interested in one of these sessions talk with Toti Enders 944-0651 or make a reservation for a session through our office.

WOW!  GOD IS MOVING ON TUESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHTS…

here at the ministry center.  Our Celebration Recovery team is leading men’s and women’s 12-Step study groups on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:00 pm.  We had over 20 women this past Tuesday and a good group of men.  There is still room for anyone who is wanting to make a positive change in his/her life and needs the support of others who are also making changes.  Over the years I’ve watched amazing things happening in the lives of those who commit to these groups and follow through.  Our Thursday night CR is growing too.  We had 50 people here Thursday.  Great spirit.  People excited about making new choices and changes.  Always room for more.  We need some people to come to just be support.  Can you do that?

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

God wants to use all of us to touch the lives of others.  Like Jesus we connect to the Father and do His work.  Who can you write an encouragement card to today?  Who can you give a pop open card to?  Who to call?  Bless?

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

came off the press on Monday.  Less than 1,000 papers left of the 17,000 printed. Our distributors did their job.  People are reading them.  We are already getting great comments back on this issue.  The issues we send to prisoners went out.  What an honor to do this ministry.  Now working on February’s issue.  Can you help us by sponsoring a subscription to someone out of state?  Perhaps sponsor an inmate sub.  Can’t tell you how much $20 helps!

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY (2)…

I worked with Tina to write a grant last week for the food pantry.  The grant was for the Walker Fund from Oregon Community Foundation.  We asked for enough to help us cover the cost of food and some rent for a larger location.  Our ultimate goal is to have space to have a Shabby Chic store with donations from the community to create income for the pantry.  Please be in prayer with us for God to do amazing things this year.  Our pantry is growing so much.  We expect to serve about 2,500 people this year!

ROGUE RETREAT…

got word that the Carpenter Foundation decided to help with our capital payoff campaign.  They are giving us $5,000 to help pay off our Grape Street facility.  I’m working on a grant to turn in Monday to the City of Medford.  We are asking them to give us the funds to purchase and raze the white house next to our Riverside facility for future expansion.  We are seeing some great changes in some of our folk.  They are moving forward.  Others are struggling, but our committed staff pray for them all the time.  We are constantly seeking God’s wisdom on how to support and encourage our participants.

BOOK STORE….

we just got in some LARGE print Bibles!  They are only $12.  We also have six more of the books on the Holy Spirit that I’m using for my sermon series.  Only $10.

POP OPEN CARDS (3)…

“Do you like sharing the Word of God with others? Sometimes we just don’t know the right words to say. It seems like EVERY time I give a card it hold just the right message to the recipient that he or she needed at that precise moment. God has a way of guiding the right card into the right hand at the right time. Buy some today and see for yourself. Make 2012 a year of encouragement with Pop Open Cards!”  Heather Hoyle-Aney

I ASKED THE DEACONS TO PRAY WITH ME (3)…

for a bigger place to worship and do ministry out of.  I’ve asked the Lord for years about this and so far He has provided what we are in.    I see the limitations we have with this place and I long for more room for worship, for an adequate children’s program, for a larger food pantry work and for our ever growing Rogue Retreat ministry.  Even our pop open cards seems to be growing and will take more room.  The Word tells us to ASK and it will be given. It is far better to ASK than to try to make it happen by our own efforts, but we must ASK and keep ASKING according to the teachings of Jesus on prayer.  Will you ASK with me?  Will you believe with me?

DO YOU HEAR GOD SPEAKING TO YOU? (2)…

I was talking with Debi recently about how the Holy Spirit does speak to us.  She was commenting how the more she listens and follows His leading the more He talks to her.  I agree.  We can shut down the Holy Spirit by refusing to follow His lead.  He then steps back and lets us run our own program until we get tired and come back.  He then reminds us of what He said earlier and waits for us to do what He has asked us to do.  When we do, new doors are opened up and we are able to move ahead with the abundant life.  If we are stuck, it may be due to our own failure to follow Him.  God does speak to us.  We just have to be willing to listen.

LET ME SUGGEST AN AWESOME BOOK ON PRAYER…

by Andrew Murray.  Randy had suggested it to me a while back. I’ve been reading in it and am going through it again.  Very powerful.  “With Christ in the School of Prayer” is the name of the book.  I can get one for you through Amazon for around $6.  I guarantee it will strengthen your prayer life and your understanding about prayer. It is blessing me!

and her family.  It is an honor and privilege to have the Busters with us.  Lisa has been involved with music ministry for many years and has a wonderful testimony of God’s power and love.  She identifies with her audiences well.   Hope you can help support her by picking up one of her CD’s. They make great gifts for family or friends. 

A CULTURE OF HONOR (3)…

I talked recently  about the new year ahead and the importance of building and supporting an experience at Set Free that brings honor and glory to the Father.  We come to worship HIM when we come to Set Free.  We are here to seek HIS heart and HIS will.  This is HIS place.  We are HIS people.  He has HIS work to be done.  Each time we come to this place we need to be coming in expectation of what HE wants to do in and through each one of us.  I truly believe God has a great plan for this ministry in the coming year, but we have to be willing to surrender our wills and our wants and wishes to HIM.

HONOR OTHERS BY NOT SMOKING NEAR BACK DOOR (2)…

or bringing your drinks into the sanctuary.  Thanks.

LAST WEEK OF WEDNESDAY NIGHT…

Starts at 6:30 pm with worship and 7:00 with the class on The Secrets of the Vine from John 15.  Absolutely powerful teaching.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Who has been missing from worship lately?  Can you ask the Holy Spirit who you can write an encouragement card to?  How about writing a card to the family of the boy who was killed this last week? 

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

after a busy week I finally got the January issue to the press on Friday afternoon.  Should be printed on Monday.  We are again able to print due to generous donations from our readers.  We had over $600 in donations for this month.  We are seeing the papers disappear so rapidly that many of our racks are empty at this time.  We are printing 1,000 more papers for January.  We continue to get great comments on how much our paper means to people.  Check us out on Facebook.  The Christian Journal.

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

I worked with Tina to write a grant this week for the food pantry.  The grant was for the Walker Fund from Oregon Community Foundation.  We asked for enough to help us cover the cost of food and some rent for a larger location.  Our ultimate goal is to have space to have a Shabby Chic store with donations from the community to create income for the pantry.  Please be in prayer with us for God to do amazing things this year.  Our pantry is growing so much.  We expect to serve about 2,500 people this year!

CELEBRATE RECOVERY…

we had the largest crowd we have ever had at this location this past Thursday night!  We had about 50 adults and 15 children!  What an honor for God to bring these folk to our place for this program.  There was a great spirit and our leaders were excited to think about the wonderful opportunities to serve.  Our men’s and women’s 12-Step study programs are all starting this Tuesday at 6:30 pm.  The study groups are the heart of a person’s recovery.  Those who come and stick with the class come out the other side different people! 

ROGUE RETREAT…

I was able to go to the Medford Soroptimist club on Wednesday to share with them about Rogue Retreat.  They seemed to be impressed.  Our team met with the director and program director of Goodwill on Friday.  We are planning to partner with them for job training for our people.  Looks like a great program.  We continue to hear from people in the community and through agencies of how great they think Rogue Retreat is.  We accept that with humbleness and awe of what God has done with this program.  We continue to invite people who want to support this ministry to help with our $ a week for Rogue Retreat.  The $ can be $1, $5, $10 or whatever.  We even have current residents giving $ a week to Rogue Retreat.  You can find donation envelopes in the foyer or Heather will send them to you.  Call (541) 499-0880.

BOOK STORE…

we just got in some LARGE print Bibles!  They are only $12.  We also have the books on the Holy Spirit that I’m using for my sermon series.  There are eight unspoken for!  Only $10.

POP OPEN CARDS (2)…

“Do you like sharing the Word of God with others? Sometimes we just don’t know the right words to say. It seems like EVERY time I give a card it hold just the right message to the recipient that he or she needed at that precise moment. God has a way of guiding the right card into the right hand at the right time. Buy some today and see for yourself. Make 2012 a year of encouragement with Pop Open Cards!” 
Heather Hoyle-Aney

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE THIS YEAR…

do you want to read through your Bible this year?  I can’t emphasize enough how vital it is to read the Word daily and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us from it.  I’ve never met a strong believer who isn’t in the Word daily.

I ASKED THE DEACONS TO PRAY WITH ME (2)…

for a bigger place to worship and do ministry out of.  I’ve asked the Lord for years about this and so far He has provided what we are in.    I see the limitations we have with this place and I long for more room for worship, for an adequate children’s program, for a larger food pantry work and for our ever growing Rogue Retreat ministry.  Even our pop open cards seems to be growing and will take more room.  The Word tells us to ASK and it will be given. It is far better to ASK than to try to make it happen by our own efforts, but we must ASK and keep ASKING according to the teachings of Jesus on prayer.  Will you ASK with me?  Will you believe with me?

DO YOU HEAR GOD SPEAKING TO YOU?…

I was talking with Debi this week about how the Holy Spirit does speak to us.  She was commenting how the more she listens and follows His leading the more He talks to her.  I agree.  We can shut down the Holy Spirit by refusing to follow His lead.  He then steps back and lets us run our own program until we get tired and come back.  He then reminds us of what He said earlier and waits for us to do what He has asked us to do.  When we do, new doors are opened up and we are able to move ahead with the abundant life.  If we are stuck, it may be due to our own failure to follow Him.  God does speak to us.  We just have to be willing to listen.

I will be talking about the Holy Spirit for some weeks to come. I’m very impressed with a book by Henry Blackaby called “Experiencing The Spirit.” It reminds us of the role, purpose and power of the Holy Spirit in the Word and in our lives today. I’ve ordered 10 of these books for our book store. They will be $10. Only 8 left! The Spirit is vital to our strong connection with God. He is the source of our Christian walk. He is truly the counselor we all need. My challenge is for all of us to focus on The Holy Spirit this year as individuals and as a church body. We need to be filled with the Spirit.

A CULTURE OF HONOR (2)…

I talked last week about the new year ahead and the importance of building and supporting an experience at Set Free that brings honor and glory to the Father. We come to worship HIM when we come to Set Free. We are here to seek HIS heart and HIS will. This is HIS place. We are HIS people. He has HIS work to be done. Each time we come to this place we need to be coming in expectation of what HE wants to do in and through each one of us. I truly believe God has a great plan for this ministry in the coming year, but we have to be willing to surrender our wills and our wants and wishes to HIM.

HONOR OTHERS BY NOT SMOKING NEAR BACK DOOR…

or bringing your drinks into the sanctuary. Thanks.

FUNERAL HERE THIS AFTERNOON…

for a family with no church. Please help us leave the church clean for them to use. It is great that Set Free and New Life can serve the community with our building at times.

MIDWEEK GOD CONNECTION…

on Wednesday night to worship and dive into the all powerful Word of God! Starts at 6:30 pm with worship and 7:00 with the class on The Secrets of the Vine from John 15. Absolutely powerful teaching.

LETTER FROM COMPASSION SPONSORED GIRL…

Maria send a letter to us. She says: “Dear Set Free Christian Fellowship…I was turning 10 on October 16. I am grateful to God for a year more in my life. I am so happy to be in 5th grade because I find many lessons and I am glad to learn with my friends….all the best from my family. Thank you.” NOTE: we support Maria each month by sponsoring her through Compassion International each month.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Who has been missing from worship lately? Can you ask the Holy Spirit who you can write an encouragement card to? How about writing a card to the family of the boy who was killed this last week?

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

our theme for 2012 is various topics from the book of Ephesians. Our first issue is on Predestination from Ephesians 1:11. What is Paul talking about? I’m expecting God to richly use this newspaper each month to touch thousands of people and fill them with encouragement and inspiration. Your prayers help and your donations are appreciated as well. Is there someone you can sponsor a subscription to this year?

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

Tina is actively seeking and applying to various organizations and foundations to help with the costs of this work and to be able to expand it. She has a desire to start a diaper pantry to help young families. She also dreams of a store to sell donated items that can no only generate income but provide good usable items at affordable prices for families. We are feeding more and more people and it is costing more and more. We appreciate any donations that come to help.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY…

New Year’s resolution…work on my own growth in the Lord. CR is a great opportunity to address the key issues of how to overcome (anything) that holds me captive. Jesus died to set us free from the power of sin. So, why not start this Thursday at 6:30 pm. Could be the best decision you make for 2012! We had nine people here on Thursday from Rogue Retreat. It is a great partner ministry.

ROGUE RETREAT…

I was talking with our case managers on Monday and asked what percentage of the participants they are working with are doing well in the program. We determined we are doing well with 50-75% of the people. Of course we want to improve that, but to think that 2-3 out of 4 are doing well is awesome. Thanks for your prayers and support. We continue to invite people who want to support this ministry to help with our $ a week for Rogue Retreat. The $ can be $1, $5, $10 or whatever. We even have current residents giving $ a week to Rogue Retreat. You can find donation envelopes in the foyer or Heather will send them to you. Call (541) 499-0880.

BOOK STORE….

Please take time today to look over the selection of items. We have some great books that will inspire your walk with the Lord for just a few dollars. Treat yourself to a new book for the New Year.

POP OPEN CARDS…

“Do you like sharing the Word of God with others? Sometimes we just don’t know the right words to say. It seems like EVERY time I give a card it hold just the right message to the recipient that he or she needed at that precise moment. God has a way of guiding the right card into the right hand at the right time. Buy some today and see for yourself. Make 2012 a year of encouragement with Pop Open Cards!” Heather Hoyle-Aney

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE THIS YEAR…

do you want to read through your Bible this year? We have some good guides available on our information table. Pick one up and follow it. I can’t emphasize enough how vital it is to read the Word daily and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us from it. I’ve never met a strong believeR who isn’t in the Word daily.

I ASKED THE DEACONS TO PRAY WITH ME…

for a bigger place to worship and do ministry out of. I’ve asked the Lord for years about this and so far He has provided what we are in. I see the limitations we have with this place and I long for more room for worship, for an adequate children’s program, for a larger food pantry work and for our ever growing Rogue Retreat ministry. Even our pop open cards seems to be growing and will take more room. The Word tells us to ASK and it will be given. It is far better to ASK than to try to make it happen by our own efforts, but we must ASK and keep ASKING according to the teachings of Jesus on prayer. Will you ASK with me? Will you believe with me?

about two things John tells us as he finishes up his first letter to the church.  He talks about eternal life and answered prayer.  As we finish up the book, finish up this year and look ahead to an exciting year to come we can be confident.  How will this confidence effect our everyday Christian lives?  Let’s talk about it.

A CULTURE OF HONOR…

I will be talking today about the new year ahead and the importance of building and supporting an experience at Set Free that brings honor and glory to the Father.  We come to worship HIM when we come to Set Free.  We are here to seek HIS heart and HIS will.  This is HIS place.  We are HIS people.  He has HIS work to be done.  Each time we come to this place we need to be coming in expectation of what HE wants to do in and through each one of us.  I truly believe God has a great plan for this ministry in the coming year, but we have to be willing to surrender our wills and our wants and wishes to HIM. 

MIDWEEK GOD CONNECTION…

if you complain that your live isn’t right with God, or you are powerless over sin, or you can’t understand why God isn’t on your side, then you need to come on Wednesday night to worship and dive into the all powerful Word of God! Starts at 6:30 pm with worship and 7:00 with the class on The Secrets of the Vine from John 15.  Absolutely powerful teaching.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Who has been missing from worship lately?  Can you ask the Holy Spirit who you can write an encouragement card to?  I have some suggestions, but He will tell you exactly who you need to write to.

BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS…

to two of our own.  John Greb and Lee Ann Hill both celebrate their birthday today (31st). 

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

our theme for 2012 is various topics from the book of Ephesians.  Our first issue is on Predestination from Ephesians 1:11.  What is Paul talking about?  I’m expecting God to richly use this newspaper each month to touch thousands of people and fill them with encouragement and inspiration.  Your prayers help and your donations are appreciated as well.  Is there someone you can sponsor a subscription to this year?

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

Tina is actively seeking and applying to various organizations and foundations to help with the costs of this work and to be able to expand it.  She has a desire to start a diaper pantry to help young families.  She also dreams of a store to sell donated items that can no only generate income but provide good usable items at affordable prices for families. 

CELEBRATE RECOVERY…

New Year’s resolution…work on my own growth in the Lord.  CR is a great opportunity to address the key issues of how to overcome (anything) that holds me captive.  Jesus died to set us free from the power of sin.  So, why not start this Thursday at 6:30 pm.  Could be the best decision you make for 2012!  We had nine people here on Thursday from Rogue Retreat.  It is a great partner ministry.

ROGUE RETREAT…

I had the privilege of telling a young couple with two small children that they were accepted into our program. It was truly humbling to see the look on their faces and the instant joy that came.  I am so thankful for what this program can do and does do for so many.  It is amazing to be part of it….We continue to invite people who want to support this ministry to help with our $ a week for Rogue Retreat.  The $ can be $1, $5, $10 or whatever.  We even have current residents giving $ a week to Rogue Retreat.  You can find donation envelopes in the foyer or Heather will send them to you.  Call (541) 499-0880.

BOOK STORE…

it is so easy to forget we have this little store with some great things tucked away in the  hall by the front office.  Please take time today to look over the selection of items.  We have some great books that will inspire your walk with the Lord for just a few dollars.  Treat yourself to a new book for the New Year.

POP OPEN CARDS…

I had the opportunity to talk with a woman in North Carolina last weekend who loves the cards.  She used to get them from Wordbytes for years and really missed them when they went out of business.  Her sister lives in Springfield and discovered us and sent her 200 cards recently. She loves how God uses them to touch lives.  She was inquiring about getting 1,000 to use.  She mentioned that when her brother passed away recently he had requested that everyone who came to his service get a card.  The pastor at the service had the people read their cards and of course there were many tears and confirmations.  Isn’t it awesome how we are touching people outside our area with these cards? I was talking with Lois Fritz last weekend as well and she works with the Muslims coming from Iraq and resettling in El Cahon.   We talked about how great it would be to get the cards in their language.  Perhaps one day.

WE CHANGED OUR OFFICE COMPUTER RECENTLY AND LOST…(3)

all of our email contacts to get this update each week.  Please write your email on a communication card today and turn it in with the offering so you can be added back.

NEXT WEEK…

I will start a series of sermons on the Holy Spirit.  I’ve been reading a very inspiring book: “Experiencing the Spirit” by Henry Blackaby.  He wrote the book: “Experiencing God” that touched so many of us in years past.  I’ve ordered 10 of these books for our book store.  They will be $10.  First pay, first receive.

END OF YEAR DONATIONS…

perhaps you want to make a last donation to Set Free to have it count on your tax deduction for 2011.  We need to have all donations in the offering TODAY to count for 2011. 

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE THIS YEAR…

do you want to read through your Bible this year?  We have some good guides available on our information table.  Pick one up and follow it.  I can’t emphasize enough how vital it is to read the Word daily and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us from it.  I’ve never met a strong believe who isn’t in the Word daily.

MY PRAYER REQUEST TO THE LORD THIS YEAR…

is for a bigger place to worship and do ministry out of.  I’ve asked the Lord for years about this and so far He has provided what we are in.  I’m thankful, don’t get me wrong, but I see the limitations we have with this place and I long for more room for worship, for an adequate children’s program, for a larger food pantry work and for our ever growing Rogue Retreat ministry.  Even our pop open cards seems to be growing and will take more room.  The Word tells us to ASK and it will be given. It is far better to ASK than to try to make it happen by our own efforts, but we must ASK and keep ASKING according to the teachings of Jesus on prayer.  Will you ASK with me?  Will you believe with me?

if there was one word to summarize the first letter of John it would be LOVE.  He is wanting us to remember that God is love and His love for us casts out all FEAR.  He also wants us to remember that God’s one command for us is to LOVE our brothers and sisters.  As we celebrate Christmas we are also reminded that God’s love for the world is what motivated Him to send Jesus as a child in the manger. It was Jesus’ love that motivated Him to die on the cross.

LAST WEEK SERMON…

last week I struggled to make my point without sounding perfectionistic. I found this quote this week from a new book I’m reading called “Experiencing the Spirit” by Henry Blackaby. It says it well: “At the Cross, the power of sin and its consequences were dealt a deathblow.  Whereas sin once had power over us, now we’ve been given power over sin.  As Paul said; ‘The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:18). There should be no proliferation of sin among God’s people, for in the Cross we’ve been given victory over sin. Why then do God’s people still live in sin?  There are several reasons, but two stand out above the rest.  First, it’s there choice.  They’ve become content to live without the manifest power of God in their lives.  Though they’ve been given all the power they need to overcome the Evil One, they enjoy sin too much to apply the power of the Cross that sets them fee.  Second, they’ve never been fully and clearly taught the truth of God’s Word.  Though Satan has been defeated, he still has the power to deceive, and those who aren’t grounded biblically are his easiest victims.  As long as he keep them from the truth, he can keep them in his imaginary chains.”

MIDWEEK GOD CONNECTION…

if you complain that your live isn’t right with God, or you are powerless over sin, or you can’t understand why God isn’t on your side, then you need to come on Wednesday night to worship and dive into the all powerful Word of God! Starts at 6:30 pm.

CARING OPPORTUNITIES…

Cindy Van Camp’s daughter-in-law Melissa gave birth to a healthy boy this week.
Tina Wilhelms, our food pantry director, had $80 stolen out of her purse this past Tuesday during the food pantry.

CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR INMATES (2)…

we had over 300 cards available the last few weeks for people to sign them.  They were mailed last week. We were able to bring the cost down to under $50 and received a donation to cover the postage costs.  It is humbling to think we are able to bless these inmates at Christmas with a caring thought.  Thanks to all who took time to sign them.

THE CHRISTIAN JOURNAL…

we have distributed most of the December papers.  We have a dedicated group of volunteers to put the paper out to over 400 locations in Southern Oregon and Northern California.  They get paid a little over the cost of their gas expense.  The paper has been moving off the racks so rapidly in some locations that we fear they are being taken to burn.  Pray that God will watch over our racks and make sure hungry people find the paper to read.   We still have our December offer of 100 pop open cards with every $100 donation.  We received $100 in cash this week in the mail anonymously.  We will move ahead with 2012 trusting that God has a plan.  Our themes in 2012 will be based on Ephesians.  Should be some good stuff!  Remember, any $100 donation in December to CJ will reap 100 pop open cards.

GOD’S FOOD PANTRY…

we had over 50 families come this week to get food!  We had plenty of food and were able to give everyone a good amount for Christmas.  Remember that the food you see in the café on Monday and Tuesdays is for food pantry clients only.  Please do not take anything if you are passing through.  That rule goes for everyone…me included.  If you are volunteering to help please don’t take any food without talking with Tina first.  Our food bill for November was over $500.  Remember we can’t start using the grant until January, so we still need donations to cover the food we have been using in October, November and December.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY…

New Year’s resolution…work on my own growth in the Lord.  CR is a great opportunity to address the key issues of how to overcome (anything) that holds me captive.  Jesus died to set us free from the power of sin.  So, why not start this Thursday at 6:30 pm.  Could be the best decision you make for 2012!

ROGUE RETREAT…

one of our Rogue Retreat participants was featured in the “Light One Candle” series in the Mail Tribune Newspaper.  Community people make numerous donations of what that participant needed for her family.  We even got a check for $500 and a spot on Channel 5 News!   We continue to invite people who want to support this ministry to help with our $ a week for Rogue Retreat.  The $ can be $1, $5, $10 or whatever.  We even have current residents giving $ a week to Rogue Retreat.  You can find donation envelopes in the foyer or Heather will send them to you.  Call (541) 499-0880.

BOOK STORE….

there are STILL some good gift ideas for Christmas.  Check them out today, but they may not be there tomorrow. Limited supply.

POP OPEN CARDS…

we are truly in the encouragement business.  We have been working this past week to get the cards made in Spanish.  Hope to have them after the first of the year.  Who knows where this ministry will lead us in the future.  We still have some for Christmas.  Great for stocking stuffers or to give out to the weary sales clerks you meet.  Share the good news with people who need the good news.

CHRISTMAS OPPORTUNITIES…

1. Christmas Eve Service will be Saturday, December 24 at 6:00 pm.  Lots of music.
2. Christmas Day Service with New Life at 9:30 am to be followed by potluck, music, raffle, gifts, etc into the afternoon.

WE CHANGED OUR OFFICE COMPUTER LAST WEEK AND LOST…(2)

all of our email contacts to get this update each week.  Please write your email on a communication card today and turn it in with the offering so you can be added back.

NEXT WEEK…

I will finish the series I’ve been doing on the book of 1 John.  I want to look at the confidence we have in eternal life and answered prayers according to John.  He wanted the church to know that God has everything under His control.  Be here next week at 11:00 am for worship.

END OF YEAR DONATIONS…

perhaps you want to make a last donation to Set Free to have it count on your tax deduction for 2011.  We need to have all donations into our office by next Friday, December 30 or in the offering next Saturday, December 31 to count for 2011. 

…may you all sense the Love the Lord has for you this Christmas.  He came to save His people from their sins!  (See Matthew 1:21)