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“Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his name.”
(Ps. 146:1-2 nrsv)
Can you believe I call this my “July Jewels?” Well, here goes some ”diamond –studded” thinking! (See, I really do have a sense of humor!”Chuckle.)
July 4th is still the birthday of the U.S.A. for which we give God all the honor, praise, and glory. Yes, there are some in this nation who do not recognize the God-given and God-driven power behind the founding of this nation, but God is at the heart of our country ((no matter what some think or say) and what we do or do not do as citizens. As the Psalmist says, “Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his name.” Isn’t that what we should be doing not only in church but in our neighborhoods and communities as well? And throughout our beloved nation? I believe so.
Since the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is meeting in Minneapolis from July 3-10 and many concerns will be raised, I feel it is imperative for us to know what the church says about our purpose as a church: we have clearly stated what is the purpose of the church in our Book of Order (Constitution) when it says that “The great ends (purposes) of the church are:
1) the proclamation of the gospel for the salvation of humankind; 2) the shelter, nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the children of God; 3) the maintenance of divine worship; 4) the preservation of the truth’ 5) the promotion of social righteousness; and 6) the exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world.” (G-1.0200)
Now, of course, the media will write and televise all sorts of things (if they even bother which they won’t unless they can make it divisive) about this assembly; fundamentalist churches will accuse us of all sorts of things, most often misquoted, mis-represented or, even worse, lied about. But, I want you to know where the heart and soul of the Presbyterian Church (USA) lies.
No, I do not always agree with decisions made by our General Assembly, but who among us always agrees with what our U.S. Congress or our State Legislature says, but do we leave for another nation or renounce our citizenship or stop paying taxes or move to a different state? Of course not. We work, if need be, to change things. So, need I say more?
What is important to remember is that our national government is based on our Presbyterian form of government: government by representation; informed representatives but voting their conscience (we hope and pray for both mind-sets for our politicians~) For us, as Christians, we believe people who represent us from our Presbyteries to the General Assembly not only vote their conscience, but do so seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. So pray for our General Assembly from now through July 10th.
How are things going for you this summer? Is worship at the heart and soul or your summer and all the things you do or do not do during these months? Are you sharing something about PSPC (or your church wherever you live) with your neighbors? I hope and pray that you are. Is Jesus Christ at the center of your life and all you do?
We were created and born to worship God; Thus:
Sundays continue with worship at 10:00 a.m.
You know what I love? Our Prayer Chain and all those who participate. We’ve had a number of people as this summer has begun either ill or needing hospital care or other needs and our “prayers” are always ready and willing. Call Deacon Robert Kemp at 1-760-778-6810 if you or someone you love or know needs special prayers. The prayers of the faithful make a difference. Guaranteed!
Bills and costs continue; your continued support of PSPC even if you are away, is so deeply appreciated. God’s work always continues and, so it seems, does the cost of electricity, water, maintenance, salaries and all the rest. So, Thank you! For your continued prayers and support, including financial support. (Ooops, if you are away, just send your check to the Palm Springs Presbyterian Church as some of you already doing!)
Boy, oh boy! Did we have a great Vacation Bible School with the theme of High Seas Expedition with 10 children being led by Sue Cooper, Ellie Cushing, Fae Custer, Karol Egan, Dick Erickson, Eva Hendrix, Lucille MacEwan, Sophie MacEwan, Daniel Morgan, Elizabeth Morgan, Margaret Pace, Jan Perrier, Kelly Reece, Nancy Spencer, Barbara Stephens, Harvey Stephens, Sally Weber, Joyce Johnson, all members and friends of PSPC> A great time for all. Now, since the Cahuilla School is going on “Year ‘round” schedule their next break is in November and some have suggested we do a “Vacation Bible Camp” during that time to reach more children for Christ—what do you think?
But, did you also know that five of our members were reading tutors this spring at the Cahuilla School for 3rd graders? Sue Cooper, Joyce, Margaret Pace, Jan Perrier, and Barbara Stephens. Great mission, outreach, and service. More readers could be used next fall beginning September or October. Contact Joyce Johnson if interested.
I am going to keep saying this and hope/pray that you agree:
I am convinced that this church has a great future; that is, I firmly believe God has a great future for us: a resurrection of sorts, which is happening. But you and I have to do our parts! Are you!
How you and I respond will determine the results of God’s future for PSPC.
May this summer continue to bring you and your loved ones God's richest blessings, even as I remain, yours, in Christ's service,
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Pastor Bill
William N. Johnson
"Interim” Pastor |
