By Scena Ann Petrey

We were happy to have Bro. Aaron Hogue as our speaker on Sunday, March 31 while Bro. Kyle and his family were on vacation. His message “Faith Over Fear” was taken from Mark 2:1-12.

In this passage, a paralyzed man who wanted to get to Jesus to be healed was stopped because of a huge crowd of people. Four of his friends decided to not let a little group of people stop them. They took a part of the roof from the house and lowered the man down on his mat to meet Jesus. Jesus not only healed him, but He also forgave him his sins – thus, healing him physically and spiritually.

Bro. Aaron’s message centered on four characteristics of men strong in faith. First, they are driven by hope. They carried their friend to Christ. Jesus was their hope for their friend. Jesus was not just a choice; He was the answer. Will we allow no barrier to stop us in our efforts to help others?

Second, they have a tendency to ignore the crowds. The four men did not let others’ opinions to dictate their actions. When we walk in faith, we ignore the crowd and walk with courage. “Courage is not an absence of fear but realizing that someone or something is greater than our fear,” stated Bro. Aaron.

Third, they have a tendency to talk less and act more. Bro. Aaron pointed out that the four men in the passage did not utter a word. Their real faith was visible and personal. So should ours be!

Fourth, we love others. “The more intimately we walk with Christ, the less we need others,” pointed out Bro. Aaron.
Starting April 10, we will have the adult Bible study the first, second, and fourth Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. The third Wednesday is reserved for the senior luncheons. Youth worship and GLOW will continue as normal (no change).

Pleasant View is making plans for a Good Friday service on April 19 at 6 p.m. at the church. More information will follow soon.

DATES TO REMEMBER: April 11 – Senior Living celebration at Richmond; Sunday, May 19 – Senior Adult Day; June – Pioneer Playhouse outing; September – Derby Dinner Theater outing.

Thought for the week: “Faith enables us to withstand what we can’t understand.”