By Pastor Bill
 
I’ve really appreciated Shaun’s recent sermon series where we’ve been looking at God’s name, and by doing so, learn about or be reminded of His character. Every week I have come away grateful that God is exactly who He says He is…this is so good for me and so good for all of us.
 
After Shaun brings a “stand-alone” message this Sunday, we’re going to give him a break during the month of August before he’s back for the months of September and October. Pastor Ray has a series that will take us through November before we move into the Advent season.
 
Next Sunday I’ll begin a 5-week sermon series that will take us through the month of August. The series is called Make or Break, and we’ll be looking at five different things that can either make us or break us as we look to follow Jesus. As we make our way through this series, we’ll be looking at specific events from the life of David and so here are the Scripture passages that you’ll want to read in advance:

• August 2^nd:  I Samuel 16:1-13 …The Lord Looks at the Heart (Character)

• August 9^th: I Samuel 17:32-50…Let No One Lose Heart (Courage)

• August 16^th:  I Samuel 18…He Loved Him as Himself (Goodwill)

• August 23^rd:  II Samuel 6…The Ark of God (His Presence)

• August 30^th:  II Samuel 24…The Hands of the Lord (His Mercy)

Something New

As a staff, we see how challenging it is for us to gather together and experience “Community Life” in our current climate. We recognize the need to try new and creative ways to help us stay connected to one another. Towards this end, during the month of August, I’m planning on setting aside three 1-hour slots each week where anyone who is interested can join a Five Forks Online Gathering. You will need internet access and will also need to download  Zoom. Many of you are already using it and downloading is simple, however, we will assist you if help is needed.
 
These time slots are tentatively set for:

• Tuesday afternoon (August 4, 11, 18, 25) from 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M.

• Wednesday evening (August 5, 12, 19, 26) from 7:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.

• Thursday evening (August 6, 13, 20, 27) from 9:00 P.M. until 10:00 P.M. 

If interested, you select one of the three time slots and send me an email (bill@ffbic.org) with your selection. I will in turn email you the link that will allow you to join myself and others who have selected that same time slot. We’ll spend the hour connecting with each other, sharing what’s taking place in our lives, and I’ll set aside some time to take any questions about that Sunday’s sermon…and may have some discussion questions to throw out there as well. I have no idea how much interest we may have in this, but I figure it’s worth a try. Again, simply email me if you’re interested!