What’s your story?

We had an amazing opportunity this past week to hear some snippets of people’s very personal faith stories in our online worship service, “What’s your story?” Nine brave people invited us into their experience of pausing and reflecting to see how God has been at work in their life.

 We heard about some of the people that were instrumental in their faith journey.

We heard about the moment their faith became their own.

We heard how God moves in unique moments like stadium gatherings and ordinary moments with youth leaders, summer camps and childhood songs.

We heard about hearts so full of joy, they can’t help but talk about the goodness of God.

We heard about how God is faithful always, even in times of sorrow and heartache.

We heard how God sometimes speaks in whispers and from the mouths of children.

We heard about the desire to pass on a legacy of faith.

 God is the author of all our stories. 

What is your story? 

This week, this summer, take the time to pause and reflect on how God has been at work in your life. Write down your faith story and pray for the boldness to share it with someone. *

“Love the Lord our God with all our heart and soul and strength” and God at work will be evident in all that we do. Our story will reflect God’s goodness and leave a legacy of faith.

 Join us on Sunday, July 4 to hear Part II of, “What’s your story?” Our Exceptional Families Coordinator, Shelly Wedge, shares her personal faith story. I know you will be blessed and encouraged.

If you missed the service on June 27 go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlF7IYFAyYs 

And to hear the entirety of the stories told, check out the Faith Stories video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPQaWWsozOI

 *“At times, it can be difficult to put our personal story of faith into words. With that in mind, here are some tips on how to create your testimony and the best ways to share it with those around you!”

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/bring-your-bible/share-your-faith-story-tips-for-creating-your-testimony/

Nancy Varga
Amberlea Church Family Ministries Coordinator

Father

Last Sunday we celebrated Father’s Day.  I am not quite sure how anyone could possibly miss it with the plethora of Home Depot and Canadian Tire advertisements!

We were blessed in our house to gather (socially distanced, of course) for a small backyard bbq in honour of Brian.  Our two children, along with their significant others, paid homage to their truly great dad.

Father’s day is not always easy, especially for those who have lost fathers, or whose father were (or are) not present in their lives. However, whether you celebrate the day or not, do you know how Father’s Day originated?

Father’s day was the brainchild of Louise Smart Dodd and was held in Spokane, Washington, USA on June 19, 1910. Mrs. Dodd envisioned an event to take place during a regular Sunday Church service where fathers would receive small gifts as well as loving greetings from children. She brought up the matter to her pastor and he communicated the idea to the local pastor's association. The mayor of the city and the governor of the state endorsed her concept and issued proclamations in support. 

It is said that Mrs. Dodd dearly loved her father. When his wife died in childbirth, he was left with six children. Somehow he overcame the difficulties of rearing them while operating his farm. His devotion to his children sparked Louise's gratitude.

Father's Day was slow to catch on and it wasn’t until 1966 when President Johnson established the third Sunday in June as the date of the celebration. And even so, it was not made official until 1972 under President Nixon.

All that to say, we have the grateful daughter of a self-sacrificing father to thank for Father’s Day!

The ideals of fatherhood are strong in the Bible. God is portrayed as a loving Father. Jesus described God as his own intimate Father and claimed to show in himself what the Father was like. God gave his beloved son for the salvation of the world. For Christians, fatherhood has deep meaning and power. God is the perfect example of a father. A father that’s loving, compassionate, caring and forgiving. If you, like me, didn’t (or don’t) have a relationship with your earthly father, I can assure you that you can have one with your Heavenly father! 

God the Father loves you, and wants to have a relationship with you. God will be the most loving and caring father you could hope for.

The anchor

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. -Hebrews 6:19

On a beautiful summer day at the cottage, Brian and I decided we would take the boat out for an afternoon cruise.  I packed some snacks, towels and some pool noodles, and off we went.  We ended up at the far end of the lake where there is a quiet little bay - perfect for a refreshing dip.  Brian slowed the boat down to a stop and said to me,

“Let’s go for a swim here, I’ll drop the anchor.”  

“I can do it”, I said. 

I quickly took the heavy anchor and hoisted over the side of the boat. I was pretty proud of myself until I realized that the anchor was not tied to the boat!

Before I knew it Brian, with Superman agility, was in the water chasing the end of the rope.  After emerging from the water and he promptly secured the anchor to the boat. By the way, that never happened again. Not on my watch anyway ;)

Faith is kind of of like that anchor. We may have faith but what is it attached to? Sure, we may “believe” but if our faith is not attached to the authority of God, you may find yourself floating aimlessly. 

Connect your faith to God’s authority, the authority of God’s Word, and God’s power!

You will sense tremendous security when your faith is attached to God!