So Run On
Hebrews 12:1-2
The Race of Faith
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Sermon Notes
‘Therefore’... such an interesting word!
Someone by the name of Kimberly wrote about running a marathon: “I’ve done multiple races and running events and this was by far the best one yet! I’ve recommended it to all of my running buddies and raved about the scenic, flat course, the positive atmosphere and entertaining signs and activities, the supportive crowd, the effective and convenient organization. It was worth the 9 hour drive to participate in a most memorable race. We hope to make it an annual runcation!”
A fellow named Stephen wrote: “This was my first marathon and I really didn’t know what to expect, but my overall experience was great! The organization was really well done, I absolutely loved the course. While my knee seized up around mile eighteen and I literally couldn’t run the last eight miles because of the pain, other runners and spectators cheered me on and encouraged me to keep going and to not give up. I’m glad I listened them (and not my own thoughts) and was able to make it across the finish line.”
The people of Biblical times understood races. While the history of racing can be traced back to 776 BC, it is interesting to note that the marathon was not an event in the ancient Olympic Games. A race was entered to win!
Life is often compared to a race and, as we have such in our text today, it involves endurance, patience and, of course witnesses, or spectators. But the greatest part of the race is the finish line. Readers of Hebrews could fully relate to the writer’s thoughts.
The Apostle Paul doesn’t mention a runner, but in his encouragement to Timothy (2:1-19) speaks of similar circumstances in life – a single-minded soldier, a enduring farmer, a diligent workman – all who press on with purpose and passion.
As we move forward into a New Year 2020, let’s move on with confidence – looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Happy New Year and God’s blessings.
This Week
Monday, December 30
9:30 am Women's Prayer
9:30 am Men's Prayer
Tuesday, December 31
Office Open from 9-4 (closed 12-1 for lunch)
Wednesday, January 1
Happy New Year!
(Church Office is Closed)
Thursday, January 2
Friday, January 3
Saturday, January 4
Sunday, January 5
9:15 &11:15 am Worship Services
JOURNEY UPDATES
ALPHA is coming to SGAC! Alpha is a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith. Each talk looks at a different question around faith and is designed to create conversation. Alpha is run all around the globe, and everyone’s welcome. Who will you invite? Come explore together. Sundays, beginning January 12 from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Oasis Room. Space is limited. Sign up today by contacting Pastor Steve at steve.kim@sgac.net. Please indicate the number of guests upon sign up.
Brendan Evjen has been serving with us for the past several months as our Worship Arts and Prayer Intern. We have appreciated having him on our staff. He will be finishing this term at the end of December and, as we stated when he started, we would like to give him a love offering. He has not been on payroll. If you would like to give him a gift please note: Use the BROWN envelopes at the Welcome Centre. Gifts can be ONLY BE cash or cheque (made payable to Brendan Evjen, NOT SGAC). No receipts can be issued for these gifts. A donation box will be made available on Sunday, December 22 and 29 at the Welcome Centre.
Regarding 2019 Tax Receipts, all giving must be in the church office or completed online by December 31. Please ensure that the church office has your current address, especially if you have moved in 2019.
Discovery Island will take a break for Christmas. The Nursery and 2 old rooms only will be open for December 29. Children age 3 and up will join their parents in the service. Activity boxes will be available.
Safety and Risk Management Training is required to be taken once per year by all of our adult and youth working with children. Join us on Saturday, January 18 from 9:30 am to 11:00 am or Sunday, January 19 at 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Continental breakfast will be served on Saturday.Hot dogs will be served on Sunday. Please RSVP to Debbie by January 15 if you will attend.
SOUL CARE CONFERENCE, March 5-7
at St. Albert Alliance Church w/ author Rob Reimer.
We are often limited by our past wounds, our current behaviours, and our faulty thinking. The Soul Care Equipping conference teaches biblical principles for the healing of the soul and how to overcome broken and sinful areas of life as well as equips participants with tools to help others find hope and healing in Jesus.
Join Dr. Rob Reimer, creator of Soul Care, for this life changing conference!
Super Early Bird Registration- $79
(Until December 31)
Early Bird Registration - $89)
(Begins January 1, 2020)
Registration -$99
(Begins February 1, 2020)
Student Registration-$49
(Must be enrolled full-time)
Cost includes lunch each day, snacks, coffee and tea
To register, visit them online.
PRAYER
Please pray for:
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Our International Workers: Tim & Brenda Tjosvold, Jon & Angie Coutts, Ric & Kareen Strangway.
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Our Pastoral Team Staff Member: Pastor of Women’s Ministries - Karen Houcher. Karen is married to Dan and they have 5 children.
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Our Support Staff Team Member: Corina Langdon. Corina is married to Boyde and they have 3 adult children.
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Our Elders Team Member: Steve Medieros. Steve is married to Angele and they have 4 children ages 10, 8. 5 and 3.
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Our Students: Isabelle Wiebe at YWAM Australia.
Family Matters
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We rejoice with Ryan and Crystel Nixon as they dedicate their foster daughter Grace to the Lord this Sunday