October Newsletter

Wow! What and amazing month September has been. It is always wonderful and little bit amazing at how quickly things seem to move in church life. Yet we know that God is in charge of it all. October is shaping up to be another wonderful ministry filled month and we hope that whether it is in Sunday School, or mission projects, Youth Group, and of course Sunday worship that you will be a part of it all.

There is a seasonal aspect to life that closely mirrors the seasons of the year. We are in the middle of a wonderful season of busyness here at the church, but just because we are busy we do not need to be burdened. Jesus says many wonderful things, and one of my favorite Jesus sayings is: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”(Matthew 11:28-30 NRSV) growing up I had a tendency to think this meant Jesus wanted us to take it easy, or to live a life of leisure. I always wondered why that never seemed to manifest itself. Of course, that is not what Jesus is saying at all. Jesus is telling us in this moment that if we ground the work we do, whether for the church, or our families, and even our community, in God we will find not a life of ease but a life of joyful work.

We are not called to live easy lives; we are called to faithful living. That faithful living includes not only going to church and being involved in the life of Bethany but also recognizing that our children belong first to God, that all we have and all we are is God’s to begin with. Faithful living includes giving thanks to God at the end of a busy day for the places where you saw his grace shining through. Jesus reminds us in this passage from Matthew that there will be work to do but you need not be overwhelmed by it because Jesus is with us every step of the way and as much as we desire to lead lives of faith for Jesus, Jesus will always be faithful to us.

Bethany Roller Night - October 8
The Discipleship Team invites you and your friends for some good old-fashioned fun. Skate the night away with some great music and good company. Register today for a discounted rate and help spread the word.
Register Today: www.bethanypresby.org/event/roller-night

Golden Oldies Luncheon - October 21
Join the Golden Oldies for the monthly luncheon starting at 12:00 p.m.

New member Classes - October 24, 31 and November 7
The Membership Team will be hosting a New Member Class from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 24, October 31, and November 7.

Trunk or Treat - October 30
Mark your calendar! Trunk or Treat is coming back this year and we are so excited to see
everyone’s creative trunk ideas!
Register Today: www.bethanypresby.org/event/trunk-or-treat