Good morning church family!

Yesterday was a great day. I want to encourage you that often God will take us out of our comfort zone in order to work through what cannot be accomplished through comfort. I wrestled with the message yesterday greatly. Yet, God moved in a mighty way. Even in our weakness, He is strong.

We talk a lot about the season of growth and blessing we are in at Cedar Grove. I praise God for this season. I do want to acknowledge that just because the church as a whole is in this kind of season, there are people who are in a very different season. We never want to isolate those who are suffering. So often we put walls around those who suffer without even knowing it. The casual "I'm praying for you"..."you will get through this"..."just trust God"...All these things are good and true, but if not careful can create a superficial wall of support. So, what do we do about this? Scripture has the answer.

1 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Galatians 6:1–3.

Burdens can be more than sin. Burdens can be a sickness, a family tragedy, work issues, financial stress, depression, and many other things that can weigh a person down. Now, sin on our life will hinder us from seeing the trial at hand as a way to grow our faith. Sin must be handled. However, let's make sure we are there for each other. Let's fulfill the law of Christ and love each other as ourselves. Let's not become so distracted with everything we are doing that we miss the opportunity to help someone who needs help.

Remember, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever more!

I love you Cedar Grove. Pray for the leaders and students going to camp. I will see you at midweek. Happy in the Lord, amen. Buh-bye.

Pastor Jacob Lannom