Hudson Christian Church November 2018 THE ENCOURAGER

Hudson Christian Church November 2018

www.hudsonchristianchurch.com • 301 Clinton St. Hudson, IL 61748 • (309) 726-1253 1

THE ENCOURAGER A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF HUDSON CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Making Shoes For Jesus

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Ray Steadman shared the following story related to him By Dr. H.A. Ironside:

He told me when he was a boy in Los Angeles, 14 years of age, . . . he got a job as a helper to a shoemaker - cobblers, they called them then. . . . [His boss was] a believer, a wonderful, godly man, whose name was Dan. And it was young Harry Ironside's task to take leather which had been soaked all night in a tub of water to toughen it, and then take it on an iron anvil and with a wooden mallet beat the water out of the leather. And by that process so toughen it and yet soften it so that it was both pliable and enduring. . . . But it was a tedious task - just endlessly beating at leather until all the water was gone. And what made it even more difficult was that just a few doors down the street was another cobbler's shop run by a very godless man, a blasphemous, profane man. And one day Harry Ironside walking by noticed that this man didn't bother to beat the water out of the leather. He'd pick the leather up out of the tub and cut out a piece, and nail it on the shoe with the water splashing in every direction. And one day Harry ventured to stop, and said to him, 'Sir, you know I work down the street at Dan's shop, and I noticed that you don't bother to beat the water out of your leather. Why is that?' And he said the man gave him a rather evil wink, and said to him, 'Ah, they come back all the quicker this way.' So Harry Ironside went back to his shop and he said to his employer, 'Sir, why do we do this? It's such a hard job to beat all this water out, it takes so long! And the man down the street says if you just take it out you can put it on the shoe and the customers will all come back quicker this way.'



Well, he said the old man looked at him. And he didn't say a word. He just took off his apron, and he took him by the hand, led him over to a bench and sat him down. And he said, 'Harry, I apologize to you for not having told you more fully what is involved. But you know, son, I expect to see every pair of shoes I've ever made in a big pile at the judgment seat of Christ. And I expect the Lord to take those shoes and go through every one, and examine the work I did. And then I expect, I imagine oftentimes, he'll take one and he'll look at me and say, 'Dan, that's not up to par. You didn't do a very good job there.' But others, he'll encourage me by saying, 'Dan, that was a splendid job.' You know, when I make shoes, I keep remembering that. And I want to so make shoes that every shoe I make will pass the judgment of the Lord at the judgment seat of Christ.' Harry Ironside said, 'I've never forgotten that. And I resolved in my own heart that every sermon I preach will be able to pass the judgment of my Lord.' I've never forgotten that story either. I think all my sermon notes and perhaps videotapes of how I've delivered them are going to be stacked up beside the judgment seat of Christ. And there the Lord is going to go through them and say to me, 'Ray, you didn't do so well on this. You shirked your preparation time. You didn't really grasp this passage, did you?' And I'll have to say, Yes, Lord, you know all things. But what I really pray for, and what I really want, and what motivates my heart deeply, is that every message I preach in fear and trembling, with the realization of the poor human vessel the Lord has to work with will nevertheless pass the judgment of the Lord because I depend both in the preparation and in the delivery on the Spirit of the living God and am willing to work at it until I understand what He has to say.

I like this story for a couple reasons. First, it helps me to not fear the coming judgement seat of Christ. We are told that we will all come before Christ and give an account of our lives. That stands before us even as believers whose sins have been forgiven. And while that knowledge motivates us to work hard for the Kingdom of God and to keep ourselves from sin, it can also intimidate us and make us wrongly fearful of that day. This story helps me to view that day as motivating how I do my work here on earth, but also to view that coming conversation in a way that seems warm and loving. It also helps me to let go of self-critical attitudes because Christ is a more true and kind judge. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, “This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.” The second reason I often turn back to this story for encouragement is that it reminds me to view everything I do in this life as service for Christ. Each of us has been given work by God. Whatever that work is, it should be done as loving worship for Christ. If your job is making shoes, don’t just be motivated to run a profitable business. Don’t labor to be known as the most fashionable shoe-maker. Don’t even let your primary motivation be to do excellent work so that you will have a good reputation which translates into a strong brand. Simply make each shoe for Jesus. Cut no corners. That is like offering a blemished lamb or the worst of your crop as an offering. Every task has spiritual significance. There is a sacredness to common life. Make your bed as unto the Lord! But also, bear in mind that we will give an account of the direction of our lives. Our priorities will hang in the balance. So let us major on those actives which bring us and those around us to maturity in Christ. Let’s shape the habit of our mind to be in communication with Jesus. To seek his help in all things. To thank him and enjoy him throughout every day and in every assignment. In short, let us live our lives both for and with Jesus. - Pastor Brandon Current



Summary of the Deacons & Elders Meeting October 11, 2018

The meeting was called to order at 5:34 p.m. The members present were Brandon Current, Donnie McKinley, Dave McGraw, and Larry Dowden. The meeting was opened in prayer by Larry Dowden. The September 13, 2018, meeting minutes were reviewed and approved. Financial Reports for the month were reviewed and approved. Team Reports:

• Worship – no report, ready for the annual meeting • Education – no report, ready for the annual meeting • Building – the maintenance and repairs was list reviewed. The report for the annual meeting

was reviewed. • Missions – a visit to the Crandalls in Ecuador is being planned for September 2019. • Food Pantry – the report for the annual meeting was reviewed. • Farm Trust - $23,150 was transferred to the Fred & Ethel Humphries Memorial Fund from the

Farm Trust.

Brandon gave a report of his activities for the month. Old Business: none New Business:

Preparations were made for November Annual Congregational Meeting:

1. A report from the nominating committee for nominating the annual meeting chairman and secretary was reviewed. Dave McGraw will be contacting the nominees for their acceptance.

2. A fourth trustee was approved to present for a vote at the annual meeting.

3. The proposed Annual Budget for 2019 was reviewed and approved for a vote at the annual meeting.

4. There was a discussion on the change in the Building Fund use to include maintenance and repairs and how to best present this change at the annual meeting.

5. The presenters of reports for the annual meeting were approved.

6. The Annual Meeting Agenda was reviewed and approved.

There is a fall cookout being planned at Nick and Ashley Richard’s for November 3.

Donnie McKinley tendered his resignation as a deacon effective immediately. He intends to continue serving and teaching.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:27 p.m. and closed in prayer by Brandon Current.



Tell Me The Story… “We Gather Together”

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According to United Methodist Hymnal editor Carlton Young, the performance of these tunes led to their popularity and the inclusion in many hymnals. The story extends to the U.S. through Theodore Baker (1851-1934), a New York-born musicologist who studied in Leipzig and authored the famous Biographical Dictionary of Music and Musicians. Baker translated the hymn from German for an anthem entitled “Prayer for Thanksgiving” published in 1894. It is from Baker that the hymn gets its traditional Thanksgiving connection.

The Dutch, long a stronghold for the Reformed theology of John Calvin, were in a struggle against Spain for their political independence and against the Catholic Church for religious freedom. A 12-year truce was established in 1609, giving young Prince Frederick Henry a chance to mature into an able politician and soldier.

During this time, the Dutch East India Company extended its trade beyond that of the English. The high period of Dutch art flourished with Hals, Vermeer and Rembrandt. Under the guidance of the Prince’s leadership, Spain’s efforts to regain supremacy on land and sea were finally overcome in 1648. There was indeed much for which to be thankful.

Some of the political overtones in this hymn faithfully translated by Baker are apparent. Hymnologist Albert Bailey suggests that the phrase, “The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing,” is an allusion to the persecution of the Catholic Church under the policies of Spain. Thousands had been massacred and hundreds of homes burned by the Spanish in 1576 during the siege of Antwerp.

In stanza two, the writer states, “so from the beginning the fight we were winning,” stressing that Protestants had always been assured of winning the cause. The truce of 1609 proved that the Lord “wast at our side.”

The final stanza is a series of petitions— “ ...pray that thou still our defender will be. Let thy congregation escape tribulation; thy name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!”

The ultimate battle has not been won and will not be won until all battles cease.

- Historical facts cited from Dr. C. Michael Hawn, a professor of sacred music at Perkins School of Theology.

In many hymnals, “We Gather Together” appears as a Thanksgiving hymn. Perhaps this is because of the opening line and the general idea that God is with us regardless of our circumstances. However, the hymn speaks more about God’s providence throughout the trials of life. The story behind this hymn clarifies its text.

This hymn is a late 16th-century expression of celebration of freedom by The Netherlands from Spanish oppression. Like many older hymns, it finds its way to us through a circuitous route.

It was first published in Nederlandtsch Gedenckclanck (1626), a collection by Adrianus Valerius in Haarlem. Austrian Edward Kremser (1838-1914) included it in Sechs Altniederländische Volkslieder (Six Old Netherlands Folksongs) in 1877 for his men’s chorus, all six anonymous songs taken from the Valerius collection 250 years earlier.



Photo courtesy of Zion.org

Image courtesy Longviewchurch.org

Wednesday Night Bible Study

Prayer begins at 5:30 p.m. Bible Study class starts as 6:00 p.m.

. Bill Brown is leading a study on the topic of

Fellowship for several weeks. We will continue our study time together

as we uncover God’s guidance about God’s Blessings, Living with the “Thorn” in your

life, and more!

Please come see what God has to say about it in his Word!

Our mid-week Bible studies are one of our

primary avenues of discipleship here at HCC. I hope you all will arrange your

schedules to not miss out on this opportunity for God to shape our hearts!

The Potter’s Kids

The Potter’s Kids is the fun place to

be on Wednesday nights

at HCC from 6-7 p.m.!

All children are welcome to join us as

we study the Ten Commandments.

We’ll see glimpses of God in His laws,

as well as very good rules to live by.

Prayer Coordinator Linda Kearfott

Prayer Requests

Linda Kearfott is the HCC Prayer Coordinator!

If you have a prayer request to share or an update, please speak with Linda, write your request on the prayer card in the pew pocket and place it in the offering plate, or contact her at the

following number or email.

Linda Kearfott (309) 232-4528

[email protected]

Image courtesy trinitywesternuniversity

Photo courtesy of Trinity Western University

Concert Connection

Looking for something uplifting to do? Take a look at the “Concert Connection” located in the front foyer of the church.

Upcoming local concerts will be posted for

great gospel music!

Check it out and make plans to support musical groups that uplift Christ!

Organize a group and carpool! Don’t miss the next concert!

- Make the Connection-

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mailto:[email protected]



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Join the Adult Sunday School Class at 11:00 a.m. downstairs to discover what the Bible teaches about:

Going Out: Engaging others with the gospel means going where they are – Acts 16:6-15

“To the weak I became weak, in order to win the weak I have become all things to all people, so that I may by every possible means save some.” – 1 Corinthians 9:22 ♦ What might keep us from having passion and perseverance in sharing the gospel with others as the Apostles did? ♦ Paul’s vision: Who in the community might be saying “Cross over…and help us!” today? ♦ Engaging others means: Sharing Christ in a verbal testimony. ♦ Responding to Christ requires the work of God. ♦ Sharing Christ produces ripples.

How to Pray: Teach us to pray – The object of our prayer. Matthew 6:9a; Psalm 103:1-5, 11-13,19-22 A right view of God fuels how we pray. How would you describe prayer to someone who is unfamiliar with the practice of praying? How has God expressed His compassion in your life?

A Prayer of Praise: Our prayers are driven by the desire to honor God. Matthew 6:9b; Psalm 96:1-9

Honoring God’s name – keep it holy Sing a new song Bless His Name Proclaim His salvation Praise His greatness Praise the beauty of God How can we practically make our lives offerings that honor God?

A Prayer of Surrender: Approach prayer with humble submission to the will of God. Matthew 6:10-11a; James 4:6-10, 13-17

Your kingdom come…what obstacles keep us from surrendering our will to God’s will? What are the benefits of humbly surrendering to God? How can we help each other surrender our plans to God’s plans?

Congregational Meeting

The annual Hudson Christian Church Congregational Meeting will be held on

Sunday, November 4, immediately following the worship service.

Fellowship potluck after the meeting. Everyone is encouraged to attend.



November 2018

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1

2 3

4 9:30 a.m. Worship

Congregational Meeting immediately following service No Sunday School

1st Sunday Fellowship Potluck

5

6

7 10:00 a.m. Ladies’ Prayer and Fellowship 5:30 p.m. Adult Prayer 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study Potter’s Kids

8

Food Pantry Preparation Day 5:30 p.m. Deacons/Elders Meeting followed By Spiritual Focus Meeting

9

10 10:00 Food Pantry Distribution Day

11 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Coffee/Donuts 11:00 a.m. Sunday School

12 13

14 10:00 a.m. Ladies’ Prayer and Fellowship 5:30 p.m. Adult Prayer 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study Potter’s Kids

15

16

17


19

20 9:00 a.m. Ladies Aid

21 10:00 a.m. Ladies’ Prayer and Fellowship No Wednesday Night Activities

22 THANKSGIVING

23 24


26 27 28 10:00 a.m. Ladies’ Prayer and Fellowship 5:30 p.m. Adult Prayer 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study Potter’s Kids

29 30

November Birthdays

Adam Taylor 11/3 Linda Simpson 11/4 Gaye Siebert 11/5 Denny Vaughn 11/6 Ron Johnson 11/11 Vanessa Baird 11/18 Irma Talbert 11/19 Josey Baird 11/22 Lois Whitwood 11/29

Documents

Hudson Christian Church November 2018 THE ENCOURAGER