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Wednesday, December 28, 2016

I Then Shall Live

How many people have, over the past year, found heartache and sorrow because they have relied on something or someone who has failed them? Elections that have torn families and communities apart, a forgetful moment that has caused someone to fail another, a word spoken in haste that has fractured a relationship. These are times from our past that we would rather forget but the memories tend to return like a boomerang and hit us when we are not watching.

Truth be told, over the past year I have messed up and caused a few issues and have tried to make restitution. Some have forgiven, some have held onto the anger but through it all we are still here and we are still bathed in the glory of God regardless of our human faults. I want to throw this out there. Are we truly living if we are holding onto the past in expectation that the past can be relived and changed? A car crash that happened in January can’t be revisited, the circumstances changed so the accident never happened thus changing the events, just to placate our own desires of a pleasant journey.  It happened, we learn from it and move forward rather than dwell and stew over the events or incidents so that we are encumbered, shackled even, to the actions of the past.

My Father in Heaven knows my every move and my every thought. He cares for me with infinite love and gave up His own Son so that I may know the grace and glory of God not only here on earth but also in Heaven when my time comes. To know this message is to know the perfect release. To know God’s grace, His perfect forgiveness of my sins, is to know life. When we take the measures of our past and those things that we have held onto and give them up to a loving and forgiving Father, it is then that I shall live; that we shall live. The things of the past are gone and done, the things of the future are ahead and will be known soon enough. Life is a gift, that is why it is the present. The time has come to live in God’s love and to understand that He is in control and that our future is secure in His glory. God has made it abundantly clear that the future is in His control regardless of what we predict and stress over. To know this is to truly live.

This Sunday marks the start of 2017. Let us resolve to live; live in His blessings and His grace. When we recognize this we shall truly live.

Happy New Year

Pastor Todd

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Thy Will Be Done

I know I am not alone when I say that I tend to rush through the Lord’s prayer at times. The words slide together and the depth of meaning is lost in the familiarity of the passage. If this has never happened to you then praise God but it has, on occasion, been a time of mindless regurgitation of set words for me. At the dinner table, the meal time prayer flows from the tongue like a babbling brook and there has been, on occasion, times where I don’t recall the final amen of my nightly offering. But, then again, there are those times when I am compelled to stop and analyze what I am praying; last night was one of those opportunities.

In Matthew, Christ informs us how to come before the Father in prayer. The line I paused at last night was “Thy will be done”. Not “my will be done” but rather “Thy will”; God’s will! Consider this while you ponder the message in that short verse. What is His will for mankind? Is His will to have troupe of mindless robots chanting sterile words to the universe while staring glass-eyed into space? Does He want a world of lemmings blindly following Him as He leads them to the precipice so He can watch them fall to an icy death? Are we expected to regurgitate lines verbatim ion order to achieve a heightened status in Heaven? What is His will?

Jesus came to earth, born in a manger, born for all mankind. He came to walk amongst His children, guide them, teach them and love them. His will on earth, His will for all mankind, is that we love Him as He loves us. Christ left the comfort of Heaven and came to live in the filth mankind created on earth. He came for all mankind so that we would know His will. He came to fulfill the prophesy, teach us how to love and forgive, to provide the example for us all and what happened but He was rejected and despised. Today He is rejected by groups who demand that His presence be exterminated from the “holiday season”. The “Sanhedrin” is alive and powerful in the world today but the Word of the Lord is still alive and powerful.

Christ is the reason for the season, He is the King of kings, mighty Counsellor and Prince of Peace. His will on earth is that we recognize and declare His love for all nations and that we take time out each and every day to not only reflect on His love for us but also that we show His love to the nations.

Merry Christmas to one and all.

Pastor Todd 

Christmas Eve Play

If you are looking for a Christmas Eve Service in Sundre, we invite you to our play "A Shepherd's Christmas" 6:30 pm Dec 24. There will be coffee and sweets there as well. Hope to see you here.

A Shepherd's Christmas
written by TMac

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

A Savior Has Been Born To You

Well this past year has certainly been anything but boring. As I take a few moments of indulgence on how God has blessed me, I encourage the same for you. He carried me through knee surgery that alleviated chronic pain. He walked with me through an emotional roller coaster. He preserved my job with my employer, and I am thankful for both. When Satan tried to knock me down, and I was weakened, Jesus picked me up and carried me. He kept my family together and safe, and watched over and protected my children and grandchildren even if they were not aware. When a window was closed locally for His word to be shared, Jesus opened a door. Even in this publication,(The News) He  continues to work through authors like me to bring His message of hope and love to all who read His words.

He will continue to work through many in our community to keep His name front and center. When some try to silence Him, He energizes us to raise His name. He is alive and well in the hearts of groups in prison ministry, in missions to help our youth, and in the many hands and voices that minister to the elderly, the in firmed and the forgotten. God is at work in every church family in our county. We may gather in different buildings, but we all attend the same church, His. Jesus is our Lord, and what we do to, and for each other is what we do to, and for Him.

So, now as we are on the eve of what we celebrate as Jesus’ birthday, I would ask that we all remember that this past year, and the past two thousand would have never been the same if it were not for the birth of a baby named Jesus. This Christmas morning, may we all take a moment to read Luke 2:11 (NIV) Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the messiah the Lord. Then remember that the miracle of His resurrection after going to the cross for us, almost completes the story. May we always see the cross, when we look at the cradle. This should give us even more reason to celebrate Christ in our lives. Give thanks for the most precious Christmas gift from God, His son Jesus.

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Peter's Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘GOD’s Gifts to Us?’
Day 1: Romans 12:3FAITH“Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.”
Day 2: Romans 10:9-10SALVATION“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved."
Day 3: Philippians 4:6, 7PEACE – “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Day 4: Psalm 16:11JOY“You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.”
Day 5: Romans 15:4HOPE“Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.”
Day 6: 1 John 4:7LOVE – “Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God."
Day 7: 2 Corinthians 5:21RIGHTEOUSNESS – “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.”
** Verses taken from the New Living Translation


Sunday, December 18, 2016

Week At A Glance Dec 26 – Jan 1, 2017

Office Hours

Church Office Closed      - Mon - Tues, Dec 26-27
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Dec 28-30
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Dec 31
Church Service                 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Jan 1

Special Events

Quad Fellowship                              - Resumes Jan 2, 2017
Lady’s Bible Study                          - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Lady’s Crafting with a Purpose       - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Alpha Study                                     - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Men’s Leadership Study                  - Resumes Jan 12, 2017
Men’s Coffee Fellowship                 - Resumes Jan 12, 2017
New Year’s Eve Games Night          - 6:30 PM Sat, Jan 31, 2016
Church Service                                 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Jan 1
Care Home Services                         - None Scheduled this week

Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents.


Week at a Glance Dec 19-25, 2016

Office Hours

Church Office Closed      - Mon, Dec 19
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Dec 20-23
Church Office Closed     - Sat, Dec 24
Church Service               - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 25

Special Events

Quad Fellowship                         - 7:30 AM Mon, Dec 19
Lady’s Bible Study                      - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Lady’s Crafting with a Purpose   - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Alpha Study                                 - Resumes Jan 11, 2017
Men’s Leadership Study              - Resumes Jan 12, 2017
Men’s Coffee Fellowship            - Resumes Jan 12, 2017
Christmas Eve Service                 - 6:30 PM Sat, Dec 24
Church Service                             - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 25
Care Home Services                     - No Service This Week


Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Jesus, A Gift For All Seasons

As I sat to write this message, perhaps some inspiring words of wisdom and encouragement about how great Christmas and God are, I realized that not everyone can or will accept them. I’ve read many posts lately about how many people dread the Christmas season and anything associated with it. It would be wrong not to acknowledge and address this.

Yes, it is true. Christmas, a joyous time for most of us, is an absolute terror for many people. While we celebrate the birth of Jesus, surround ourselves with family, friends, and joy, many will suffer in silence. I speak of those who have lost loved ones this year, or near Christmas, had marriage or relationship break up’s, those away from family, or in a nursing home with no family, and yes, those who just don’t believe in Jesus’ birth. Then there are those with addictions, mental and physical health problems, the unemployed, and the working poor. All of these people are on an even keel when it comes to not wanting to celebrate.

My encouragement is not to forget those who don’t have the joy of Jesus with them right now. We cannot fix everyone, but we can be more aware of this, and be understanding in these situations. Try to offer some hope by the way we display ourselves. We represent Christ, and as Christians it should be our responsibility to hold all of these people to the Father. Let’s not be fooled into ignoring them, yet let’s pray for them and their situations. Help when we can, and always encourage in the Lord. John 13:34-35NIV Jesus clearly tells us.” A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another”. This is one way we can encourage those who are in a depressive state at Christmas.

During this joyous and trying Christmas season, we should all be reminded to read Matthew 25:34-40. As we come together to enjoy a Christmas concert, presentation, or church service, remember how the birth of this little baby changed the world. How He who grew into the man who brought mankind a message of hope, willingly offered himself on the cross, rose from the dead, and is now preparing a place for all who come to Him in belief. This is also for those who are grieving the Christmas season. So now, let’s continue to offer hope in the greatest Christmas gift we can. Jesus.

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Week At A Glance – Dec 12 – 18, 2016


Church Office Closed      - Mon, Dec 12
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Tues-Fri Dec 13 - 16
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Dec 17
Church Service                - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 18

Special Events

Monday Outdoor Adventure      - Call for time and details
Morning Prayer                          - 9:00 AM Tues, Dec 13
Sundre Ministerial                      - 9:00 AM Wed, Dec 14
Ladies Bible Study                     - resuming in January
Lady’s Craft for a Purpose         - resuming in January
Movie Night                               - 7:00 PM Wed, Dec 14
                                                    - The Nativity Story
Men’s Bible Study                      - 8:00 AM Thurs, Dec 15
Men’s Coffee Fellowship           - 9:00 AM Thurs, Dec 15

Tis The Season Dessert Theatre – 2:00 PM Sat, Dec 17
Didsbury Memorial Complex     - 6:00 PM Sat, Dec 17
                                                     - 2:00 PM Sun, Dec 18
Care Home Services                    - No Services This Weekend 


Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

JOY

The greatest commandment encompasses so much and is the perfect message. Matthew wrote down Christ’s proclamation to the Pharisees as they challenged the Son of God looking to have Him trip up. In chapter 22 of the book of Matthew it is written:

[Jesus] “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

This is the perfect representation of the word joy. Years ago my good friend Pastor Doug Webb did a series on JOY; Jesus, Others and You. There is JOY in this verse and when you realize the importance of the acronym, there will be joy in your heart.
Love the Lord with all you are and with your entirety. This does not mean love Him and praise Him on Sunday and Holy Holidays but rather love Him completely, 24/7, in thought, deed and presence. God rejoices in you every second of the day, do you reciprocate? Jesus came to earth to be amongst us. He came willingly and lovingly (see John 3:16-16). His message is one of perfect grace and forgiveness for all mankind and all He asks in return is to trust in Him and Him alone.

Love your neighbours, all of them, those who drop by for coffee every day and those who flip you the bird in rush hour traffic. Love them all because all others are just as much God’s children as you are. By the way, you and I are not easily loved by every person in the world. We have our detractors and, while it would be nice not to have any enemies, we all do but if they were to love us as we would love them, maybe this too could change. Love others more than they love you.

Finally, love yourself. The world stresses self and says you are not perfect unless you look and act a certain way. Guess what, God is perfect and He does not create junk. We are all wonderfully created in His image and that image is one of love. Love Jesus, love others and love yourself the way Christ loves; agape!

Sunday we celebrate JOY. If you can’t be here to join us in the celebration of JOY, you can click on the Message Online tab on our website at www.mainavefellowship.blogspot.ca to hear the service online.

Shalom Aleichem

Pastor Todd

Sunday, December 11, 2016

Advent Service - Peace

Our Sunday service on Peace is now available online. Go to messages online to listen to this morning's offering.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Shalom Aleichem

We sat by the lake on a warm summer night in August. The waves lapped gently on the shore, a soft breeze blew through the leaves of the willow tree and the crickets were just beginning to sing their song to the dusk. There was not a single sound related to the chaos of the city; no cars, no horns, no yelling, just a pure nature quiet.

There are those who go stir crazy when they can’t rely on those sounds. They have become so accustomed to the noise that it is a part of their lives and when it is removed, they can’t settle. Sometimes what some people find peaceful others can’t fathom. I find a trip into the mountains and looking out over a meadow and seeing a herd of wild horses grazing peacefully in the distance to be very peaceful. I cannot relate, however, to finding peace sitting at a table at an outdoor café on a busy street sipping a cappuccino and watching the world scurry by but for many this is their idea of peace.

There are some out there who question my love of the outdoors and taking time to tour the backcountry but then again I have trouble understanding how anyone can relax and find peace in the chaos of the city. My buddy loves the city life and has trouble settling in the great outdoors while I can’t be in the city for too terribly long before my peace quickly leaves. We are good friends and have something very similar in common; the Perfect Peace of God in our lives. We may be miles apart in our ideal appreciation of peace but we share a love of the Prince of Peace. Everything else in life seems so insignificant when the peace of the Master dwells within us.

This Sunday we are talking about the Peace Advent Candle.

Shalom Aleichem (Peace be upon you)

Pastor Todd

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Keep Christ In Christmas

So we are now in the month of what we call the Christmas season. Yes the mall parking lots are full, and hopefully the church pews will be. Trees and trimmings are now adorning every home and street corner. Lights, music, and planned family gatherings are on high, as we close in on the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus. The true Messiah, came quietly, as a baby, despite the efforts of threatened kingdoms to stop him.

For everyone, it should be a time of great anticipation and sharing of this celebration. The reality of our world, and our community is that there will be those that will try and suppress this joy. Governments everywhere are at work to try and silence His message, removing Him from schools, public buildings, and even courtrooms, yet they cannot. Many stores will use Christmas only as a tool to improve their bottom line. There will be groups and even co-workers that will try to use political correctness to silence our singing praises to the Lamb. There will be claims and complaints of being offended by the very words, ”Merry Christmas”, or even an aptly decorated tree. There will be attacks because a display or ornament is about Jesus’ birth. Stand proud for Him and remain steadfast in your faith and pray for those who seem to have lost, or have no faith, yet never attack those of other faiths. Never be ashamed of speaking the name of Jesus. In Luke 9:26 (GNT), Jesus tells us,” If you are ashamed of me and my teaching, then the Son of man (Jesus) will be ashamed of you when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”

So as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, wear your nativity broach, hang an ornament, offer a Merry Christmas, do a random act of kindness as a birthday gift to Jesus and let God look after the rest. Remember that God sent Jesus for all of us, carefully wrapped, aptly labeled, ”To all mankind, My gift to you.” Invite someone to a Christmas concert, or church service to learn about the miracle of His birth. Ask them to come and see what the buzz is all about. Offer that perfect gift to unwrap on Christmas morning, and always remember to keep Christ in Christmas.

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Sunday, December 4, 2016

Advent Sunday - Love

Yes, I know, we messed up the order but I have a feeling that the good Lord wanted us to focus on agape today. You can hear the sermon online by going to the Online Message tab.
Blessings all!
Pastor Todd

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Week At A Glance Dec 5 – 11, 2016

Office Hours
Church Office Closed      - Mon, Dec 5
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Dec 6 - 9
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Dec 10
Church Service                - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 11

Special Events
Quad Fellowship                         - 7:30 AM Mon, Dec 5
Lady’s Bible Study                      - 1:00 PM Wed, Dec 7
Lady’s Crafting with a Purpose   - 2:00 PM Wed, Dec 7
Movie Night                                - 6:30 PM Wed, Dec 7
Men’s Leadership Study             - 8:00 AM Thurs, Dec 8
Men’s Coffee Fellowship            - 9:00 AM Thurs, Dec 8
Church Service                           - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 11
Care Home Services                   - No Service This Week

Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

Friday, December 2, 2016

What Is The Christmas Season?

I was wondering this week what the term “Christmas Season” means. Is it a specific calendar space of time or is it a result of snow falling and windows being painted with images of reindeer, snowmen and Santa figures? I see the term seasons’ greetings, happy holidays and happy new year everywhere yet I have yet to see a nativity painting. I see the mall parking lots bursting at the seams yet church parking lots and services are all but bare. It appears as though the buying frenzy is answering the call of gift desperation and the true meaning of Christmas is being camouflaged with colored lights and loud music.

To be fair, I do see most churches being adorned with the proper trappings to let everyone know that we are to celebrate the birth of Jesus. We all know that Jesus was not born in December but our culture has a long standing tradition of celebrating this time of year. That is what the Christmas Season should really be. It should be a time of ramping up our message to the world and our community that the miracle of Jesus’ birth happened against all odds. It happened against all the wishes and efforts of kings and kingdoms that felt threatened by the coming of the true messiah. The marking of Jesus’ birth is even today, a threat to kings and kingdoms of another type. The huge retailers wish to cash in on Christmas without acknowledging Christs’ birth. The atheist’s must surely dislike this time of year because the sweet sound of Christmas carols in our community have the power to drown out their denial of God’s existence. 

I witnessed a dedicated group at the First Baptist Church erecting a nativity backdrop and a wonderful poster of invitation to Christmas services. I am aware that church bodies in our community, ours included, will be dedicating certain services to music presentations that will sing the praises of the Lamb. We will again be celebrating and sharing the true miracle that happened 2016 years ago. Jesus came unto man without fan fair. He lived a simple life among us, died an undeserved death, asked the Father to forgive us and rose again to go and prepare a place for all who would come into His house. His quiet existence and influence for over two thousand years is as powerful today as it was back then. That, my friends, is what we should all remember and celebrate this “Christmas Season”.

Mike Shindruk
www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca


Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Christmas Update

With all the time challenges this month, we try to keep the calendar updated as best we can. If there is an activity that we have missed or one you would like to include on the front page calendar listing, please feel free to contact us by email at mainavefellowship@gmail.com

Blessings
Pastor Todd

For God So Loved

We are just about to enter into the month of December and there is finally some snow on the ground. Not a lot of snow here in town but a bit more out in the foothills and on the mountain peaks. We have a few terms for snow such as dry snow, wet snow, snow pellets, crusty snow and so on but did you know that the people in northern Canada have over fifty words for snow? So many ways to describe frozen water, incredible isn’t it?

There is another word that can be expanded and that is love. In the English language love can be used to describe a type of love, I love that sweater, or, I would love another cup of tea but, truth be told, it is a rather limited word. I would suggest there are varying degrees of love such as I love my dog but not in the same way I love my wife. The Greek language has us beat there. Love is defined in numerous ways such as eros; a sexual or passionate love, philia; a deep friendship or brotherly love, ludus; a playful love or friendship love, pragma; a long and deep love built over time, philautia; a narcissistic or self love and finally agape; a perfect and complete love.

In John 3:16, the scripture reads that God so loved the world that He sent His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. The term love in this passage is ηγαπησεν, which is in the family of words under agape. God loved us with such perfection that the term used is indefinable in English terms. The perfection of this love is like trying to define infinite. Absolute perfect and infinite love. He sent His Son to earth so that we would know that perfect love right here on earth and God sent His Son that we might know eternity. Merry Christmas; a joyous and festive time of giving thanks for Christ, Emmanuel, God with us. This is the time we celebrate His agape for all mankind.

This Advent Sunday, we look at the agape in the Christmas celebration.


Pastor Todd

Week At A Glance – Nov 28 – Dec 4, 2016

Office Hours

Church Office Closed      - Mon, Nov 28
Church Office Open        - 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM Tues-Fri Nov 29-Dec 2
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Dec 3
Church Service                 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Dec 4

Special Events

Monday Outdoor Adventure      - Call for time and details
Morning Prayer                          - 9:00 AM Tues, Nov 29
Ladies Bible Study                     - 1:00 PM Wed, Nov 30
Lady’s Craft for a Purpose         - 2:00 PM Wed, Nov 30
Movie Night                               - 7:00 PM Wed, Nov 30
Men’s Bible Study                     - 8:00 AM Thurs, Dec 1
Men’s Coffee Fellowship          - 9:00 AM Thurs, Dec 1
Sundown in Sundre                   - 5:00 PM Fri, Dec 2
Carol Service at Sundre Community Centre – 7:00 PM Sunday, Dec 4
Care Home Services                   - No Services This Weekend 


Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Sunday Service

Every Sunday we post our messages online. If you are snowed in, shut in or just want to hear a message of hope, we invite you to give us a try. Follow the link above to Message online for the latest service.
Blessings
Pastor Todd

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Peter's Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘I am a Work in Progress’
Day 1: Philippians 1:6“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”
Day 2: 2 Corinthians 3:18“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord – who is the Spirit – makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image."
Day 3: Philippians 3:12-14 – “I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”
Day 4: Ephesians 4:15“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”
Day 5: Philippians 2:12“Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.”
Day 6: Isaiah 30:18 – “So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help."
Day 7: 2 Peter 1:5-8 – “In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
** Verses taken from the New Living Translation


Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Striving To Live Out The Love Of Christ

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Phil 1:27

Over the past few months our church has been working towards defining the vision for the gathering as it relates to our community and beyond. I read through the vision statements from so many different churches and they all seemed quite fine for their Faith Gathering but nothing really resonated with me in relation to our focus at Main Avenue Fellowship. We sat around the table discussing who we are, how we are perceived by the community and how we would like to be perceived. We were very blunt and realistic with our review.

We recognized that we are not as pure as the driven snow but we are really trying. So many in the world think you need to be perfect and sinless to come through the doors of the church but, truth be told, we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God but His grace is fully sufficient. He wants us all to realize that the church is the perfect place for all God’s children to come and realize the cleansing grace of Christ. My responsibility, our responsibility, is to allow His grace to cleanse us. When that happens, the journey begins and we strive to live out the love of Christ in all we do.

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matt 25:35-40 NIV

Sunday marks the first Sunday of Advent, Hope! Where there is Christ’s love, there is always hope.

Blessings on you all

Pastor Todd

Week At A Glance – Nov 21-27, 2016

Church Office Closed      - Mon, Nov 21
Church Office Open        - 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM Tues-Thurs Nov 22-24
Church Office Closed      - Fri - Sat, Oct 25-26
Church Service                - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Nov 27

Special Events

Monday Outdoor Adventure      - Call for time and details
Morning Prayer                          - 9:00 AM Tues, Nov 22
Alpha                                          - 7:00 PM Wed, Nov 23
Putting on the Greens                 - 1:00 PM Wed, Nov 23
Lady’s Craft for a Purpose         - Cancelled for Decorating
Men’s Bible Study                     - 8:00 AM Thurs, Nov 24
Men’s Coffee Fellowship          - 9:00 AM Thurs, Nov 24

Annual Christmas Fellowship Feast after service this Sunday

Care Home Services                  - No Services This Weekend 

Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

He’s Not Finished Yet

My wife and I built our house, literally, almost thirty-five years ago. We raised a family there and seemed to constantly be making changes, improvements and upgrades. Our children, now adults with their own lives, outgrew this house and, in some ways, even us. When available, all are willing to repair, rebuild or rework what we cannot and that’s a gift. I have learned all these years later that the house will never really be finished. Some projects fall by the wayside and most never seem to fit into our budget. Yet, we, my wife in particular, never stop dreaming, planning or looking forward. My age, energy and ability have changed over time and my best intentions will probably never match her creativity. This does not stop the effort and willingness to forge ahead, it just slows the program.

In God’s eyes, we are like houses. He will never be finished working on us. He planned, designed and built us. He laid a foundation for us to be built on, His rock. Our walls are the family and friends He surrounds us with. Our roof is His presence in our lives to protect us from the elements. The furnishings we accumulate are the experiences, victories and failures we endure in our life. These, like paint color, will change many times. Our windows are the eyes for us to see what He has provided for us. Our window dressings are the freewill decisions He allows us to exercise. We can shut the world or Him out or open them to allow the light of His spirit into every corner.

Like our houses, we will be new only once, then time will have its effect on us. We will age, perhaps not so gracefully and be patched up along the way. Yet He will always have a plan to keep improving us, even when we think we have outgrown Him. Then one day, we see ourselves differently and realize that even with our imperfections He still loves us. We are a house worth working on. Do you think God is finished with you? No, He’s not finished yet. In fact, He may just be getting started on you. He’s knocking on your heart door. Let Him in to have a look around and let the renovations begin.

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Monday, November 21, 2016

Peter's Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘Can I be Blessed?’
Day 1: Psalm 23:1, 2“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.”
Day 2: Exodus 23:25“You must serve only the Lord your God. If you do, I will bless you with food and water, and I will protect you from illness."
Day 3: Matthew 5:9 – “God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.”
Day 4: Psalm 119:2“Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts.”
Day 5: Matthew 5:6“Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts.”
Day 6: James 1:25 – “But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."
Day 7: Ephesians 1:2 – “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.”

** Verses taken from the New Living Translation

Saturday, November 19, 2016

Think….God, Thank God

I wonder how much time or how many times each of us spent thinking about God this week. It is not uncommon for people to attend a great church service, listen to wonderful worship music, a great and encouraging message then leave for another week dreading yet another Monday. We don’t intend to but in many lives and homes, this happens. We sit and soak up a Sunday sermon with all the trimmings, prayers and pulpit promises and then allow the world to wring us out as the work week begins.

If this speaks to you today, here is my encouragement. When you wake each day, think…God. When you go to your workplace or seek employment, think…God. If your career or job is going through some changes for you, think…God. If your health is challenged or you experience a healing in your body, think…God. If you or a loved one has reached an age milestone, think…God. If any stresses have been released in a family situation, think…God. Psalm 40:17 NCV reminds us this way. Lord, because I am poor and helpless, please remember me. You are my helper and savior. My God, do not wait.

If anything of the last week has either shown an improvement in your life or someone else’s you know, then thank God. Thank Him in the tough times and thank Him in the grace times. Has a window closed and yet a door opened for you? Then thank God. Did you have a bad week, get knocked down? Then thank God for picking you up. Were you drained of life energy, yet are still standing? Then thank God for carrying you. Have you realized that you have a faith family around you? Then thank God for the hearts that pray for you, the hands that hold you, and His boots on the ground that walk with you. Psalm 100:4 NIV instructs us; enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. In other words, enter His gates as you think…God, then thank God, as He truly has your future and your best interests in His hands.

Mike Shindruk
www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca


Tuesday, November 15, 2016

I Have Fallen And Can’t Get Up

Overheard about a month ago “Mom, I don’t want to ride the bike, I keep falling off and I hate it.” The mother’s response was “You don’t have to worry, you don’t have to ride it if you don’t want to.” Today, I started to think about this a bit deeper. My grandmother used to say “You don’t have to eat it if you don’t like it, just leave it off to the side.” Then there was, “You don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”

I am much older now and I love brussel sprouts, haggis, long drives in the country, bagpipe music, reading, history and attending church with my friends. All of these things I was told at one point in time that I did not have to do them or eat them or attend if I did not want to. I missed so much growing up and the substitutes were so; unfulfilling. Days of lazing in front of the one eyed monster rather than going for a drive with the folks out to the countryside. Decades later, reuniting with friends from long ago because I had better things to do on a Sunday then go to church. I simply did not feel like going. Funny, when I ended up in the greatest need, I tended to call upon the church but it was on my time schedule, not the church’s. The wonderful intricacies of the Bible, lost until a couple decades ago because, for me, the Bible was old and irrelevant and I didn’t want to read it. “Don’t worry” the devil says “you don’t have to read it if you don’t want to!”

Jesus said to the disciples at the very beginning of His ministry “Follow Me!” All of the men who heard His call probably questioned leaving what they knew for the unknown. What would have been had they said “Do I have to?” And what would have happened if Christ replied “Don’t worry, you don’t have to if you don’t want to.” Salvation relies on all God’s children saying “Yes, I will follow Christ!” Should you attend a church, be in fellowship with other Christians, learn God’s word, support one another in times of good and in bad, commit to serving the needs of the church and of others. The answer is Yes! Beware world, the devil wants you be indifferent because it makes his job easier.

Be blessed all.


Pastor Todd

Saturday, November 12, 2016

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘Can I Have Victory?’
Day 1: Psalm 18:35“You have given me your shield of victory. Your right hand supports me; your help has made me great.”
Day 2: Isaiah 40:31“But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. "
Day 3: Psalm 37:23, 24 – “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
Day 4: Psalm 18:32-34“God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.”
Day 5: 1 John 5:4, 5“For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.”
Day 6: John 16:33 – “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Day 7: James 1:12 – “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
** Verses taken from the New Living Translation


Week At A Glance Nov 14 – Nov 20, 2016


Office Hours
Church Office Closed      - Mon, Nov 14
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Nov 15 - 18
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Nov 19
Church Service                - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Nov 20

Special Events
Quad Fellowship                         - 7:30 AM Mon, Nov 14
Lady’s Bible Study                     - 1:00 PM Wed, Nov 16
Lady’s Crafting with a Purpose  - 2:00 PM Wed, Nov 16
Alpha Small Group                     - 7:00 PM Wed, Nov 16
Men’s Leadership Study             - 8:00 AM Thurs, Nov 17
Men’s Coffee Fellowship           - 9:00 AM Thurs, Nov 17
Church Service                           - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Nov 20
Care Home Services                   - No Service This Week


Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

He Is….

For a moment, let’s think about the many times God was with us this year. He was with families as they watched their children graduate from high school, and held hands with all of us who had a loved one go to heaven because their room was ready. He was in our midst when a job was secured, and also when one was lost. He remains with congregations who were forced to close church buildings, yet is with every ministry that will be born in His name.

He is the head of our planet’s household. I’m so glad, for a God who welcomes everyone into His family. My Lord, Jesus Christ does not instruct you to kill non-believers, yet tells you to love one another as in John 13:34. He does not condemn those who mock the Bible, He offers His words to their hearts. He did not invent religion, yet He created faith. He does not discriminate, as He made us all in His image, Genesis 1:27. He acknowledges those who claim to be atheists, even as He surrounds them with evidence of His existence and presence. He forgives those who trespass against Him and His children. He dwells in the minds of those who are ill and cannot speak. He protects the weakened from satan’s cowardly attacks. 

He remains in the homes of the weary and worried. He steadies the hands of every surgeon. He inspires each one of us to help, not hinder, to love and forgive, and not to hate and destroy. He cries when we destroy each other. He gave us all the freewill to believe in Him, or to foolishly reject His love and walk away. He owns all time, and has enough of it to wait patiently for us to allow Him into our hearts and our world. Although He died, He is alive, 2 Corinthians 13:4. He is not imaginary, God is real. God’s not dead, and He is calling, waiting for your answer to accept His invitation to come to Him. Jesus left to be with the Father, but He Is, coming back. John 14:28 NIV “ You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you’. If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I”.

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Remembering

Why do we make such a big deal about remembering such horrible events? We relive the travesty of 911 every year. Society holds onto the devastation of past wars, WW1, WW2, Korea, and Afghanistan. But why? Go back even further and we can see even more events that are continually brought up and they are either worldwide events or are geographically specific. What is it that keeps society clinging onto the past?

Here are my thoughts on this. I hope we, as a society, never forget the travesty and losses that are associated with wars and conflicts. The moment we forget, the second these losses become as commonplace as breathing, that is the moment we become ignorant to the pain of loss. I would suggest that the memory of such huge loss should never be forgotten. When we forget the loss, the pain, the destruction and senselessness of such conflict, we could find ourselves in much larger and more damaging conflicts.

Men and women have put their lives on the line and given up so much so that others are safe. They put the needs of others ahead of self. John noted in chapter 15 verses 12-13 “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” So many gave their lives so that others may know the safety and freedom we enjoy here in Canada. The least we can do is remember their sacrifice and never forget the gift they gave to their friends. To forget would be a travesty just as forgetting the sacrifice one Man made for all mankind almost two thousand years ago would mean certain death. Never forget the devastation of war, never forget the selfless sacrifice on those who chose to answer the call and never forget the sacrifice on the cross for all mankind.

Take some time this week to thank a Veteran, take time to let a Forces member know you appreciate them, remember the sacrifices of those who gave their life and let Jesus know that you will never forget His sacrifice for your life.

Shalom

Pastor Todd

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Peter's Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘Is GOD listening to ME?’
Day 1: 1 John 5:14“And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.”
Day 2: Psalm 34:17“The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles."
Day 3: Psalm 86:7 – “I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble, and you will answer me.”
Day 4: Psalm 55:17“Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the Lord hears my voice.”
Day 5: Jeremiah 33:3“Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come.”
Day 6: Isaiah 58:9 – “Then when you call, the Lord will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply. Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors!"
Day 7: 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.”

** Verses taken from the New Living Translation

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Week At A Glance Nov 7 – Nov 13, 2016

Office Hours

Church Office Closed      - Mon, Nov 7
Church Office Open        - 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Tues Nov 8
Church Office Closed      - Wed, Nov 9
Church Office Open        - 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thurs, Nov 10
Church Office Closed      - Remembrance Day, Nov 11
Church Office Closed      - Sat, Nov 12
Church Service                - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sun, Nov 13

Special Events

Quad Fellowship                         - 7:30 AM Mon, Nov 7
Lady’s Bible Study                      - 1:00 PM Wed, Nov 9
Lady’s Crafting with a Purpose   - 2:00 PM Wed, Nov 9 
Alpha Small Group                     - Cancelled for Missionary Visit
Pelton Tour                                  - 5:00 PM Wed, Nov 9
Men’s Leadership Study             - 8:00 AM Thurs, Nov 10
Men’s Coffee Fellowship            - 9:00 AM Thurs, Nov 10
Care Home Services                   - 1:30 PM Sunday, Nov 13


Note: Quadding Fellowship on Monday requires participants to contact Pastor Todd to sign up, have an insured and registered quad, have a helmet and bring a lunch. This is not a ministry of Main Avenue Fellowship but rather a gathering of people who want to go out into the great outdoors and enjoy each other’s company and God’s gift of nature. MAF does not assume any liability for injuries or accidents. 

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Have No Fear

We humans are a fearful species. Some common fears are of insects, reptiles, dogs, crowds, rejection, even our past. I myself have a healthy fear of heights, the dark and a few other things.  A friend shared with me how, when his son was very small, was afraid of the wind and how the son became terrified when it howled. He would cry out, daddy what’s that? As he took his son by the hand, he spoke reassurance and they walked among some apple trees on their property during a windy day. All the while the little boy held on for dear life. When they reached one of the trees, the father told the boy to feel the tree trunk as it moved to and fro. Then he asked his son if he held his hand, would he like to sit on a low branch for a ride and the son agreed and again, felt the tree gently swaying in the breeze.  The son’s fear faded away as that day he learned the wind was not the monster he feared. He saw how his father was there to teach and protect him just by his presence and his word.

What a wonderful lesson may be taken from this in our own lives. Most of our fears are of the unknown or misunderstood. The world itself can be a scary place yet it doesn’t have to be. We have a Father to take our hand when we are fearful. He is available to talk to and will walk with us when we’re facing the wind. Jesus will never leave us alone with our terror as He offers all of us a place of safety in Him. Isaiah 41:10NIV may be applied to us individually. It reads “so do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”. Perhaps we can also recall Psalm 23.

It’s a matter of trust. That’s a hard thing for us to give up yet there comes a time when we have to go out on our own limb and just ask Jesus to come into our lives. The insects, the dogs and the dark will always be there yet with your hand in the Master’s, they will no longer be something to fear. 

Mike Shindruk

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Peter's Picks

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks
‘Grace’
Day 1: John 1:14“So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.”
Day 2: Ephesians 2:8, 9“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."
Day 3: 2 Peter 1:2 – “May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.”
Day 4: 1 Peter 4:10“God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.”
Day 5: James 4:6“And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’”
Day 6: 2 Corinthians 8:7 – “Since you excel in so many ways – in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us – I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving."
Day 7: Hebrews 4:16 – “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
** Verses taken from the New Living Translation


Do Not Give Up On Your Faith

As I sat there watching a friend’s quad slowly sink deeper and deeper into the muskeg, I wondered how much longer until he/we finally gave up and just let it sink out of sight. With every attempt made to get the muskeg to release this poor defenseless quad from a watery grave, the deeper it sank. At one point the quad sounded more like a motor boat than an ATV as the muffler went underwater. As more and more people gathered and came together to assist the owner in this endeavour, the odds began to move into our favour and finally, the muskeg released its grip on the quad.

There are times when we feel all alone, wondering where God is it all of this. I have said it myself “God WHERE ARE YOU!!!”. There are many times when people have asked me “where was your God when my mom/dad was sick?” So many times we are caught up in the despair that we forget to look around and focus purely on the problem. Where was God when I was sinking ever deeper into the muskeg of life? God was there! He sent friends to come along side and lend a hand, He provided the means to get out of the situation and He did not let the earth swallow us up. God sent His Son as the life line to eternal life and joy. He has never given up hope in any of His children even though so many either question His existence or plain give up on Him.

The next time you are feeling alone and abandoned, take your focus off self and look to Jesus for guidance, look around you because He will provide for your needs. Sometimes what He provides is not what you expect so look carefully. Never give up, never surrender because He will never give up on you.

Blessings

Pastor Todd