Cast Your Nets In Faith

This coming Saturday, on our local shores here in North Eastern Nova Scotia, lobster fishermen will be braving the seas and the elements as a new season unfolds. Although a time of great anticipation, there are also many dangers. Weather, rough seas, sickness, equipment failures are real possibilities that cause problems. I encourage everyone to please take a moment each day to pray for safe sailing and return of all fishermen. From the seasoned veterans, to the new sea legs, each day is spent laboring in hopes of good harvest.

I am reminded of the fishermen in Jesus’ time when there were times of poor catches. Jesus told them to have faith, and cast their nets on the other side as in John 21:6. Low and behold, when they finally obeyed in faith, they were rewarded. I know many of our fishermen. I do not know how many have a faith walk with God nor do I need to know because He does. 

Regardless of our job, career or circumstance I do know that whenever we put our day and our life in Jesus’ hands He holds us tight under His protection and reward. Through surgeries, the passing of a friend or loved one, and every ache and pain in between, He heals. It’s just another reward for our belief and faith in His power.

Just like the fishermen who are challenged each day, so are we just in a different way. Come and stay in God’s presence and protection. Rest assured He will bring you home safe every day.

Mike Shindruk

Master’s Hand Ministry

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

I have heard it said that it takes a village to raise a child. Years ago, I lived on a farm just outside Lacombe, AB. When we moved there from the city, I knew little of the ways of the farm but as I settled into the lifestyle, I found my place and became an integral part of the operation. I was a rather small child but that did not stop me from taking up a bucket at feeding time and heft it down the long corridor to the end of the barn. It took numerous trips to the north pens from the water room and the chop room and the fences is had to lift the bucket over were very high but I did manage to complete the task with relatively little spillage.

As time went along, I grew stronger in my abilities and was soon carrying two buckets and then four buckets down the corridor. The fences became less of an obstacle and I became more proficient at my tasks. My brother also had his specialty as did my mom and dad. Together, as a team, we did pretty good. Each person contributed in a different way as their talents provided. Mom was an incredible cook and could make a gourmet meal out of a sow’s ear. Dad kept my brother and I busy and taught us so many things that we still utilize today and my brother was a constant source of entertainment and I could always count on him. Take any one part of that team out of the equation and we would not have been able to accomplish all we did.

When Holy Spirit comes upon us, He bestows gifts that, when used in combination with other’s gifting, improve the whole community. God gifts each person in different ways and we grow in our understanding and abilities not only as time goes along but also as we learn just what He has gifted us with and how it all fits into God’s plan. Not everyone is a gifted speaker but some are gifted with a helping nature and others with a gift of wisdom. God knows the plans He has for His faith gathering and gifts people for the health of the whole community and His wisdom in this is perfect.

This Sunday we look at 1 Corinthians 12 so to understand the importance of the parts as they effect the whole.

Blessings

Pastor Todd

Week At A Glance April 25- May 1, 2016

Church Office Closed   - Monday, April 25

Church Office Open      – 9:00 PM – 5:00 PM Tuesday-Wednesday, April 26-27

Church Office Open      - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thursday-Friday, April 28-29

Church Office Closed   - Saturday, April 30

Church Service             - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday, May 1

Lady’s Bible Study      - 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 27 at the church

Movie Night                - None Scheduled This Week

Men’s Bible Study       - 8:00 AM Thursday, April 28 at the church

How Close Is He, Really?

Have you ever thought of how close Jesus really is to you? He is as close as the whisper of His name, as the mere thought of His face. He is just as close to someone in a church service on Sunday, as He is to a shut-in who cannot get there. Whether we speak out loud, or in our own silence to Him, He listens and He cares. We can be with Him, and Him with us, whether we go to church or not. That is the power He holds. It is important for our spiritual and physical health, that we fellowship of course, as encouraged in Hebrews 10:24. When we encourage, pray for, listen to, gather together, and care about each other through any situation, we are obeying this scripture. Yet, never think that because you didn’t attend service that He is not with you.

By doing any of these things, we are being obedient, and God will continue to build His church through these works. We may not immediately see the results, but be assured He does. Hopefully you see now, just how close to all of us, Jesus really is. He’s broken the earth, tilled the soil, and planted the seeds. He asks only that we tend the garden, and water it now and then.

Mike Shindruk

Master’s Hand Ministry

www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca

How Does One Box The Wind?

Words I have come to focus on; “Not by my will Lord but by Yours”. Notice I said focus on and not live by. I try to live by those words but, truth be told, I am not always quick to give up the reigns. Years ago, I had one of those store bought plates for my truck that said “God is my co-pilot”. My buddy Rob wondered about that and asked “if God is your co-pilot, does that mean that He is not in charge?”

Years ago, I gave my life to Christ and in the infancy in my walk, I truly believed I could do ministry so much better than anyone else. I had great ideas on how we could present God in a better light and make Him so much greater than anyone could imagine. I was in the driver’s seat and God was along for the ride. Was God watching me wondering what I was trying to accomplish and laughing in much the same way I laughed when I watched my son made some great discoveries at three and four years old? There were many times when I tried to put God into the box that fit my understanding only to realize that by doing so I wanted to walk with God on my terms, by my will. There are still times I do this and realize that, as Jesus was preparing for His own death He still called out “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Luke 22:42 NIV.

God’s knowledge and wisdom are infinite and I am in constant awe of Him and of His perfect grace. Holy Spirit has been described as the breath of life or the wind. How does one contain the wind? I have come to realize that I am the boat upon the water and Holy Spirit is the wind in my sails. The beauty of the Lord is evident in what He does in my journey and not the other way around. Every time I go to take back the cup, put my hands on the wheel, take control, I must remember that God is the pilot, He is the wind in my sail and it is by His will that I must live.

This Sunday we delve into Romans 8 to look at how Holy Spirit gives us life and direction.

Pastor Todd

Brotherly Love

The Perfect 7-day Diet – Peter’s Picks

‘Brotherly Love’

Day 1: Psalm 133:1 – “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!”

Day 2: Romans 12:9, 10 – “Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other."

Day 3: Galatians 6:10 – “Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith."

Day 4: Romans 14:19 – “So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.”

Day 5: Ephesians 4:32 – “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

Day 6: 1 John 4:20, 21 – “If someone says, ‘I love God,’ but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters."

Day 7: 1 Peter 3:8, 9 – “Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it.”

** Verses taken from the NLT.

Prayer Request

Hi all out there in cyber-land. I am asking if you would take some time and pray for those just west of Sundre who are being affected by the fire. There is reported to be a fire just south of Bearberry and we would like to keep the people of the area and those responding to the fire in prayer.
We are praying for favorable winds, that the fire would be quickly controlled and that no one get hurt while fighting the fire.
Thank you all for your prayers!!
Pastor Todd

Week At A Glance April 18-24, 2016

Church Office Closed   - Monday, April 18

Church Office Open      – 9:00 PM – 5:00 PM Tuesday, April 19

Church Office Closed    – Wednesday, April 20

Church Office Open      - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thursday-Friday, April 21-22

Church Office Closed   - Saturday, April 16

Church Service             - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday, April 17

Lady’s Bible Study      - 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 20 at the church

Movie Night                - 7:00 PM Wednesday, April 20 at the church

Men’s Bible Study       - 8:00 AM Thursday, April 14 at the church

Care Home Services   - None Scheduled this week

Stop For The One

Last Sunday, our guest speaker, Wesley Whidden, encouraged us, as part of his message, to “stop for the one”. What a powerful message. Someone very close to me that I am encouraging in the Lord, shared how God spoke to him the day before. In a cashier line, the gentleman ahead of him, was purchasing some food. He was of modest means, and even after emptying his pockets, was a few dollars short. As the cashier proceeded to remove a few canned items, God intervened, and my friend paid for the additional items. He told me that he felt God instruct him, as his own want, was much smaller than the other man’s need. He was not boasting, only confiding to me, letting me know that he was getting Jesus’ message, and he felt Holy Spirit move his heart, and heard God’s voice. In that instant, dear friend’s, he stopped for the one.

Listen for God’s unmistakable familiar voice, as in John 10:27 NIV, My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow Me. Then be obedient to His prompting. Stop for the one. Speak to, pray for and forgive someone, even if they don’t or won’t accept it. Lighten someone’s burden. Ask Jesus for the same for yourself, and you will find He has someone for you who is waiting themselves, to “stop for the one”. Remember, Jesus went willingly to the cross, and allowed His human life to stop for you. He obeyed the Father and “stopped for the one”. You.

Mike Shindruk

Master’s Hand Ministry

Oh What A Glorious Day

I woke up the other day to the sound of the chickadees outside the window and the smell of a fresh cup of coffee brewing in the kitchen. My wife was in the kitchen singing a wonderful song of praise to the King of all kings and, in my ear, the murmur of my pup as she dozed just over my shoulder. As I began to stir, her tail began to wag and all I could think of was just how wonderful the day was going to be.

As I went into the kitchen, Natalie greeted me with a loving smile and warm hug and, again, the thought came to my mind; what an beautiful day He has created. I walked out the door heading to the church to start my day and there was a deep peace. People I walked by seemed to have a serenity about them that almost glowed. There was no chaos enfolding about me, only a sense of perfect joy, love and peace. It was as though the entire world had succumbed to the power of the Holy Spirit. Is this not a wonderful dream to have for all mankind?

But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified. Gal 5:22-24 The Message

This is not a pipe dream, it can happen today but we need to realize and claim the gifts of the Holy Spirit by asking to Holy Spirit to fill us to overflowing. The world is caught up in the misguided dream of joy through things that can be bought or manufactured but I tell you this, true joy, true love comes from the Lord. While the idols of man generate temporary joy, the love of the Holy Spirit for all mankind is forever. Crucified are the ways of mankind, forever is the Love of God!

Blessings

Pastor Todd

Job Opening at Camp Caroline

JOB POSTING

 

FOOD SERVICES MANAGER

 

Department:   Operations                                                      Director:   Director of Operations

Term:   Permanent Full Time

 

Posting open until a suitable candidate is found. Start date is May 1, 2016.

 

Discover the warmth of our hospitality at Camp Caroline. Located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies we are one of Alberta's premier year-round Christian camp and retreat centers.

 

We strive to create getaways with greater purpose that encourage life-changing experiences,therefore our skilled staff are carefully selected with our campers and guests in mind. Staff are recruited not only for their ability to perform their duties but also for their trustworthy character and commitment to serving campers and guests with an exceptional standard of care.

 

High quality food service is crucial to creating just the right environment for campers and guests. The Food Service Manager is responsible to consistently provide well balanced meals, quality food service and support for campers, guests and staff in accordance with provincial health and safety codes.

 

Requirements:

• A personal profession of faith in Jesus for salvation and witness of obediently following him
• A member or adherent in an evangelical church
• Agreement with the vision and values of Camp Caroline
• College/University degree or equivalent experience
• Red Seal Chef or equivalent experience
• No less than 5 years of experience in Food Service
• No less than 3 years of proven management experience in Food Service
• Demonstrated ability to manage food service staff ranging in size from 2 to 20
• Demonstrated ability to maintain healthy working relationships with year round staff team
• Demonstrated ability to develop, manage and maintain a budget in excess of $200,000
• Availability to work regular and irregular hours
• Ability to work in warm temperatures
• Ability to sit and stand for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 25kg
• Ability to use Microsoft Office and/or other software as required
• Possession of food safe certification recognized by the province of Alberta
• Completion of reference and background checks

 

If you want to encourage campers and guests toward first steps in a life-long journey with Jesus; next steps that follow him faithfully; and, servant-leadership that exemplifies his compassion and concern for others submit your resume to Kelly Krause, Director of Operations (kelly@campcaroline.ab.ca).

 

We thank all those that submit applications, but only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Week At A Glance April 11-17, 2016

Church Office Closed   - Monday, Tuesday, April 11-12

Church Office Open    - Wednesday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, April 13

Church Office Open    - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday-Friday, April 14-15

Church Office Closed - Saturday, April 16

Church Service           - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday April 17

Lady’s Bible Study     - 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 13 at the church

Movie Night                - None Scheduled this week

Men’s Bible Study       - 8:00 AM Thursday, April 14 at the church

Care Home Services   - None Scheduled this week

Are You Engaged

I remember getting engaged to my wife. Well, more so the joy and relief when she said yes, that she would marry me. That was a confirmation that we vowed to be faithful, and be together from that day forward. We were instantly in a state of joy, looking forward to discovering many things together and about each other. Over the years, we have been awestruck as we learned the gender of our children as when they arrived, and saw wonders, miracles, and yes, sadness together that only we shared. Yet each day, we looked forward.

I am reminded that our relationship with Jesus is very much the same. We are introduced to Him, learn about Him, and to like, then to love Him. Then one day, He asks us to marry Him, to spend the rest of our life, and beyond with Him.  When we say yes, we become engaged, and I just know that His heart is in an instant state of joy. Jesus is the groom, and we (the church) are His bride. Today is a good day to become engaged. Engage yourself with God, with Jesus, and Holy Spirit every day. Engage with your church body when you attend service. Engage with your spouse in your trial times, and triumphant times. Then, you will begin to discover more things together, at a level you can only dream about.

Mike Shindruk
Master’s Hand Ministry

Something Big Is Coming

I was informed the other day that what we spoke of here in Sundre, AB was almost identical to the message that was spoken by my good friend Peter on the east coast, almost 5000 km away. Peter and I converse via Facebook and emails almost daily but I had no idea of the topic he was speaking on nor did I know that he was even speaking Sunday night. This is not the first time either. There were times out east when I would speak on a certain topic and later that night Dr. Barclay, Pastor Caroline or the worship team would echo the exact message. Some may claim this to be happenchance or coincidence but when the Holy Spirit is at work, unity in the message is a glorious result!

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Eph 4:1-6 NIV

One God, over all, the Holy Spirit is the guide, should it be any surprises that the messages overlap? Actually I am in awe every time it happens! When we take the time, spend those moments in quite reflection and meditation and stay open to His message.

This Sunday, we continue to delve into the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Until then, Shalom!

Pastor Todd

Week At A Glance April 4-10, 2016

Church Office Open   - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Monday, Tuesday, April 4, 5

Church Office Closed - Wednesday, April 6

Church Office Open    - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thursday-Friday, April 7-8

Church Office Closed - Saturday, April 9

Church Service           - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday April 10

Lady’s Bible Study     - 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 6 at the church

Town Meeting             - 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 6 Legion – Long Term Care Discussion

Movie Night                - None Scheduled this week

Men’s Bible Study       - 8:00 AM Thursday, April 7 at the church

Prayer Meeting           - 10:30 AM Friday, April 8 – Call Pastor Todd for location

Care Home Services   - None Scheduled this week