CountrysideBLOG.com

God's Transforming Power

2009-04-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to witness and to hear how God has transformed a life. The Lord delights in changing lives and giving new life to those who will hand over their lives to Him. Be blessed as you meet our friend Kevin and hear about the amazing things Jesus has done in his life!

You can listen in right here.

No Questions

2006-06-13T21:09:00.000-07:00

Do you ever tell the LORD, "Who me? ... But I couldn't ... You don't really want me to ..." That is exactly what Mo did in Exodus chapter 4. You see God had called him to go to Pharaoh have a little chat and then lead God's people out of Egypt. Mo's response to God is so like ours... "Oh, uh I can't ... (you fill in what God wants you to do here) because ... (you can fill in your own reason here)." Did God ask Mo for an excuse? No. Did God as Mo to question? No. Did God ask Mo to go? Yes! Often when God speaks to us we say, "Uh... but... really... did you think about... I'm not sure..." Let's knock it off! When God speaks, just say Yes! No questions. So what you think you can't - God obviously thinks you can otherwise He wouldn't of asked. You may not be adequate in and of yourself, but with the power of God's Holy Spirit in you, you are more than adequate to do whatever God asks you to do. So next time God asks you to do something don't say, "But..." rather say, "Yes!" "...We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Romans 8:37

New CountrysideBLOG.com

2006-05-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

Join us at our new blog site: CountrysideBLOG.com

His Adventure

2006-05-04T18:21:00.000-07:00

I love adventures and surprises because you never know what is going to happen next. Do you ever feel like you want to get away from the normalcy of everyday life and take an adventure? Well, a few weeks back I was praying with a friend and she used an interesting phrase in talking with the LORD. She thanked the LORD for letting us be a part of HIS ADVENTURE. I thought that was a wonderful, empowering and exciting way to phrase our walk with the LORD!

The LORD tells us in His Word that He will lead us step by step (Proverbs 3:6, Psalm 119:105). He also tells us that He is both the Author and the Perfector of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). So why is it that I have such a hard time trusting in the LORD day to day? Why do I worry? - I guess because I am human, but actually because I am trying to have my own adventure instead of living in God's adventure. You see God's plans are so much better than mine - His adventure has a better storyline than mine. His adventure has better characters than mine. His adventure has a better setting than mine. His adventure even has better hair, make-up, and clothing than mine. His adventure is so grand, why do I think my adventure is even worth comparing?

Are you looking for some excitement? Are you feeling a little dull? Are you uncertain of your future or tired of trying to figure it out? Give up trying to make your own adventure for your life and start living (really living) - live in HIS ADVENTURE!

Jesus Feast

2006-04-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Feasting with Jesus -- the Marriage Supper of the Lamb is certainly worth waiting for. Yet, what about now? In the reality which is Jesus, shouldn't we be able to feast now? The meal that He left us, the bread and the wine, isn't there more than what can often be snacky-symbolism? The very name we often give it, communion (common-union), doesn't that just sound like something we long for in Jesus and with Jesus-like people?

We've enjoyed 'Jesus Feasting' in smaller settings, but this is the first time we've been able to invite the whole of Countryside to feast together in Jesus. Set aside the evening of Sunday, April 30. Let's see Jesus together.

Very early in the morning

2006-04-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

As I was sitting, worshipping and praying during Morning Worship this morning, I was reminded again, what a great opportunity the Lord has given us in this place, and among the people we call Countryside. I watched as a mom of a fairly young boy came in about 6:30 (yes, that's in the morning), with her kid bundled up in a blanket, so that they could join the Body in prayer and communion before the Lord.

Oh, I know the realities of a warm bed beckoning and the inconveniences associated with getting kids out of bed at virtually any hour. Yet, peacefully, and certainly not for the first time, mom came and met the Lord here. And her son (more asleep than awake this time around, but not always) was blessed in more ways that he can count at this point in his life. Blessed by parents who want more of the Lord. Blessed by parents who desire to be an example to their son about faith. Blessed by parents who desire to make some effort of devotion, no matter how small, to train their child in the Lord. All the while, their son looks on and, as Paul admonishes, can be glad in blissful oblivion that he is being raised in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. --Mark 1:35

Testimonies

2006-04-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

“Testimony: An assertion offering firsthand authentication of a fact; something given or done as an expression of esteem; something that recommends (or expresses commendation) of a person or thing as worthy or desirable; something that serves as evidence”

It has been a blessing to hear from those in the Body in the last weeks who have praised the Lord through the evidence that they have offered of God’s love and His grace in their testimony. We’d like you to share yours too, perhaps here on the blog, or during a service at Countryside.

Please send your testimony (it could be about how you’ve come to know the Lord, or perhaps about the amazing things that Jesus is doing in your life), in 1,000 words or less, to testimony@countrysidefellowship.com. If you are looking for examples of what others have encouraged the Body at Countryside with, check out Cameron Sweeney’s or Terry Odle’s testimonies below.

Free, free, free

2006-04-23T16:35:00.000-07:00

In Jesus we are free. We're not free to be in further bondage, or a different kind of bondange, we're free to just be free. Listen to a few of the things Paul says about this very thing:

Galatians 1:6-7 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ.
Galatians 2:4-5 because some false brothers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. 5 We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might remain with you.
Galatians 2:15-16 “We who are Jews by birth and not ‘Gentile sinners’ 16 know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified.
Galatians 2:21 I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”
Galatians 3:2-3 Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?
Galatians 3:25 Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
Galatians 5:13-14 You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. 14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:16-18 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

"Fly, be free." -- Mork from Ork

Mark Now Available on MP3 Audio Commentary

2006-04-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

The book of Mark is now available on MP3. Pick up your copy today in the Encouraging Words Boodstore.

Garden Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings BBQ

2006-04-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

It's here again! This Sunday we're holding the Garden Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings BBQ, following the morning worship service. Come enjoy the food as we gather together for a wonderful time of fellowship.

Oh so very deep and wide

2006-04-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

We cannot have a relationship with our christology — we can have a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Our soteriology cannot save us from our sins — our Savior can.

Our ecclesiology does not make us one — the Lord of the Church does.

Our eschatology will not transform this flawed universe — Jesus the King of kings and Prince of Peace will do that.

And, no matter how much we love theology — it will never love us back.

— from a forthcoming book by Mark Allen Powell, as quoted by Scot McKnight, The Jesus Creed, pg 190

Spring Cleaning

2006-04-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

Contagious?

2006-04-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

Are you contagious? I know, I know - a lot of people have been sick this year at the Fellowship, but that is not what I am talking about. I want to know - Are you contagious for Jesus? Are you infectious with His love?

You see I have been wondering - Do people catch Jesus from me? If you stop and really ask yourself this question the answer may challenge you to become contagious - even infectious. You know, I really wonder... When people catch my attitudes - would they belong to Jesus? When people see my actions - would they belong to Jesus? When people hear my words - would they belong to Jesus? If people could read my mind (Thank God they can't at times!) - would my thoughts be those that Jesus would of had? How would you answer those questions about yourself? Hmmm...

The thing is this - we are all contagious, but what are we passing on to others? So think about it - instead of just being contagious, be contagious with Jesus because Jesus is a wonderful thing to catch!

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts..." Colossians 3:15

Easter Week at Countryside

2006-04-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday, April 9 - Palm Sunday - Triumphal Entry
Nisan 10, Lamb Selected
Matthew 21:1-11
Exodus 12:3-5
Psalm 118:25-26
Zechariah 9:9

Monday, April 10
Nisan 11
Matthew 21:10-17

Tuesday, April 11
Nisan 12
Mark 11:27-13:37

Wednesday, April 12 - Last Supper
Nisan 13, Passover Eve
John 13:1-30
Luke 22:7-23
Zechariah 11:12-13

Thursday, April 13 - Crucifixion
Nisan 14, Passover
Matthew 27:1-66
Exodus 12:1-14
Psalm 22

Friday, April 14 - Good Friday
Nisan 15, Feast of Unleavened Bread
Isaiah 53
Exodus 12:15-20
Leviticus 23:4-6

Saturday, April 15
Nisan 16, Sabbath
John 19:38-42
Leviticus 23:3

Sunday, April 16 - Resurrection Day
Nisan 17, Feast of First Fruits
John 20:1-31
Leviticus 23:9-14
1 Corinthians 15

The dates of the Jewish calendar don’t necessarily coincide with our calendar every year. The Jewish dates that you see are those that would have been the year of Christ’s crucifixion.

Easter at Countryside

2006-04-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

Come unto Me...

2006-04-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, Cameron Sweeney shared with the Fellowship a short testimony about what the Lord has been doing in her life. As a Body, we have an opportunity to be encouraged by the Lord when we share what Jesus has done and is doing in our lives. We also have the privilege of encouraging and spurring others on towards love and good deeds as we acknowledge the great things God has done and bear witness to His hand on each of our lives.

Listen to Cameron’s testimony by clicking here: Be encouraged!

The Lord Bless You!

Family Campout 2006

2006-04-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

Mark you calendars for this year’s Family Campout.

Keep your eyes peeled for more information.

Daylight Savings Time

2006-03-31T08:53:00.000-08:00

Daylight Savings Time is here again. Don't forget to set your clocks ahead this Saturday night.

Jesus transforms us...

2006-03-23T09:44:00.000-08:00

They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony… Revelation 12:11

A couple of weeks ago, Terry Odle shared with Countryside his testimony. Terry recently gave his life to the Lord and has experienced a wonderful transformation since his encounter with Jesus. As a Fellowship we were built up by the obvious faithfulness and love shown to Terry by God. You can listen in by clicking on this link: Terry Odle

It’d be our prayer that you too would be encouraged and built up by listening to Terry’s testimony. May you find that God has truly been with you and faithful to you thus far...

May God Bless you!

Father's House THIS SUNDAY!

2006-03-22T07:01:00.000-08:00

Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night in the house of the LORD. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the LORD. — Psalm 134:1-2

This Sunday Night, 7:00 p.m.

in the Sanctuary

One of the greatest privileges we have as children of God is the opportunity and ability to minister to the LORD through worship. So, we’ll be gathering this Sunday specifically to bless and seek the LORD in worship. As we pour our hearts out to the LORD, we’re given the freedom to express our love for Jesus. That could mean anything from being moved to stand with our hands raised or to kneel in reverence. Whatever form our worship takes, it’ll be our desire to allow His Spirit to freely move in and upon us so that we lovingly touch His heart and bless His Name. Father's House begins at 7:00 this Sunday night. This service is an excellent opportunity to teach our younger, school aged kids what a joy it is to worship our King. So, come and we'll minister to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Johnson House is here!!

2006-03-12T07:40:00.000-08:00

Travis, Aaron & Alillia make up the vocal trio "Johnson House," based out of Southern California. Using just their voices this trio produces a sweet and unique sound. Come and listen to the music of these three artists at 7:00 p.m. this Friday night, in Encouraging Words Coffeehouse.

Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera and so forth

2006-03-05T18:23:00.000-08:00

Right after worship today I had to make a run for downtown as a couple of the gals at the Fellowship were starring in Roger’s and Hammerstein’s The King and I. (BTW, Carrie and Madison, you were great. Sorry Countryside-community for making a break for it.)

Now, I was a music theatre (spelled the artistic way) major in college until I figured out that there was no major in music theatre. So, I majored in Bible and Christian ministry and minored in Music Theatre. I am still a music theatre buff at heart, and any chance to see an (off-)Broadway show is great. And, I haven’t seen The King and I in a long while. If you haven’t seen it, let me bring you up to speed. It’s the mid-1800s, and a newly-widowed British woman moves to Siam (Thailand today) to teach the King’s children English. Well, she and the King are both pretty head strong, and they “hit it off” right away. The basic premise of the conflict, and the story for that matter, is that things must change in Siam — and mostly in the King — for things are not so, just because one says they are so (or something like that). Things aren’t so, even if the King says they are so. In a sense, they’re dealing with truth-telling.

So, there’s this scene where the King, alone, sings: There are times I almost think, I am not sure of what I absolutely know. Very often I find confusion. In conclusion I concluded long ago… In my head are many facts that, as a student, I have studied to procure, In my head are many facts. Of which I wish I was more certain I was sure! I was thinking about the growing up that the King had to do, a king! Stamping his feet and saying he said so, in the days that were ahead, wasn’t going to cut it.

You know, I find as a believer, I go through some of the same things. We’ve learned the facts from TV, or books, or politicians or mom… and sometimes the facts that we learned, well, we’re just no longer sure of what we absolutely know. Here’s a clue though. Paul says all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in Jesus! (Colossians 2:3) I like that. ALL of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. ALL of it in Jesus. It makes me start to ask a lot more questions about Jesus. Questions like what would He do, or better yet, what would He have ME do? We’ve got it all in Jesus — according to the Apostle Peter, everything for life and Godliness. (2 Peter 1:3) EVERYTHING!

We’ve finished our study in Mark, but we will never finish studying the Life of Jesus. ALL of the treasures… I am starting Matthew in the morning, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera and so forth.

A Simple Message About Jesus

2006-03-05T08:25:00.000-08:00

A local brother in Christ has responded to the Lord's call on him and has been producing yard signs for Christmas and Easter, with a very simple message about Jesus! If you'd like one or more, contact Al, 513-0847. Each sign costs $3.50.

I think I am becoming liberal…

2006-03-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

I think I am becoming liberal… well, not really. Liberal is just another label. I was surprised to find out that I get labeled just like I label others. OUCH! Recently I was reading (fortunately it wasn’t to my face) a description of a Fundamentalist Christian. Well, never been one of those (I always called them Funny-mentalists because Ron Anderson who I pastored with in Washington State called them that, and Ron was a real Baptist so if he thought they were funny, I was betting he was right!)

However, as I was reading this description, written by a Liberal, I discovered he was calling me a Fundamentalist. Me? I love VW Bugs (I’ve had nine) and I wear Birkenstocks. I used to smoke pot and I wear Birkenstocks. I live in Eugene, think Saturday Market is cool AND I WEAR BIRKENSTOCKS! Me? A Funny-mentalist? ME?

I don’t think it’s a compliment. Worst of all, he may be right. And he may not even really be judging, just observing, so I can’t quote Matthew 7:1.

You know, I don’t want to be a Fundamentalist. I don’t want to be a Liberal either (or a conservative.) I don’t think I really care to be called a Democrat or a Republican. I don’t want to be ‘labeled’ as Messianic, nor charismatic, nor dispensational, nor Calvinistic (heaven forbid), nor even as a Calvary Chapel guy — whatever that really means. I’m not particularly fond of being identified as much of anything. Oh, except a Jesus-lover.

Jesus formed in me — exactly what Paul was talking about in Galatians 4:19. Yes, I am a follower of Jesus. Jesus is my identity.

And it is possible that He wore something very much like Birkenstocks.

Pre Spring Cleaning

2006-03-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ash Wednesday

2006-03-01T15:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Lent is the 40-day season preceding Easter, given to remembering the death we’re due (because of sin) and repentance. It culminates with Resurrection Sunday (other Sundays do no count in the 40-days.) Ash Wednesday itself is frequently observed as a day of fasting and repentance for sin. It comes right after Fat Tuesday, part of the Mardi Gras festivities, which probably doesn’t need further explanation. Every Tuesday is a fat Tuesday...

Anyway, although churches like Countryside are not often given to commemorating days like Ash Wednesday, Christians have been remembering this day for centuries. It certainly doesn’t hurt to put the "preparation wheels" in motion for the celebration of new life which is just a few weeks away.

This morning, after Morning Worship, we considered Peter’s Words from Acts 3:19: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” And the following prayer from The Book of Common Prayer.

Most holy and merciful Father.

We confess to you and to one another, and to the whole communion of saints in heaven and on earth, that we have sinned by our own fault in thought, word, and deed; by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.

We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven. Have mercy on us, Lord.

We have been deaf to your call to serve, as Christ served us. We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved your Holy Spirit. Have mercy on us, Lord.

We confess to you, Lord, all our past unfaithfulness: the pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives.

We confess to you, Lord. Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation of other people.

We confess to you, Lord. Our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those more fortunate than ourselves.

We confess to you, Lord. Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and our dishonesty in daily life and work.

We confess to you, Lord. Our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to commend the faith that is in us. We confess to you, Lord.

Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done: for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our indifference to injustice and cruelty.

Accept our repentance, Lord. For all false judgments, for uncharitable thoughts toward our neighbors, and for our prejudice and contempt toward those who differ from us.

Accept our repentance, Lord. For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of concern for those who come after us.

Accept our repentance, Lord. Restore us, good Lord, and let your anger depart from us; Favorably hear us, for your mercy is great.

Accomplish in us the work of your salvation, That we may show forth your glory in the world. By the cross and passion of your Son our Lord, Bring us with all your saints to the joy of his resurrection.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life. Amen.

May the Lord do a refreshing work in us in the weeks ahead!

— Pastor Terry

Soar with the LORD

2006-02-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

We can fly through life when we depend wholly on the LORD. Isaiah 40:31 says, “… those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” Have you felt like your strength has needed to be renewed? Have you been weary? Have you been faint? If your answer is “YES!” to any of those questions ask yourself “Why?” Often when I answer those questions yes, I find that my hope is not really in the LORD. Rather than hope in the LORD I am worried or concerned about …(you know life!). The LORD tells us to cast all of our cares on Him for He cares for us (I Peter 5:7). Do we choose to soar with the LORD or be sunk by the cares of this world? It is really our choice. We must choose to cast our cares on the LORD and put our hope in the Him moment by moment and day by day so that we might soar. Today – instead of worrying or being anxious soar with the LORD!

What must one do in order to please God?

2006-02-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

From this last weekend’s study, that quote from The Sayings of the Desert Fathers has really gotten to me. Oh, it’s not that the Bible should be shelved for any other book, author or thinker, but God does such an amazing work in speaking His thoughts from the thoughts, fingers and lips of the community.

What must one do in order to please God? Pay attention to what I tell you: whoever you may be, always have God before your eyes; whatever you do, do it according to the testimony of the Holy Scriptures; in whatever place you live do not easily leave it. Keep these three precepts and you will be saved.

No comment. That’s enough.

— Pastor Terry

DESTINATION: Mexico!

2006-02-15T10:31:00.000-08:00

Headed to The Mission at Carmen Serdan, the Mexico Outreach Team will be serving those at The Mission for the remainder of the week. Please be praying for the group as they make themselves available to be Jesus' hands and feet and to show His love to the stafff and children.

Mexico Outreach Team:

Mai Benson

Barbara Gonzales

Cherylee Dawson

John-Mark Dawson

Jacob Dawson

Jared Dawson

JoAnna Lockhart

Mike Masonic

Hannah Morton

Ethan Pannier

Dale Pannier

Kenny Rick

James Stephens

Cameron Sweeney

But we have the mind of Christ

2006-02-03T08:34:00.000-08:00

I am reading with interest that Muslims throughout the Middle East are not only all-upset, are not only storming tourist hotels and threatening to kill Europeans, but are turning to real violence in the wake of a cartoon published this week in the EU with a representation of Mohammad, the founder of Islam. It’s idolatry, they say, for this to be shown, as it’s supposed to be a likeness (and not a very flattering one) of the Muslim ‘prophet.’ I haven’t heard the word blasphemy, am not even sure if that’s a word used in Islam, but if it is, I would imagine it is being tossed around too.

Along the same line, although no one is storming hotels (yet), “Christians” (makes you wonder who is really being talked about as, I am a Christian, but I don’t get this) all over our country are up in arms because online giant America Online has started a new ad campaign for their Internet chat software AIM (AOL Instant Messenger)… they’ve rearranged those three letters and their new campaign is “I AM.” As in I AM Instant Messaging,” and “I AM Voice Chat.”

Well, some identifying with Christ have made major news by being offended. Said one: “To take His name in vain, or use it as a common thing is blasphemy, a vulgar sin of offense. Perhaps you have not read the Third Commandment, since they have removed it from so many public monuments in the last decade. But breaking it as a means of marketing your products offends the mind of everyone who worships Him.”

Perhaps there’s reason to be offended, but I am not sure. We can pretty much expect the world to be the world. Can’t we?

“We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we speak of God’s secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him” but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man’s judgment: “For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:6-16)

But we have the mind of Christ. BUT WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. So, let’s push ahead with the mind of Christ. Jesus nailed religious show and put-on, but Jesus showed real love and commitment to sinners. He didn’t soften righteousness. He told the woman to “Go now and leave your life of sin..” (John 8:11) In the midst of doing that though, He wasn’t throwing stones. Somehow, the cause of Christ doesn’t seem to be furthered if this is our press.

Brothers and sisters of Countryside, let’s fix our eyes on Jesus and take on for ourselves the mind of Christ. And when someone asks you about the new “I Am” campaign, you can tell them that you’re not too impressed with anyone who doesn’t have original ideas for advertising. God invented the whole thing some 3,500 years ago (Exodus 3). What a great open-door to then talk about the one that said: “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I am!” (John 8:58) That ought to further a conversation or two.

— Pastor Terry

Say,Say My Playmate

2006-01-31T21:06:00.000-08:00

Remember the children's song Say, Say My Playmate? The lyrics of this song are of one friend beckoning another to come out and play. Personally, I can hear little children singing loud and clear "Say, say my playmate- Come out and play with me!" Can you hear them in your mind, so young, gleaful, and carefree?

In the book of John chapter 15 Jesus tells us that we are His friends if we do what He asks us to. So think on this... if you are listing to Christ and doing what He says - You are His friend - His playmate. Just think Jesus is singing to you or even calling out to you, "Come out and play with me!"? He wants to spend time with you and build a close friendship with you. Next time you hear Jesus call out your name, listen - He wants to spend time with you - He wants you to come out and play.

Take some time today to enjoy your relationship with Jesus. You will come away refreshed, like you just got done playing with the closest of friends. What a wonderful friend we have in Jesus!

Mexico Outreach

2006-01-31T15:42:00.000-08:00

Our Mexico Outreach team will soon be departing for The Mission in Carmen Serdan. Keep them in your prayers as they prepare to serve the staff and orphans at The Mission. If you are still interested in supporting the team or donating supplies to The Mission, contact Mike Masonic at the Fellowship office.

Super Bowl Chilli Cook-off

2006-01-31T15:34:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is the Super Bowl Chili Cook-Off. We will gather at 2:30 in Encouraging Words for fellowship, fun, games, prizes, football and great chili. No love for football needed, just come for a great time. It’s fun for the whole family. Sign up in Encouraging Words Bookstore.

We're back at countrysideblog.com

2006-01-28T09:26:00.000-08:00

Change to a new year and look what happens...

The staff is working at getting back in gear on the blog, so we can keep you up to date on what is happening in the community called Countryside, and also to just encourage our walks in Jesus Christ.

Pastor Graham and I just got back from a quick trip to Israel where our primary intent was to begin to investigate missions opportunities for our Fellowship's trip/tour to Israel in March of 2007 (details coming soon.) We shared quite a bit last Thursday night, and even showed some pictures. Because of some technical difficulties which didn't show those pictures off in their "true colors," we'll be showing them again before and after services tomorrow morning.

The Garden Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings BBQ is back tomorrow, and the Superbowl Bash and Chili Cook-off is back next weekend. There's a lot going on, and it'll be showing up at countrysideblog.com (that's here!) and in your Inbox as Countryside eNews very soon.

Mike and the crew are set to head to The Mission in February. There's still time to sign up to go. Mike will be posting info to the Blog right away so you can get in on this great ministry opportunity.

As we look forward to our worship and study together tomorrow, and in the week ahead, let me encourage you with the hope and the power of the resurrection of Jesus. We're going to be finishing the Gospel of Mark this week and the resurrection and it's transforming qualities are staring us all in the face. I pray the Lord will prepare the whole of the Body to hear what He has to say and experience the power of His resurrection (Philippians 3:10)!

— Pastor Terry

Missionaries to Africa

2005-12-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

How wonderful it is when we respond in obedience to the Lord’s will for our lives. It is amazing to see how the Lord blesses and provides when we step out in faith and trust in Him. Maxel and Amanda have recently been called to serve as part of a short term mission’s team to Nigeria. They will depart January 10th and return on the 20th. While in Africa they’ll be working with local village youth, helping at a medical clinic, assist with small building projects and much more. As the Body of Christ we are called to work together in doing the work our Lord has called us to. Keep Maxel and Amanda in your prayers as they prepare to spend these ten days in service. Listed below are some of the needs they have for this trip. If the Lord so leads you to help please contact Mike Masonic at the Fellowship office. For local schools: pencils, pens, erasers, rulers, toothbrushes & toothpaste, dental floss, t-shirts of different sizes, scientific microscopes, and educational software. Pastors Library & Churches: Bibles (including study bibles), Bible study material, Bibles on tape or CD, Christian books, Christian videos for children and adults. Medical Center: Pain relievers, ointments, alcohol swabs, latex gloves, Glucometer and test strips, Blood pressure monitor, reading glasses, Vitamins and dietary supplements. Team cash donations for: A water well, medical facility building, school classrooms, travel expenses. May the Lord bless these two as they faithfully seek to glorify Jesus.

Christmas Services at Countryside

2005-12-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve - December 24th On Christmas Eve we will be holding two one-hour services Family Service at 6:00 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service at 11:00 p.m. Christmas Day - December 25th Come together to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior with a special Christmas Celebration service 10:00 a.m. on Sunday morning

__________________________________________________ This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, you are invited to enjoy free wassail, on us. Visit the Encouraging Words Coffeehouse. Join us after the Family Service this Christmas Eve, for a great time of fellowship and food. RSVP now at Encouraging Words Coffeehouse.

The "W" in Christmas…

2005-12-23T08:57:00.000-08:00

"Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations -- extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas. "My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six-year-old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant." "I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation. All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise. "So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song. "Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment - songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title. "Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the front row-center stage -- held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love." "The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down -- totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W." The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W." Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together. A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear: "C H R I S T W A S L O V E" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. — John 3:16 At the Fellowship, we believe He still is. We're amazed in His presence. We're humbled by His love. May each of you have the most blessed Christmas as you reflect on His Amazing Love for us.

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

2005-12-18T17:30:00.000-08:00

The Fourth Sunday of Advent The Angel's Candle

Sunday, December 18th Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent, so the Angel’s Candle, the candle of Love, along with the Prophecy, Bethlehem and Shepherd’s Candles have been lit. The Angel’s Candle represents God’s love and Jesus’ return to the earth. This candle symbolizes love and the truth that Jesus is coming again, soon. He has gone to prepare a place for us, and will one day return to take us to heaven with Him. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.’ 5 Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?’ 6 Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’ - John 14:1-6 Scripture Meditations for the week: Use these verses each day as you meditate on the Word of God and pray... Sunday – The Fourth Sunday of Advent, Matthew 2:1-12 Monday – Elizabeth and Mary, Luke 1:39-56 Tuesday – The Birth of Jesus, Luke 1:57-80 Wednesday – Presentation In the Temple, Luke 2:21-38 Thursday – The Pre-Eminent Christ, Colossians 1:15-23 Friday – Worthy Is The Lamb, Revelation 5:1-14 Saturday – The New Heaven and New Earth,Revelation 21:1-7

African Gospel Acappella

2005-12-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

Due to inclimate weather, African Gospel Acappella will be unable to join us this evening. With this unexpected change of plans we will be gathering together for a night of worship and communion with the Countryside Worship Band.

The stove is still pipin' hot and we are all set to serve up at 5:30 p.m. Plan to come and enjoy a special Cafe Koinonia meal. Only $4 per person, a great deal for a great meal.

What's on the Menu? Monrovian Spinach & Cabbage, Chicken & Rice, Coconut Pie, Sweet Potato Sauce, Fried Plantains, Rice Bread and a Mango Dessert

The Third Sunday of Advent

2005-12-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

The Third Sunday of Advent The Shepherd's Candle

Sunday, December 11th

Today is the third Sunday of Advent, so the Shepherd’s Candle, the pink candle of Joy, along with the Prophecy and Bethlehem Candles have been lit. The Shepherd’s Candle symbolizes the sharing of the good news of Jesus and His coming into human hearts. The shepherds went rejoicing and telling everyone they saw about what they had seen and heard. God will still live in us today. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. - Luke 2:15-18

Scripture Meditations for the week

Use these verses each day as you meditate on the Word of God and pray...

Sunday – The Third Sunday of Advent, Luke 2:8-20

Monday – A Righteous Branch, Jeremiah 23:5-6

Tuesday – A Ruler Over Israel, Micah 5:2

Wednesday – Your King Is Coming, Zechariah 9:9-10

Thursday – The Messenger Is Sent, Malachi 3:1

Friday – The Birth of John Is Foretold, Luke 1:1-25

Saturday – The Announcement To Mary, Luke 1:26-38

The Second Sunday of Advent

2005-12-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

The Second Sunday of Advent The Bethlehem Candle

Sunday, December 4th Today is the second Sunday of Advent, so the Bethlehem Candle, the candle of Preparation, along with the Prophecy Candle have been lit. The Bethlehem Candle symbolizes Christ’s coming as a baby. God coming to earth. Much preparation was involved: by God, by the angels, by the Magi, and by Mary and Joseph. God came, and was born in a stable. ‘But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites.’ - Micah 5:2-3 Scripture Meditations for the week Use these verses each day as you meditate on the Word ofGod and pray... Sunday – The Second Sunday of Advent, Matthew 1:18-25 Monday – A Savior and Deliverer, Isaiah 19:19-25 Tuesday – The Sovereign Lord Comes, Isaiah 40:9-11 Wednesday – Behold My Chosen One, Isaiah 42:1-4 Thursday – A Servant Brings Salvation, Isaiah 49:1-7 Friday – A Man of Sorrows, Isaiah 53:1-12 Saturday – God’s Spirit Is Upon Him, Isaiah 61:1-3

Real Worship. Real Worshippers.

2005-12-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

"When we believe that we should be satisfied rather then God glorified in our worship, then we put God below ourselves as though He had been made for us rather than that we had been made for him." -Stephan Charnach "When we take consumerism and bring it into the experience of our church life, than we are virtually done; because the whole experience of worship can never begin with what I am about to receive, but always begins with what I am about to give. The fact that we can never offer anything save the overflow of a life that is full of God." -Alister Begg "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." -Jesus (John 4:23-24)

The First Sunday of Advent

2005-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

The First Sunday of Advent

The Prophecy Candle

Sunday, November 27

Today is the first Sunday of Advent, so the Prophecy Candle, the candle of Hope, has been lit. The Prophecy Candle symbolizes the fact that God told the people Jesus would come. Many passages in the Old Testament tell about Jesus’ coming to the earth to live at a future time. It’s exciting to realize that so many prophets who lived hundreds of years before Jesus’ birth accurately predicted that He would come, told where He would be born and what His heritage would be. The days are coming,’ declares the LORD, ‘when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his day’s Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness. — Jeremiah 23:5-6 Scripture Meditations for the week: Use these verses each day as you meditate on the Word of God and pray...

Sunday – The First Sunday of Advent, Isaiah 9:2-6 Monday - The Creator of Man, Genesis 1:26-31 Tuesday – The Fall of Man, Genesis 3:1-24 Wednesday – Promise of Redemption, Genesis 3:15 Thursday – A Prophet Will Come, Deuteronomy 18:15-19 Friday – A Virgin With Child, Isaiah 7:10-14 Saturday – A Righteous Judge, Isaiah 11:1-5

SO, what is the church?

2005-11-22T12:41:00.000-08:00

The church is not just a building. The church is certainly not a store. The thought of the church being a club is nearly offensive. And the church as a cruise ship — that’s really out in left field. SO, what is the church? His Body (integrated and interdependent, individual parts of a whole)· Romans 12:4-5 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. God's Field (worked together to produce fruit) · 1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field... A Family (lovingly committed) · Ephesians 2:19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household... A Building (a work in progress, but God’s work) · 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple. (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:9) A Vine (alive by the resurrection and the life) · John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. His Flock (Under the care of the good shepherd, Jesus is our head) · John 10:14-16 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. Jesus' Bride (that means we’re Holy) · Revelation 21:2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.The church. We don’t go there, we are it. The church, all about “He,” and not about “me.” — Pastor Terry

Thanksgiving Week Services

2005-11-16T06:34:00.000-08:00

Over Thanksgiving Week some service times will be a bit different. Thursday Night's Thru the Bible Study will be held on Wednesday night. On Thurday the 24th, Thanksgiving Day, we will be holding a special Thanksgiving service at 10:00 a.m. We look forward to seeing you all there!

God has given His Word to us(e)…

2005-11-15T09:47:00.000-08:00

God has given His Word to us so that we might use it… in fact, when I think about Job’s perspective on the Word of God, I have to wonder if we use it enough? I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. (Job 23:12) So many ways to benefit from Scripture… 1) Public reading · 1 Timothy 4:13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 2) Study · 2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 3) Meditation · Psalms 1:1-3 Blessed is the man whose… delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. 4) We can even benefit from the Word with the help of others · Ephesians 4:11-16 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. God’s Word — it is faithful and trustworthy! The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. (Psalms 19:7-11) May you fall in love more and more with this letter of love from the Lord to us, that you may fall all the more in love with the Lord of the letter. — Pastor Terry

Fall Cleaning

2005-11-15T00:04:00.000-08:00

Barnyard Bash

2005-11-10T08:24:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, 5-8 p.m. Get ready for for our annual Barnyard Bash at the Morton's Barn. Every year we see kids blessed as we minister by way of food, worship, teaching and an array of fun activities. This Saturday, bring your kids, your neighbors kids, or the whole neighborhood for an evening of fun and fellowship. For directions to the Morton's click below.

Be Careful!

2005-11-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. It has occurred to me recently just how easy it is for all of us to lose sight of our purpose in life and how easy it is to become careless about how we live. As believers we’ve been called to not be careless, but to be careful in how we live. The Lord knows that it really only takes one ungodly choice, one disobedient action to create trouble that may haunt us the rest of our lives. I’ve got a friend with whom I’ve been close to for many years. We’re not all that close now because of distance and the difference of paths that we’ve taken. But there was a time when we enjoyed each others’ fellowship deeply. He was a believer before I was; in fact God used this friend’s influence to help bring me to Jesus. Something happened to my friend over time though. As I got more serious about my relationship with Jesus, he pretty much chose to remain where he was at with the Lord which at the time wasn’t a bad place. He just wasn’t making progress in his walk with Jesus. Soon after a little time of me encouraging him to come to worship services at the church I was attending, he began to grow a little. He even began to attend services on his own. Then something happened. He began to get restless about where he was at and what he was doing. Suddenly, he came to the conclusion that he wasn’t going any where in life and needed to begin pursuing some sort of prestige to create meaning for his existence. So, just when he began to get serious about the Lord, discontent crept in and swept him away to another city where he is still pursuing a meaningful existence. The answer for meaning was right before him all along but because my friend was unwilling to wait on the Lord and understand God’s purpose for his life, he is now still chasing after wind — never reaching the Lord’s potential in his life. Along the way, because he’s not being careful, he’s making choices that go directly against what the Lord would have him do. My friend may have to reap the consequences of his choices a long time before he understands the Lord’s purpose for his life. How glad and thankful I am that my friends lengthening story of discontent and foolishness doesn’t have to be our own! We can take what Paul says in Ephesians 5 and remember to walk carefully. The days that we are living in are certainly very evil. But we don’t have to be caught away by the flood that the people in this world so often are caught in. Instead, we can be caught up with Jesus. We can be patient, along with Jesus. We can be content and hopeful in Jesus. Continue to make Jesus your purpose. That way you’ll never have to struggle with wondering what you ought to do. Doing this, you’ll understand what the Lord’s will is for whatever situation that may come your way. The Lord will make sure of it! Psalms 37:3-7 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him… May God Bless You! Pastor Graham

Having difficulties at our website?

2005-11-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

We are currently unable to update our main website (www.countrysidefellowship.com.) We anticipate our web host having the problem corrected shortly. The site is fully usable, however the News and Events and teaching areas will remain unchanged. Your patience is appreciated. —The staff at Countryside

Daylight Savings

2005-10-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Phillip Telfer in Concert

2005-10-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

Phillip Telfer will be in concert at Countryside Christian Fellowship this Sunday at the Encouraging Words Coffeehouse. In the early years of ministry, Phillip felt the Lord's call on his life to minister by way of music. Each song Phillip sings has found its direction from Christ's "Great Commandment" and "Great Commission."

Prior to the concert, beginning at 5:30, a special

Garden Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings BBQ.

Cost is $3 for the BBQ. The concert is free.

The coffeehouse and bookstore will be open for your convenience.

Worship is the genuine, active expression of love and devotion

2005-10-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

Worship is the genuine, active expression of love and devotion to God. Real worship transcends the sum total of its parts as it is caused by the Lord and inhabited by the Spirit. Jesus tells us in John 4:23 “A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.” The Father actively seeks worshippers. Consider this story in Mark 11: “When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest!” We say we’re the worshippers that He seeks, but what kind of worship do we offer? Do we offer intimate worship like those that personally ministered to Jesus by bringing the colt and throwing their own cloaks over it — that He might be enthroned upon them? It seems like only a few were really involved in that sacrificial ministry in Mark 11. A great many more were willing to spread their cloaks on the road. Still their own cloaks, but the personal touch — touching Jesus and Him touching them — was missing. They were there, but they certainly weren’t up-close and personal. And then there were those that, apparently, even stole from others so that they might “do something” for Jesus. Yep, they went out into fields that weren’t their own, and cut down branches which weren’t theirs, and got a lot of press as they paraded around, waving them in the general direction of Jesus. Ahh, the crowd. No matter their activity, make no mistake, they were spectators, doing it their way at a safe distance. The Father actively seeks worshippers. Those worshippers worship inwardly, yes. (Their thoughts, Psalm 16:7; their emotions and feelings, Psalm 9:1; and even their desires, Psalm 37:4.) But that inward worship is made outward “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) May you be blessed, and may the Lord be exalted as you worship Him in Spirit and Truth. — Pastor Terry For more on this, listen to last Sunday’s study in it’s entirety from Mark, chapter 11

You can be praying for...

2005-10-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

Keep up on the prayer needs at Countryside by clicking through to the Countryside Prayer website. Prayer needs, encouragement, ePrayer, prayer requests, prayer services and more at www.countrysideprayer.com.

Jesus is being formed in you -- if you'll let Him

2005-10-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

A week ago Friday, at the Believer’s Prayer Service, the Lord spoke prophetically to the Body gathered there from 1 Corinthians and Philippians (below.) The Lord is taking us deeper than we’ve ever been in our faith. The Father is opening a door for intimacy with Him through His Son. Jesus is, still, offering Himself sacrificially to us, to live His life through our lips, hands, feet and hearts. The Holy Spirit is ministering that we might keep in step with Him in every moment. In these last few days, the Lord has really been speaking to my heart about who we are to be here, at Countryside, in the Lord. No clichés or cute mottos or simplistic formulas, but the simple Truth (Jesus is the truth, John 14:6) for the Lord Himself in the person of our Savior Jesus to be formed in us, and the great pains He is going through to see that “Christ formed in you” and me takes place. (Galatians 4:19) How might that happen? I think Paul has the answer: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2) For Paul said: “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Philippians 3:10, Ephesians 4:13) “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” (Ephesians 4:14-16) May the Lord boldly speak to you as He ministers the depth of His Spirit to your heart. —Pastor Terry

Concert Featuring Derek Webb

2005-10-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday October the 18th Derek Webb will be performing at Countryside Christian Fellowship. The concert is being arranged by LAM productions, and costs $12 in advance or $15 at the door. If you are interested in the concert and would like to help with behind the scene functions, please contact Mike Masonic at the Fellowship office. Tickets available online at www.ccauthority.com, charge by phone at 1.877.777.4TIX, or through local Christian Supply bookstores.

Men's Breakfast this weekend

2005-10-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

It's coming up this Saturday at 8:00 in Encouraging Words. Don't miss out on this great chance to worship and fellowship with the other brothers. Call the Fellowship Office If you'd like to help with the cooking!

Who’s on first?

2005-10-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

Who’s on first? It’s a question with great historical significance. Many would think beloved comedians Lou Abbott and Bud Costello gave it household status — and they would be right. Through a hilarious rollercoaster-word-ride Abbott and Costello have brought audiences to the floor (as in “laughing on the.”) And, even to this day we know where it all ended up at… “first base!” But Jesus is the one that actually gave it significance. “They came to Capernaum. When [Jesus] was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.” (Mark 9:33-35) We're told as Believers that we ought to consider others better than ourselves. Jesus also tells us “in order to be great in the Kingdom that we need to become the very last” while we're here on earth. What does that mean? The Spirit moved deeply upon us last Sunday as Pastor Terry taught from this well-known, but perhaps little understood passage. Little-understood, at least, in how it works out practically. Listen in and see what the Spirit is saying to the church.

Time to Pray

2005-09-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

Prayer. How thankful I am for the Lord’s desire to minister personally to me as we dialogue, interact, and carry on conversation and relationship in prayer. Prayer that comes from a desire to be with God (Psalm 130:5-6) and comes before the Lord with a right heart (Isaiah 1:15-17) accomplishes much (James 16). It’s time to pray. Right now, where you’re at, whatever your state of mind or body, it’s time to pray. You don’t have to wait for a church service, for the beginning of a meal, or for a traffic jam (though, those are all great places and good reasons) to pray. Consider this non-exhaustive list of ways to pray. 1) No need to be showy, wordy or ostentatious · Matthew 6:5-6 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 2) Simple praying is best · Matthew 6:7-8 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 3) You can do it Sitting · 2 Samuel 7:18 Then King David went in and sat before the LORD, and he said: “Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? 4) or Kneeling · Luke 22:41 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 5) or Standing · 1 Kings 8:22 Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven 6) Have you ever prayed Lying prostrate on the ground? · Chronicles 20:18 Jehoshaphat bowed with his face to the ground, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the LORD. 7) Prayer works with Arms outstretched · Isaiah 1:15 When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood; 8) or Hands raised · 1 Timothy 2:8 I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing. 9) Pray Several Times a Day · Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 10) in the Early Morning · Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 11) All Night · Luke 6:12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 12) And at All Times · 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray continuously 13) You can pray Inside · Daniel 6:10 · Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 14) or Outside · Mark 1:35 · Luke 5:16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. · Acts 10:9 About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. · Acts 21:5 But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way. All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. 15) Praying should be In the Spirit · Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. 16) in Silence · Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. · 1 Corinthians 14:28 If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God. 17) or Out loud · Isaiah 62:6-7 I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest, 7 and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth. 18) You can even pray while Driving (but don’t close your eyes) · Acts 1:14 [They] all continued in one accord in prayer and supplication (NKJV) Gang, it’s a virtual “Pray Buffet.” Time to dive in, fill up and be strengthened. With this buffet there are no lines and it doesn’t cost a thing. — Pastor Terry

Spread Joy

2005-09-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

"I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Habakkuk 3:18 As the new school year starts I am reminded of the simplest joys in life. Newly sharpened pencils and waxed school floors - okay maybe those are too simple, but classrooms of jubilant children - now there is some real joy. I often see children overjoyed about starting school. Excitement is oozing from their pores. The fun and joy of doing something new, a new challenge, a new season is almost too much for them to contain. How is it that our children realize that they can have the joy of the LORD overflow from them in new situations they are put in, yet we as adults all too often loose that joy? As adults we look at the new or the challenge as something to be afraid of and we quiver in weakness and fear. The Word tells us that the LORD is our strength and we can be joyful in Him. The LORD is in us and His joy can flow through us by His Spirit, so when we see the new let us not be afraid. Instead, let us have strength and go out with joy. The love of Jesus can be spread as we are joyful and full of anticipation in what the LORD is going to do with the new or the challenge in our lives. This fall may we spread the joy of the LORD in all situations, new and old, the challenging and the typical, with the same excitement that the younger members of the Body started off this new season in their lives. — Rebecca Carmichael, Children’s Ministries

Baptisms in The Garden

2005-09-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

Baptism is a public profession of our faith in Jesus Christ. What a beautiful picture of burying the old sinful self, and being raised anew in Christ. Our Lord Jesus gave His life that we might be pure and spotless in the Father's eyes. Join us as we celebrate Sunday, September 11, 2005, 10:00 a.m. If you would like to be baptized you can talk to one of the pastors or elders or just show up to be baptized on Sunday morning. You are also welcome to pick up a free tape on baptism at the Encouraging Words Bookstore counter or click here and listen in...

Be of Good Cheer!

2005-09-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

Acts 23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage!..." What a comforting word the Lord had for the Apostle Paul that night! Paul had great expectations and high aspirations for his visit to Jerusalem this time around but was met with one disappointment after another instead. He was certain that his presence in Jerusalem would mean salvation for many and encouragement for many more. Instead, he met with a strange request from the elders at the church in Jerusalem and dealt with rioting, beatings and rejection from the religious Jews at the temple. In fact, if it hadn’t been for the Roman commander Claudias Lysias rescuing him, Paul would have been torn to pieces by those worshipping at the temple. So, Paul found himself in prison, rejected by his people and all alone. Even the elders of the church in Jerusalem were no where to be found to bring encouragement and comfort to the discouraged servant of Christ. That’s when the Lord draws near to Paul. How amazing and encouraging it must have been for Paul to have the Lord stand near and say, “Take courage!” or “Be of good cheer!” I find that the Lord does that with me as well. When everything’s dark and it seems that all hope is gone, the Lord stands near and whispers in my ear, “Take courage!” “Be of good cheer!” Know this — the Lord understands whatever challenge you are having, He knows the discouragement you’re experiencing. He also knows what the outcome of the trial or trials will be. So, take courage and be of good cheer! The Lord has thoughts and plans for you that are far beyond anything you could imagine! Continue to seek His face and follow His heart for you. And you’ll experience Him being near you, encouraging you to be of good cheer! "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jeremiah 29:11 Lord Bless You! Pastor Graham

Donate to Hurricane Katrina Relief Effort

2005-08-31T10:44:00.000-07:00

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." — James 1:27 To that end Countryside is working alongside other Calvary Chapels all over the world to assist the thirteen Calvary Chapels and their congregations, in the Gulf Coast region of the United States, that were affected by Hurricane Katrina. Our hearts and our prayers go out to the churches in that area. A CC pastor and number of families have already lost their homes. Though we would love to go down there and help in some way, we need to let the government secure the inner-structures and then our job will be to come behind them to clean up and rebuild. Calvary Chapel Stone Mountain in Georgia will be working with the CC pastors along the Gulf Coast in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama as they seek to minister to the needs of their members and the people in their areas. They will be helping to assess needs, allocate funds, and coordinate work teams. You are welcome to participate with the brothers and sisters of Countryside Christian Fellowship, and other Calvary Chapels around the world to minister as you see fit. Your donation will go to help the disaster relief effort being coordinated through Calvary Chapel. May the Lord bless you as you freely give that which you have freely received.

Mexico Outreach

2005-08-28T00:45:00.000-07:00

And they're off . . .

The Mission Team that will be ministering at The Mission at Carmen Serdan are making their way to and will be in Mexico this week. Those ministering are: Maia Benson, Tom Burns, Holly Burns, Kara Chikeles, Cherylee Dawson, Jacob Dawson, Jared Dawson, Jessica Dawson, John-Mark Dawson, Jeff Deleon, Nathan Fieguth, Laura Harley, Jo-Anna Lockhart, Mike Masonic, Hannah Morton, Ethan Pannier, Joan Pannier, Jesse Sallas, Kitty Sallas, James Stephens, Cameron Sweeney, Amy Telfer, Jenna Wood, and Travis Wood.

Please pray for the Mission Team this week:

Pray for the safety of both the group and individuals as they travel.
Pray that each member in the group would be filled with the Spirit and that His work would overflow to others as the team ministers the way the LORD would have them.
Pray that the leadership would know the LORD's strength, guidance, and leading throughout the trip.

In the Face of Accusation

2005-08-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

When Potiphar’s wife rose up against righteous Joseph and charged him with ungodly behvaior, Joe was patient for two years in the face of accusation. (Genesis 39) When King Saul rose up against David, blaming him for all matter of crimes, David kept praying in the face of that accusation. (Psalm 35, 35:11, 35:20) When Herod and the Pharisees rose up against Jesus indicting him as evil, Jesus remained humble in the face of those accusations. (Luke 23:1-12) To you and to me, in the face of accusation, Jesus might well say: “be joyful!” “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.” (Matthew 5:11) Accusations are persecution, and they can actually benefit us. So, if you act Christ-like and people are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered; Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway. If you are blessed, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; Be blessed anyway. If you are honest and candid, people may cheat and take advantage of you; Be honest and candid anyway. What you spend years building, your reputation, your character, your life, someone could come and try to destroy it; Build anyway. If you find peace and contentment in Jesus, some will be jealous; Be happy and at peace anyway. The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, Jesus, and to them it may never be enough; Give the world Jesus anyway. You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and the Lord. It never was between you and them anyway. So, be patient, keep praying, remain humble, and express the joy you have in the Lord! How great is our hope and even our trial when we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) — Pastor Terry

Countryside Schedule for Family Campout Week

2005-08-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well the Family Campout is here and we are excited about what the Lord is going to do. Be praying for great weather and that our fellowship may be sweet as we glorify the Lord together. As you look ahead keep in mind that there are a few changes in our services this week. See you all Wednesday night for the Thru the Bible Study!

How do you deal with your PROBLEMS?

2005-08-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one’s heart, its pleasures and its pains, to a dear friend. Tell Him your troubles, that He may comfort you; tell Him your longings, that He may purify them; tell Him your dislikes, that He may help you conquer them; talk to Him of your temptations, that He may shield you from them; show Him the wounds of your heart, that He may heal them; lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability. Tell Him how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and to others. If you thus pour out all your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say. You will never exhaust the subject. It is continually being renewed. People who have no secrets from each other never want subjects of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back; neither do they seek for something to say. They talk out of the abundance of the heart, without consideration, just what they think. Blessed are they who attain to such familiar, unreserved intercourse with God! — Francios Fenelon After this last Sunday's study from Mark 5:24-32, Fenelon's words seem all the more powerful. Where problems have flourished, may the power of Jesus Christ enable you to tell Him all that is in your heart. — Pastor Terry

Family Campout

2005-08-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

This year's Family Campout is almost here. We are looking forward to a great time in the Word as we explore the meaning of worship in our lives. Get your registration in soon, space is limited. For more information, pick up a flyer in the lobby. See you there!

www.countrysideprayer.com

2005-08-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

A special Announcement from Pastor Terry: Countryside Fellowship has just opened the door on a new prayer ministry, and a new part of our website -- www.countrysideprayer.com. Our hope is that you will be blessed by this site and encouraged to new heights and depths of walking with the Lord in prayer because of it. It's also our hope that you will experience the great joy that comes from ministering to others through prayer. The website, and the Countryside Prayer Blog have been set up to encourage your prayer walk with the Lord in a number of ways. You will find here a listing of some of what you can expect to find on these sites; however there is still more to come. Here is a brief overview of what you will see: On the Countryside Prayer Blog:

Announcements of upcoming prayer events or group prayer gaterings
Devotional readings
Prayer requests relating to the Body (i.e. mission trips, youth events)
Regularly featured ministries in the Body with current needs and/or praises to remember in prayer
Encouraging Scriptures
Highlighted opportunities of regular, ongoing prayer ministries (i.e. weekly prayer fellowship)

On the prayer site within www.countrysidefellowship.com:

Enter your own prayer request(s) on the Countryside website (www.countrysideprayer.com)
Sign up for the prayer e-news letter for a weekly list of prayer requests or urgent prayer needs (www.countrysideprayer.com)

And, of course, you're invited to involve yourself in the weekly Believer's Prayer Service, Friday nights at 7:00 in Encouraging Words.

Oregon Men's Conference

2005-07-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Guys, if you have not registered for the Oregon Men's Conference, it is not too late. This Saturday, July 23 will be an exciting day as we spend time in the study of God's Word with Pastor Jon Courson. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity. Click the registration link below to reserve your spot today.

Vacation Bible School

2005-07-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Countryside Christian Fellowship

Vacation Bible School

Want to please God? Want to give Him your all? Join us as we learn to love God with everything we are. Learn to love God with ALL your heart, soul, mind and strength through stories, games, snacks, crafts, songs and skits at VBS.

Give Him Your All

July 19-22nd, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Ages 4 years to 11 years call 485-3877 for more information

The cure for whining (or something like that)

2005-07-12T13:49:00.000-07:00

“No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins.” — Jesus (From the Gospel of Mark 2:21-22) I was challenged as I considered Jesus’ words when applied to the new believer in Mark 2: “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse.” The new, the strong and the fresh will pull away (and want to pull away) from the old quite naturally. How careful those of us who are younger in the faith must be to not treat Jesus as some patch to a sinful life. If we do, there will come a tear leaving a bigger hole than before. Instead, there are new ways to live, new perspectives to have, and a new passion to serve. “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” — Ephesians 4:22-24 I was even more challenged as I considered Jesus’ words when applied to those of us who have known the Lord for no short amount of time. “No one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins.” Our life in Christ expands, it swells, it can explode when we find we can be filled more abundantly than we ever thought possible. It’s why we ought to be, oh so very careful, to not try and contain Jesus in our traditions, rules and experience. I can get so hardened into my habits that instead of experiencing the new wine of Christ, I just find myself looking for new ways to whine. Am I a guardian of old wine skins, customs, preferences, prejudices, habits and the rest, or am I attentive to the direction of the Spirit which is confirmed by the firm foundation of God’s Word? "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. — Ezekiel 36:26, Isaiah 43:18-19 One of our deacons shared this Word from the Lord with me this last weekend: “I have poured out my Spirit on all flesh. This too is the New Wine. I have poured out My New Wine to others who have taken it casually, with little or no reverence for Me. I’m looking for faithful stewards of my New Wine. Receive it, partake of it, glorify My Name as you commune with Me. Be satisfied in Me! It’s not time to take this Wine to “party” in the Spirit as many have done - spilling it disrespectfully, sloshing it around as drunkards, wasting it - and calling it rejoicing in/before Me. Use it to come have communion with Me. It is the Wine of the New Covenant, but it is even simpler than that. The New Wine IS Jesus!” For you, for me, for the body at Countryside the Lord wants to pour BRAND new wine into RENEWED wine skins. (The literal meaning of new and new in Mark 2:22.) — Pastor Terry

What about today?

2005-07-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else — to the nearby villages — so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” (Mark 1:35-38) After the events that were Jesus' life the day before, it is obvious that Jesus made God's day, His day. With His attention on the Father, for the day (Matthew 6:11,) He was able to see the Lord's will accomplished for the day. What does Jesus have for you today? What does Jesus have for you today by the Spirit? Matthew 16:2-3 “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. What does Jesus have for you today in the Word? Luke 4:18-21 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” What does Jesus have for you today regarding salvation? Luke 19:5-10 Jesus looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today .” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” What does Jesus have for you today for Him? Luke 5:24-26 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. . . .” He said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today .” What does Jesus have for you today as you live for heaven? Luke 23:43 Jesus answered the thief, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” For Jesus, today was God’s day. — Pastor Terry

For Unto Us a Child is Born...

2005-06-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Fellowship young man! How blessed we'll be to watch you grow in the love of the Lord. Jacoby Blaze Crawford Son of Brian & Jaylene Crawford Born June 7, 2005 And the Lord added to their number daily... — Acts 2:47

Are your steps His steps?

2005-06-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a thousand times… “The Lord told me ________________.” Oh really? I don’t know if that was what Elimelech and Naomi were thinking when they went to Moab (Ruth 1), but it would appear so. So spiritual, so pious, so wrong. Way too often in the pride of our flesh, the pain of our trial, or the push of our will this phrase gets used to allow us to do whatever we want to do — and then blame it on God. Not a good choice, but, admit it… we’ve done it. That’s exactly what Naomi did (check out that story, it’s a great one.) In the end, she knew it too: “I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty.” She knew it was her own fault, “I went away,” and she also knew she couldn’t blame it on the Lord anymore because in His graciousness and love, even though she had done it her own way, He was bringing her back. Empty, yes. But, the Lord was bringing her back. You know, it doesn’t have to end that way. We can walk in the Spirit and really know what the Lord is saying so that we don’t have to make it up as we go. Well, that and we don’t have to blame our mess on God. You want to follow the Lord? Confirm that your steps are His steps with the: Holy Spirit as He bears witness to your spirit and breathes confirmation and peace into your soul. You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3) Body of Christ as brothers and sisters speak confirmation into your life. Are the saints exclaiming to you in the same way that Elizabeth did to Mary? In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women…” (Luke 1:42) Word of God as you read it, as you hear it and as you live it you’ll find the Lord’s confirmation for your steps as your mind is transformed. Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2) “This is my conclusion… step by step I came to this result after researching in every direction…” (Ecclesiastes 7:27 TLB) Brothers and sisters of Countryside, may the Lord bless you as you draw constantly on the Lord’s wisdom for your walk. — Pastor Terry

Respond to God's Spirit

2005-05-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

I’ve been very encouraged while studying the life of Paul with the other guys here at the Fellowship. Reading about the incredible ways the Lord used this servant of His has been fascinating. Paul’s walk with the Spirit of Christ almost looks to me as if he was so close to the Savior that he could do no wrong. And although we know that his walk in the Spirit wasn’t faultless, we’ve seen over and over again in our study that Paul’s response to the Holy Spirit was usually one of fruitful obedience. Paul's submission to the Lord eventually led him to Ephesus where he was used of the Lord mightily to bring about great change in that city. At first glance, the greatest change that came to this city didn't include the very practical “hands-on” ministry of Paul. However, we know that this can't be true. The influence of the Spirit through Paul had incredible effect. In Acts chapter 19 there’s a story about seven Jewish exorcists attempting to use the name of Jesus in order to free an individual from demonic possession. They’d seen or heard Paul using this ‘formula’ but were surprised to find that for them this method didn’t have any effect. Well, the effect they were looking for any way. However, the Lord had a very special plan for their unfortunate experience. The story tells us that many in Ephesus began to hold the name of Jesus in high honor in response to what they’d heard about these seven Jews. On top of that, the believers came and openly confessed their evil deeds and then ridded themselves of all their occult paraphernalia. The Spirit’s ministry always points us to Christ thus His name was held in high honor and the folks there began honoring Christ by their actions. The believers in Ephesus responded to the Spirit’s conviction and leading. The result for them was freedom from the sin that was holding them captive and an abundant amount of fruit produced in the church there in Ephesus. As those who are walking with the Lord, we too have this incredible opportunity to be freed from whatever is holding us back. The Spirit desperately wants to help us set aside sin and walk closer with Jesus. The great thing about all this is He also is willing to guide us and speak to us about those things that hold us back. Our only responsibility is to respond to Him in obedience when He speaks to us and He’ll do the rest! If you look at Acts 19 you’ll notice that Paul isn’t recorded as someone who had to coerce the people to respond to the Lord in any way. Paul simply taught them the Word, responded to the Holy Spirit himself, and then allowed the Spirit to do His work in the people. As believers in Christ, we are all free from the penalty of sin, but we each have an opportunity and responsibility to respond to the Holy Spirit’s leading in our lives too. What a gift the Lord has given us! His promised indwelling presence guides and teaches us everything we need in order to live Christ honoring lives. Respond to the Spirit in obedience and be blessed by the fruit of what that submission will bring to you and all those around you. God Bless You! Pastor Graham

And the Two Shall Become One Flesh...

2005-05-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

May the Lord express His grace to you on this special day! How blessed we are to be in fellowship with the faithful. Ken and Debbie Parent Celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, at Countryside, with a renewal of their vows. May 22, 2005 ...if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. — 1 John 4:12

Remember the days? Want a taste of summer?

2005-05-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

Why wait for all of the fun and good food of the Garden Sacrifices and Burnt Offerings Summer BBQ? Good point! It's all happening this Sunday in The Garden. Well, okay, not in The Garden. It's a little cold (although, it's warming up and soon we will be outside.) But, it is happening in Encouraging Words at Countryside following the 10:00 service this Sunday. The weatherman says the sun will be warm. We say the deck will be open and the BBQs will be afire. Great friends. Great tastes. Same great price.

The great big spiritual space between Easter and Pentecost

2005-05-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?” “John’s baptism,” they replied. Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve men in all. (Acts 19:1-7) Something was not quite right, and Paul noticed it. Were they missing a spark in their eyes? Was there a frown on their faces? Were there words without works? Was something just a bit dull? I don’t know the exact answer, but it seems quite clear that Paul noted something was missing. The obvious observation led to the more obvious question: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” The trouble with so many of us is that we are on the right side of Easter, but the wrong side of Pentecost. So many of us are on the right side of pardon, but the wrong side of power. If there was ever a time to be certain we’re on the right side of power it’s during Pentecost. How about us? Everything Ho-hum? Glass just a bit too half-empty? Living a non-victorious life in Christ? Maybe we’re doing fine with our pardon, but need (or perhaps, need again) the power that only comes from the Holy Spirit. Brothers and sisters, this is the week! There's a lot of spiritual space for the believer between Easter and Pentecost... it’s time to stop living between them, and move mightily into the power of God's Holy Spirit. God's People + Pentecost = POWER — Pastor Terry

Join us to prepare The Garden for Summer services.

2005-05-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

We are only five weeks away from our Garden services. Things are looking great and we are blessed with the able-hands the Lord has blessed this Body with. On Saturday, May 21st we will be sprucing up the grounds in preparation for our June 19th outdoor service. We will be laying bark, pulling weeds, painting and much more. See Mike Masonic if you are interested in more information. God Bless and we'll see you there.

Spring is here and it's time to plant!

2005-05-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

The weather is warming up and it is time to get flowers planted around the church grounds. If you like to get your hands in the dirt and enjoy seeing the fruit of your labor, then join us this Saturday morning at 10:30. We look forward to seeing you there!

Have We Seen God?

2005-05-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

I just love it in Judges 13:22 when Manoah says “We have seen God!” He got it! He had seen God! We can see God too — when we worship. Worship simply means to “bow in reverence,” turning to God in awe, praising Him and expressing joy as we realize how wonderful He is. Real worship, Spirit and truth worship has God as the object. When we bow down, He is lifted up. Worship is lifting up the Lord, focusing our attention on who He is and what He has done, and voicing praise. Worship is giving Him glory, honor and praise. Worship is all about Him, and not about me. We can see God when we worship — not Folgers Coffee worship or Foamy Latte worship, (if you missed last Sunday’s study, you might need to listen in to catch all of that!) but we see God when we worship in Spirit and truth. In order to see the Lord, to be aware of His presence, we need to make the most of our time (Ephesians 5:15-16 Be very careful how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.) We make the most of our time by worshipping (Ephesians 5:18-20 Be filled with the Spirit. 19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.) And, once we get it (like Manoah) we’ll be doing it for all eternity (Jude 25 (To Him, to Jesus,) to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.) Let's see God! Amen!

— Pastor Terry

Women's Spring Tea

2005-05-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

One of the events that the Countryside ladies look forward to each year, is the Spring Tea. This year, our annual tea will be held, Saturday, May 7, at 11:00 a.m. in Encouraging Words Coffeehouse and Bookstore. Our theme will be: Heart of Obedience. We encourage all ladies, young and older, to come and enjoy our time of fellowhsip. We will be having brunch and a time of worship. A few of our ladies will be sharing how God has helped them have a heart of obedience. We extend an invitation to all ladies and suggest that you sign up in Encouraging Words Bookstore, if you plan to attend. For more information regarding events and Bible studies for the sisters at Countryside, check out our website at www.countrysidefellowship.com and go to the ministries tab.

Countrysidians... we're not your usual people. Jesus has set us apart!

2005-05-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well, all of the coughing wasn’t fun (isn’t the cold and flu season a delight?), but I hope you didn’t miss the main thrust of what the Lord was trying to say to us all on Sunday: JESUS HAS SET US APART! And Jesus has set us apart for Himself, not all of the devious and deceitful masks and fancies of the enemy! I recently heard of this headline and news story about a student in England: "British Teen Puts “First Time” Up For Auction on eBay" "So, how much is that virgin worth on the Internet? These days you can put almost anything up for sale on the Web. But a 19-year old British student has pushed the boundaries one step further. David Vardy, a student at Bournemouth University in England has put his virginity up for sale on eBay. “By the age of 19, most people have been under enough pressure to have lost their virginity,” Vardy told ABC News’ Good Morning America . “I haven’t lost mine yet. I have to lose my virginity, so being a creative person, what is the most crazy way? I’ll stick it out on the Internet and see what interest I get. “I’m not selling myself for sex repeatedly like a prostitute,” says Vardy, “and the money issue is simply there to put back the losers and make sure only serious bidders are interested in this. I want to protect my own safety and I want to be honest.” I have set myself apart! I am an honest man about losing my virginity. I have integrity about anonymous fornication. I have my morals, and my personal safety to consider, which is why I am only going to sell myself to an honest bidder. Oh Lord, please, come quickly! Gang, what Jesus has set us apart for hardly belongs in the same Blog as that. He has set us apart that He might be our JOY. “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:11) He has set us apart that He might LIVE through us. “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26 ) He has set us apart because we’re God’s possession, YOU’RE COVERED! “The head of every man is Christ…” (1 Corinthians 11:3) So, brothers and sisters of Countryside, glory in the simple truth that you have been set apart by a loving, and faithful and powerful God. May He bless you this week in great and even unexpected ways as you “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” (Romans 13:14 ) — Pastor Terry

Worship in the Greek

2005-04-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

When we come together to worship our Lord, we ought to be approaching Him with a desire to humbly bless Him. It’s an opportunity and privilege He’s given each of His children. In response to the Holy Spirit moving upon our hearts, we can bless our Lord and that is what we seek to do when we gather for worship. The word “worship” in the New Testament is most often the translation of the Greek word, proskuneo. This word occurs in the New Testament sixty times. Considering this, we ought to come to the conclusion that it must be a pretty significant word. And it is! Proskuneo can have a variety of similar meanings. Pros means “towards”, while kuneo means, “to kiss”. And so it’s appropriate that the word is translated “worship” because isn’t that what we do when we worship? We worship God, expressing our love for Jesus (Who is God) and our gratitude for His continued kindness and mercy upon our lives. This sort of adoration used to really concern me. As a kid I used to watch my grandma and aunts, along with my mother, greet each other with a kiss whenever we got together as a family. I never understood it, but now I think I’ve got it. They had (and still have) an appropriate affection for one another. So they often express that with a kiss or an embrace. Not because they worship each other but because they truly love the others. We do that too as we come into God’s presence and greet Jesus with our worship. He’s already placed in our hearts the desire to bless and worship Him by His Spirit, so we simply respond to His leading and give Him our adoration. He’s worthy of our affection and He’s worthy of our worship, so let’s continue to give Him our lives as offerings of devotion to His Majesty and we’ll be blessed while at the same time being transformed by His Spirit. God Bless as you seek to worship Him with all your heart! —Pastor Graham

Attributes of a Godly Woman

2005-04-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

In our Women’s Bible Study, we have been looking at the attributes of a Godly woman. The most important quality the world needs to see is our love. If we love God, as we should, we will love others and the fruit of that love will be evident to all. Matthew 22:37-39 “Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself.” Recently, one of the ladies I have been sharing with told me she was not sure if she really knew how to love others from the heart, deep down from within. A Godly love. Her relationship with her mother had had many bumps, and her mother was unwilling to make it smoother. After much prayer my friend called her mother and told her that she felt bad about the little things hindering their relationship and invited her to be part of a family gathering. She laid aside her own personal desires, her selfish desires, and included her controlling motherwho could be very difficult in a special weekend. I continue to share with my friend about having a right relationship with Jesus. We cannot, we must not carry an un-Christian like attitude or feeling toward others, no matter what the other person has said or done. As a Christian, we need to remember that love is forgiving and giving. —Wilma Kimball, Countryside Women's Ministries

Revelations, The Movie: Stick with the book

2005-04-16T05:19:00.000-07:00

I am always suspect whenever I hear someone refer to the last book in the Bible as “Revelations.” True, sometimes it’s a cultural or geographical thing (I tease my dad all the time about the state north of us having an “r” in the spelling, as in “Warshington.”) But sometimes it reflects ignorance, or worse yet, mockery of the very words of God. Such appears to be the case of NBC’s current mini-series Revelations, which seems to have ignorance and mockery all wrapped up in one, six-hour, commercial-laden package. While trying to cash in (cash being the operative word) on the successes of “The Passion of the Christ,” and the “Left Behind” series of books, reviews by Believers who have seen at least portions of the thing have revealed many of the other bottom-lines of what is sure to be an interest-sparking wink at spiritual-ness. Tim LaHaye, the creator of the Left Behind series and a prophecy scholar, described the show as “unbiblical” and “weird.” “This story is based on some writer’s imagination about the Book of Revelation,” LaHaye said. “However, the writer clearly has not studied the book or maybe even read it.” There’s going to be a lot of this stuff gang. “The Last Temptation of Christ,” “The Da Vinci Code,” and even what could be considered slams by those who are really believers but have a different take than perhaps you or me on the end times like “The Last Disciple,” are gaining ground, influence and mentionability. No, I haven’t seen it. No, I don’t intend to. But, I also don’t need to. You see, Revelation (singular), chapter one has this great promise in it: “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” (Revelation 1:3) I have a great idea! Let’s just read it! —Pastor Terry

Spring Cleaning

2005-04-12T10:48:00.000-07:00

Grab your brooms, rakes and gloves! On Saturday, April 16th we will be gathering at the Fellowship for a day of spring-cleaning. Join us at 10:00 a.m. to pull weeds, plant flower baskets, clean roofs and much more. We look forward to the sweet fellowship that we can have as we serve the Body and bless the Lord.

For Unto Us a Child is Born...

2005-04-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Fellowship young man! How blessed we'll be to watch you grow in the love of the Lord. Mason Lee Son of Steven & Karen Roybal Born April 8, 2005 And the Lord added to their number daily... — Acts 2:47

My Hero

2005-04-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reflecting on our study together last Sunday morning on the realization, the ultimate truth that Jesus is our hero. If there is anything that our study of Judges will show, it’s that every day, and in every way, Jesus saves, changes, lifts and blesses. We’ve already begun to see the Judges’ “Cycle of Sin.” Over and over and over again, the people came back to sin. Like a pig to mud, they returned to sin from salvation and service in the shadow and power of the judge, the hero, which God had raised up. Wow! Even those raised up judges were a bit off their rockers at one time or another. When the writer of Hebrews looks back at the 'heroes' of the Old Testament book of Judges (Hebrews 11:32, Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah) we have to be amazed to find them extolled in any way. How could this be? Well, God had planned something better for them so that they would be made perfect. The plan? “God had planned something better for us (we’re the us) so that only together with us (that’s still us) would they (that’s them, the judges) be made perfect.” (Hebrews 11:40) You see, in time, the Father would not raise up another judge, a hero for his people. In time, in fact at exactly the right time, our hero would be lifted up. Jesus would be lifted up and would call all men to Him. How blessed we are to be in the midst of salvation, serving in the shadow and power of our hero, Jesus Christ. — Pastor Terry

Cleaned-up movies without all the junk

2005-04-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

Pastor Terry has made mention of a place where he and his family are able to rent DVD movies (most all of the current titles), that have been edited and made free of language, sex, gratuitous violence and other offensive material. If this is something of interest to you, email us at movies@countrysidefellowship.com and we'll send you information and a free 30-day trial.

Spring Ahead

2005-03-30T14:39:00.000-08:00

It’s time to SPRING AHEAD those clocks as Daylight Savings Time begins again this coming weekend. Before you go to bed on Saturday night, don’t forget to set your alarm clock for 2:00 a.m. When your alarm goes off, quickly jump from your cozy spot and set all of the clocks in your house ahead by one hour. Don’t forget the blinking VCR. Then, having already reset your alarm clock for a reasonable wake-up time, return to bed. When your alarm goes off again, jump up with gusto and come to Encouraging Words for coffee and breakfast anytime after 7:30 in the morning. The band will be rehearsing, communion will be happening — it’ll be a great morning. OR, if you’d prefer, just set your alarm clock ahead by an hour before you go to sleep Saturday night. One way or the other, the coffee and breakfast thing will still be happening in Encouraging Words. We’ll gather for a celebration of Worship and the Word at 10:00 Sunday morning. We love you and pray that the Lord will put His spring in your step over these next months. Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping , and praising God. —Acts 3:7-9 —The Gang at Countryside

Personal Resurrection

2005-03-24T05:09:00.000-08:00

It was early Sunday morning, nearly 2,000 years ago. “Woman,” Jesus said to Mary, “why are you crying? Who is it that you are looking for?” (John 20:15ff) Emotions spent, life in turmoil, savior lost. She thought she’d get past a half-ton stone? She thought He was a gardener? She thought someone had pulled a “Thomas Crown Affair” on the Lord’s body? She thought she’d fetch Him? She wasn’t quite in her right mind. Too little sleep, too many issues, too many wrongs not made right. It was then that Jesus spoke her name: “Mary.” (16) It must have sounded much the same as the greeting to the disciples a short time later, “Peace be with you.” (19) Wherever we’re at today, the resurrection of Jesus brings the same hope that it did all those years ago. Discouraged, discontent, depressed, despondent, a disaster — and the Lord can resurrect us from them all. Why are you crying? Is it because you have yet to recognize and find hope in the one standing right in front of you? May the Lord bless you with His certain hope and resurrection power this week! —Pastor Terry

Good Friday Worship Service

2005-03-24T03:02:00.000-08:00

Often observed with a somber sense of loss, Good Friday has been remembered for 2,000 years as the day Jesus died. However, the day Jesus died was the beginning of a remarkable three-day period that would, in the end, culminate in the greatest celebration of life ever conceived. Our new life began on that first Easter Sunday, and we're ready to celebrate now. Join us on Friday, March 25 at 7:30 for a rich time of praise, worship and communion at Countryside. The Friday Night Prayer Service begins at 7:00.

Are You in Prison?

2005-03-22T16:38:00.000-08:00

As worshippers, we bless the Lord with our adoration and devotion. This is a high calling that the Lord has placed upon His people. In fact, this is such a high calling that He asks for our worship regardless of outward or even our inward circumstances. Luke tells us a story in Acts 16 that I think illustrates this perfectly.

Paul and Silas have been flogged and thrown into prison. Actually, it’s called the “inner cell”, which translated probably means “small, dark, dreary, dirty old dungeon” to you and me. Why were they there? They’d been doing what God had called them to as Apostles. They’d been preaching God’s Word to the lost. What would your response to their circumstances be? I know what mine would be! What are you doing Lord!?! Why is this happening? Woe to me! But how’d they respond? They began praising and singing hymns to God. They weren’t concerned about their chains, they simply began their own worship service in their cell and the results were earth shattering. We’re told that there was an earthquake, their chains were loosened, and their prison doors flew open. What’s interesting to me though is that it wasn’t just their chains that were loosened or their prison doors that flew open. The prisoners with them experienced the same blessings as Paul and Silas worshipped the Lord, the prisoners’ chains fell and their prison doors flew open also.

Any time we gather at the Fellowship to worship and meet with the Lord, we have the same sort of opportunity. The only catch is that some of our chains need to be dealt with first. You see, Paul and Silas were already free—this is how they could worship God even in their incredibly hard situation. We’re free also, no matter what circumstances are surrounding our lives at any given moment. So we ought to be expressing that to Jesus through our worship. As worshippers of God, we need to allow the Lord to throw off our chains. It doesn’t matter whether that is an inhibition to raise our hands in worship or a bad morning, week, day… whatever. It’ll be then that expressing our passion for Him will be the sweetest. The Lord wants to break those chains and throw open our prison doors, but He wants us to realize He’s worthy of our worship regardless of our circumstances. As we’re faithful to do this, we’ll be amazed at what the Lord does in us individually and then those around as we worship Jesus with all our heart.

—Pastor Graham

Altared Life or Altar-cation?

2005-03-18T13:01:00.000-08:00

They said it was about an altar — but what it ended up being was an altar-cation. As we saw last Thursday night, Joshua 22 carries a huge message. What’s that message? LET’S GET ALONG! Over my years as a pastor, I wish I’d had a dollar for every little altar-cation, every skirmish, argument, arrogance, offense, pout or “I didn’t get my way” that I have been aware of — folks, I could write a book. I know, I pray we know, that it can be better than this. The Lord has caused his Holy Spirit to dwell in us, to dwell in us that we might be saved, sanctified and unified. It’s our flesh that continues to cause disunity. And gang, flat out, it's the devil who is at the heart of the matter. Repeating hearsay (that would be gossip), jumping to hasty and wrong conclusions, blaming others and not taking responsibility for our own sin, using God’s Name as a hammer to get our own way or to refuse accountability, flat out lying, claiming special spiritual enlightenment and privilege — all of the goodies of Joshua 22 — it’s just sin. It just destroys the Body of Christ. We’re so quick to want to build an altar to our faith… maybe it’s service that we’re proud of, the music that we pen, studying that we do, knowledge that we have, the T-shirt that we wear. Maybe it’s the spiritual superiority we feign in diminishing others in the Church. However, our altar has already been built. It was built by Jesus Christ. That altar is the cross. How necessary it is for us to act like the Christians that we say we are. Jesus said the world will know we are Christians by our love (John 13:35) If we do what we’ve already been given to do, by being who He has already made us to be, nothing else is needed. Indeed, we’ll be “A Witness Between Us that the Lord is God” (Joshua 22:34) Evidence of Christ in us? Altared lives. Not altar-cations. —Pastor Terry

Worship in the Tabernacle on Palm Sunday

2005-03-18T05:24:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what it was like for those first worshippers of Yahweh? What would it have been like to enter the Tabernacle to bring their sacrifices, their offerings and their lives before their most High God? From the first sound of the shophar, to the lingering fragrance from the Altar of Incense, from the Gates of the courtyard, until we enter the Holy of Holies, Jesus will be magnified and lifted up as we Worship in the Tabernacle. Join us for this very special worship experience, Palm Sunday, March 20, 7:00 p.m., at Countryside Christian Fellowship.

A Brand New Countryside Online

2005-03-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

We're live! An all-new www.countrysidefellowship.com! We’ve been hard at work for a few months now, breathing life into our website that it might better serve you, the gang at Countryside. And, hard at work to be able to better help those who are trying to figure out what we’re all about. We’re ready with new content and features. aEasier and better looking user interface aThis week’s schedule at a glance from the homepage aA new FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions), for when we don’t know whatever it is we don’t know aFind a Flocks location with interactive maps aSubmit a prayer request or subscribe to our prayer list aThe “how do I get a hold of that staff member” problem solved aSubscribe or unsubscribe to our eNews mailing list aKeep up-to-date with Countryside’s Blog (wait, you’re already here!) aTrack dates and information for Mexico, Israel, the Family Campout and much more aMore than 150 pictures of life at the Fellowship aAnd more than 100 pictures of of The Garden — start to finish aAND IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS: All of our audio content — book libraries and topical index — in MP3. You’ll be able to stream or download as you please. Check it out!

Remembering Hopper

2005-03-14T17:56:00.000-08:00

One of the young guys in the Fellowship, Hopper, was killed in an auto-accident after leaving our mid-week service, Thursday night, March 10th. A memorial service was held for Hopper on Monday, the 14th. Though we'll miss Hopper, how blessed we were to share with more than 350 people people on Monday about Hopper's Heavenly Home. Please continue to be in prayer for Hopper's family and friends, and for the many friends he had in our own youth group. How we rejoice that Hopper is with the Lord, enjoying His presence, and worshipping at His throne. How we long for the day too when we'll be reunited with our brother. The righteous perish, and no one ponders it in his heart; devout men are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death. —Isaiah 57:1-2

Bright, sun-shiney days

2005-03-10T05:10:00.000-08:00

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. — Colossians 3:23-24 The unseasonably warm weather has enabled us to get a jump-start on a beautiful summer in The Garden — and we could use a hand! Connect with the Fellowship offce to lend a helping hand.