Have you ever attempted to read the Bible in a year…and failed?

Ok…be honest. How many times have you set a goal to read through the Bible in a year only to lose it after a few short weeks. I know I have. This year was different. I stuck with it…I kept plowing through. A big part of me hanging in there is because I’m reading through the Bible with a partner. I was even 10 days behind at one point, but I managed to catch up. In just 10 weeks, I will complete this year’s reading plan, and begin a new one.

I would love to have you commit to reading through the Bible in 2009 with me. The Bible that I am using in 2009 is the Chronological Bible in the New Living Translation(NLT). You can purchase it on Amazon by clicking here. If you prefer the New International Version(NIV) you can click here. 

The Chronological Bible is arranged in the order in which the events of the Bible actually occurred. Knowing when events actually happened within the big picture of scripture will help to bring clarity and understanding to greatest love story ever written – The Bible.

It will take you about 15 minutes each day to read through the Bible in a year.

Are you in?

If so…here are some thoughts…

• Order your Bible now, so you are ready to go on Jan. 1st. If you wait, you may change your mind
• In addition to reading through the Bible as a group, find at least one other person that has also committed to doing it, that you can mutually hold each other accountable.
• Maybe one of you ambitious types can start a “I’m reading though the Bible in 2009″ Facebook group. If so, leave a comment so others can join. This could be a great way to talk about what God is showing you, and a way to hold each other accountable.

The time is NOW! Who’s willing to go for it?

UPDATE: Katiey started a Facebook Group…here is the link.

Unite

Amazing things happen when the called out ones unite. Jesus’ final prayer to the Father for us was this…

“that all of them may be one…May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me”

Beginning on November 2nd, we’re kicking off a sermon series called “unite”. We’re going to be exploring the story of Nehemiah and how the people of God came together to accomplish a HUGE task. They faced many obstacles, and dealt with plenty of criticism along the way…but they were united. When people unite under a God inspired vision, nothing can stand in the way!

We’re going to ask God to unite our hearts so that we can accomplish a HUGE task together. We will bring this series to a close on Sunday Morning November 23rd, as we unite and come together to package Thanksgiving meals and distribute them to those that are less fortunate in our community. Last year you gave enough money to provide 139 complete Thanksgiving meals…you can read about it here. 

Please consider giving towards Unite…this will make a HUGE impact in the lives of those less fortunate. 100% of the money that we receive towards Unite will go towards purchasing food that will be distributed on November 23rd. If you wish to give towards Unite, make sure to write “unite” in the memo section, or on the envelope and place it in the offering over the next several weeks. You can also mail your donation to…Elk Creek Church, P.O. Box 236, West Grove PA 19390.

Let’s unite to accomplish something together that could never be done by ourselves!

Pastor’s that I appreciate

October is Pastor Appreciation month and I was thinking about the Pastor’s in my life who I appreciate and have made a difference in my life. I dedicate this post to honoring those that I consider my pastors. These men add value to my life in incredible ways. They stretch me, challenge me, and sharpen me.

Pastor Dan O’Deens - Dan, thank you for being a great friend and speaking into my life beyond words. Thank you for believing in me and seeing potential in my life, even when I didn’t see it. I’m pretty confident that I would not be a church planter today, if you were not in my life. Thanks for having my back!

Pastor John Cremeans – John, you are one of the most encouraging men I know. Thank you for always being concerned about how I am caring for my family. I appreciate how you are able to lead strong, but also lead vulnerably. You are a very thoughtful and giving person, and I’m proud to call you my friend.

Pastor Jim Snavely – Jim, I always look forward to our times together. Every time we’re together, you always take the conversation to the cross of Jesus. You are an evangelist that walks the walk. You have modeled for me how to “notice” people right where they’re at. You speak into my life more than you realize. You are one of the most Godly men I know. I feel like when I have been with you, I’ve been with Jesus.

I appreciate each of you and count it a privilege to have you in my life.

How about some Christian Cheese to start your day…

Disclaimer - This song will stick in your head and you will find yourself singing it all day…don’t hate me for it…you’ve been warned!