a church in pursuit of God, with a passion for

people

PO Box 491150 Leesburg, FL 34749 www.vcfleesburg.com Email: vcfleesburg@embarqmail.com Office: (352) 365-2594 Fax: (352) 365-2594

Randy Gideons . Lead Pastor . Warehouse Church

THANK YOU!

want to thank everyone at The Warehouse Church for being so patient for the past two years as we have worked to build this wonderful new home for our church family. Not only did we survive this obstacle course but we grew in size and stature during the process. I hope each of you are pleased with the new facility. I believe it is far more than any of us was expecting. As a matter of fact ..."It is amazing." I had been very concerned how things would go on our first day in but Sunday could not have gone better. Each team prepared and made their contribution to be ready and things were as good as they could have been.

I have heard that many have said that the building "already feels like home." That makes it all worth while. God bless you and God bless all of us as we now prepare to use this new tool, this warehouse to minister to the needs of our cities and welcome our new brothers and sisters that are on the way. Please keep praying because the real adventure, the real work has just begun! Randy A Very Happy Pastor Check out Randys blog on the Warehouse website. www.vcfleesburg.com

Developing an Exercise Habit

0 not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. When it comes to anything in life, we reap what we sow. When it comes to our health, sometimes we dont see or even feel the results of doing the right thing, but we know that eventually we will reap a reward. Bad habits have an accumulative effect, and so do good habits. In the hotel business, they clean every day because they know it will protect the surfaces. If they dont clean everyday, especially the bathrooms, then over time water spots will accumulate and form a film on the surfaces that is almost impossible to remove. Have you ever tried to remove built-up lime deposits? Usually, the methods used may get rid of the built-up lime, but they can also damage the surfaces. Its the same with our health. When we dont practice good daily habits, we end up with results that can be very hard to undo. When I take a look at any area of my life, I realize that my habits either enhance my life or make my life more difficult. People constantly tell me that they want to create an exercise habit. The reason they say they want to exercise is to tone their body, lose weight, feel better or fix a health problem. The truth is that when you look in the mirror you are the sum total of your habits, age, and gravity. There is not much you can do about age and gravity, but you can change your habits.

I, and others I know, have developed some good exercise habits. Following is a list of some of the habits that regular exercisers have developed. *They make exercise a priority. *They set specific goals and regularly review those goals. *They are specific about what exercise they will do. *They have proper equipment. *They plan ahead by having clothes and equipment ready. *They decide when they will exercise. *They have a plan B for when life gets busy or when things get in the way. *They have an exercise partner if needed. *They decide what they will tell themselves when they want to talk themselves out of it. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness... For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, selfcontrol; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 2 Peter 1: 3- 9 I get so excited when I read this passage of Scripture because it shows me that Gods power is available and gives me everything I need to practice good habits. The thing I have to do is make an effort or should I say, create a habit.

Tonia Hayes is an ACE certified Personal Trainer

needs Kleenex? Most of us take all of that for granted. We just assume that all

Do Your Part

hen you arrive at church each Sunday morning, you can smell the fresh brewed coffee and the donuts that were purchased that morning. You see countless chairs set up. The worship team is setting up the equipment. Brenda is putting out the Kleenex and setting up her welcome table. The back table is set up with various things that you need to know. The computer is being set up so we can read the words to the songs we sing. The kids church leaders are setting up their equipment in preparation for a bunch of kids that cant wait to run in there. There are folks walking around anointing the chair and praying over the chair that you will sit in. You see, all of this takes place before we ever even walk in the door of that room. I want to take a minute to thank each and every person that does the WORK of the church to make each meeting happen. It isnt fun and sometimes I am sure that it interferes with their personal time. Nevertheless, they do it each and every Sunday. Now, on to the point of this article. You see, these people are each doing a service to our body. None of them are Randy. None of them are the Pastor on TV. None of them get huge kudos and pats on the back for jobs well done. For the majority, it would appear to be menial tasks well below most folks willingness to serve. I mean, surely someone else can make coffee. Surely someone else can set out chairs. Surely someone else can go buy donuts. Surely someone else can set up the welcome table. And really, who

of that stuff just miraculously appears and is there for our convenience. The fact is, that it takes people that are willing to do the work and service to make our Sunday service comfortable. Ever wonder who sets up the chair that you sit in? What would you really do if any ONE of those things that I listed, wasnt there on Sunday morning? At the Warehouse Church, we have a motto that EVERYBODY PLAYS. At this point in this article, I would urge you to check yourself to see where you play. There are countless things that need to be done that you can help with. You dont have to do all of it, just part of it. If everybody did a little something, the load would be lightened exponentially. Take a minute and think about the things that you can do to help out at church. I know that it is the weekend and you are tired and dont want to work. Allow me to use a phrase that we use at work; Suck it up, Buttercup. All the people that are doing the stuff on Sunday work through the week too. They are tired and would love a day off too. I urge you to find your talents and engage them within your church body. I dare you to NOT just be a chair sitter and become a viable part of your church body. The church pours into you, pour back into it. Aimee Anderson posted this on the computer a while back and it pretty well sums up what I am saying. Use what talents you possess: the woods would be quiet if no birds sang there except those that sang best. I double dare you to find a part, and fill it to the utmost of your ability.

What does freedom mean to you?"

Neal Hayes ~ Freedom is a gift from our Heavenly Father and our forefathers, that enables us to pursue life, liberty, and true happiness. It is a status that we treat with indifference and discuss little; but if it were taken away tomorrow, would turn our world upside down. I am thankful for freedom in Christ, and I also appreciate the men & women who gave their lives to help attain and preserve it in our great nation! Sandy Lindsay ~ Freedom has two fronts in my life. First I am mindful of the price of freedom in this world for me physically. My husband and sons were in the military as well as many other sons and daughters. The price paid by all to serve has been substantial. I am thankful for those that have served in our military so that our Country can be free! May God bless each and every one for your dedicated service. Freedom's second (no order just numbered) front is for my soul to be made free and is more spiritual in nature. The price was supreme and Jesus alone paid the price for this freedom. Remaining grateful is part of worship for me. Remembering the price He paid for my soul to be free motivates my heart in worship. Thank you Lord for the things You have done for me.

Elise James ~ I'm free to be me, and you're free to be you! Julie Macrae ~ Freedom from sin is what we all hope for!! Brenda Petersen ~ Freedom...ability to make choices. Duane Sturgess ~ The Freedom to praise God without any ramifications. The Freedom of free speech. The right to bear arms. The Freedom to be FREE!

In Honor

by John & Julie Macrae I am now and that was an act of true obedience by him to the Father as well as the greatest gift he could ever have given me it is for me now to take those same first steps towards others and in this way I know I honor God as well as my dear friend thank you Bob and God bless you and your family in these coming days... When Bob slipped peacefully into the Fathers arms, he was released from the torment of his illness and the regret of a life cut short. He had had about a year to plan for this time and he spent this precious time well. He prepared for his family making provision for everything within his power. At the same time, he trusted God for his healing not knowing at what hour it might happen or even if it was in His plan. Either way, he was ready. In his last year he celebrated 35 years in ministry with a service not for him but for the Glory of God his Service of Thanksgiving was no different! He had planned it to the last detail briefing everyone who had a role to play including his boss, the bishop, so they knew exactly what was expected of them. No sentimental fluff, lots of praise and color and just another opportunity to praise God for the blessings he had poured out upon us by putting Bob 'in our way'. The church was packed, with standing room only, the parking lot overflowed into adjacent fields. Everyone who could, came. The message was clear death has a very, very painful sting and there is no escaping that. But our hope remains in the work that Jesus did for us and that hope is eternal. The question that remains for everyone is are you ready? And if you are certain you are ready then are you also ready to prepare the people you care most about to be ready. If you are, excellent! If you're not, pray that you find someone who is, and ask them to show you how... Love the world...leave a legacy of good fruit...for the glory of God... You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit... John 15:16
Stay updated with our friends John & Julie Macrae as they travel and spread the news of Jesus Christ! www.blog.mailasail.com/amazinggrace

have a wonderful dear friend Bob who is in the last stages of terminal cancer. He is my pastor from the UK and he is the man who brought me to the Lord and also through many steps on the way. Him and his family visited our vineyard church about 3 years ago and loved it. I heard recently that his time is imminent and how the family is suffering along with him and it breaks my heart. I spoke out loud to the Lord and said 'Lord this is so sad' and I felt that the Lord said to me 'why are you sad? Bob's whole life has been working towards this time and while you will be sad, he will not. Hopefully, we are all working towards the time the Lord takes us home and I felt that the Lord showed me how we all arrive at different paces some of us work long and hard and have a hard journey at the end and some of us arrive quickly not having been on the earth long. However, for all of us the main thing is are we ready - ready at any time to go home to the Lord? I know Bob is and I am joyous in knowing I will see him again someday. I hope I will also see everyone I love but will I and will you? Or will we be separated for ever on death? We think we have all the time in the world to get right with God, but the fact is we have not and we should be right with him NOW!! There is no time to get right; death could come at any time. Do we really want to play Russian roulette and take a chance that we shall have plenty of time to get close to God? I know one thing for sure, Bob has been ready for a long time and yet he is only now going home, but for someone you know or love their time could be soon shouldn't we be playing a part in getting them ready?? Bob got me and many others ready or well on the way! We must all play our part in bringing people we love to know the Lord so that they too are ready or do we really want to just hope we might see them again? Its too important to hang on a hope. Anyway, you're just hoping that someone else will do it for you... As my friend Bob takes his last steps towards the Father, I thank God for his life, his love and his guidance. Without him taking those first steps towards me some years back, I would not be where

Every Sunday ~

averagejoes Caf
Free continental breakfast served from 10:00am to 10:20am Contact: Renee Stoffel @ 253-2465
THEWAREHOUSE

Note: The secretary will be on vacation thru July 9th. The office will be closed. 2nd & 4th Sunday ~

S T A T U R E Youth Group @ 1:00pm

The Warehouse Church Contact: Neal Hayes 365-1496 Next Meeting: Jul 10 & 24

BAND

Contacts: Aaron Symonds @ 330-1928 Mela Striker @ 365-1006

WAREHOUSE NURSERY & PRESCHOOL We believe in ministering to the needs of even our littlest members. Our qualified teachers create a positive experience that introduces nursery and preschool children to the love of Jesus early on. Contact: Jill Porvaznik @ 793-1326 WAREHOUSE KIDS Warehouse Kids is for all boys and girls in Kindergarten through 6th grade. We provide a combination of games, interactive characters, and fun filled songs capture kids attention while showing them that living for God is the best way to live! Contact: Ron Sellers @ 787-0385

2nd & 4th Friday ~

Harp & Bowl - Worship & Intercession

The Harp & Bowl theme is from Rev. 5 where the 24 elders and the 4 living creatures are giving the Father and Son the glory that's due them. The harp represents music and worship and the bowls are described as the prayers of the saints. Our goal is to worship God as vertically, directly, and interactively as possible and to pray the heart of Jesus in every situation that God leads us to. Cochran Home 3233 Indian Trail, Eustis, 32726 Snacks at 6:30; Harp & Bowl at 7:00 Contact: Cliff Cochran @ 483-3140 Next Meeting: Jul 8 & 22

4th Friday ~

Older Gents @ 11:30am

Older Gents is an opportunity for men over 50 to meet for lunch and enjoy great conversation over a variety of topics that affect all of us. Golden Corral, North Leesburg Contact: Leo Lenschow 429-2563 Next Meeting: Jul 22 Friday, July 29 ~ "Love Worth Fighting For" Speaker--Kirk Cameron First Baptist Church 2801 SE Mericamp Rd Ocala, Florida Cost--$20-$35 (not sure of why there is a difference, maybe depending on literature, books?? 7:00 -10:00p.m.

CREATIVE ARTS Drama! Dance! Pantomime! Sign language! Flags! Children's ballet! These are just a few venues that have been incorporated into the Creative Arts Ministry at the Warehouse Church. The message of salvation through Jesus Christ and the ministry of worship are key factors in the foundation of our Creative Arts Ministry. Many people are blessed through the visual arts and this is why this ministry exists. Look for future opportunities that will allow community oriented theater and dance. Contact: Barbara Smith @ 315-1400

1st Saturday ~

Love & Marriage

Lennie & Cheryl Mosers home at 6:30pm 803 Hilltop St, Fruitland Park This is a monthly gathering for young couples married 15 years and less (or soon to be married). We hope you will join us as we pursue discovering God's principles to "becoming one" in our marriages; in our relationships with one another, and with Him. If you need assistance in finding a sitter for your children, please give Sue @ 504-6506 a call and she will try to assist you. Contact: Brian Sellers 504-6221 Next Meeting: Jul 30

DONT FORGET!! 1st Sunday of the month we will collect the "Change Cups". For those of you who need to pick up one of our "red" cups we will have some on Sunday. Your spare "change" helps those in need in our church and our community.

Check out the web page at

www.vcfleesburg.com
for everything on the calendar this month.

elev

ation

Young Adults of 18 to 29 years old gather for fellowship and different activities. Ultimately, Elevation's vision is to give young adults a platform to fellowship, to serve, to do life together. Contact: Vance Harbaugh (941) 720-3912

n a recent Sunday Melas first two songs were centered around More of the Love of God. Although theres nothing we can do to get God to love us any more than He already does, we all have plenty of room to grow in the knowledge of how much He really does love us. Paul prayed in Ephesians 3:17-19 that we, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge. Based on the truth in this passage, we can move beyond our natural thinking and our intellect and begin to understand and comprehend with our inner man the glorious reality of the very nature of God Himself. God IS Love, Love IS God, thats what Hes made out of. With this in mind lets look at a couple of scriptures written by John (the disciple whom Jesus loved, as he was leaning on Jesus bosom John 13:23) Let me encourage you not just to take my word for anything I say, but turn to the scriptures yourself and read them in context. A lot of religion has been established on a verse or part of a verse taken out of context. Trust the Holy Spirit Himself to lead you and guide you into all of the Truth and lets allow Him to open the eyes of our understanding, relating to the Love of God. 1 John 4:16-18 says, And we have KNOWN and BELIEVED the love that God has to us. God is love; and he that dwells in love dwells in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear; because fear has torment. He that fears is not made perfect in love. John had first hand knowledge and experience of how much the Father loved Him thru the intimacy he experienced. And our knowledge of Gods love will grow from the times of intimacy we spend in Gods presence and in His word. The other scripture we want to look at is in John chapter 14. In the very first verse the Master says, Do not let your hearts be troubled. In other words dont let it be disturbed, anxious or fearful, and then down in the last part of vs. 27, Jesus repeats it again and says, Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

So, I ask the question, would Jesus tell us to do something that we wouldnt have the ability to do? The answer is NO. The understood subject in both the 1st vs. and the 27th vs. is YOU. Dont YOU let you hearts be troubled, dont YOU let it be afraid. Jesus told the disciples and others not to fear, dont be afraid. He told Jairus when they brought him the bad news, Dont be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed. Could fear have prevented Jairus daughter from being healed??? That was pure LOVE on the way to Jairus house and by Jairus believing that love, it cast out all of the fear that tried to come into him. Notice, it didnt stop it from coming on him or against him, but it kept it from getting into him. Is it possible, when we find ourselves in a fearful situation to resist that fear and refuse to let it get in us? Apparently the Master thinks so, elsewise would He tell us, Dont be afraid? You remember a few weeks ago Randy reminded us to STAND on the Word of God. This is one area we all need our minds renewed, especially in the times we live in. So much chaos in the world, so much bad news about the economy, terrorists, wars etc. There are many other instances in the bible where the Lord or an angel of the Lord said, Dont be afraid. He told Moses, Joshua, Mary, the mother of Jesus and many others. Again, lets ask ourselves the question, Would the Master tell us to do something we werent capable of doing? NO!!! It wouldnt be fair of Him to tell us to do something and we didnt have the ability to do it. My friend, emotions are real, feelings are real, fear is real and will come upon you and me, but that does not mean we have to let it get inside us. Our knees could be knocking, our teeth chattering, the hair on the back of our neck standing up and big ole goose bumps all over our arms and if we are established in this truth, we can declare, I WILL NOT be afraid, God has not given me the spirit of fear, if God be for me, who can be against me, though I walk thru the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. When Davids son Absalom was chasing him to kill him, He said out loud in Psalm 3:6 , I WILL NOT BE AFRAID of ten thousand people who have surrounded me and are against me.

Why could the Psalmist say that? Because of vs. 3, But you O Lord are a Shield for me, My glory and the lifter of my head. He had confidence and so much trust in the love of God, He really KNEW and BELIEVED the love God had for him and he KNEW and BELIEVED that God would protect him and so can we. God is no respecter of persons and if He did it for one, Hell do it for us. None of us have arrived yet, but can you see the glorious possibilities that we could develop and grow in this unwavering confidence and trust in God? Is this really possible? All things are possible to him that BELIEVES!!! Looking again at I John 4:18 it says, there is NO fear in love. How much? Some? NO!! A Little? NO!! There is no, none, nada, zip, zero fear in Love. Why? Because Love is God, God is Love. Verse 18 goes on to say, but perfect Love casts out all fear. Now dont let that word perfect throw you, it simply means fully developed, so as we become more & more developed in Gods Love and more fully Believe and Trust and have confidence in His Love, the more free we become from fear and all its forms of anxiety about not knowing what the future holds and especially all the fears related to dying. Turn to Hebrews 2 and read vs. 14 & 15. The last part of vs. 14, talking about Jesus says, that through death He (Jesus) might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through FEAR OF DEATH were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Bondage to what? The fear of death. Remember over in I John it says, Fear has torment. If you really think about some of the fears people have, a lot of it is related to the fear of death. For example, the fear of flying - people arent really afraid of the flying part, theyre afraid the plane will crash and theyll die - fear of heights is not really afraid of how high youre up, its being afraid of falling to your death -claustrophobia is not so much about close spaces as it is about suffocating to death. Brothers and sisters, based on these scriptures in Heb 2:14,15 Jesus has destroyed him that HAD the power of death, that is, the devil. If you are a child of God, youve been delivered from the fear of death, and as we grow in it and truly BELIEVE in how much God loves us and believe His word that says, He will never leave us or forsake us and The Lord is on my side, of whom then shall I be afraid? then at some point that perfect (fully developed) Love will cast out all fear. It literally means to throw it out. In closing, we can examine ourselves (not others), but ourselves and be honest before God

and ourselves and find out what things cause us o be afraid and when the Holy Spirit shows us something, we should admit it and ask Him to help us to grow and develop in that area. All of us have some areas where our minds need to be renewed in this area. Ask yourself what makes you anxious or afraid and then find scriptures that you can use as the sword of the spirit in that area and begin to cut it out of your life. My friend, emotions are real, feelings are real, fear is real and will come upon you and me, but that does not mean we have to let it get inside us.

Did the Master have any fear? When Jesus was in the back of the boat asleep in the middle of a storm and the disciples woke Him up and said, Master, dont you care? Were fixin to die out here? Were they afraid of the wind and waves or of drowning and dying? Jesus didnt say, Boys why didnt you wake me up sooner, that was a close call? No sir, in Matthew 8:26 He said, you of little faith, why are you so afraid? vs. 25 was the reason they thought they were going to drown. Someone might say, Yea, but that was Jesus. Back in I John 4:17 at the end, it says because as He is, so are we in THIS world. Proverbs 3:5 says, trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not to your own understanding. What does that mean? You dont have to understand whats going on to trust God. Trust is a faith word, you dont have to figure out why this is happening. Just trust the Love God has for you that he wont let you drown and do not under any circumstances let the fear get inside you. Resist this temptation the same way Jesus did when He said, It is written. Weve all heard lots of teaching about Job, but the bottom line is found in Job 3:25 where Job said, what I feared has come upon me, what I dreaded has happened to me. Fear opened the door then and it will open the door now, KNOWING and BELIEVING will slam the door shut. Bible scholars say that Jobs ordeal lasted about 1 year and yet he ended up with twice as much as he had before and lived 140 years. Finally, John 14:27, Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. We wont get there overnight, but if we will cultivate and grow in and BELIEVE the Love God has for us, Freedom will surely come. AMEN??? Shalom, Jewell and Millie Estess

by Sonia Shearer

Making a Difference

came to realize over this past couple of months how much can be accomplished when a number of people work together on one project. The Warehouse came together because of the work of a lot of people putting their effort into the building. It was completed in phases and everyone played a part. Many physically worked while others participated in finances, prayer, doing errands, brining lunches and whatever else needed to be done. It was an awesome experience and a lot of hard work, but by working together we accomplished a home base for us. This past week, I sent an e-mail out about a woman with 3 children who needed help. The response was overwhelming not only to her but to me as well. There was enough donated to furnish her entire house. It was a chain reaction. I was contacted by the woman. I by myself could do very little to help her. I had a few things to give her but nothing close to what she needed. By each person doing something, her entire house is now furnished and her kids have lots of food and clothing. Im so excited to see what we can do as a church body to make a difference in our community now that we have a permanent place to operate from. I truly believe that we can change our community for the better. We as a body have a lot to offer. We can only do this as we continue to come together and join forces. We are not only capable of making Leesburg a better place, but the nation as well. If one little church can furnish a house within a two day period, I had no doubt that we can change our nation by doing what God has called us to do.

Each one of us has our own passion of what God wants us to accomplish. Not everyone is going to join in everything because we just arent geared that way. In Ephesians 4, the bible talks about different gifts and then again in Corinthians. While we dont all have the same passion or the same gifts we can certainly encourage and help those who have a different calling than us. So far I believe that we have done a really good job in accomplishing this.

find myself sitting in my office in Bahrain, in the Middle East. All this talk about flying in my most recent articles reminds me here, on the Island, of the Falcon. Though it is not the National Bird of Bahrain, a huge sculpture of one can be seen upon the arrival at the airport. Falcons are highly reputed to have visual acuity several times that of a human being. Visual acuity means acuteness or clearness of vision. Adult falcons have thin tapered wings, which enable them to fly at high speed and to change direction rapidly. Fledgling Falcons, have longer flight feathers which make it easier to fly while learning the exceptional skills required to be effective hunters as adults. (Wikipedia) Okay, so what is all this information about? I think it has something to do with how Jesus teaches His disciples. Remember? He made them fishers of men. He spoke in parables. He called his flock sheep. And I think He is teaching me about flying! In last months newsletter I shared about flying because God was changing my perspective. He was trying to give me the larger picture, if you will, so that I might have His understanding in such a time as this. May 29th the Lord spoke to me and said, These lessons are going to come fast now. And on the 30th, I heard, More are coming, Sandy. You are being streamlined for what the future holds. Then I felt the word stealth was impressed upon me. As I read this definition myself of a falcon I was captured by its qualities and felt immediately that it was not much of a stretch for me to process these attributes to the spiritual body.

The Falcon has: 1) visual clarity 2) flies high 3) changes direction rapidly 4) learns exceptional skills 5) is an effective hunter. If I was going to learn to fly (perspective), and if the Holy Spirit was going to teach me (discipleship), I would think if he knew anything about a Falcon (H.S. is more than able to teach you all things) that it could give some clarity about the details being imparted to me. Anyway, thats how He talks to me! What about you? Sandra Lindsay P.O. Box 702015 Saint Cloud, FL 34770-2015 Phone: (813) 714-8999 Website: www.spiritualmeat.com email: spiritmeat@yahoo.com

What is the Gospel?

Moreover brethren, I declare unto you the gospel (Good News) which I preached unto you, which also ye have received and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain (without cause). For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas (Peter), then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some have fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me also as of one born out of due time (1 Cor. 15:1-8 KJV). are not necessarily better people. The gap between religious literacy and character is not a new revelation. This was the situation in Jesus day. Jesus the Christs enemies were not atheists and public scoundrels. They were religious leaders who prided themselves in their knowledge of scriptural, moral law. What hope is there for people like you and I if we cant live up to the good counsel provided many recognized spiritual people? The Scriptures/Bible was actually written to answer that question. In one way or another, everything between the covers points to the Messiah who offered to do for others what they could not do for themselves. By the questions Jesus the Christ asked, the stories he told, and the miracles he did, he exposed the foolishness of those who saw themselves as being either good or wise in their own eyes. The good news is he showed how far he was willing to go to take anyone who trusted him to his Father. By a bold plan of rescue that balance the justice and mercy of God, he courageously suffered and died to secure everlasting life for those willing to rely on his wisdom rather than their own. So what is the Gospel? I. The good news is that Jesus the Christ died for our sins. Why did Christ die? He doesnt love our sins but he still loves us and he yearns for us to love him in return. How do we know God loves us? Listen: If he didnt love us, he never would have sent his only son into the world to die for us. But Jesus the Christ did come into the world and he did die on the cross for our sins. Why did he do this? The only possible explanation is because God loves us. The Scriptures says, This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 4:10 NIV). Listen to this, John 15:9 in the Message tells us, I have loved you the way My Father has loved Me. Make yourselves at home in My Love.

e are living in interesting times, times that have everyone scratching their head in wonderment. The Scriptures 2 Timothy 3:1-5 tells us that in the last days perilous or troublesome times would come. Why do I tell you this? Well I tell you this because Jesus is coming back soon. Be ready, be prepared for the unexpected, there is a time coming in the not too distant future when Jesus is going to call his chosen from the four corners from one end to the other. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come (Matt. 24:40-42 KJV) The way to escape this time that is coming on the earth is to believe on Jesus the Christ. Being a religious person, a good person, a church going person singing religious songs and getting involved in deep meditation does not make you a believer or his chosen. Have you ever wondered why religious people are often obnoxious? Many people who know the Bible or Qur'an or any another Holy Book the best

I cant help what someone who begs to differ with me says. What that person says might sound most logical but the facts are at hand and we are still sinners yet Jesus loves us even when we ignore him or insult him by the way we live, he still reaches out to us and wants us to come back to him. I am getting ahead of myself here. Who is good? As it is written, there is none righteous, no not one (Rom. 3:10 KJV). We are sinners. Who has sinned? It is evident that you and I each are sinners. For all have sinned, and come (fall) short of the glory of God (Rom. 2:23 KJV). If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, [God] is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us (1 John 1:8-10 KJV). We have a fatal disease called sin which blocks our relationship with God. How did sin enter into the world, Adam and Eve sinned, salvation is through Christ. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for (in) that all have sinned (Rom. 5:12 KJV). It is a fact that you are now dead in sin and Gods price on sin is death. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom. 6:23 KJV). With the wages of sin being death and God knowing we cant ever earn eternity with him in heaven on our own. He sent his Son, Jesus the Christ, as our substitute. To enter Gods kingdom we have to be perfect. That leaves us all out, right? Yet, Jesus came to this earth, identified with us, and being perfect he went to the cross (an instrument of death) to die on our behalf. That is our way out! But God commendeth (proves) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners Christ died for us (Rom 5:8 KJV). Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them the transgressions committed under the first covenant (Heb. 9:15 KJV). Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. So this is why Jesus came and died. He died in our place just as if we was the ones dying (Heb. 9:22 KJV). II. Christ was buried. His burial is proof that he died. When he was on the cross the Bible tells us that with one last cry he

gave up his spirit. Afterwards he was stabbed in the side by a professional killer ensuring His death. After he died on the cross he was placed in a tomb. At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid (buried) Jesus there (Jon 19:41, 42 NIV). But thats not the end of the story. Never forget, God isnt responsible for the evils of our world we are. Thats why we need God, for only he can forgive our sin and change our hearts in a lasting way. .

III. Christ rose from the dead Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead conquering sin and death. He fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning this. He now sits at the right hand of the Father. He longs to forgive you of your sins and make you a part of the family of God. But you need to first realize that you are a sinner and that there is no way you can or ever could earn the right to live forever with him. None of us can. Again I repeat religion cant do it for you. Not your parents, your church background nor your devout effort can make you fit for eternal life with God. The only way to be forgiven of your sins is to look to the cross. Never forget, God isnt responsible for the evils of our world we are. Thats why we need God, for only he can forgive our sin and change our hearts in a lasting way. Thomas saith unto him how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (Jon 14:5, 6 KJV). God hates sin and the cross proves that. But keep in mind that Father God loves you so much that he gave his one and only Son to pay the penalty for your sin so you can have a right relationship with him. The Grace of God is God's unmerited favor His goodness toward those who have no claim on, nor reason to expect, divine favor. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, Not a result of works, so that no one may boast (Eph. 2:8, 9 KJV). But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness (good deeds) which we have done,

but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, Whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, That having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life (Titus 3:4-7 NKJV). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom. 19:13 KJV). Believe in your heart. Father God knows your heart and is not as concerned with your words as he is with the attitude of your heart. Talk to your Father God, that is all it is to it, just let it all hang out. He already knows it; he wants to hear it from you. That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

As the Scripture says, Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame (Rom. 10:9-11NIV). May this come true in your life, as it has to millions of others across the centuries whove found lasting peace peace with God, with others and peace in your heart. Jesus said, Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God believe also in Me (Jon 14:1). Jesus also said, I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble and suffering but take courage I have conquered (overcome) the world (Jon 16:33 NET). Check out Leos blog on the Warehouse website at www.vcfleesburg.com

02... Amber Wilnau 03... John & Linda Rohal 03... Paul Kasperek 04... Alex Schofill 05... Tom Schofield 06... Michael & Brenda Petersen 06... Taylor Weaver 07... Aimee Anderson 07... Curtis & Jill Vanorder 07... John Macrae 08... Joey & Jeanne McDonald 08... Robert Bowersox 10... Jason Greene 11... Jay Coulson 13... Gregg & Kathryn Merrill 13... Steve & Stacia Doggett 15... Jim & Ruth Bruce 15... Tom Caruthers

18... Grant Doggett 19... Cliff & Jamie Cochran 20... Andrew Davidson 20... Emily Davidson 21... Myra Harbaugh 21... Ryan Wilnau 22... Annalise Greene 23... Amber Varnum 24... Ruth Bruce 24... Suzy Wilnau 26... Don Wilnau 28... Steven & Torrey Bennett 30... Phil Stokes 31... Deborah Evangelist-Tiller 31 Lennie & Cheryl Moser

Wow! How exciting to finally be in a building where we can now begin to distribute food and eventually clothing. The Storehouse team will be meeting the city this month to find out what the requirements are to become an official food bank. We are so excited to be doing this and making a change in our community by not only helping those in need, but hopefully introducing them to Jesus. Everyone who chooses to do so will be able to participate on some level. Thanks to Joel Hayes and his accomplices, we will have a golden grocery cat set up in the caf area close to the information table. Food donations can be dropped off in the golden cart. If you would like to volunteer to help in The Storehouse please contact us and we will be glad to put you on the list. Our goal is to have our first meeting in late July or August. The Storehouse Team Contact information: Deborah Tiller @ 352-321-5750 Sonia Shearer @ 352-408-7192 or ShearerSonia@hotmail.com

You can give an offering also. Just make a memo to Storehouse.