Colossians 1:24 – 2:5
Paul’s Ministry to the Church

Paul describes his role in the church as that of a servant – a suffering, but rejoicing, servant. Pray that every single person at Calvary would function as a servant, not as an attender or onlooker or consumer (as someone on the fringe of our fellowship might see themselves) and not as a mover-and-shaker or lynchpin or font of wisdom and expertise (as someone in the middle of things might view themselves in a prideful moment). Just a servant, willing to labor for the Master and rejoicing in what He is doing.

Pastor Todd urged us not to be too quick to think that Paul’s calling to proclaim God’s word, to warn and teach, does not apply to us. Our circles of influence are smaller than Paul’s, but we all have one. This reminder is timely since most small groups are starting this week. Take time to pray for your small group. Ask the Lord to help you, along with your sisters or brothers, to speak His truth to one another – not arrogantly or judgmentally, but humbly and in love. Ask for the depth of caring and the strength required to struggle in spiritual battle for one another, as Paul did for the church.

Calvary Family

Jim Dee will undergo surgery for prostate cancer tomorrow morning. Pray for Jim and his wife, Annette, as they walk through this difficult time. Remember to pray the spiritual and eternal angles as well as the physical and temporal ones.

Shirley Maher reports that treatment plans for Tom Ungeheier are proceeding. A neurosurgeon will perform a “gamma knife” procedure to remove his brain cancer on October 3. An oncologist is running more tests to choose the immunotherapy treatment that will be most effective for the cancer in his lung.

I’m sure you’ve noticed that preparations for Fall FunFest are in full swing. Ask the Lord to be preparing the hearts of people in our neighborhood who don’t know Him, awakening a desire to take a step toward Him by engaging with His people. Pray for the provision of all the volunteers, supplies, and funds that are needed. Finally, lift up the women on the leadership team who devote so much time and energy to FunFest on top of normal family and work responsibilities.

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert
Calvary Community Church of Brea