I Had No Idea
The last words someone says seem like they’d be significant. Truth is, some are good, some are weird. Here’s a sampling: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” — Nathan Hale. “This wallpaper is killing me; one of us must go” – Oscar Wilde. “I told you I was ill.” — Spike Milligan. “Thank God I gave up my life so that Helen might live. God help her to live without me when I go.” — Annie Sullivan. Kind of goes from the ridiculous to the sublime, doesn’t it?
How about Jesus? As Jesus was being killed, he made several statements recorded in the Gospels. One of them is found Luke 23:34. As he was being crucified, he cried out, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” There he is, on the cross, nails in his hands and feet; a crown of thorns jammed on his head. What does he say? Father, forgive these murderers.
The thing is, nobody was asking for forgiveness. They didn’t think they needed it. But Jesus’s mission was to sacrifice himself for people who weren’t interested in it. They were, and we are today, clueless about sin and its impact on family, society, and our standing with God. When Judas realized what he’d done, he couldn’t stand it, returned the money, and killed himself (Matt 27:3-7). God’s love, however, offers peace and forgiveness to sinners. (Romans 5:8). We’ve no idea what we’ve done, but forgiveness is offered anyways. Will you receive it?
Pastor Rick
CHURCH NEWS
*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!
*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.
*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues his study, “Acknowledging God” at 9:30 a.m.
*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of “The Last Words of Christ”.
*** Easter Sunrise service begins at 6:28 a.m. at Percy Johnson Park, Sunday March 31st.
*** Bethel Youth Group: Middle School students (grades 5-8) will meet Mondays from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at church. Any questions please ask Leila Nehlsen or Hannah Dusik.
*** Senior High Youth Group will meet Sundays at 4:00 p.m. at Tom and Michele Jordan’s,1481 Main Road.
*** Ladies’ Evening Bible study will meet Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. We will be going through a series by Ann Graham Lotz on Revelation. Please contact Michelle Griggs regarding interest and information at 317-696-0997.
*** Ladies’ Afternoon Bible study Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. The study is on Sermon on the Mount by Jen Wilkins. Please contact Betty Lou at 920-396-0267 regarding interest and information.
*** Men’s Bible Study: Doug Hansen is hosting this study at his place at 7:00 a.m. Tuesdays. Address: 1258 Deer Run.
*** Book Club read: The next discussion will be March 18th at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. The book is “The Outside Boy” by Jeanine Cummins.
*** Ladies’ breakfast: on Saturday, April 6th. More details to follow.
*** Prayer and Worship evening on the 3rd Sunday of the month. Next one is Sunday March 17th starting at 7:00 p.m.
*** Volunteers interested in working with the VBS committee to bring this incredible program to our Island youth should plan on attending our first meeting on Wednesday March 20th.
*** Youth Group would again like to thank everyone for their support of the annual ski trip. Our youth enjoyed a beautiful day of skiing at Nordic Mountain, bowling, swimming, and an excellent church service at Spring Lake Evangelical Church. A huge thank you to Joel and Krista for planning every detail of this awesome weekend. Please keep Joel in your prayers as he recovers from a fall during the ski trip. Also, thank you to Andy & Marissa for chaperoning again!
*** A good time was had by the Ladies at Chicken Trivia Night. There waslots of laughter, delicious food, a chicken dance, and female fellowship. Thank you to Marlee for sharing her knowledge of all things chicken, and all who contributed bringing food, setting up, and making this fun night possible.
*** If you’re interested in becoming a member of Bethel Church, let Pastor Rick, or any of the Elders know. The process is simple: an application, meet with the Elder Board and confess your faith in Jesus.
COMMUNITY NEWS
*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108.
*** WICHP Luncheon: Thursday March 21st from Noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Trinity Fellowship Hall. Presenters Emily Small and Matt Kokes. Topic: Our “New” Island Radio. For reservations call 920-847-2108 or email wichp77@gmail.com or wichppromgr@gmail.com by Tuesday March 19th at 3:00 p.m.
*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday March 24th 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Trinity Library.
*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday March 24th from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Bethel Church Lobby.
*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday March 26th 10:00 a.m. to Noon in the Trinity Fellowship Hall.
*** Lions Club is selling Roses this Spring. $16.00 a dozen. The last date to order is March 28th. Delivery April 19th and 20th.
Bethel Tidings 