Dear Church Family,

We've all chased frantically after something that was right in front of us-searching for keys already in our pocket, looking for the phone in our hand. Sometimes what we need most is closest at hand, hidden only by our lack of attention.

We overlook what matters most precisely because it seems ordinary. I've watched people struggle with depression, anxiety, and mental fog for years-eventually discovering their suffering stemmed from something as mundane as low sodium, depleted vitamin D, or insufficient B12. The most common substance on earth, water, is also the most vital to sustaining life. We dismiss life's essential elements because they lack glamour.

In Luke 10, Martha was consumed by efficiency, driven by an urgent list of tasks demanding completion. Her sister Mary sat at Jesus's feet. Martha watched with resentment, seeing Mary as lazy, shirking all the important work that needed doing. But Jesus corrected her:

"Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:41-42)

Mary chose the good portion-the best use of her time. Jesus wasn't expecting Martha to impress him with productivity or some major accomplishment. He had already done the monumental work on the cross. What he desired was her presence, not just her service. He wanted her to be with him, not merely to do for him.

As the Christmas season approaches with its characteristic busyness, we face mounting expectations and tasks that feel urgent. But what truly matters most? Beyond what gets praised loudest, what brings God the greatest joy and glory?

It's found in the ordinary rhythms of Christian life-simple, daily obedience. In these unremarkable acts, God accomplishes the most, bringing about transformation both in us and through us to others. The spectacular is already finished. What remains is the sacred work of showing up, day after ordinary day, for what actually matters.

International Mission Board - Week of Prayer

Dates: Sunday, November 30 - Sunday, December 7, 2025
Purpose: A dedicated week to pray for IMB missionaries, their ministries, and the unreached people groups they serve.
Resources: Daily stories, prayer guides, videos, and promotional materials are available on the IMB website and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering page.
How to Participate: Individuals and churches are encouraged to pray for missionaries and the advancement of the gospel.

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

Origin: Began in 1888 after missionary Lottie Moon called for greater mission support.
Purpose: Primary funding source for international missions through the Southern Baptist Convention.
Usage: Supports nearly 3,600 missionaries by providing resources such as:

• Language training

• Travel

• Ministry support needs

Impact: This offering has enabled the planting of thousands of churches and led to hundreds of thousands of new believers worldwide.
About Lottie Moon: Served nearly 40 years in China (1873-1912) and inspired generations to support global missions.

Mission Trips

Puerto Rico Mission Trip

Dates: April 22-27, 2026
Pray for the team of 16:
Hal & Donna Pinson, Fred & Joyce Jones, Johnnie & Rhonda Dyal, Ed & Rhenda Coxwell, Stuart & Allegra Zahacy, Robert & Debbie Titus, Ryan Eubanks, Danny Wilkinson & Christian Eulo

Philippines Mission Trip

Dates: November 6-14, 2026
Begin praying now about joining God's work in the Philippines next year.

Special Opportunities

• Happy Hearts - Tuesday, December 10 at 6:00 PM. Everyone is invited!

Office Hours (Holiday Schedule)

Week of Christmas & New Year's:

• Mon, Dec 22 & 29: 9 AM - 3 PM

• Tues, Dec 23 & 30: Close at noon

• Wed-Fri: Closed

Men's Ministry

Join us Wednesdays at 6:15 PM for one of two Bible studies:

• "END TIMES" by Stephen Armstrong, led by Charlie Brown

• "A Man and His Story" by various authors, led by Calvin Johnson & Hal Pinson

Women's Ministry

Wednesdays at 6:15 PM

• Christmas Conversations: We will be sharing special memories of Christmas and what the Lord has done in the past. We will also have a time of prayer and thanksgiving for what God is going to do. Join us for a laid back time of testimony sharing and sharing the joy of Christmas

Ministry Opportunities

Night to Shine

Volunteer or sponsor today-NTS is just around the corner!

Philippines Ministry

• Pickleball Tournament - January 10
  Your fellowship and support continue to bless children, students, teachers, families, and pastors in the Philippines.

FAITH Riders

Our riders have been faithfully sharing the gospel!

• Share Tent was active at Byne Fall Fest on October 26.

• Contact Durwood if you'd like to help share your testimony.

Overcomers

A welcoming small-group ministry for those walking through life's challenges.

• Fridays at 6:30 PM in Room 114

• Led by Eddy, who is passionate about sharing hope and encouragement.

International Ministry

• International Small Group: Sundays at 9:30 AM (Room 316)

• ESL Classes: Sundays from 4-6 PM
  A wonderful opportunity for connection, language learning, and sharing the Good News.

Maintenance Volunteers Needed

We are always looking for people willing to help around campus.
Contact the church office if interested!

New Bus Update

We currently owe approximately $50,000 on our new church bus.
If the Lord leads you to give, please designate gifts to "Church Bus."

Vision Statement

To be a multicultural, multi-generational, Great Commission church that exalts Jesus Christ and leads people to discover their purpose in Him through love.

Mission Statement

To Know, Love, and Live for Jesus!