Carrot or Stick?

When it comes to getting motivated, which do you prefer: the carrot or the stick?
The carrot is a reward awaiting you for having done something.
The stick is a threat of something negative you'll experience as a consequence for not performing.

It's interesting to consider how different people approach their life as a Jesus-follower. Some attend worship, spend time in God's Word, pray, tithe, serve, and share the Good News of God's love with others all out of the joy and blessings they receive from these spiritual practices. Others do these things out of fear of being punished by God or others should they fail to act "like a Christian should".

This Sunday, September 8th, we'll begin a series we're calling "REACHING". It's all about sharing the Good News with others in our world. We'll be starting out with the question of what should be our motivation for witnessing.

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This fall, during our Sunday School time before worship (9:45-10:15), I'll be leading a class on how we can naturally work with the Holy Spirit in creating the kind of friendships in which spiritual conversations happen naturally with others. Everyone from teenaged and up are invited to be a part of this discussion-based class.
The class will be based on the book "God Space" by Doug Pollock and I highly recommend everyone purchase a copy. (I'll have some available for $5, but you can also purchase a hard copy or Kindle version on Amazon). However, you will still get a lot out of our class and discussion even if you don't have a copy of the book. I hope you'll be able to join us!

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Sunday School Kickoff

Speaking of Sunday School, we'll be celebrating the start of our classes this Sunday with a PANCAKE TAILGATE BREAKFAST!
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Come to church at 9:45 and enjoy pancakes at tables in the parking lot right outside of Fellowship Hall. It's our way of celebrating that our new year of classes will be starting. 
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During the worship service, we'll be sharing about our Children's Ministry plans and acknowledging those who have volunteered in different ways over the past year. And following the worship service, there will be special gifts for all the kids and their families!

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All Church BBQ Potluck

On Sunday, September 15th, you're invited to join us for our Fall BBQ Potluck after the worship service. Burgers and drinks will be provided by the church. You can bring a salad, side dish, or dessert.

Maybe you can use this as an occasion to invite someone to church with you.

This will most likely be our last time to use the gazebo in its current location, so come celebrate the years we've enjoyed it next to the river - we'll have a celebration and dedication when it's relocated on the church grounds.