Mountains and Valleys (Update for August 14)

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 Hello Church Family!

This last weekend a group of us went backpacking together. It was an amazing time enjoying God's creation and getting to know each other better. The devotionals were tied to the difference between mountains and valleys in Scripture and in life. Valleys are typically loud, busy, and crowded... places where we focus on producing... and often you don't see very far ahead. Mountains are usually places where God dwells and they are sometimes hard places to get to. But yet there is peace and quiet and rest... and often a better and broader view of things.

The truth is that metaphorically we would love to always be in the mountains, but for now life for us is lived in the valley. But we still need those extended times in the mountains to bring health. We see this even in the life of our Lord. He came down from the mountains into the valley for us, but in order to maintain focus and health, he spent time with God in the mountains.

We plan into our calendar as a church family some mountain top experiences throughout the year. Obviously, the kids and teens have opportunities for summer camp and even mission trips. And our Spirit Week in October, this year with Jeremiah Bolich, is specifically focused on drawing near to God for an extended time period. But this weekend, Family Camp, is also a big one on my list.

At Family Camp, we get an opportunity to hear great speakers. This year they are a general superintendent and his wife, Fili and Samantha Chambo, who grew up in Mozambique. Pastor Pam has prepared some kits to help the kids stay focused for each of the services. We have an opportunity, away from all the distractions down the hill, to sit and focus. Take advantage of this.

Early each morning, at 7am, on Saturday and Sunday, there is another opportunity. Pastor Scott leads us in our morning devotions in the amphitheater. There is a campfire and there is coffee... two good ingredients for a great time with the Lord. Take advantage of this.

But then there is every other moment in nature. Yes, there will be lots of activities. But don't forget to go for that walk in the trees or just sit out in a place where you can see the mountains. Maybe even walk down to the creek. Find some moments of alone to be silent. To listen. To talk to the Lord. Take advantage of this.

I would encourage you also, after the service each night, there is a gathering in the lodge. Feel free to bring a snack to share or your favorite game to play. There may be a chance to get something serious going, but mostly just hanging out with the church family. Important times in the mountains... and they prepare us for life in the valley.

As we have been announcing, this Sunday you have two options for worship. In Emmett at 10:30, Tim Clarkson will be leading us through the next episode of Retold... this time it is Daniel and the Lions Den. You are also welcome to join us at Family Camp at 10am. Have a great weekend in the Lord!

The link to the online service in Emmett is on our website at (www.emmettnaz.org) and click on the Link to the Service.
Sermon Series - Retold #3 Sunday School Stories You Thought You Knew - Aug 14th (Daniel and the Lions Den with Pastor Tim Clarkson!)
Family Camp at Trinity Pines - August 12 to 14. Feel free to come up and spend a day! 
Don't forget the worship service on the 14th will be at Trinity Pines at 10am and at 10:30am in Emmett. Choose a service and let's worship together!
Board Meeting - August 16
Teens! Summer's Last Blast! - August 20 ... Swimming and BBQ

Thank you again for being such a great church family! I look forward to seeing you all for worship Sunday!Blessings!
Pastor Brian 

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