Last week, through his parables on sowing, seeds, and mustard plants, Jesus invited us to “kneel at the bright edge of the garden” (Andrew Peterson) and pray for the hidden and outward growth of his Kingdom at Immanuel and in Northern Virginia. This week Mark reminds us to pray with faith—ever deepening trust in the care and authority of Jesus (Mark 4:35-41). The King of this growing Kingdom cares deeply for us and our neighbors, and we rely on him to exert his rightful power to “make a meaningful difference in the world” (Andy Crouch). Our prayers are directed to the God who acts in history, revealing his love and power. And in these last days he does so through Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-5), and Jesus does so through the Holy Spirit given to the Church (Acts 1-18; yes, the whole book!). A song from my Vineyard days comes to mind as a prayer: “More love, more power, more of You in our lives!” Let’s continue praying together this week for the Holy Spirit to ignite Kingdom growth in us and in our communities.
Life Together Updates
King’s Jam, June 26 (Seed Sowers Outreach Event): Join us as Immanuel reaches out to the community for a Family-Friendly Hip Hop Concert at the Boys & Girls Club! Please pray, invite others, and volunteer to help. Volunteers will arrive at 5:15pm to begin set up. Doors open at 6:30 and concert starts at 7:00. Contact Jordan at jweymouth@iachurch.org for more details.
John Morlu appointed to the Vestry: A few weeks ago, I approached John on behalf of the Vestry and asked him to consider stepping in to complete Rich Garon’s term. John took time to pray, said “yes” to the invitation, and this week in an email vote the Vestry unanimously appointed him to this role. He will serve until the Vestry elections in January 2022, at which time he will be eligible to run for election if he discerns he would like to continue. John, Angie, Ethan, Nathan, Isaac and Jonathan have been involved, faithful members of our congregation for many years, and I personally have been encouraged by John’s relationship with Jesus and the unique perspective he brings to conversations. Please join me in thanking John and in praying for him as he joins us in loving and leading Immanuel.
Church Office Hours 9am-1pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: As safety has increased, staff and volunteers have slowly begun working again at the Church Office (1529 Old Bridge Rd #103, Woodbridge, VA 22192). We are now announcing the official re-opening of the office. Our hours are 9am-1pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. We are closed on Wednesday. Phone calls and emails will be received by office staff during those times. If you contact staff after hours, they’ll reply the following business day. Please note that the guidelines given by our landlord request that masks be worn by · visitors.
A Car for Our Mission Partner Yvonne North As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, the vehicle braking system on Yvonne’s car was damaged during her trip to train Global Teams missionaries and sending churches. Global Teams has provided a way to contribute toward the purchase of a new car for Yvonne. You can donate online by going to https://www.global-teams.org/donation, click “Give to The Ministry of a Field Partner”, click Yvonne North, then scroll to “Comments” and type, “Vehicle Fund.” You can also make out a check to Global Teams, note in the memo line that it’s for Yvonne’s Vehicle Fund, and send it to Global Teams, 800 Tuskawilla Rd., Winter Springs, FL, 37208.
Be sure to read more about our Life Together below—there are opportunities for bible studies, prayer, and service, as well as an announcement about the upcoming Women’s Retreat and an update from the Move Team.
I look forward to being with you on Sunday.
Your Pastor in Christ,
Travis+