Making Sense of the Mess

Sometimes our lives are in a mess because of the choices we make. Sometimes they are in a mess because of the things others have done to us. And sometimes, there is a mess simply because there is. What do we do when we can't figure it out? When we can't answer the "why" questions?

This Sunday we looked at the killing of the innocent children which took place in Bethlehem as Herod tried to destroy the "threat" of Jesus before he could grow to become a man. What kind of sense does that make? Why, when Jesus came, did so many need to suffer the loss of a child? It simply doesn't make sense.

And it is just those types of circumstances that can cause each of us to experience a "Dark Night of the Soul". If you missed the message, you can click here to watch it online. God cares about you even when your life feels dark; even when you can't see a way through; even when you feel there is no hope. We hope you'll be encouraged as you watch the message. Please pass it on to others who might be encouraged as well.

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Which Guy will you be?

On Sunday, we compared the two "guys" Jesus talked about in Luke 18. Jesus compared a Pharisee (religious person) to a tax collector (humble worshipper). He made it clear that the tax collector came away justified in his worship because of his humility. Some of the characteristics of the Pharisee (Don't be that guy) were. He loved to compare himself to "sinners" to feel better about who he was. He loved to compare himself to "lowly worshippers" who weren't giving as much as he was. He kept a list of stuff he did for God as a way of impressing God and others. On the other hand, the tax collector came to God with these attitudes: He came humbly He was sorrowful and repentant. He recognized his need for grace and mercy The Big difference between the two was that the tax collector, in his humility, was able to: Rest in what God had done and would do by His grace. Reach out to others because of what He had been given. Releas...

What's Happening at the River?

Here's what is happening at River Oaks Church. Pastor Kevin's message, “A Good Peace” (recorded December 8, 2019), is now available on the River Oaks YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/KwfeUAlcgcw Pastor Kevin’s message, “A Complete Joy” (recorded December 15, 2019), is now available on the River Oaks YouTube channel. There are two additional videos mentioned in the YouTube description, so be sure to check them out too! https://youtu.be/ghu_23kyxZs Meals for the Strites Please consider providing a meal for the Strites over the next few weeks. Call Lynette Crull (540-578-4033) to schedule a time. Pastor Kevin will be walking with crutches for several weeks. Your prayers for continued healing are appreciated as his recovery time continues for several months.

Is There a God?

Great Question! How would you answer? Are you aware that you can not prove that He is? You can believe and you can see evidence, but to prove is another story. So, why DO you believe there is a God? How can you talk with those around you about this question that everyone considers at one time or another? We explored this question on Sunday. Click the link below to watch the message online now.

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