I
was so struck by a quote I heard at a conference recently that I wrote it down right after the speaker said it: “When a leader stops learning, they stop growing — and usually so do their organizations.” It was said by Ken Blanchard, the globally-known consultant of The One Minute Manager fame. When Blanchard’s session ended, hundreds of us trudged off, and right after lunch, I went to one of the breakout sessions. I didn’t find that speaker nearly as stimulating, and I was glad to sit near the back of the room. Then I noticed an older gentleman, who had snuck into the row next to me, furiously taking notes. I did a double take: It was Ken Blanchard! “Good stuff, isn’t it?” he whispered . . . and I started to wonder which one of us was really boring: the speaker or me. Blanchard was living out what he’d just taught: A lifetime of learning left him fresh and humble, not a young know-it-all. You can bet I pulled out my notepad!
CPC Life is a monthly publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC). Complimentary copies available monthly at CPC or at cpconline.org/cpclife. Mail Subscriptions: Suggested annual donation of $20. Please write Editor, CPC Life, Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435.
That’s wisdom: the real-life application of knowledge. Our study of Proverbs this summer will bring God’s Word out of the Sanctuary into the streets, into the marketplace, into the family room, and into the car on vacation. Too often we confuse wisdom with our IQ or how
“Make the time this summer to slow down long enough to hear the still small whisper of God’s wisdom for you.” many insights we have. God seems more interested in what we do with insight. How do we act and relate to others? There are a lot of “book smart” people who make bad choices in life, and the Bible has a word for them, too: fools. If wisdom is the ability to make good decisions, how wise are you? Need help making great
Email Subscriptions: To receive a link to the monthly online version, contact communications@cpconline.org. We welcome your letters and comments! Please email communications@cpconline.org. © Christ Presbyterian Church 2013.
choices, now and in your future? (Hint: The answer is always “yes!”) I’m so excited by this forgotten Book of Proverbs that I asked the elders and staff to help me by sharing their learnings with you. I asked them to pick one proverb, tell how it struck them, and ask two questions to apply it to our lives. I challenge you to change your life this summer by joining us. One proverb a day — just a nugget to chew on — where God might say something “just to you.” Even if it’s only minutes, make the time this summer to slow down long enough to hear the still small whisper of God’s wisdom for you. Talk about a proverb with people, and see if they hear the same thing. Who knows, it could make all the difference in your world!
John Crosby has served as Senior Pastor since 1989. This summer he plans to experience rest while enjoying dinners outside and sailing on Lake Harriet.
Director of Communications: Sharon Sampson Editor: Jennifer Boardman Art Direction & Design: Jeremy Emmerich Editorial Assistants: Maggie Keller, Claire Sweem ©
Mixed Sources
Product group from well-managed forests, controlled sources and recycled wood or fiber fsc.org
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS THIS MONTH
>>
Adult Ministries Resources
Get wisdom this summer! The Adult Ministries team offers Bible studies and DVD resources you can check out free of charge for individual or small group study. Contact Debbie Ducar at debbied@cpconline.org or visit Pathway Bookstore for a list of resources.
>>
Multi-Congregational Gathering
Neighborhood churches make up the local body of Christ, so join together with our brothers and sisters from four local PC(USA) churches for prayer and worship on Wednesday, June 19 at 7:00PM at Prairie Community Church in Eden Prairie. An additional August gathering is also planned. Learn more on page 9.
>>
Staying Connected
As you travel to the cabin or away this summer, stay up to date with CPC events, photos, and news from our life together through our Facebook page (facebook.com/cpconline) or Twitter (@CPCEdina). Full event listings are always available at cpconline.org.
>>
Summer Service Opportunities
Give of your time this summer to bless our church, city, and world! In July, CPC hosts families experiencing homelessness through Families Moving Forward. Then on July 27, take part in our second Serving Saturday event to love God and others. Learn more on page 10.
>>
Summer CPC Life
May 31 marked the end of the fiscal year.
Thank you for your generous commitment to God’s work through CPC! We ended the fiscal year $4,452 above budget! Thank you for investing in our mission.
We hope you enjoy this special summer edition of CPC Life! Monthly publication will resume with the September issue, which is mailed to all homes in late August. Thanks to all who continue to share their stories with us.
CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
3
I
t was a beautiful day one May, and it appeared all Twin Citians were walking or biking the lakes. When Janet suggested walking the less-crowded roads of Lakewood Cemetery, I thought, “This will be an interesting first date!” Whenever I walk through Lakewood, past headstones memorializing people who are loved, I think about the collective knowledge of those women and men, wondering what wisdom they might have for us. Sophia is the Greek word for wisdom. Today, we desperately seek wisdom in our lives. We desire to make good choices for ourselves and those we care about. We seek counsel from mentors and sages through conversations, seminars, and books. Our ever-shrinking globe and Google provide ample opportunity to gain wisdom from history as well as other cultures. So with all that is available to us, are we wiser than those remembered at Lakewood? Are we wiser than Solomon who wrote the lion’s share of the Book of Proverbs? Are we wiser than the renowned Greek philosophers whose writings we can download to our Kindle in a matter of seconds?
4
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
I don’t know if we are. However, I do know something the Apostle Paul said about wisdom. In 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:16, Paul discusses wisdom at length. He was writing to the people of Corinth, whose culture was steeped in Greek philosophy (philo=love; sophia=wisdom). Their worldview said attaining wisdom was life’s purpose. Paul begins, “Where
“Paul says true wisdom is not found with the ‘wise’ of this world but in Christ Jesus alone.” is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” Paul, who was a highly educated Pharisee before his encounter with Christ, describes the cross of Christ as foolishness to this world, yet for “those whom God has called . . . [it is] the wisdom of God.” Paul goes on to say that “Christ Jesus has become, for us, wisdom from God.” He says true wisdom is not found with the “wise” of this world but in Christ Jesus alone.
Pastor Crosby says that wisdom is “making good choices based on what we know.” Paul carries that idea further by writing that the wisdom to know which choices are good and the strength to make those choices come from the Spirit of Christ guiding and empowering us. My first date with Janet was on Memorial Day, which is a high holiday for Lakewood Cemetery. There were horse-drawn carriage rides, flowers everywhere, fountains, and a string quartet in Lakewood’s chapel. We were surprised by how “wise” our choice turned out, so now that we’re married, every year we revisit Lakewood to celebrate our beginning. The beauty of a life spent desperately seeking Christ is that God has promised to bring surprising good from our choices — wise and not-so-wise — as He includes us in His eternal redemption story (Romans 8:28).
Steve Mader volunteers with Lay Care and Adult Ministries. He holds a Master of Divinity from Bethel Seminary. He provides relationship consulting at RelatingWell.net.
The Wisdom Of the Word
The Story of CPC’s Longest-Running Bible Study
Carolyn Beatty, Judy Romine, Jane Nienaber, Ellen Hastings
E
very Tuesday during the schoolyear, approximately 30 women meet in Room 107 to study the Bible. They don’t have a fancy name — just the Tuesday Afternoon Bible Study — but they have a unique claim: They are part of the longestrunning Bible study at CPC. For more than 55 years, this study has existed to study God’s Word and encourage one another to live it out. The original leader, Gertrude Saam, started the Bible study shortly after CPC was founded in 1956. Carolyn Beatty has led since 1999. Judy Romine, age 84, is currently the group’s longest-attending member: “I started 40 years ago, back when we were young! We were much smaller then, with eight to ten people, but the group kept growing as women brought friends.” The 30 women who come now are mostly retired and about half are widowed. The group’s oldest member, Bee Scofield, is 95 [see page 6]. This year they studied Mark, reading through the book verse by verse. “What I’ve learned in this group has guided my life,” Judy says. “I’ve faced things that would have been really
tough without the Word of God. I’ve learned that God is always there, always with you. You’re never alone.” Marilyn Pertl, a member of the group for 24 years, explains their recipe for wisdom: “We really study God’s Word, even picking out individual words to discuss. We also pray . . . for everyone. Jane Nienaber [CPC organist] keeps our Prayer Book so we can keep
“Though God’s Word doesn’t change, I change when I study it. . . . I gain new insights I hope help me grow wise.” - Marilyn Pertl track of how God answers our weekly prayers. And we are truly a from-theheart supportive group. We have many widows among us. Recently a member’s husband passed away; we were there to prepare food, make phone calls, and help with the Memorial Service.”
and alert group of ladies.” Sure enough, none of the members is content to just sit back in her senior years. “I will never think I’m too old to learn something new,” Marilyn says. “Though God’s Word doesn’t change, I change when I study it. As many times as I’ve read through Mark, when I pick through it with these ladies, I get new insights I hope help me grow wise. It also touches my heart in a new way each time, and I see how God’s plan fits together like a puzzle.” Proverbs 3:18 states that wisdom “is a tree of life to those who take hold of her.” Like a tree, wisdom exists because of the nourishment of God Himself. In Judy’s words, “You keep accumulating knowledge and ideas by reading the Bible, but it is how you put it to use — what you do with it — that creates wisdom.” Because of their love for Scripture, the Tuesday Afternoon Bible Study has created a culture where wisdom is not just an idea but a practice.
Jennifer Boardman serves as Associate Director of Communications – Publications. She and her husband, Zach, are parents to seven-month-old Ingrid.
Carolyn Beatty, who says it’s been her privilege to lead the group for 14 years, shares, “I dearly love teaching this alive CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
5
I don’t think I am wise! But I am very conscious God is with me — I just feel He is. I think sometimes He would like to shake me, and I don’t blame Him! I pray mostly for Him to guide me and help me hold my tongue. It’s awfully easy to say what you’re thinking and then be sorry for it.
Bee scofield:
My husband passed away in January 2000. I lived in our home until 2006 and then moved to Friendship Village [senior living]. It was the right thing to do, but it was hard. I didn’t like it and still don’t. It helps that I was the one who made the decision. It was also my choice to stop driving a year later, which was also painful. I’ve tried to make all the key decisions, and that is what I’m having the hardest time with now. There are some changes my family wants me to make, and, at 95 years old, I guess I should be making, but I don’t want to. I would say the loss of control is the hardest thing for me to accept. I have to learn to release.
Wisdom Gained from Walking & Talking With God
I
turned 95 in May, and I’ve been coming to CPC since 1959. My husband, Lee, and I raised three children here, and my youngest son and his family still attend. I founded the Needlework Guild, which is still going strong, and served as “Baptism Lady,” bringing the babies forward for baptisms. And Lee was kind of a legend because he was Head Usher for 35 years. His plaid jacket still hangs in the Usher Room in the rear Sanctuary. I like to glance in there and feel like he’s still with me. I also sit in the same pew he and I always did: third row on the aisle. They better not boot me out!
It wasn’t until my late 80s that I joined the Tuesday Afternoon Bible Study [see page 5], and I can’t believe how many things I am understanding for the first time. I’ve believed in Jesus my whole life, but now I’m trying to walk with Him. I want to understand the way of life that comes from knowing Jesus. Right now we are studying Mark. We look at each passage beyond what is happening to why. I feel I’m
6
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
getting to know the people in the Bible, living with them, understanding why they are part of God’s story. These stories aren’t history; they matter now. I think wisdom involves being conscious of all the aspects of something and then knowing what to do. Not in an opinionated, pushy way, but in a way that
“I’ve believed in Jesus my whole life, but now I’m trying to walk with Him.” understands what it means to walk with God. That is hard to do. My favorite hymn is “In the Garden,” because it talks about spending time with God. The lyrics say: “He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own. And the things we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known. . . . ” Wisdom comes from walking and talking with God and listening to His ways.
As for my future, I take it day by day. My family is not a long-lived family; they all went early. I guess I’m still here because God doesn’t know what to do with me! I see each day as a gift. I don’t try to project what I want to do anymore. I know my limitations. But I know God is with me. And the most important thing to me is that my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren know God is with them. I pray they will want to walk with Him. Bee Scofield can be found in her third-row pew most Sundays at 9:30AM, usually with a bumblebee pin on her shoulder.
somebody came to visit, we dropped everything to sit and be with them. Time wasn’t our own. That’s what people there did for me, too: pour time into me as they shared encouragement and stories, listened to me, sat through awkward silences with me over tea.
Kiersti Phenow:
I encountered so much wisdom in Africa from people just telling me their stories. Those who came from the least were full of the most love. I’ve learned that wisdom doesn’t have to be grand or a revelation. It doesn’t even come from knowing a lot and being right; it grows from making mistakes and learning lessons in beautiful but hard ways. I think wisdom grows from sharing pieces of our own heart and listening to others as they share theirs. It comes from being still long enough to see how someone follows Christ.
Learning Wisdom & Rest in Africa
I
n October of my senior year of high school, I was driving home from a miserable visit to a college when I called my family in tears. I had totally set my heart on this school but staying overnight showed me it wasn’t right. I felt overwhelmed because I had put all my eggs in this basket. So I said, “Maybe I’ll just take a year off!” I meant it as a joke — but that’s where the idea started. The rest of my senior year was kind of a dark, exhausting time. I felt burned out to the core and didn’t know how to think about college. I told a few people about the idea of taking a year off. Without even pursuing it, all these crazy connections came up and doors started opening. I didn’t necessarily feel a call. I don’t want to lie and say I heard God shout, “Go to Africa!” But there was a slow tug on my heart that said, “You can explore more of yourself. And you can take a little rest.”
plans I have right around the corner.” It was the best prayer I could read. I felt an overwhelming peace rush over me. I decided to really let go. The next day I met a woman who offered me a volunteer opportunity in Cape Town, South Africa. From January to May, I served with Africa Jam, a Christian organization focused on empowering youth to rise above their circumstances. I did counseling and taught classes in schools. The topic this year was, “Who am I?”
“I encountered so much wisdom in Africa from people just telling me their stories. . . . Wisdom doesn’t have to be grand.”
It was a long, bumpy road before I had a plan. The doors that initially opened closed. My friends left for college. In October I was still home and without a plan — and I had told people I was going to leave in November! I definitely battled my pride. I said to God, “I told people I’m going, You seemed to open doors, and now everything’s closing!”
and we talked about respecting our bodies, not bullying, and being who God created us to be. I also led a Biblebased afterschool program. I lived with a South African family in Lotus River, a low-income, violence-prone area 20 minutes outside Cape Town. It’s Afrikaans-speaking and in the “colored” part of town.
One day in mid-October, I read my devotional Jesus Calling, and it basically said, “My peace is with you. Hold on to My hand while I bring you up the mountain. You never know the
Those five months were definitely a time of slowing down and simplifying. I lived out of a suitcase. I didn’t have a clock in my room. There was a huge focus on family and hospitality, and if
I attended a Pentecostal church in Africa — and there was a heck of a lot more dancing than in a CPC service! It’s mind-blowing to see how much people rejoice and give thanks, no matter how little they have. That lesson is really engraved on my heart. God is enough. If He can be enough for them, He can be enough for me. Transitioning back to Minnesota is going to be hard. It’s so easy to get swept back into the current of life. I’ve done the mission trip thing where you get home on a Saturday, are back at work on a Monday, and just revert to who you were. So I’m making rest a priority this summer. I’ve decided not to get a summer job. As selfish as it sounds, if I want to make the lessons of the last five months matter, I need to be diligent about being alone and letting the experiences sink in and shape me. I’m nervous people will think I’ve done this big courageous thing going to the other side of the world. But there’s stuff I really struggled with there. It’s important to share that piece, too. There’s a lot more I could have done and didn’t. But it’s okay; it was enough. God put me there, and He stretched me in the ways He wanted to. It doesn’t mean I moved mountains and saved lives — but I was present. That’s all I really needed to be. Kiersti Phenow, age 19, plans to attend Bethel University this fall. Read more about her time in Africa on her blog: milesapartkierstiatheart.blogspot.com. CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
7
Brad Jackson & friends Sidney at his send-off Brown party
teaches a class on the Jamaica GO! Trip.
As part of the Valuable series, Jody Phenow explains to the children how each member of our church is an important piece of God’s puzzle.
On May 26, John Crosby walked his daughter Maggie down the aisle to marry Austin Dannhaus.
A freshman House Group celebrates the end of the school year!
8
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
31 days in proverbs Life is filled with decisions, so how do we learn to make wise choices? From childhood, we hear pithy bits of advice: “A bird in the hand is worth _________.” “Neither a borrower nor a ___________ be.” “The early bird gets the __________.” Sometimes these make sense, and other times we want more help! We all notice people who make choices leading to contentment, integrity, and joy. They seem to have accumulated wisdom — but from where? This summer we look to a source of wisdom from the One who made the universe and life itself. These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, the king of Israel. Their purpose is to teach wisdom and discipline, to help explain the insights of the wise. They offer instruction on how to live disciplined and successful lives, to help do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple and knowledge and discernment to the young. Just do one proverb a day, and chew on it rather than rushing on. These were selected by our staff and elders as insights that are changing their lives and could do the same for you. Each proverb offers a thought and two questions. Often one of the questions will ask you to reexamine the proverb to see if there are other truths in the depths. The other question will always try to connect it to real life — the purpose of the book — “to bring God’s truth from the Sanctuary to the streets.” By the way, it’s a LOT more likely to sink in if you share it with someone else. Enjoy! - John Crosby, Senior Pastor
day 1 - John Crosby
Proverbs 1:1-6
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; 3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; 4 for giving prudence to those who are simple knowledge and discretion to the young— 5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance— 6 for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
Question 1
Who are all the potential audiences that Proverbs is designed for that you can read in this passage?
Question 2
The proverb ends by talking about “the riddles of the wise.” What part of your life feels like a mystery, where you could use good advice to live better?
c
h
r
i
s
t
p
r
e
s
b
y
t
e
r
i
a
n
c
h
u
r
c
h
day 2 - Lee Hanssen
Proverbs 2:1-5 What are the things you “treasure” more than God? (Hint: These are things you will spend time, resources, and energy acquiring. Sometimes they even come in the form of good things like children, spouses, etc.)
1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, 2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding— 3 indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, 4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, 5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.
Question 1 How does it make you feel to know that any material thing in this world that we treasure will fade away?
Question 2
This week, when you find yourself gravitating toward whatever your heart treasures more than Christ, take a moment to pray and ask the Lord to change the desires of your heart.
Proverbs 2:6-9 Make a proactive move this week to let go of something to which you look for security.
day 3 - Lee Hanssen
6 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 7 He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, 8 for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. 9 Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.
Question 1
What makes you feel secure and safe in this world?
Question 2
What response do you have knowing that the Lord promises wisdom, treasure, and protection as we cling to Him in faithfulness and grow in integrity?
day 4 - John Crosby
Proverbs 2:12-20 More than 25 times, the writer talks about life as a path toward good or evil, life or death, with choices on the way, with good or bad guides. Sounds like quite a journey!
Question 1
The author warns against those who shade truth, turning us from hard truth and being seduced into doing the easy thing rather than the right one. What’s an example of that temptation on your path?
12 Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, 13 who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways, 14 who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, 15 whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways. 16 Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words, 17 who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God. 18 Surely her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead. 19 None who go to her return or attain the paths of life. 20 Thus you will walk in the ways of the good and keep to the paths of the righteous.
Question 2
The author says that there are voices that offer advice, both good and bad, which affect the paths we take. Who do you know who consistently offers good advice, and how often do you listen to them?
day 5 - Rich Phenow
Proverbs 3:5-6
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Question 1
It is often so difficult to let go of thinking we are in control of our lives, the lives of others, or our circumstances. Fear often fuels our desire for control. What are you most afraid of?
Question 2
Having the perspective of seeing God’s handiwork all around us and acknowledging Him is all about submitting, i.e. turning every area of your life over to Him. What area do you keep holding on to and why? In Matthew 6:33, Jesus said, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”
day 6 - Becky Danielson
Proverbs 4:1-3 Guiding your own children or other young people in your life is an awesome task. How one lives speaks louder than actual words. It could be your grandchild, the neighbor kid, or the barista who watches, listens, and learns through you.
1 Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. 2 I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. 3 For I too was a son to my father, still tender, and cherished by my mother.
Question 1
In what ways are you setting a good example for younger people following in your footsteps? Make a list and continue to add to it this month.
Question 2
John wrote, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth” (1 John 3:4). Who is a young person you can come alongside and speak the truth of the Gospel into his or her life? How will you do this?
Proverbs 4:23
day 7 - John Crosby
23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Jesus once said, “out of the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). The heart is our core, both physically and spiritually, and despite its 2.5 billion beats over the course of a lifetime, we don’t notice it at all . . . until something happens!
Question 1
The heart has natural enemies (plaque, fat, lack of exercise, bad blood, etc.). What is the greatest danger to your spiritual heart these days? What are some of your warnings signs?
Question 2
When you think of “guarding your heart,” what practices come to mind that just have not worked? What would be a sign for you of a healthier heart?
day 8 - John Crosby
Proverbs 5:3-5 Purity in a sex-soaked culture is one of the major themes of Proverbs, as challenging today as in the time of Solomon. Several chapters are devoted to resisting temptation because the consequences are so devastating. Wisdom is not prudery but rather a warning against separating sex from commitment.
3 For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; 4 but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave.
Question 1 Why do you think the author uses a woman as the character for seduction in his society? What is the lesson here for either gender?
Question 2
Wisdom is about knowing yourself. Where are you most tempted by the pull of sexuality in our society (i.e. media, clothing, comparing yourself to others, flirtation, guilt from the past, desire for acceptance/love, etc.)?
Proverbs 6:6-8 The term translated “sluggard” occurs 14 times in Proverbs and nowhere else in the Old Testament. The sluggard exemplifies folly, particularly in matters of food production. In Aesop’s fable about the ant and the cricket, the ant laid up food for the winter while the cricket wasted away his time. The result: The cricket was hungry in the winter.
day 9 - Pamela Strommen
6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.
Question 1
About today’s activities, Jesus says, “Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you . . . put your trust in the light” (John 12:35-36). Regarding the future, He declares, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). How can you prepare to purposefully use the blessings of this life? What folly keeps you from having an eye on eternity?
Question 2
When a burden is too heavy for a single ant, other ants help carry it. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). List the ways you have loved God and loved others this past year. Sometimes it is easier to be the helper than it is to be helped; in what ways can you invite somebody to lighten your burden?
day 10 - James Madsen
Proverbs 6:16-19 Common sense would tell us it is wise to love the things that God loves and hate the things that God finds detestable. Are we passionate about the same things as God?
16 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: 17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, 19 a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
Question 1
Reflect on these seven sins that God finds detestable. Where do you see them at work in the world you live in? What consequences do you see to these actions?
Question 2
Are there any of these you find yourself falling into? Bring them before God who is faithful to forgive us, and ask Him by His grace to lead us to walk in truth.
Proverbs 8:12-14 Wisdom and prudence are intimately connected. Prudence is not a word we often use these days. When is the last time you heard it in the media? Was it during the George H.W. Bush presidency? That was when this word became the fodder of comedians. Politics aside, prudence is a good word. To be prudent is to make decisions and choices with the future in mind.
day 11 - Andrea Tshihamba
12 I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. 13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. 14 Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power.
Question 1
It is natural to plan with our future in mind. We have pensions, retirement accounts, and investments, but what about our spiritual future? What about our spiritual growth? Which do you think of more often: your physical future or your spiritual future?
Question 2
What would be a few ways that you could dedicate yourself to prudence in your spiritual life? How can you bring one of these into daily practice?
day 12 - John Crosby
Proverbs 9:1-18 “Dinner for two” summarizes the battle throughout Proverbs — a choice between two women. The first is Good Wisdom, calling out from the top of the city; her house is built with columns, and she has prepared a feast. The contrast is Lady Folly, sitting in the doorway, offering stolen water and food that leads to the grave. Whose invitation will you accept TODAY?
1 Wisdom has built her house; she has set up its seven pillars. 2 She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine; she has also set her table. 3 She has sent out her servants, and she calls from the highest point of the city, 4 “Let all who are simple come to my house!” To those who have no sense she says, 5 “Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. 6 Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of insight.” 7 Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. 8 Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you. 9 Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.
11 For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. 12 If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer. 13 Folly is an unruly woman; she is simple and knows nothing. 14 She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city, 15 calling out to those who pass by, who go straight on their way, 16 “Let all who are simple come to my house!” To those who have no sense she says, 17 “Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!” 18 But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are deep in the realm of the dead.
Question 1
The women’s position atop the city shows their prominence: the first in the role of religion, the second in the diversions of the city’s attractions. Whether it’s the financial district, sporting, education, or all the stores, where are you most likely to be tempted away?
Question 2
The appeals of the two women show the conflicting values between them. Where is it a strain for you to live in both the honoring-God sphere and the real world?
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs 10:8-9 Counselor Henry Cloud once divided all people into the wise, the foolish, and the wicked, and described how to treat each: “Teach the wise and they grow, warn the fool but don’t hold your breath, and flee the wicked as soon as you can.”
day 13 - John Crosby
8 The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. 9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.
Question 1
Proverbs describes three types of people: the wise, the wicked, and the foolish. Write down the first example of each that comes to your mind, and one character trait next to it.
Question 2
Study the differences between the wise, wicked, and foolish in these two proverbs. What is one attribute of each, and with which one do you struggle most?
day 14 - James Madsen
Proverbs 10:13
13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.
This proverb reminds us of the general principle that our poor choices bring trouble upon us while our good choices lead to smoother paths in our life. This is reminiscent of the story of the prodigal son who found that wild living leads to living in the muck with the pigs (Luke 15:11-32).
Question 1 How have you seen this proverb lived out in your own life?
Question 2
This reminds me of the Apostle Paul’s comments that the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23-24). Paul goes on to say that the righteousness of Christ is credited as being our very own (Romans 3:22, 4:5)! What encouragement do you find in the truth that Christ’s righteousness is given to us through belief in Him? How does this lead us to the abundant life He has promised?
day 15 - Laura Crosby
Proverbs 11:2
2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
The kind of pride that stems from self-righteousness is sin, and God hates it because it is a hindrance to seeking Him. Psalm 10:4 explains that the proud are so consumed with themselves that their thoughts are far from God: “In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.”
Question 1 Why do you think there are the two particular contrasts in this verse?
Question 2
What is an area of your life where you have a larger view of yourself and a smaller view of God than is wise? In what area of your life do you neglect to seek God?
day 16 - Meg Boehne
Proverbs 11:25
25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
All God’s plants need watering. You and I do. God gives us the power to water others. How? A word may do it, a look may do it, an action may do it; to offer sympathy, to give needed help, to impart what you may be favored with on others — through these actions you water others.
Question 1
Giving your time and talent to others sets into motion a sense of satisfaction, so don’t fearfully hoard what you have. Give and watch all of the creative ways that you will prosper. What keeps you from being more generous in supporting God’s work? Selfishness? Fear? Insecurity?
Question 2
Losing a loved one, financial burdens, or relationship issues are stressful and can cause us to languish and wither. Can you think of a time when a kind friend “watered” you through a difficult period in your life? How did it make THEM feel? How did it make YOU feel? Can you think of a time when you helped someone through a challenging period and you benefitted more from the interaction than they did?
day 17 - Deb Kielsmeier
Proverbs 12:17-18
17 An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies. 18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
As a child, you may have yelled out, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” Unfortunately, this is not true. Proverbs declares that reckless words have tremendous power to bring damage and death, but wise words can bring healing and life.
Question 1
It is easy to blurt out a reckless “cutting remark” when we are frustrated or angry or tired. What kind of damage does this do to the hearer? What might you do to bring healing into a situation where your words have hurt another?
Question 2
Today, how will you use your words to bring healing and life into the life of another person?
day 18 - Dan Anderson
Proverbs 13:20
20 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
Proverbs 27:17
17 As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
There are friends we like to play with and friends we like to be with. The friends we like to be with are often the ones who stimulate personal growth.
Question 1
Make a quick list of your most immediate “friends.”
Question 2
Which of these friends is likely to “sharpen” you or stimulate personal growth? Can you schedule time to be with that friend this week?
Proverbs 15:1
day 19 - Gayle DeHaan
1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
When my boys were young, we memorized this verse together. I would quote it to them when they started fighting with each other, but it was a two-edged sword: They would quote it to me when I would start getting angry with them! No matter our age, our words and tone of voice make a difference in our relationships.
Question 1
There’s an old adage, “It’s easier to attract bees with honey than with vinegar.” How can gentle answers attract others to listen to what we say, especially in emotionally charged situations?
Question 2
It can be difficult exercising the self-control necessary to stifle our impulse to use harsh words. Think back to the last time you got angry. What might help you calm down enough to use gentle words next time? A deep breath? Counting to ten? How about memorizing this short verse?
day 20 - Brooke Toftoy
Proverbs 16:1-3
1 To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. 2 All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. 3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
Question 1
“Follow your heart” is common advice given to a person making a decision. The author of this passage seems to add wisdom to this old adage. What are some ways that a person can plan but also allow the Lord to guide their decision-making?
Question 2
What are some practical ways that a person can make sure they are allowing God to weigh their motives and are committing plans to the Lord?
day 21 - Debbie Ducar
Proverbs 17:22
22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
The image of a cheerful heart appears several times in Proverbs, which emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the brokenhearted.
Question 1 What are some human experiences that can make us feel crushed? How do we give people hope in such circumstances?
Question 2
How can we bring good medicine to one whose spirit is crushed? Ponder specific examples that fit your personality. Who do you know who needs his or her spirits lifted today?
day 22 - Jennifer Boardman
Proverbs 18:7-8
7 The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives. 8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.
In his book The Three Musketeers, Alexandre Dumas asserts, “There is no friendship that cares about an overheard secret.” As Christians, “friends” are those we are called to love: everyone!
Question 1
As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” But the writer of Proverbs goes further: You are what you say . . . and what you hear. Why might gossip be more harmful to the gossiper than the subject of the rumors? Is listening to rumors harmless?
Question 2
As good food nourishes your body and bad food is a sign of unhealthy living, so are words to your soul. What is one “healthy” choice you can make when you crave gossip (in both sharing and listening)?
day 23 - Dan Anderson
Proverbs 18:13
13 To answer before listening — that is folly and shame.
Proverbs 16:24
24 Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
When someone begins to tell his/her “problem,” sometimes we answer with a “solution” before fully hearing the whole story. To listen carefully and respond graciously encourages healing.
Question 1
Describe a time when you felt listened to. How did you know the person was really listening?
Question 2
During this coming week, give the gift of attentive listening to someone without solving their “problem.” How is the interaction different?
day 24 - Steve Mader
Proverbs 19:21
21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
We are planners. We make small plans like meeting a friend for coffee. We make big plans such as changing careers. We plan on purpose. We plan with purpose. We plan in order to achieve our dreams, goals, and hopes.
Question 1
Philippians 2:13 promises, “for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good PURPOSE.” Given that we are free to make our own plans, what are some of the ways that God works with us to achieve His purposes through our plans? Does that add significance to little plans? Does that inspire you to make big plans?
Question 2
Romans 8:28 promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his PURPOSE.” Think about a time when your plans did not work out. Were you disappointed or angry? Does this promise in the proverb frustrate you or bring you comfort? Consider these verses today as you make your plans.
Proverbs 20:22
day 25 - Sarah Norton
22 Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “That old law about an eye for an eye leaves everybody blind. The time is always right to do the right thing.” As Matthew wrote in his gospel, chapter 5:38-39, we must turn away from evil and not avenge “an eye for eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” God will take care of justice. It may not be when we want it. It may not be how we want it; however, He will make sure that justice is done.
Question 1
Why should we wait for the Lord instead of taking matters into our own hands?
Question 2
If you have something in your life you wish to seek revenge for, what is one step you can take to give it back to the Lord? (Suggestions: giving it back to the Lord in prayer, asking for forgiveness, or writing a letter of apology.)
day 26 - Matt Faulkner
Proverbs 21:9
9 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Who says that God doesn’t have a sense of humor?! Seriously, in his book Strengthening Your Marriage, Wayne Mack says, “It often happens that when couples get their relationship to God straightened out, their relationships with one another begin to straighten out as well.”
Question 1
What do you think Wayne Mack meant by the above comment? Why would your relationship with God matter to your relationship with your spouse?
Question 2
How is your relationship with your spouse, really? Are you too busy with life to put God at the center? What’s one thing that you can commit to, now, to strengthen your relationship with your spouse?
day 27 - Heather Hood
Proverbs 22:6
6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, godparent, relative, neighbor, teacher, mentor, tutor, or friend, what you say and do impacts the young lives around you far beyond their childhood years.
Question 1
How are you demonstrating in word and in action to the children (and adults) around you what you value most, especially as it relates to your relationship with God?
Question 2
“What goes into a mind comes out in a life.” What opportunities or encouragements can you give to the children in your life that will fill their minds with the things of God? Perhaps you could try one of these: reading the Bible together, serving at a local mission, praying at meal times, attending worship together, sponsoring a World Vision child, or helping your child set aside money for a Kingdom project.
day 28 - John Crosby
Proverbs 24:6
6 Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.
“Wise men don’t need advice, and fools won’t take it,” said Ben Franklin, who got it half right. While some wise people aren’t great listeners, those who want to keep growing discipline themselves to learn from all the voices in their lives. Ken Blanchard said, “When leaders stop learning from others, they stop growing as leaders.”
Question 1
Why do you think the author uses the imagery of wartime guidance, and why is there a call for many advisers rather than one really wise source?
Question 2
Who do you consistently seek out for advice? Would others say that you’re open to criticism and learning or closed off?
Proverbs 24:11-12 It doesn’t take a Solomon-esque mind to measure the state of our world. We live in a place where tragedies are rampant and heartbreak seems to be constantly imminent. Nightly in our news, we take note of the pains of the world and can feel the overwhelming burdens they bring. Despite our hopes and dreams of a better place, we often feel helpless and powerless in the face of such problems.
day 29 - Matt Moberg
11 Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. 12 If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,” does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?
And yet the Bible tells us in this passage to be the rescuers. We, the beloved community of Jesus Christ, are called to be the ones who interfere and shut down the injustices of our world. On our watch, we are to rescue those being led away to their deaths.
Question 1
In the world around you (your neighborhood, city, state, and global community), where do you see injustice winning and leading people to their death? What emotions do you feel as you think about these things?
Question 2
As you continue to think through the different areas of our world where both hope and lives are being lost, pray that God will make one stand out to you. As you are praying, take note of the issue that you are feeling most drawn toward. Next, spend time asking God what you should do about it.
Be a rescuer. Move from prayer to production. Your movements can be big, small, and everything in between. Rescuers, though, cannot be still. The world is waiting for people of hope to be deliverers of hope. Let God use you to be just that.
day 30 - Mike Hotz
Proverbs 24:23-25 We all have experienced situations where we know something that a colleague, friend, child, or even stranger had done or said is wrong — maybe not “wicked,” but definitely wrong. Yet we either don’t speak up, look the other way, or go so far as to affirm them.
23 These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good: 24 Whoever says to the guilty, “You are innocent,” will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. 25 But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.
Question 1
Read the passage again. Is there a difference between judging and punishing? Is there an expectation that the one who judges also would punish?
Question 2
Jesus came full of truth and grace. He judged and spoke truth in a grace-filled way that changed people. Is there someone you need to speak truth to in a way that will change them?
Proverbs 27:5-10 Proverbs teaches that wisdom begins by placing God at the center of everything. In this passage, we consider the idea that true friends take second place.
Question 1
Each verse provides insight into an aspect of friendship. How would you restate them using contemporary language?
Question 2
day 31 - Paul Tshihamba
5 Better is open rebuke than hidden love. 6 Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. 7 One who is full loathes honey from the comb, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet. 8 Like a bird that flees its nest is anyone who flees from home. 9 Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. 10 Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you — better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.
When we speak of “my friend,” in what sense do we try to possess one another? How does an assumption that they are “mine” shape our relationships?
9 5 2 .9 2 0 .8 5 1 5 | cp conl ine .org
SUMMER 2013
|
MINISTRY PROGRAMMING
CPC Ministry Programming Summer 2013
At CPC, we seek to inspire all generations to follow Jesus, love others, and live missionally. Please look through the various programs for kids, students, and adults — and join us! For fuller descriptions and more information on any of these programs, please visit cpconline.org.
general PATHWAY BOOKSTORE’S SUMMER HOURS
Tuesday through Thursday, 10:00AM3:00PM; Saturday, 5:00-7:00PM; Sunday, 9:00AM-1:00PM and 6:458:15PM. Contact: 952.848.0564; pathway@cpconline.org.
GATHERING TO KNOW: THE BODY WORSHIPING TOGETHER
Wednesday, June 19 from 7:00-8:00PM at Prairie Community Church (9145 Eden Prairie Road, Eden Prairie 55347) CPC joins with four local Presbyterian churches at a multi-congregational prayer and worship gathering to deepen our connection as the local body of Christ. A second gathering is planned in August at Hope Church. Contact: Gayle DeHaan at g4dehaans@aol.com.
CPC BUILDING CLOSURE for July 4
Thursday & Friday, July 4 & 5
Saturday Night WORSHIP
From July 6 through August 31, Saturday 5:15PM worship will take place in the Chapel, with the exception of July 6 and August 17, when worship will be held outside and followed by a BBQ.
MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE
Wednesday, July 17 at 12:00PM A traditional service with a short message by Mike Hotz, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows.
adults 1 PETER BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays through July 24 from 9:3011:30AM in Room 116 (no class July 3)
A discussion-oriented class on 1 Peter led by James Madsen. Each week is a stand-alone study; come when you are able. Study materials provided. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: James Madsen at x308; jamesm@cpconline.org.
CPC BOOK CLUB
Thursdays, June 20, July 18, & August 15 at 7:00PM in the Parlor June: State of Wonder by Ann Patchett. July: East of Eden by John Steinbeck. August: Elizabeth Street by Laurie Fabiano. Contact: Nancy Reutiman at 952.920.1837.
YOUNG COUPLES’ SMALL GROUP
This group meets one Wednesday night a month for the summer and welcomes new members. Contact: James Madsen at x308; jamesm@cpconline.org.
men THURSDAY MEN’S SMALL GROUP
Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 108 Deepen your faith in this men’s group open to new members. Contact James Madsen at x308; jamesm@cpconline.org.
women TUESDAY EVENING WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Tuesdays, June 25, July 9, July 23, & August 13 from 6:45-8:45PM in Room 108 Examine divisive cultural issues from a biblical perspective and with a posture of prayer. Led by Jane Pooler. Register: Jane Pooler at jane.plr55@gmail.com.
NEEDLEWORK GUILD
Saturdays, July 13 & August 10 from
10:00AM-2:00PM in the Fellowship Hall Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve the needy. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Contact: Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915.
TUESDAY AFTERNOON BIBLE STUDY
Tuesday, August 20 at 12:00PM in the Parlor; meets every Tuesday beginning in September Enjoy summer fellowship together! New members always welcome. Read more about this group on page 5.
WOMEN’S STUDY: LEARN THE BIBLE IN 24 HOURS
Thursdays through August 22 from 9:0011:30AM in the Chapel Dawn Allan leads us on how to gain a practical awareness of the Bible, providing new insights into the complexity and reliability of God’s Word. Study materials available at the first class. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; debbied@ cpconline.org.
MOM’S MORNING LARGE AND SMALL GROUP registration
Registration for fall Mom’s Morning opens August 1 at cpconline.org/register. Kick off is September 11.
50+ EDYNAMOES
Wednesday, June 19 at 11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall Join us for a luncheon followed by our program “Arneson Acres: A Park in Progress” presented by Liz Genovese and Lisa Nelson. Cost: $5. Register: Judy Romine at 952.929.4983 by June 17. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts, Campbell’s labels, and can tabs. Wednesday, August 7 at 11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
9
MINISTRY PROGRAMMING
|
SUMMER 2013
After our luncheon, sing along with us as Cassie Wiesner performs the program “The Music and Magic of Patsy Cline.” Cost: $5. Register: Judy Romine at 952.929.4983 by August 5. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts, Campbell’s labels, can tabs, and school supply donations for VEAP.
Twins Game Monday, August 19; leave CPC at 12:15 PM Join other folks from Beginning Again for the 1:10PM Twins vs. Mets game. Cost: $25 (covers transportation, ticket, hot dog, and drink). Register by August 1 with Mary Allen at x243 or marya@ cpconline.org.
NESTERS: Twins game
ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED: WEIGHT CARE GROUP
Monday, August 19; leave CPC at 12:15PM Join other active retired folks for the 1:10PM Twins vs. Mets game. Cost: $25 (covers transportation, ticket, hot dog, and drink). Register by August 1 with Mary Allen at x243 or marya@ cpconline.org.
care GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN (summer time change)
Tuesdays, June 18, July 16, & August 20 from 7:00-8:30PM in the Parlor Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents as we care for one another on our journeys. Contact: Doug Brown at 612.839.9992; dbrown@dcbrowninc.com.
WOMEN’S DEPRESSION/BIPOLAR SUPPORT GROUP
2nd and 4th Thursdays, June 27-August 22 at 10:00AM in the Sanctuary Prayer Room Contact: Katie Klevesahl at 612.644.4810.
GRIEF RECOVERY (SUMMER TIME CHANGE)
Tuesdays, July 9 & August 13 at 7:00PM in the Parlor Grief Recovery is for those who have lost a loved one. We experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship and prayer. Dessert is served during the summer. Contact: Debbie Manning at x275; debbiem@cpconline.org.
BEGINNING AGAIN: LIFE AFTER THE DEATH OF A SPOUSE
Saturdays, July 20 & August 17 from 9:00-11:00AM at CPC This emerging ministry is a support and resource group for those dealing with practical issues following the death of a spouse. Join us for breakfast and a talk. Cost: $10/person. Register: Mary Allen at x243; marya@cpconline.org.
10
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
Meets monthly; contact for times Are weight issues keeping you from experiencing abundant life? Do you look to food for emotional needs or struggle to lose weight? All are welcome to a group around weight/food issues. Contact: Sandy Radeke at 952.452.1205; sandy_radeke@earthlink.net.
missions LEARN ABOUT THE BANYAN COMMUNITY
Banyan Community provides opportunities for young people to develop leadership skills and engage in positive relationships with peers and adults. Contact: Lori Nissen at 612.865.6527; lori@banyancommunity.org. Stages Tour for New Building Thursdays, July 11 & August 8 from 12:00-1:00PM at Banyan House (2528 16th Ave. S., Minneapolis 55407) CPC’s Christmas Offering supported a new home for Banyan. Enjoy lunch with staff and community members to hear the Banyan story and walk through the stages of Banyan’s growth. Business Leaders Breakfast Thursday, July 25 from 7:30-8:30AM at Banyan Community (2647 Bloomington Ave. S., Minneapolis 55407) Be inspired by and network with leaders making a difference in the urban landscape. Cornell Moore from Dorsey & Whitney will speak; there is no cost.
CAMP HEARTLAND — COMMUNITY AIDS OUTREACH
Wednesday, June 26, Friday, July 12, & Wednesday, July 24 at 10:00AM at CPC Provide hospitality, care, and love to children affected by HIV/AIDS on their way to Camp Heartland in northern Minnesota. Campers arrive at CPC from around the country to enjoy a BBQ lunch, games, and fun while awaiting transportation. Great family-friendly service opportunity! Contact: Tim Franz at 952.831.1209; timfranz@earthlink.net.
9 5 2 .9 2 0 .8 5 1 5 | c p co n li n e . o rg
FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD
Sunday, July 7-Sunday, July 14 Walk alongside families experiencing homelessness this summer. CPC provides sleeping accommodations, meals, evening activities, and fellowship for up to five families. Register: cpconline. org/register. Contact: Liza Schwab at 651.485.7575; lcschwab@comcast.net.
SERVING SATURDAY
Saturday, July 27 from 9:30AM-1:00PM Service projects to inspire all generations to love God and love others! There are projects for all ages and skill levels. Meet at CPC, then serve at various sites in the neighborhood and city. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Chelsie Frank at x311; cfrank@cpconline.org.
CPC GO! TRIPS
Short-term trips to see, love, and serve God’s people. For details, visit cpconline.org/go_trips. Contact: Leslie Boie at x274; leslieb@cpconline.org. Pine Ridge, SD: Informational meeting: Sunday, June 23 at 10:30AM in the Parlor. Trip dates: July 31-August 3. Register by July 1. Learn about the rich culture and history of the Oglala Sioux Tribe while serving the community of Pine Ridge. Familyfriendly (5 and older). Moyo, Zambia: October 28-November 8 (dates subject to change). Register by September 1. Learn about World Vision’s clean water initiatives in Moyo, visit the recentlycompleted Ndondi High School made possible by CPC sponsors and supporters, and meet World Vision-sponsored children — a life-changing experience!
HALF-MARATHON WITH TEAM WORLD VISION
Training in progress. Race: Saturday, October 26 in St. Paul Are you a runner with a mission? Train with CPC runners for the half-marathon to raise money for clean water in Moyo, Zambia. Register: teamworldvision.org/ goto/cpc131.
Kids SUMMER WEEKEND PROGRAMMING
Saturdays at 5:15PM and Sundays at 9:30AM, 11:00AM, & 7:00PM through August 31/September 1 We’re excited about an incredible faith-
9 5 2 .9 2 0 .8 5 1 5 | cp conl ine .org
filled summer in Kids’ Ministries! Programming for 6-week-olds through 6th grade. Contact: Jill Campbell at x216; jillc@cpconline.org. Nursery (6 weeks through 2 years) Join us before worship in Rooms 112 & 113. Preschool Summer JAM (3 years by September 1, 2013) Join us after the Children’s Sermon on Saturdays in Room 112 and on Sundays in Room 204. Summer ROCK (entering K-6th grades) Join us after the Children’s Sermon on Saturdays and Sundays in the MPR. The Table (6 weeks through 6th grade) We meet at 7:00PM during The Table service. 6 weeks through 2 years old in Room 112; 3 years old through pre-K in Room 109; entering K-6th grade in the MPR.
2013 SUMMER CAMPS
Register: cpconline.org/kids_camps. Contact: Jill Campbell at x216; jillc@ cpconline.org. Summer Surge: June 24-27 (entering 4th & 5th grades). Cost: $150. Summer Blast: July 9-11 (entering K5th grades). Cost: $40. The Big Fun Kix Camp: July 22-25 (entering 1st-3rd grades). Cost: $55/half day, $100/full day.
Students 2013 SUMMER CAMPS
Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Susan Harris at x305; susanh@cpconline.org. M i ddl e S c h ool Rockslide: June 24-28 (entering 6th & 7th grades). Cost: $350. Quest: July 8-12 (entering 8th grade). Cost: $475. Camp 6:8: July 23-25 (entering 6th-8th grades). Cost: $80. H i g h S c h ool Frontier: June 22-29 (entering 9th grade). Cost: $625. 612 Experience: July 8-12 (entering 9th-12th grades). Cost: $150. Summit: July 20-26 (entering 10th12th grades). Cost: $695.
College Ministry COLLEGE SERVICE DAYS
Fridays, June 21 and July 19 from
SUMMER 2013
9:00AM-12:00PM College students, join our summer interns for a couple mornings of service at local organizations. No registration necessary! Bring a friend, meet at CPC, and drive together. Contact: Cory Gregory at x276; coryg@cpconline.org or Brooke Toftoy at x286; brooket@ cpconline.org.
CHILLIN’ & GRILLIN’
Wednesdays through August 7 from 7:00-9:00PM (no event July 3) Spend the evening catching up with friends, grilling, listening to a speaker about real-life issues, and debriefing in small groups. For locations and other details, visit cpconline.org/college.
the table WOMEN’S NIGHT
Tuesday, June 18 at 7:00PM at the Mulliken home (6313 Ewing Ave. S., Edina 55410) Gather with women from The Table as we talk about fostering life-giving friendships. Bring an appetizer or sweet to share if you wish. Contact: Laura Mulliken at lauram@cpconline.org.
|
MINISTRY PROGRAMMING
STEVE WIENS AT THE TABLE
Sunday, August 4 at 7:00PM Steve speaks at the service; stick around for dessert and conversation afterward.
TABLEGATE AT THE SAINTS GAME
Saturday, August 24 at 5:00PM at Midway Stadium in St. Paul Gather at 5:00PM for BBQ, games, and fun! Meat is provided. Game time is 7:05PM against the Gary Southshore Railcats. Contact: Clay Kilber at claykilber@gmail.com.
Fall Preview IN THE WORD BIBLE STUDY
Mondays starting September 9 from 9:30-11:30AM in Room 107
WOMEN IN THE WORD BIBLE STUDY
Mondays starting September 9 from 9:30-11:30AM in the Fireside Room
MOMS OF TEENS
Kick-Off: Thursday, September 19 from 9:15-11:30AM
SUNDAY COMMUNITIES
S’MORES
Sundays starting September 22 Visit cpconline.org/SC.
TABLEGATE
CATALYST (Young Marrieds) Sundays starting September 22 Visit cpconline.org/catalyst.
Sunday, June 30 after the service outside Enjoy s’mores out on the blacktop.
Sunday, July 14 at 5:30PM at CPC When you tailgate before The Table, what else can you call it but Tablegate? Come early to BBQ and kick back before the service. Food provided; bring a friend!
LIVING IN THE TENSION GROUP
Sundays, July 14 & August 11 from 8:15-9:30PM in the Fireside Room Living in the Tension is a safe space intended to build bridges between the Church and the LGBT community. However you view the integration of faith and sexuality, join us for dialogue, community, and understanding. Contact: Matt Moberg at x260; mattm@cpconline.org.
FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY
Tuesdays starting September 24 from 6:30-8:30PM in the Fireside Room
ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES
2nd Thursdays beginning September 12 from 6:30-8:00PM in the Fireside Room
FALL LAY CARE TRAINING
Mondays beginning September 23 from 7:00-8:30PM in the Fireside Room
SAND VOLLEYBALL
Wednesday, July 31 at 7:00PM at Lake Calhoun Volleyball Courts Contact: Claire Wyatt at cwyatt@uwalumni.com. CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
11
Positioning CPC Toward the Future Update CPC & the DeUpdate on on the Denomination nomination
After a congregational poll in December, when 86% voted favorably to join ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians, in January the CPC Session formally notified the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area (PTCA) of its decision to begin the formal process of moving from the PC(USA) denomination to ECO. We have since made good progress in dialogue with the PTCA. • In January 2013, an Initial Response Team (designated by the PTCA) assessed the reasons for the Session’s decision. The team met with the elders on Session as a group and with the pastors on Session individually. In February, they recommended we proceed with the separation process.
In Our
Family
Congratulations to:
Matt and Lauren Moberg on the birth of their son, Wyatt Moore, on April 30. Matt is Co-Director of The Table at CPC. Brad and Abbey Pieper on the birth of their son, Oliver Jack, on May 2. Big brother is Charlie. Jill Marie Miller and Steven Anthony Mosack, who were married May 18. The Rev. Deb Kielsmeier officiated. Maggie Colleen Crosby and Austin Blake Dannhaus, who were married May 26. Pastor Steve Wiens officiated.
SYMPATHY TO:
Paul, Rachel, Beth, and Ann Harlos, and Lowell Amparann, on the passing of wife and mother, Denise Harlos, on April 26.
• Four other churches in the PTCA are journeying through the same process: Hope Church (Richfield), Faith Presbyterian (Minnetonka), Prairie Community (Eden Prairie), and Stadium Village on the U of M campus. • During the winter, the PTCA reviewed the basis on which churches may leave the PTCA and whether ECO is an acceptable denomination to receive them. In May, the PTCA voted unanimously that churches may be permitted to move to ECO, and that PC(USA) pastors may be permitted to move their denominational affiliation to ECO at their own initiative. • In May, the PTCA appointed a sixperson Administrative Committee to meet with CPC representatives to work through the next two phases of the process: discernment and negotiation.
The family and friends of Kathleen Shannon, who passed away on May 20. Theresa and Mike Wokal on the passing of Theresa’s grandmother, Delores Christianson, on May 20.
IN THE HOSPITAL 4/26-6/7
Rick Lidstone – Fairview Southdale Marian Tjaden – Fairview Southdale Andy Severson – Fairview Southdale Bill Vermilyea – Methodist Nancy Etzkorn – Fairview Southdale Ralph Hadlund – Methodist Dave Love – HCMC Norma Jean Barr – Methodist Lois Thompson – Regions Chris Hagstrom – Fairview Southdale
STAFF TRANSITIONS:
Kids’ Ministries Michele Dunbar left her position as Childcare Coordinator.
Deb and Dennis Loots on the passing of Deb’s mother, Dorothy Lois McDonald, on April 29.
The Table Matt Moberg and Steph Spencer now serve as Co-Directors of The Table at CPC. Formerly, Matt served as Co-Director of High School Ministries and Steph as Director of Community for The Table.
Jane and Jay Larson on the passing of Jane’s mother, Adeline Granlund, on May 4.
Debbie Manning, Lay Care Associate, now also provides pastoral care for The Table at CPC.
The family and friends of Betty CelustaEichhorn, who passed away on May 9.
Next Generation Ministries Effective July 31, Cory Gregory leaves his position as Director of Next Generation Ministries. Cory has been on staff at CPC for eight years.
The family and friends of Anne Drake, who passed away on May 17.
12
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
These will hopefully be finished by September and December, respectively. The timing is in the hands of the PTCA. • Session recently appointed the following CPC representatives for this process: John Mitchell (Executive Pastor, College of Elders), Becky Danielson (Elder, Chair of the Governance Committee), Kari Norman (Elder, Chair of the Finance Committee), and Gary Tygesson (College of Elders, Head of CPC’s task force on denominational matters). The Session will continue to update you. They welcome your questions at elderspcusa@cpconline.org. To learn more about ECO, visit eco-pres.org
Brooke Toftoy, Co-Director of High School Ministries, also becomes Director of College Ministries. Student Ministries Trevor Tinsley joins as Co-Director of High School Ministries. College Summer Interns Meishon Behboudi – Gustavus Adolphus Sarah Busse – U of Wisconsin-LaCrosse Trent Dudley – Whitworth University Matt Ferris – Whitworth University Teagan MacKnight – Nebraska Wesleyan Sonja Nelson – St. Olaf College Ryan Nichols – Bethel University Paul Nordquist – Gustavus Adolphus Taylor Otterlei – Iowa State University Kayla Reininger – College of St. Benedict Jack Schechinger – St. Olaf College Kait Sewell – University of Minnesota Alex Thomson – Iowa State University Grace Wooldridge – Creighton University
2012-2013 FISCAL YEAR UPDATE JUNE 1, 2012 – MAY 31, 2013
Ministry Offering Budget: $5,000,000 Actual Offering: $5,004,452.49 Variance: $4,452.49 May Mission Partner (Opportunity International): $12,192.47 YTD Mission Partner of the Month Total: $458,738 Thank you for your generous commitment to God’s work through CPC.
Welcome to Our New Elders and Deacons! Class of 2017 Elders RON HOFFMAN
I feel honored in this season of my life to be asked to serve as an elder. Anne and I joined the church 35 years ago. Our two children, Tracy and Emily, their husbands, Mark and Brett, and our grandchildren, Noah, Cole, Anna, and Ella, are also members. I have been involved in a variety of ways over the years, including Sunday school teaching, mentoring, Bible studies, and small groups. Individually and as a couple, Anne and I have been heavily influenced by a vibrant group of Christian friends we have known through the church. Currently retired from a career in the investment field, I look forward to serving this congregation in what I feel will be a challenging period in the life of the church. Aren’t they all?
KIMBERLY THOMPSON
Our family came to CPC 26 years ago after being invited by Debbie and Mike Ducar. We had three children at the time, and our fourth was born six years later. After our first Sunday at CPC, one of the pastors showed up at our door with a big smile and an invitation to be part of the CPC family. We joined and became involved by teaching Sunday school, helping with Vacation Bible School, and attending Bible study classes for all ages. For the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Missions Steering Team, traveling to Africa and the Middle East. I am so grateful to CPC for claiming the truth of the Gospel and for the body of believers who have led us on the path of knowing and following Jesus.
CATHY SNYDER
I am humbled and excited to be nominated for service as an elder at CPC. My husband, Charlie, and I joined CPC in 1990. We were a young couple with four children and were new to the area. Over the years while raising our children, we have experienced the many wonderful aspects of CPC, from Kids’ Ministries to Student Ministries as well as Moms of Teens and Bible studies for men. CPC has truly blessed our family! In recent years, I have worked on the Communion Committee and have been frequently referred to as the “Communion Lady!”
CHRIS TILLOTSON
When my wife, Ann, and I joined CPC 14 years ago, our family life was just beginning with sons Max (2 years old) and Jack (newborn). It was a special yet challenging time, and CPC was like a fountain of living water for us. We could actually sit together for an hour and let God’s Word fill our hearts and souls. Trust me, we’ve received many more blessings along the way. As a Deacon Co-Moderator and through Lay Care Ministry training, I have enjoyed trying to make a return on these wonderful gifts, but I still fall short. That is why I am so grateful to serve as one of your Elders. I’m praying my time at CPC — along with 24 years of medical practice and board of directors experience — will give me something I can lay on the altar in return.
Class of 2016 Deacons Grant Adams Ann Arends Heather Augdahl Jon Augdahl Marty Barnett Bruce Boehne Jenny Bramsen Mike Bramsen
Kari Carroll Don Ciske Kristi Colby Chris Wheeler Doe Keith Downey Don Durrett Curt Koland Jay Lindgren
Katie Moe Elmo Plumhoff Jane Plumhoff Scott Pollack Jeff Shusta Seong Shusta Frank Wheeler Rich Zielike
Bruce Locklear Josh Loftis Melissa Loftis Dave Love Steph Love Katie McElroy Carolyn McKay Rob McKay CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
13
of the
mind
Books, music, quotes, apps, art, videos, websites, people, places, and things that get us to think about God in new and exciting ways.
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
Deep & Wide
by Andy Stanley A book the entire CPC staff read about how to create a church that unchurched people love to attend. Why? “Since people who were nothing like Jesus liked Jesus, people who are nothing like Jesus should like us [Christians] as well.”
“Rend Collective Experiment” By The Rend Collective
An eclectic collective of multi-instrumentalists from the north of Ireland. The song “Build Your Kingdom Here” was featured in our Serving Saturday video.
singlechristiangirls.wordpress.com
An irreverent — and hilarious! — look at being a single Christian woman from CPCer Claire Wyatt.
Sermons from an Unlikely Source Included each Sunday in Donald Miller’s blog are “sermons from an unlikely source.” Watch videos from spoken word artist Propaganda, scientist Francis Collins, tv stars, business leaders, musicians, and more.
14
SUMMER 2013
|
CPC LIFE
Does Jesus Really Love Me?
by Jeff Chu Jeff Chu, a gay Christian, explores the intersection of faith and sexuality in Christian America from a variety of perspectives.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT:
Debbie Manning
Debbie serves as Lay Care Associate and also provides pastoral care for The Table. She graduated from Bethel Seminary with a Master of Divinity on June 1.
Q You started your career in social work. How did you transition to Lay Care?
When we joined CPC 20 years ago, I wanted to play into my passion for caring for people, so I volunteered in Lay Care. In 1999, I joined the Lay Care staff team. I now direct a team of 220 CPC members who head up all the different areas of Lay Care ministry — hospital visits, caring for homebound seniors, serving with the Prayer & Healing and Grief Recovery teams, and much more. I lead the training program every fall to equip and empower these lay ministers to be the hands and feet of Christ to those in need.
Q What are some examples of how you’ve grown into your call?
Back in 2006, I felt a nudge to grow further in my pastoral call, and I started a Master of Divinity program at Bethel Seminary. Out of that came an opportunity to be a Minneapolis Police Chaplain. I’m on call three days a month and deliver notifications to loved ones about accidental deaths, homicides, and suicides. People think, “How can you like that?” But I have this deep belief that such news deserves to be delivered with compassion. It’s exactly what we do in Lay Care: it’s about showing up to be a loving presence. God has called us to do that. A few years ago, John Crosby [Senior Pastor] asked if I’d like to preach. I still had a few years left in seminary, so I said “Really?!” He asked me if I’d be willing to preach on kindness. I said, “I love kindness! I can do kindness!” I’ve now been asked to preach several more times. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities for ministry growth here.
Q What has the community of CPC meant to you and your family?
Our family would not be who we are in Christ without the transforming experience we’ve had through community at this place. Eighteen years ago, my husband, Steve, and I joined with three other couples in a Covenant Group. We thought we’d get together once a month and cheer each other on, but God has done so much more. Our whole families have done life together. We’ve spent nearly every MEA weekend together, worshiped on the shores of Lake Superior as a group, and every Christmas we sing carols for seniors. Every time one of our kids goes off to college, we have an evening where we pray over them. We are a real church family.
Q What has God taught you since you joined Lay Care?
I’ve learned that it’s not about me. I take God and my call very seriously, but I don’t take myself very seriously. The minute I do, it becomes about me, what I know, and what I can do. God does the healing; we’re just there to do the care. Over the years, it’s been amazing to feel the Holy Spirit nudge me where I feel God is calling me. I’ve seen God work the most when I’ve been stretched outside of my comfort zone, because it’s then I’m forced to lean on Him. All a person can do is show up and love.
FAST FACTS ABOUT DEBBIE
Family: Husband, Steve (married 32 years); children, Sam (25), Annie (22), Kate (20)
Guilty Pleasure: Dark Chocolate Favorite Movie: I could watch “Sound of Music” over and over. Hometown: Appleton, WI
Favorite Vacation Spot: A cabin on Lake Wabana — no phones or TV, just playing together as a family Hobbies: Biking, Nordic Snowshoeing CPC LIFE
|
SUMMER 2013
15
WORSHIP TIMES THIS SUMMER Saturdays at 5:15PM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 9:30AM | Traditional Worship Sundays at 11:00AM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 7:00PM | The Table (new time for summer) Wednesday, July 17 at 12:00PM | Mid-Month Chapel Service (no service in June)
SUMMER WORSHIP SERIES
What is wisdom, and how do you get it? According to the Book of Proverbs, wise people navigate life well because they rely on the guidance of God’s Word, resulting in the ability to make good decisions. Originally used as a children’s training manual, Proverbs remains a relevant primer today on how to move godly living from the Sanctuary to the street. To know God (vertical faith) is the first step, but allowing that knowledge to influence thoughts and actions in everyday life (horizontal faith) is wisdom.
June 22/23 June 29/30 July 6/7 July 13/14 July 20/21 July 27/28 August 3/4 August 10/11 August 17/18 August 24/25 August 31/September 1
Proverbs: Wisdom (1:1-7) | John Crosby speaking at all services Proverbs: Words (12:13-14; 17-18) | Deb Kielsmeier speaking; Steph Spencer at The Table Proverbs: Heart (4:23) | John Crosby speaking; Carrie Gleeson at The Table Proverbs: Friendship (27:5-10) | Paul Tshihamba speaking at all services Proverbs: Trust (3:5-6) | Rich Phenow speaking; Debbie Manning at The Table Proverbs: Warnings (5:1-5 & 6:6) | John Crosby speaking; Matt Moberg at The Table Proverbs: Pursuit (2:1-5) | Lee Hanssen speaking; Steve Wiens at The Table Proverbs: Giver (2:6-9) | Lee Hanssen speaking at all services Proverbs: Advisers (24:6 & 11) | John Crosby speaking at all services Proverbs: Plans (16:1-3) | Brooke Toftoy speaking at all services Proverbs: Rescue (24:11-12) | Matt Moberg speaking at all services
Christ Presbyterian Church | 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435 | 952.920.8515 | cpconline.org | facebook.com/cpconline | @CPCEdina