For the members, family and friends of the Downey Adventist Church
Put Anger in its Place by Pastor Mitch
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nger is powerful. There are times when anger is most appropriate. Like the time my son came running home to tell us two big boys took his skateboard. We were angry and we got the skateboard back. However, anger can turn self-destructive when allowed to linger unchecked. I think that’s why the Bible says: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold” (Eph 4:26-27).
Unfortunately, some folks are slow to learn how nursing anger destroys them. The film entitled The Straight Story tells the true tale of a 73 year-old man who drove his lawn mower over 300 miles to make things right with his brother. His journey provides the opportunity to meet people along the road and share his wisdom of experience. The award winning story makes us think about our own lives and whether harboring unresolved anger
in our hearts is really the best choice. The message on March 26 is How to Manage Your Anger. Managing our anger instead of allowing our anger to manage us has lifesaving consequences. Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (Matt 5:21continued on page 2
Forgiveness is Key “If the wounds of millions are to be healed, what other way is there except through forgiveness? Jesus, at least, leaves us no alternative. The command is stern. The terms are set: ‘But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.’” —Catherine Marshall
INSIDE
Pilgrim’s Problems Small Groups
Do the Pieces Fit? page 3
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The Spirit Descends on page 4
n Saturday, March 19, we will start a 5–Week Small Group series based on the book Pilgrim’s Problems. This series will focus on overcoming the troubles that we all face. There will be opportunities at church to connect with a small group. If you need a small group to join, please talk to Bill A. or one of our other leaders. We’ll make sure you are aware of all the small groups that are meeting so that you can find one that works for you.
The small groups will have their first meetings after church on the 19th (or later in the week if your group doesn’t meet on Sabbath). The series wraps up on April 16th. The following week is Easter. The week after, the 30th, will be our small group celebration. That evening we will have our small group party, An Evening at Harvey’s Broiler. Be sure to join a group for this series. =
Ginny’s Kitchen on page 5 What’s happening? see pages 6 & 9 Never Give Up is on page 7 Our Church Family page 10 Kid’s Page on page 11