Update on India - Dec. 30

I Just had the most exciting, dangerous, meeting this morning with my friend Pastor Duane: Wow, be careful - - you might just "get" what I've got!

Reminder: Someone told me that if I invested ONE dollar ($1) that God would use it to bring almost unbelievable change - transforming hope into someone's life I cared a great deal about! Interested in what I did? Ok, finish reading my blog update, then you'll

find out at the end of this blog - be kind and entertain me :-)

India Update: Oh my . . . I'm looking to find investors for a really amazing idea: If we buy a piece of land in a village that doesn't allow people from lower castes to use the village well, we could drill and build our own well and give away water to everyone for free. Then we would rent a building ($25 a month) next to "our land" and hire a pastor ($50 a month) and WOW, what a difference we would make! Forever! Interested in joining me? I'm collecting villages now from India. More as soon as I hear back from my friend Dr. Kumar in Rajahmundry.

And . . . for $10,000 we could add a roof to a hospital Dr. Kumar runs in a town that has no building where Jesus is shared. We could use this "upper room" for orphans during the week. People receiving treatment (all castes accepted) and their families could take the stairs to the top floor and learn about Jesus - maybe even hear me on one of my weekly cell-phone preaching times. Do you want to be aware of how influential God made you? You can! Dream about it, pray about it, talk out loud about it!

Reminder (continued):

I said yes, but I didn't really want to! I didn't know that I was so in love this this person whose life was about to be changed forever. It was my first opportunity to speak via cell phone to people so lost in darkness, in some of the poorest parts of our globe - India. It cost me more than $1 in time, but once I did it I was bit and there's no antidote, no cure! I know you've heard me say it, but $1 will make a forever difference! It's true! And you can give me even $1 and I'll be so grateful (all our expenses are already paid). Laura and I have invested a few thousand dollars God lent us over these past few years in this God Adventure . . . and we're still dreaming and

scheming as to how we can come up with more (we'll do anything that's not illegal and against God's best)! I even thought about visiting a 7-11 late at night (wearing an Only God Ski mask) . . . well, not really . . . but could be funny . . . (keep praying for me).

Pictures: 1) Speaking via cell phone on a Fri. morning in the 'Couv, 2) one of the nicer Churches, 3) Leading an entire remote village out of Spirit worship into a relationship with Jesus (the whole village lived on telling people their future - they're being persecuted now). 4) A village hut.

ONLY a few hrs left - READ & PASS ON TO FRIENDS

TODAY, you might want to:

1 - Read Luke 2 (see the Dec. 23 link to my Christmas devotional)

2 - Bring a friend to our Live Nativity Christmas Show at our Main campus (times listed on our Dec. 23 blog)

3 - Check out my "10 Great, Healthy, Creative Gifts" on my blog!

Merry Christmas - "Freely you have received, freely give!"

Living Hope Live Nativity Story

Bring your friends tonight (Wed) at 7 p.m. to our Living Hope Christmas Story. The animals, the simple, powerful story of Jesus' birth, and Pastor John's message will touch lives - Bring your friends. Laura and I hope to see you tonight.

Christmas Eve:

Here are the updated times: 3:30, 5:00, 6:30 & 8 p.m. (Link)

Check back all this week for devotionals, links to Bruce's Last minute shopping list (some great suggestions) and more! (Check out Today's Christmas notes)

This Sunday - One of my favorite stories

I can hardly wait to tell one of my favorite stories from one of my favorite authors (This Sunday, Dec. 20, 9 & 11 a.m.) at our East Vancouver Campus!

Also, Adam is working on a cover song from a Portland Band who's # 4 hit song has deeply touched my life, especially after meeting the songwriter in 2004.

The story of Willie Juan, known as Little Trout, is the story a little boys broken life is changed by a Medicine Man who sweeps into town. After telling this story at the Main Campus a few years ago, I've had several people tell me how hope-filling this story is - For me, it's a perfect story for Christmas.

Please bring your family and friends to our East Vancouver Campus this Sunday (Laura and I will be at the Saturday 5 p.m. and Wednesday Christmas play showing at the Main Campus - We'd love to see you there (Christmas show plays Sat at 5 & 7, Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and Tue and Wed. at 7 p.m.).

Come help us share cloths with the homeless

Sunday, December 13 @ 2:30 p.m.

MEET: Starbucks (Near the Airport IKEA) across from the Max

Leave: 3p.m. from the Max Station

We will Christmas Carol on the Max (with Santa) to Pioneer Square.

At Pioneer Square we will meet a Living Hope Van and distribute coats to the homeless.

After that we will take pictures by the BIG TREE and then play at the Mall (or wherever).

Questions - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Our Christmas Show was Amazing - So will be Dec. 13

DONT STOP READING (The details of our Big Christmas Max Caroling Trip on Dec. 13 is at the end of this blog)!

Our church was rocking last night. At 6:30 we had about 100 people viewing art and waiting for the food bars to open (4 tables of very heavenly food - high calorie-burns off quick because of the intense excitement!). By 7:15 we had 250 people; the tables were full, the chairs around two walls were full and a whole bunch were standing, eating, laughing and enjoying a very beautifully decorated auditorium (8 walls of art! Three beautiful trees! Lights! And did I mention the food - I think it was created by the Next Iron Chef! :)

The live music was Killer and having two well known artists show up was way cool. Seven NW Artists were represented -about $25,000 worth the art! Ron Jones was a big hit. Ron and his wife Sara serve at our Battle Ground campus. Ron directs the 6th Street Gallery in downtown Vancouver. The response to his work was great. Audrey Carson's Glow-in-the Dark exhibit was fun (5 pieces sold). I'm not sure how much money was raised for our India trip (All the artist's are donating 30-50% of the sales price to our India trip in January). We also raised $600 for local families that need help this Christmas; all from the silent auction of our Christmas ornaments! Wow! Someone bought the Huskies dog ornament before I could -DOG! Isaac got his Duck's ornament and I did get a Husky Christmas ball.

After Santa had mingled, had a bunch of kids, and a beautiful woman sit on his knee (Adam isn't a woman but he got to sit on Santa's lap and get his mug shot . . . did you see it?), we sang, along with Adam, some favorite Christmas Carols. Then the lights faded and the Video clip from Jody Foster's movie Contact began (well the sound track started first and the video tried to play catch-up a bit later . . . oh well . . .). Then out of darkness two spot lights highlighted a cradle with Marty and Tina's little baby Colt (about 3 weeks old) cooing and instantly capturing our hearts. Walking across the stage, picking up this tiny blue-eyed baby boy so touched my heart. Four of our prayer team warriors huddled in the dark, just off the stage, praying their hearts out (Thanks Ben, Kathy, Lynn and Joan). For the next 13 minutes I shared about the vulnerable, no-holds-barred gift of God - Himself, coming down and giving us Forever-love.

I shared about our East Vancouver members Julie and Jimmy and their eight year old son. Julie had a blood pressure of 30 for several hours and the doctors told me Tuesday morning she might not pull through. The respirator that kept her alive, and the prayers of her husband, so remind me that there is nothing with real lasting value, except knowing that God is LOVE! Jimmy has been off Meth for almost two years. His wife Julie, who is a Quad/Paraplegic, had asked to be baptized at our last Baptismal Sunday. She has open wounds that aren't healing. Julie became diabetic after her car crash that left her paralyzed in 1992. We were waiting for medical permission before baptizing her.

The doctors told Jimmy and me that if Julie made it she might have brain damage and her liver could be damaged. "She is a very sick" said the doctor, "we just don't know if she will make it." When I showed up Wednesday morning Julie's body had made a miracle turn-around. She was able to nod her head when we asked her questions. Jimmy is busy moving between his wife's room and her mother's (She went in at the same time as Julie with pneumonia and was across the hall in ICU). Both Mom and daughter have improved. Julie and Jimmy's little boy Josh is missing his momma but doing good. This is one of the families we will bless this Christmas with gifts, love, and a lot more prayers (It's so inspiring to see our prayer team reach out to this family). Julie's dad who doesn't go to church told his wife (She gets out of the hospital today or tomorrow) he wants to meet me.

NOW THIS IS COOL - As I finished sharing I prayed that just ONE gift would rise up in every one of our hearts - JESUS! In the dark of a wonderful Christmas evening show, 13 people raised their hands to affirm they had just prayed to accept Jesus ! This made the hundreds of hours of work, by so many people (Andrea, Darlena, Kathy and her Hulk-handsome man Morrie, Michelle, Chelyncia, Duane, Don, Ron Jones, Audrey and about twenty-five more cooks, cleaners, shoppers (I know I forgot some key players - sorry) SO, SO WORTH IT ALL!!

We had so many of our members bring friends - All of heaven was smiling, dancing (So U think you can dance, winning choreographed numbers! There were some really happy Angels last night), and saying over and over "This IS what really counts!" Even if just ONE person had come last night and accepted Jesus as their Forever-Friend it was worth it for me!

I'm so proud to be part of a church like Living Hope! Thank you for valuing this way of reaching more people for Jesus! It was so much fun. Seeing new volunteers cleaning up last night (10 p.m.) was very inspiring (Oh I almost forgot, Angela Taylor and her studly men (Tom and Jeremy) so poured themselves into helping. Andrea was working while sick, and Butch was our Master of Ceremony; he also ran our Video and lights booth (Then he flew out very early this morning for Japan - what a dedicated worker for God!). Another couple who helped out last night flew out this morning to Hawaii. I can't think of anything else I would rather burn out, give out, put out and invest in than the ministry of loving people with a Jesus love that is changing their lives. I shared Colossians 4:14 with our guests last night: "And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love." Take some time this week to read I John 4 (especially verse 7-11, 16-18).

Two final words about last night: ONLY GOD!

NOW- a few details about Dec. 13:

We are leaving on the Max train (Airport station by IKEA and Star Bucks) at 3 p.m. (be at Star Bucks by 2:30 p.m.) to Christmas Carol until we land at Pioneer Square!

1) U don't have to sing to join us! It's so much fun (Santa's a big flirt, the candy canes bring smiles to those on the train . . . I've even seen people cry and thank us when we sing).

2) When we arrive at Pioneer Square we will be met with coats and food that we can share with homeless friends who will so see Jesus in us - this is so, so rewarding (dress warm and bring our smiles!)

3) After about 20 min of sharing coats and food we will take pictures by the big tree, then go over to the mall and view the Ginger Bread house competition (and drop in Sharper Image store :)

4) You can hang out and play with us as long as you like (If you need to be a work by 5 a.m. you should be able to catch the max back and be in bed by 8:15 p.m. easy - even earlier if you like :)

5) What to bring? Money for the Max. Warm clothes, 16 oz of H20, and your most festive Christmas spirit! Questions or ideas - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com.

Our 1st Living Hope Christmas Show at our East Campus

It's all happening Friday, December 4 at 7 p.m. (Come early to see the Glow-in-the-dark Art of Audrey Carson) at our East Vancouver Campus.

LIVE MUSIC

FOOD to DIE for

GUARANTEED SANTA SIGHTING (He promised to be here!)

HUGE ART EXHIBIT

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT AUCTION (Silent but lively!)

AND MORE . . .

KEEP READING FOR DETAILS :-)

This will be a wonderful evening that begins with live music, amazing food, and our largest ever art exhibit. We will have opportunities for children to get their picture taken with the number ONE Santa in the NW (There’s only one right?).

Our three decorated trees, that will bring so much Christmas joy to those who need help this Christmas, will help add to the nostalgic, wonderful atmosphere that will bring a warm smile to the guests you've invited.

The Silent Auction of Christmas ornaments will let us buy food to add to the GIFT CARD Christmas baskets we will share with those in our church and beyond who are struggling this Christmas. We need you to purchase fun, unique, or just simply beautiful ornaments to add to one of our three trees. Those of us leaders who are working in the main auditorium are competing with Kid’s World and Women’s Ministries to see which tree gets voted Living Hope East's BEST! Fun!

Our Art Wall will be expanded to show several local artists. The main feature will be Pen & Ink Artist, Ron Jones. Ron Jones of Sixth Street Gallery in Vancouver is very active in the Local art scene. Ron took part in Living Hope Church’s Christmas show last year by painting the large murals that were used as part of John’s message. Jones has been featured in Art in America International Review, 2008, New York Art World 2009, and the Art Auction International Magazine 2009. Earlier this year his work was shown in Amsterdam Whitney International Fine Art Gallery, Chelsea NY. Ron has also finished 1^st or 2^nd for three years at the Clark County Fair. His work focuses on the details of the mathematical equations taken from the Fibonacci numbering system. It’s rare to find an artist with an engineering mind; Leonardo? :) You will enjoy meeting Ron and his wife Sarah.

Two other Living Hope Members will also be featured on our Art Wall. Audrey Carson’s colorful, playful explosions of creativity will make you smile and want to see more (she will also have a glow-in-the dark exhibit in our parents lounge). Johanna Larson’s work may take you to another world. We will feature several other local artists as well. The artists are donating between 30-50% of the sale of their art toward our East Vancouver trip to India.

There will be a short, but powerful Christmas story told by pastor Bruce. And then the evening will end with the opportunity to take home an ornament to remember our first Christmas show at our new campus home.

If you have questions or are interested in volunteering please email Pastor Bruce at bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Just for Fun check out Bruce's latest Winter adventure :)

Reinforcing our True Value (What Counts Most?) Wed Night, 7 p.m. ReFresh Questions & Bible Stories

[Keep checking back for multiple updates to Pastor Bruce's personal blog - link . Read Bruce's random thoughts regarding last week's roller coaster ride . . . miracles, chills, and dangerous thoughts . Not for the faint-at-heart]

What actions help to best reinforce your “forever-connection” to Jesus (I’m secure in him!)?

Here’s the real deal: When I feel discouraged, down, and misunderstood, I naturally move towards isolation. Isolation is the key to all things destructive and “death-like.” Satan sells us lie-based thoughts that imply we’re all alone.

We not only feel abandoned, not important to others, we sometimes even believe we’re far from God.

Finding physical ways to reinforce the truth that God will never leave you is so vital to strong, healthy relationships. The more we match our beliefs with our physical actions, the stronger our thoughts, beliefs, and, most important, our trust grows! The stories and verses below will make a difference in your life. See you Wednesday night (6:55 p.m.) for a small-group Refresh.

Luke 21:1-4 While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. 2 Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. 3 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. 4 For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”

I Timothy 6:6-21 (We will do a “story-based-parsing exercise” – I’m guessing 96% of us have never used this “experience-based” study tool before. It’s an amazing way to hear God speak through the Bible. Check back on Tuesday night if you want to prep ahead of time :)

Note verses 18-19 in the Message Bible – “Tell them to go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage—to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. If they do that, they'll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life.”

Luke 11:34-36 “Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when it is bad, your body is filled with darkness. 35 Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness. 36 If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light.”

How do we determine value of things? of people? Your use of time? Philosophical values? If you had but one belief that who trump all other beliefs, what would it be? Can you write or state this belief in one sentence?

Measuring Value (From the Weekend Teaching):

Source: The creator, designer, manufacture

Durability: Non-perishable shelf life, quality

Quantity: Rarity, demand, uniqueness

Potential: growth potential, long-term profit

Market Value: What one is willing to pay

Pastor Bruce has uses the acronym MONEY to describe societies most ancient and popular ways of measuring value (There is an amazing story in I Samuel 16 – note verse 7): Come early and get this worksheet; it could help you see where Satan most effectively attacks you regarding your value.)

Pastor Ben's Dream for Living Hope Church

Matthew 5:12-14 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Here are the questions for our Wednesday night Refresh (7 p.m. at our campus):

Who is God asking you to carry right now?

Read Acts 1:8 The word “go” is not found in this promise. The Holy Spirit is going to make us “witnesses.” Pastor Ben said God told us we were to do ONE thing and let nothing (even warm fireplaces) distract us: what is God calling you to “be?”

Is there anything scary about God saying “YOU are the light of the world?”

What is your warm “fireplace” that God is calling you to leave behind?

Read 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (also Psalm 51:15-17) Who are those we “smell bad to?” Other Christians will be jealous of us; but those who hate light and love will also think we stink. How often are you “brought down” by others opinions?

Read the story of Mary and her offering of fragrance in John 12: Do you know a “broken, looking-for-light Mary" type of person? What would you give up to make it easier for her to find Jesus and receive healing?

The Dream Pastor Ben shared with Living Hope:

(Bruce Avery's notes :)

In his dream, Ben saw his daughter at a play set outside. She had tangled up the swings, they were a mess. Ben left his father at the warm fireplace and went out to get his daughter. He picked his four year old up in his arms and then began to carry her towards a destination God was calling him towards. A storm came up and he had to shield her from all the debris.

God shared Matthew 5:14 with Pastor Ben and told him to share this passage and the meaning of the dream with Living Hope Church. God is saying, “You are doing all of this Living Hope; don’t stop or be distracted or discouraged. Don’t let other’s jealousy or their enjoyment of their present rewards take you off course. Keep simply bringing people to Jesus.”

God wants us to know:

1. We are responsible to carry those in darkness to Jesus. That’s it!

2. This isn't always fun ; we are doing this –keep on keeping on.

3. Others will be enjoying life & it's rewards in their church; our reward, Living Hope, will come in the future!

4. The enemy will use circumstanced to attempt to prevent us from carrying these baby's to Jesus. Don’t freak out; keep carrying them to Jesus!

5. They (the babies) will hang onto us; they can’t see anyone else –they will depend on us. They have been blind, broken, and the only light they see is you!

6. Don't focus on their past issues - just keep taking them to Jesus. If we can just get people to Jesus He will fix them up!

7. These people will have left a mess from their stumbling in darkness: will you leave the mess and simply carry them in the storm. Again, God says we are doing this; keep pressing on!

8. Other churches will be jealous (they’re not evil, just human). Don’t worry about it.

9. You ARE a great light to the world (even Australia)! Many churches will leave their fireplace comforts and go out to carry blind children to Jesus! Don’t be discouraged!

Art, Music, and Amazing Food - This Friday, Oct. 23

It's been a very long day (according to my watch and brain) . . . Mentoring some of my friends in New Zealand, realizing I've got still go prep work to do for my talk I'll give to people in India tomorrow morning . . . and then thinking of our Art Event at our East Vancouver Campus tomorrow night.

Scott and I hung out again today and I was again reminded of how much we all touch each others lives . . . Scott has an incredible team of people around him and his passion and reason for living are so strongly expressed in his art.

My friend Jen is one amazing chef and artist and knowing she's planned a culinary delight for tomorrow is so cool. Will you be there (I hope so). It's 7 p.m. at our campus. No cost, no pressure, just a chance to unwind, recharge, and be reminded of how we all are built to invest in others . . . got to run (lots of hurting people that God let me reach out to today . . . tomorrow will be so refreshing) . . . see you at 7 p.m.

Wed Night Refresh - Questions to carry with U

Hope you can make it early (6:58 p.m.) this Wed for one of the shortest slide show's you've ever seen (Our E Vancouver STP Trip).

Questions for this Wed: Pastor John said 90% is 10% short of the "Full devotion" God is calling us to: 1. What past "religious-legal-beagle" scars keep you from risking "everything" for a passionate friendship with Jesus? 2. How does "being hard on yourself" keep you from "full devotion?" (No one judges us more critically than ourselves!). 3. Can you think of a sport, hobby, or project that you were fully devoted to? (We will share our stories . . . perhaps you know someone who was "fully devoted" in some way.).

Read Hebrews 10:1-4, 19-25 (Take special note of verse 24)

Read I Corinthians 4:2-4

Refresh - Tonight @ 7 p.m. Oct. 14

Come at least 5 min. early if you want to sample a "culinary delight" that's high in fiber and SO easy to make (wow) . . . special thanks to Bob's Red Mill . . . You'll like it!

Tonight - Courage in failure; promises and steps to carry is into God's dangerous adventure!

Read I Samuel 13-14:6 Do you see some "should" and "should not's" in this story of courage in the middle of serious danger?

Risk (in God's divine plan) means =

What do you think made Abraham Lincoln a great man?

What does God really want from us? Psalm 51:16-17

What would you risk becoming a rebel for? How much would you risk?

We will look at several of the wisest verses in all of scripture (Found in Proverbs); they can become our blueprint for our "dangerous adventure" with God!

Tonight - Wed Refresh (latest update)

Oct. 7 update

“And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free!” John 8:31-32

“I AM the way, truth, and life.” John 14:6

A lie is the opposite of the truth! Satan is the FATHER of all lies. Jesus claims to be the ultimate truth!

What is truth? It's far more than correct information! Learning Bible facts won't set you free from the stress, habits, and mess-ups that daily follow you. How do the verses above change the way you view "truth?"

Jesus ran into a lot of religious people and he said this to their face: “You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me!” John 5:39

A powerful truth passage is Proverbs 3:1-5 Verse 3 “Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
 6 Seek his will in all you do,
 and he will show you which path to take. 7 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.”

Jesus IS truth. To be free I need Jesus in my life. Building trust starts with a clear awareness of our own weakness. It grows when we are constantly seeking HIS PLAN.

Sin is the opposite of truth: Sin simply means "I did it my way." That is why God's friends in the Bible saw sin as something not just against someone else, rather that which would harm their relationship with God - See Genesis 39 for an amazing story and perfect illustration of this truth (also see Psalm 51:4).

Two very important chapters in the Bible about sin are Psalm 51 and Romans 6. Sin will always be far more than a "list." It's trusting myself over God - See Romans 6:23, Romans 14:23, & John 16:9.

New Questions for Wed Refresh (Oct. 7)

Freedom from "My Precious!"

The masterpiece "Lord of the Rings" illustrates the power of "SIN" in our lives. This Wednesday we will be touched by the powerful, freeing words of Proverbs 3 (especially verses 3-8).

We will also look at the Iceberg principle - a tool to help us, in prayer, dive beneath the surface to the deeper issues we need to release. God's authentic "realness" is waiting to shine out of us. Check back on Tue and Wed for more questions, more Bible verses and a couple of very cool tools!

Question: What are the three biggest lies that tempt you on a daily basis?

Maybe - "Life should be fair!" "I need to be happy." "I can't be OK if others judge me."

How do you dive beneath the surface to discover the lie that is behind your frustrations, fears, and guilt?

Jesus said, "The truth will set you free." What is truth? Hint - It's NOT what Religion has been pushing for more than 1,000 years!

More questions for Wed Night Refresh, plus +++

Want the link to Bruce & Laura's "famous Fresh Salsa?" Read on . . .

This Wednesday night (Sept. 30) @ 7 p.m. (come early for a very cool treat)

Pastor John's "R" for the acronym RICE was "REST IN JESUS!"

a. What does it mean for you to rest? When do you rest best?

b. It's been said that "Less is MORE!" When you rest, are you more aware of God's

presence?

c. How might rest better put you in that spiritual mind-set that helps you "identify the

battle" God wants you to fight?

Read Genesis 2:2-3 and Hebrews 4

Hebrews 4:1-3 (Message Bible)

"For as long, then, as that promise of resting in him pulls us on to God's goal for us, we need to be careful that we're not disqualified. We received the same promises as those people in the wilderness, but the promises didn't do them a bit of good because they didn't receive the promises with faith. If we believe, though, we'll experience that state of resting."

Bruce's personal blog (salsa)

This Wed. Night - 7 p.m.

Pastor John used the acronym RICE in his talk this weekend - it's the power of letting prayer fill our lives. This Wed night is an opportunity to go a bit deeper into the gift of prayer. Check back Tue and Wed for updates of questions and Bible verses we will share. See what a Life Group feels like, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. See you Wed night at 7 p.m.

Check in on Tue for Bruce & Laura's salsa recipe they made for movie night last Friday.

Movie Night - Friday Sept 25@ 7 p.m.

Come EARLY if you want to see Bruce's Tomato Extravaganza show (it's about 7 min. long - fun, healthy & tastes GREAT - this is a miracle!). If you're here by 6:53 p.m. you'll see it all!

7 p.m. - OUR MOVIE is "Princess Bride" There is not better place to see this classic. Angela Taylor has a trivia quiz and you might win a very cool prize!

Bring a friend, meet someone new, see a great show (our sound system and three screens make this a great way to see a movie). Come early! Great food and some fantastic fresh salsa (Bruce's fav. recipe) - FREE!

How literal Should I take God's Word regarding Prayer?

This weekend at Living Hope Church is one you won't want to miss - Pastor John will be speaking about how to dress up in ALL of God's armor - I can't tell you how excited I am about this weekend - Bring your friends! This extended Living Hope at The Movies series features the Lord of the Rings Trilogy - it's fantastic! Your batteries will be charged! See you Sunday at our East Vancouver Campus!


Bruce


These notes are from Tom Taylor and Bruce Avery's Life Group (our wives are the real strength of our very cool Life Group Family:)

What are three specific areas/things you SELDOM pray about (Pastor John mentioned his "headache" in last weeks sermon)?

"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6

Praying about every worry - Does God mean every one of them?

Colossians 4:2 "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;" WHAT ARE YOU MOST "DEVOTED TO" RIGHT NOW?

Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

How "inclusive" should I be with this verse? “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Ephesians 6:18

Our Group spent about 8 minutes doing a short "word study" in Philippians 4:6 - the way this verse touched our lives and the sharing that followed was amazing!

4. Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5. Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Don’t Worry = In the Gospels this word is translated as "take no thought" – Greek for: not your primary concern; not a high value . We say, "I could care less!" Be "Careless" about much more - "CARE MORE ABOUT LESS!" In Philippians 3 Paul says, "I'm only really concerned about ONE thing - KNOWING JESUS!
Everything = Greek for: All things (especially "things" but can include humans as well). How many "Thoughts" (things) am I worrying about right now?
Supplication = Greek for: need, desire – this word comes from the middle voice of the wd. "to beg, desire, or long for " SOME OF US FEEL WE HAVE A LACK OF FAITH OR THAT WE ARE "BIG BABIES" WHEN WE HAVE SUCH STRONG LONGINGS, OR WHEN WE KEEP ASKING GOD OVER AND OVER TO MEET OUR NEEDS - GOD WANTS US TO DO THIS! IT'S HIS INVITATION FOR US TO BE REAL ABOUT OUR PASSIONATE HEARTS! The root word behind the Old English word "Supplication" is, "to bind, tie, or fasten." In the OT this was used to refer to an obligation, law, or a duty. When we are calling out to God we are asking that we be "untied" and "unbound" from Satan's temptations and "tied up forever-safe" in a friendship with God!" Our passionate cries to our Heavenly Father builds our trust that God will NEVER leave or ABANDON US!

Requests = Greek (The root word) for: "To ask, beg, crave, or desire." How much does God want you to share your deepest longings, your unspoken dreams, all of your broken heart? This is a pretty passionate promise - God's Plan for us!

"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." Ephesians 6:18

Did you miss Last night's family night? - here's a link to my personal blog & to a Youtube of my son Gordon singing and dancing (very funny stuff)!

This Sunday's BBQ (Plus: HOW TO LISTEN & CARE MORE)

Our life group had a great time discussing the massive topic of What Does Great Communication Look Like?  (Check out my personal blog)

This Sunday (Labor Day weekend):

One of the most inspiring stories you've heard in a very long time (9 & 11 a.m.)

AND -  One of the best BBQ's this Summer (Free burgers and dogs - you bring a side dish)!  Don't be afraid of the rain - we've got tables indoors!

PLUS - Pastor Bruce will be grilling the ULTIMATE burger (no joke - you will have to contribute $$ for this - It goes for a great cause) . . . bring your "Bills!"

Bring a friend too and learn about all the cool things happening this fall!

White Salmon Rafting (Photo's from our trip)

So, here are a few pictures from our trip.  It was so much fun!  More to come!

White Water Pics still to come - check back later

Sorry about not posting pic yet . . . Laura got a call yesterday that her mom is dying . . . left early this a.m. to be with her.  Send up some prayers for her and the family.  Hope to get pic. loaded today from our White Salmon Rafting trip :)

Not us in the pic (but a great preview of Husum Falls - Class 5 rapid)

BBQ this Sunday & White Water Rafting Trip on the 15th

Sunday, August 9     So we are doing another BBQ this Sunday following our 11 a.m. service (You bring your favorite salad and/or chips or desert - we'll bring the rest).  It's fun.  If it's hot you can eat in our air-conditioned auditorium or outside in the sun.  It's a great way to start/build friendships that will make a real difference in your life!

Oh wow, Bruce has finally (Can you believe it?) posted his favorite BBQ rub for burgers (Did you try one?) AND . . . some added ideas for building the juiciest, best burgers ever - check it out!

Saturday, August 15 Rafting Trip   The deadline for signing up is this Sunday (Aug. 9).  You can sign up in person or email us - Brucea@livinghopechurch.com.  (This will be one grand time - You've got to make it happen :)!

Details:  Cost, $65 (includes BBQ following)   If you want to show up at our BBQ location & just do the BBQ part it's $10 (You still have to register ahead of time).

Car-pooling:  1st - Let us know if your willing to drive (how many additional empty seats) or if you need a ride (# of seats) ahead of time!  2nd - Show up at the East Vancouver Campus no later than 6:45 a.m. (hair and make-up don't need to be finished:)

Location:  Rafting address  1248 Highway 141, White Salmon, WA 98672  (it's best to go to Hood River on I-84 then cross over to Hwy 14 and go south; turn North on 141A)  The best directions on on the web site, www.zooraft.com.  The BBQ will be at approximately 12:30 or 1 p.m. - Continue on past Zoller's (maybe 10 miles) to Camp Jonah on Trout Lake (www.campjonah.com).

Return:  After any needed memorials or extra "horsing around" most of us should arrive back in Vancouver around 4 or 4:30 p.m.

WED night Refresh is on Summer Vacation

We will only have a couple (to be announced) Wed night Refresh nights until September.  They will be unique, fun, and you will have advance notice - See you on the weekend!  

Refresh Refreshes - Tonight NOT meeting at E Vancouver

Pastor Bruce will be speaking to the Youth at the Main campus tonight (LSM).  Come join him for stories on Fear, layers (like onions), and some creative, powerful, worship on your Youth night.  It's summer so try something new.

We will not have a regular "Refresh" until September - please watch for unique, stand alone events!   Are you signed up to go Whitewater Rafting (and/or BBQ) with us?  Get ready!

Don't miss our new art exhibit & Concert by Periffery

This Friday night (July 17 at our E. Van. Campus - 7 p.m.  Bring friends (email, Facebook, twitter, text, call, ring a doorbell . . . so much fun!).

Music by Shawn and Natasha Lewis of Perifery and Hyperstatic Union
Shawn Lewis, lead singer for Hyperstatic Union and his new band, Perifery. Shawn is also a Dove award winner.
Shawn's wife Natasha Lewis, sings with Periffery, as well as other groups.

Check out the band/s-  Hyperstatic link     Periffery  link  

On our Art Wall

Our new Art exhibit will be a local artist, Philemon Reid (link). His art is currently being shown at the Aurora gallery in downtown Vancouver. Phil grew up with Cubism and fell in love with Picasso. From this he spent the last 50+ years developing his own style. He doesn't paint music, his art is music. All of his themes are jazz or blues.

Great Coffee by Bean's To Brew?
Beans To Brew is Emilee and Kasey's coffee shop. For the last two months they have had a concession trailer which allows them to take all their great beverages mobile!

There is no cover charge for this event - Periffery will be selling albums and coffee drinks are being offered at a reduced price.

For more information email Brucea@livinghopechurch.com