PLEASE NOTE: SUNDAY SERVICE TIME IS 3:30
It is tempting to fall into pessimism and despair. There is much to lament over due to COVID, politics, world events, and personal struggles. In one sense, pessimism can be good when we acknowledge the realities of living in a broken/fallen world. It makes us honest. And, at our best, it drives us to Jesus. But, at our worst, pessimism can drive us to despair, anxiety, and depression. We must cry out to God to take us to a better place.
A better place is to also be an optimist. Not in a pollyanna, naive fantasy world sense. But grounded in the beautiful truths of the Bible about God and His work in our world, as well as in our lives. God’s Work is good. God’s work is hopeful. God’s work will not be thwarted. God is Lord of all - He is King of all earthly kings (and political parties). God redeems people and circumstances. God is working in churches in a powerful way. God is ultimately preparing a place for the Christian in heaven - to be with God in perfect joy!
This Sunday we will be in a passage in Acts that gives us hope. This makes us optimistic about God’s Work. We need to hear narratives and stories of optimism. Come join God’s people in worship!
Please take note of ways to gather for Sunday Service at The Rock:
1) We are meeting outside at Manhattan Beach Pre-School for our Sunday Service at 3:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, masks and Bibles! For a complete copy of our guidelines for re-opening CLICK HERE.
2) We will also be live on Facebook Live (NOT ZOOM). If you don’t feel comfortable joining us in person, are feeling sick, or have been exposed to someone who is sick stay connected through this live-stream - CLICK HERE at 3:30 Sunday afternoon.
3) Finally we will provide a video link to the sermon. I will send out an email the week following with the sermon link attached.
“While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” - Acts 13:2
- Pastor Curt
Theological Word of The Week:
Fasting
The discipline of abstaining for a time from all or certain foods. In the Bible, fasting often accompanies prayer for the purpose of intensive intercession, repentance, worship, or the seeking of guidance.
Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology
Upcoming Events
Children's Ministry
We are providing live Sunday School!
Here is the plan: Children will be with their parents for the singing portion of the service. Children will be dismissed after singing to meet with Cameron and Courtney outside near the playground outside of the auditorium. Cameron will plan a short lesson, have a group activity, and supervise some free play. At the end of the service, Cameron will walk the children back to where we meet. This is 100% voluntary for parents. Your children are also welcome to be with you during the service. We believe this can be done in a safe and organized way. All activities will be outside. Every child will be encouraged to keep their masks on. We will do the best we can to encourage distance.
-Cameron
Sermon Topic - January 17
Acts: A Holy Spirit Inspired Legacy
Acts 13:1-3
“A Time for Optimism”
2020 Final