Samaria Baptist Church

We are happy to again provide the news from Samaria after missing a few weeks.

Our service was so uplifting. We were blessed with good singing. Our choir special today was “Higher Ground.” Bobby Patterson sang “There’s Something About That Name.” Darrell Willis and Jeannie Mims sang “Lamb of Jerusalem.”

Our message today was titled “Almost.” King Agrippa was recorded as saying, “Almost, you persuaded me to become a Christian.” However, we have no evidence that he ever accepted Jesus. Almost is never enough. We must be assured and we must dedicate ourselves to be the word of God, must be rightly divided and we must apply it to our daily lives, seeking his will and way. He must be number one on our priority list. Nothing or no other should be placed before him.

Just talking about being in a service is not enough. As awesome as the good news of God’s love is, and the wonder of his everlasting peace, we must also realize that when we commit to him, it is a serious thing. Sin can draw us away if we are not dedicated to the cause of Christ. We cannot just mouth the words or just go through the motions of worship. We can have the same assurance as we go out into the world as we do within the sanctity of our church. The Holy Spirit can clothe us no matter where we go.

Let us be confident in the power of our Living Lord. He will never leave us, so we need to be faithful to follow his direction. Except one be born again, he or she cannot see the kingdom of God. He can prepare us for the battles of life.

Please remember little Harper in your prayers. Also our pastor search committee as they continue to follow Jesus in finding a pastor.

On a personal note, I want to thank all who have prayed for me and my family, and who have expressed your condolences in any shape or form in the sudden death of my husband, Don Fisher. I continue to ask you to remember us as we move forward through the grieving process. My God is so awesome, and I know many of you agree with me totally.

May God bless all who read this today, and remember: if you need a church home, Samaria is waiting for you.

Rocky Mount UMC

One day we will really believe that spring is here. It might jump straight to hot summer heat, but we will eventually have warm, beautiful days.

As we praise God for the sun and the rain, why don’t you come by and join us at Rocky Mount? We have a beautiful church with loving people and much to share. We are enjoying having the Guin family as our leaders and we invite you to come see what we have to offer.

Sunday’s scripture and sermon came from Acts 8:4-23. We heard some of the details of the earliest Christianity, as Phillip went into Samaria and began sharing the word of Jesus Christ. Even Simon, the sorcerer (magician) was converted and asked to join those being baptized. God’s grace is available to all.

Jesus surprised so many people as he touched the lepers, healed the sick and talked with the prostitutes and tax collectors. We must all prepare ourselves spiritually, mentally and physically. How do you live your life in the midst of trials? Are you taking advantage of the teachable moments in your life? Are you remembering that what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger? God will shape us if we only trust him.

We have a new author among us at Rocky Mount. We encourage you to check out the newest book of author Charlotte Powell. Charlotte is an active member of Rocky Mount United Methodist Church. She teaches Sunday school, leads our music and does so many other jobs as needed around our church. Her book, “Debits Can Be Dangerous” is available from Amazon in both paperback and as an e-book for kindles and other such devices. It is a book that includes mystery, local color, and interesting facts. The suspense will keep you wanting to read more. Congratulations Charlotte on a job well done!