Weekly Newsletter – January 12, 2026
đź“–Sunday Recap
In Matthew 3:1–12, we are confronted with a clear truth: God prepares hearts before He reveals His work. John the Baptist appears in the wilderness with a message that cuts through comfort and familiarity—“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Repentance is not merely feeling sorrow over sin; it is a turning of the whole life toward God. Before Jesus steps into public ministry, Matthew shows us that hearts must be made ready. Fire begins with repentance, not comfort.
John also makes it clear that repentance cannot remain hidden or theoretical. When religious leaders relied on their heritage and knowledge rather than genuine change, John called them to “bear fruit in keeping with repentance.” Familiarity with faith is not the same as transformation. True repentance produces fruit over time; changed priorities, growing obedience, and lives increasingly shaped by God’s Word. God is not looking for spiritual resumes or religious background; He is looking for hearts that are actively turning toward Him.
This passage calls us to examine our own posture before God. Repentance is not a one-time moment but a daily reorientation of our lives toward Christ. It prepares us to receive the work of the Holy Spirit and aligns us with what God wants to do in and through us. As we respond to God’s call, repentance clears away what dulls our awe, reignites zeal for Jesus, and positions us to live with obedience and purpose as we follow the King who is near.
Happening This Week
Saturday
- 7:00am – Men’s Breakfast
Sunday
- 9:00am – Worship
- 5:30pm – Thrive
- 6:00pm – Small Groups
- 7-9pm – Jr/Sr High Students, After Thrive
🗓️ Mark Your Calendar
February 5th: Winter Jam – We will leave the church at 3:45 pm. A light meal will be provided for the drive over. We should return to the church around 1 am. Tickets cost $45. 6th grade and up can attend without a parent, 5th grade and under are invited with a parent. Please get in touch with Ms. Ryan before January 23rd for more information or to sign up.
🙏 Prayer Requests
Please be praying for:
Kayanna Smith – health issues
Kay Mason – Placed on Hospice
Elizabeth Stevens – surgery recovery
Tyler Mason – Health issues
Family of Bill Hicks
Family of Jeff HunleyÂ
Eddie Graham – recovery
Alechia Roosevelt – cancer
Joann Garrison – cancer
Family of Cathy Boewe
Family of Todd Caudell
Family of Elmer Lytle
Family of Jeff Hunley
Family of Bill Hicks
Family of Eleanor Case
Family of Sharon Speir Whetstone
If you have a prayer request, contact church office at 618-456-8563 or fill out a card on Sunday.
See you Sunday!