LBC Weekly: 9/21/14; Worship leader announcement; financial report; and more

It was one year ago that we rolled out our new Shepherding Plan, and we’re grateful for our elders and the care that they extend to their shepherding groups. This Friday, our elders and their wives will be hosting hospitality dinners in their homes. Everyone is invited! If you are not yet a member of LBC, you are invited to the home of Mike and Molly Tilley. Please RSVP to: Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com. Pictured above are two of our elders, Bart Johnson and Richard Hostetter. Pray for Bart, who just had surgery on his achilles tendon. Richard will be leading the new class, “Not By Bread Alone,” beginning Sept 5, 9:30-10:30, at Glenridge Middle School.

See below for important announcements, financial report, and calendar dates.

Worship Leader Position Offered to Joel Pollard
• After much prayer and assessment, we are happy to announce that we have offered the position of worship leader to Joel Pollard.
• Joel and his wife, Katie, expect to move to Orlando in early November.
• We can thank God for his provision! And, we are grateful for all who helped with the process. Special thanks to Bill and Kathy Seyfried for hosting Joel and Katie during their visits.

Worship This Sunday at 10:45
• Next up: the famous story of the burning bush, from Exodus 3:1-10.
• Michelle Crouse will introduce exciting plans for Operation Christmas Child.
• Take some time to pray for Sunday worship, SPLASH, and youth group.

Financial Report as of August 31
• August contributions: $25,064. Expenses: $32,560. Difference: (-$7406)
• Jan-Aug contributions: $368,014. Expenses: $360,675. Difference: +$7339
• Thank you! Your giving is making a difference at Lake Baldwin Church!
• Like many churches, August contributions were below budget, perhaps reflecting a “summer slump.” If you’d like to update your giving, you can give a secure on-line gift at www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. 
• Let’s thank God for his continued provision, and pray for sufficient growth in giving to enable us to restore key budget items and to fund our new worship hire.

Events for Your Calendar
• LBC office workday, Saturday, Sept 20, 9 am, at the LBC office, 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando 32814. Contact Bill Rigsby to join the team: bill@rigsbybrothers.com.
• Monthly Church-Wide Prayer Gathering Wednesday, Sept 24, 7-8 pm: We so enjoyed the prayer times in August, that someone urged us to host a monthly prayer gathering. Everyone is invited. At the LBC office, 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando 32814.
• Hospitality Event Friday, Sept 26, 6:30 pm. Members have been invited by their elders. If you are not yet a member, RSVP to: Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com.
• Not By Bread Alone: Bible class begins Sunday, Oct 5, 9:30 am, at Glenridge Middle School. RSVP to Richard Hostetter: grhostetter@gmail.com. If you would like to come and need child care, contact Amy Heidmann: ames83077@gmail.com. 
• Food Truck Event and Fall Festival Oct 19 after church in Blue Jacket Park (just outside of our worship area). Fun and food for all ages!

LBC Weekly: 9/14/14

We love it when people get to serve God in areas that relate to their gifts, their passions, and their experience. When Christians find their sweet spot, they experience great joy,and the kingdom of God advances. That’s why we’re so grateful for Dan Whaite, pictured above, with his wife Katie. Working with Matt Brubaker, Dan has started a new enterprise called Digital Acts, helping churches attract newcomers. Dan leads our digital media effort at Lake Baldwin Church, creating our new web site and helping tell our story in the city.
 
Worship This Sunday at 10:45

• Joel and Katie Pollard will be working with our musicians and vocalists to lead us in worship.
• Our Exodus series takes us to “The Outlaw,” an episode found in Exodus 2:11-22.
• We’ll interview Dan Whaite, to bring the church up to speed on new media initiatives.

 
Contacting the Church Office

• Our administrator, Terri Poulos, is on maternity leave.
• Lisa Rigsby is serving as our interim administrator.
• Contact the church office: churchadmin@lakebaldwinchurch.com.
• We are no longer using a landline type phone at the church office.

 
Digital Media at Lake Baldwin Church

• If you have skills and experience in technology, digital media, or social networking, we can use your help. Simply contact Dan Whaite: dwhaite@gmail.com.
• John Boggs produces videos for LBC. He needs video assistants, especially as he prepares to shoot a welcome video on September 27. If you’d like to help, contact John: pretentious.filmmaker@gmail.com.
• Check out the new web site: www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. Go there to catch up on video sermons; access our church directory; give on-line; view the events calendar; and more.
• Sign up for the on-line directory. Get contact info; update your profile; view your giving records; and more: http://www.lakebaldwinchurch.com/lbc-database/
• Be sure to “like” Lake Baldwin Church on Facebook.

 
Save the Date!

• Sept 26: Hospitality Event. Dinners hosted by elders and wives in their homes. Everyone invited! If you are a member, your elder will send you an invitation. If you are not yet a member, RSVP to: Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com. 
• Oct 5: First Sunday of our new class, “Not By Bread Alone,” taught by Richard Hostetter, Mike Glodo, and Jim Cunningham. At Glenridge Middle School at 9:30.
• Oct 19: Food Truck Event, right after church. Fun, games, and food! Everyone invited.

LBC Weekly: 9/7/14

You won’t want to miss our church-wide Hospitality Event, September 26 at 6:30 pm! Everyone is invited as our elders and wives host dinners around the city. We’ll have fun, good food, and a chance to enjoy the people of LBC, like Kyla O’Brien and Matt Baker, pictured above. If you are a member of Lake Baldwin Church, you will receive an invitation from your elder. If you are not yet a member, you are invited to the home of Mike and Molly Tilley. To RSVP for the dinner at the home of Mike and Molly, simply e-mail: mike.tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com. 

Worship This Sunday at 10:45
• “No Ordinary Child” from Exodus 2:1-10 & Hebrews 11:23.
• As you read these passages in advance, you might want to ask, “What do we learn about faith from this story?”
• We will feast at the Lord’s Table together.
• Joel and Katie Pollard, along with our musicians and vocalists, will be leading us in worship.
• SPLASH Kids will enjoy High Tide this Sunday.

House Concert Sept 14 from 6-8 pm
• Enjoy a relaxing evening of live music with Joel and Katie Pollard, along with our own Katie Whaite.
• This House Concert is being hosted by Bill and Kathy Seyfried, 1471 Nolan Court, Orlando, FL 32814.
• It will be an “adults only” event.

Women’s Bible Studies Begin This Week
• The Monday evening study begins with a meet and greet this Monday, 7-8:30, at the home of Janell Ray, 2717 Abbey Road, Winter Park, FL 32792.
• The Wednesday morning study kicks off this Wednesday with a brunch from 9:30 to 11:30 at the LBC Office/Hub, 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando, FL 32814.

Please Remember to Pray
• For the mother of Julie Lynn, who is facing a cancer diagnosis.
• For the launching of fall youth group this Sunday evening.
• For worship this Sunday.

LBC Weekly: 9/1/14

Announcing: a new web site for Lake Baldwin Church! The aim is two-fold: to have a more active gathering place to serve the people of Lake Baldwin Church; and to offer a compelling introduction to LBC by new visitors at the site. Special thanks to Dan Whaite for getting the new site ready for launch, and for continuing to populate the site with useful and relevant content. Check out the new LBC web site at: www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. See below for some of the ways the web site can serve you.

Worship This Sunday at 10:45

• Exodus continues with a message from 1:15-22, “Call the Midwives.”
• It’s a story of courage. We’ll see how two women, Shiprah and Puah, change the arc of history by standing up to Pharaoh.
• We’ll also hear a modern-day story of changing the arc of history...from one of our own.

Just some of the ways the new web site will serve you

• Video sermons--keep up with the sermon series if you served in SPLASH or were out of town.
• Calendar of events--see what’s coming up at LBC.
• Find a community group and plug in.
• Secure on-line giving.
• Access our church directory. Sign up for it if you haven’t yet done so.
• Pastors’ Blog, including all 31 days of the August Call to Prayer.
• Sign up to volunteer on a once/month serving team.
• Get each week’s discussion questions for Exodus. (coming soon)
• And more…
• Check it out at www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. Bookmark it.

August Daily Prayer #29: Nativity

Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11)

The angels always seemed to have a special enthusiasm for the birth of the Savior. What did they know, that mankind would soon hear? They called it good news. It was a great joy. It was for all the people. And was all about a Savior, Christ the Lord.

There's a cathedral in Barcelona called the Segrada Familia (Holy Family). It's been under construction for over 100 years, having been designed by the late Gaudi. Each side of the building features part of the story of Jesus. There's a whole wing devoted to the Nativity, and it stands today as a symbol of this story that has changed history.

Our fall season will culminate in Advent, a time when we will join with the angels to announce the birth of the Savior. Today, let's pray for the Advent season.

• 80% of Orlando is unchurched. Pray that God will use the Advent season, and the churches of Orlando, to announce the beauty of the Savior.
• Pray for our church preparations for this season. Pray for message preparation, for musical preparation, for our SPLASH kids, and for all who will participate.
• Pray for our Christmas Eve service, and other Advent services. These times have been wonderful for inviting people who rarely attend church. Pray for our whole congregation, and for our outreach in the community.
• Most of all, pray that our worship and celebration would reflect the jubilation of the angels and shepherds who were there for the birth of the Savior.

August Daily Prayer #28: Spiritual Growth

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)

The book of 2 Peter begins and ends with an inspiring call to spiritual growth in Christ. Though we already know Jesus Christ, spiritual growth involves getting to know him better. This includes growth in our understanding of Christ, as well as our experience of his grace. What a simple and beautiful road map for the growth of every follower of Christ!  It's good for all of us to ask the question, "What is the next step for my growth in Christ?"

This fall, Lake Baldwin Church will offer numerous opportunities for growth "in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" Let's bathe these opportunities in prayer, and let's pray that the people of LBC will press on to spiritual maturity.

• Pray for the new 12-week class beginning Oct 5, taught by Richard Hostetter and others. It will be an overview of the Bible, where "heart knowledge" and "head knowledge" will be experienced.
• Pray for renewed and new small groups being launched next month. Pray that these groups will be environments for growth in grace and knowledge of Christ.
• Pray for our elders who shepherd the flock, as they nudge us all in the direction of growth in Christ. 
• Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit in the use of the "ordinary means of grace:" worship, the preaching of the Word, communion, and community. Pray that the Spirit will work mightily to bring about growth in grace and knowledge for all of us this fall.
• Pray for our children and youth, who will also experience opportunity for growth in grace and knowledge in SPLASH and youth group. 
• Healthy growth involves head, heart, and hands. Pray that our church will increase in head knowledge, in heart passion for Christ and others, and in action as we obey and serve Jesus.
• Most of all, pray that love for God and others would increasingly be our experience as the gospel of Jesus Christ continues to transform us, individually and as a church.

August Daily Prayer #27: Digital Media

I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)

Overheard:
Molly: "I LOVE our new church web site! It's better than our church!"
Mike: "Now Honey, I wouldn't go THAT far."

The famous passage from 1 Corinthians (above) gives us a window into the heart of the apostle Paul. Love will use every legitimate means to bring the gospel to people for their salvation. When Paul says, "I have become all things to all people" he's not referring to compromise. Rather, it's a great reminder of how Jesus became man, in the incarnation, for the sake of our salvation. Christians creatively use neutral tools to bring the gospel into the space being occupied by real people.

In the first century, the vast network of Roman roads facilitated the spread of the gospel. So did the language of "common Greek" which was used in the New Testament. In 1454 the Bible was printed on the Gutenberg press, just in time for the Reformation. Tom Skinner, the famous African American evangelist, came to faith by listening to a radio sermon. The film Jesus has reached people around the world, many of whom had never seen a movie. Third Millenium, an Orlando-based ministry begun by Richard Pratt, uses the worldwide web to offer free on-line seminary courses for pastors in the developing world.

In God's providence, we have new opportunities to reach out through digital media. While this tool will never replace relationships as the primary means of outreach, it can be used as a bridge to real people. God has brought Dan Whaite and others along to help us engage the digital horizon for the gospel. Today, let's pray for these efforts.

• Thank God for our new web site, launched Aug 23. It's a great internal communication tool, as well as the face of LBC to those searching for a church through the web. Pray that it will become a powerful tool to enhance communication within our LBC family, and to attract people who are searching for a church. You can check out the new site and all it offers at: www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. As you "walk" through the site, remember to pray for the people and ministries of LBC on the site.
• Pray for Dan Whaite and Matt Brubaker, who have started Digital Acts, in an effort to help churches attract new visitors through digital media. Pray for them as they assist Lake Baldwin Church (and other churches) to more effectively tell our story and the story of the gospel. You can check out their vision at www.digitalacts.org.
• Pray for emerging initiatives to reach out as digital media replaces direct mail as a way of creating awareness and interest. 
• Pray for John Boggs, who will be producing a welcome video for our web site.
• Thank God for Don Dearing, who was in London this summer guiding a mission project using media. Over 5000 packets with Bibles and the Jesus film were given out. Pray for Don, as well as Doug and Denise Anderson, working with creative media around the world.
• Pray for Matt Watts, who is assisting people around the world through the use of digital media.
• Pray for Bart and Judy Johnson as they work to offer faith-based classical Christian education across China through Veritas Press.
• In all things, pray that the love of Christ would compel us as we build common ground relationships, and as we communicate through common ground media. Pray that the Word of God will spread, even as it did through the Roman road, the Gutenberg press, and other means throughout history.

August Daily Prayer #26: World at our Doorstep

Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. (Acts 2:5)

On the day of Pentecost, there were people from every nation in one city. In a reversal of the Tower of Babel, these people heard the gospel in their own tongue. The Holy Spirit was poured out, and Peter preached the gospel. Those who believed were baptized, and 3000 souls were added that day. This historic day was no accident. God had said in the Old Testament, "I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh."

God has a heart for the nations, wherever they are. Thanks to the new global culture of travel and technology, the nations of the world are gathered in the cities of the world. That is true of Orlando. Today, let's pray for the world at our doorstep.

• Thank God for the nations already represented at Lake Baldwin Church: Venezuela, Cuba, Sweden, Russia,India, Ukraine, and others.
• Pray for Karolina Faryga, member of a family from Ukraine that recently joined LBC. A growth has been discovered on her thyroid, and doctors fear it could be cancer. Pray that the tests will return negative. Pray for comfort for the family in the meantime.
• Thank God for our Global Missions Team, which has the vision for sending to the nations, but also for reaching the nations in Orlando.
• Think of the people from other nations in your neighborhood. For example, in our neighborhood we've met a family from Pakistan. Pray for God to be at work, and pray that our church will become a place of hospitality for those from other nations
• One organization each year looks for churches to provide host families for young people visiting from Japan. Pray that God will use this ministry, and even our church, to make a difference in this way.
• Pray for international students at nearby campuses, such as Full Sail, UCF, Rollins, and Valencia. Pray that God will raise up a ministry to these students, and that many will discover Christ will studying in the USA.
• Pray for the global heartbeat of Lake Baldwin Church. Ask God to continue to give us his heart for the nations.
• May the gospel so stir our hearts that we would sing with the hymn: "Let every kindred every tribe on this terrestrial ball, to him all majesty ascribe and crown him Lord of all."

August Daily Prayer #25: LBC Staff

...praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel... (Ephesians 6:18-19)

A number of the verses in the New Testament about prayer include a call to "alertness." Sometimes our spiritual senses can grow dull, and there is a kind of spiritual alertness needed in prayer. One reason for that is the spiritual conflict that rages in the unseen realm, what Donald Gray Barnhouse called "the invisible war." That's the context of these verses in Ephesians 6. The only way to wage such a conflict is on our knees, with spiritual alertness. 

It's interesting that Paul also requests prayer for himself. If the apostle Paul was in need of prayer, how much is that true of the rest of us! This month we've prayed for our deacons and elders by name. Today, would you take a few moments to pray for our LBC staff team?

• Fritz Schalmo: Pray for Fritz as he leads our youth ministry. He works with a wide range of ages, interest, and schedules. Along with that, he offers free counseling to folks in our church, and God is using him to see lives changed.  Remember to pray for Fritz and Barbie together, as they anticipate the birth of their first child, very soon.
• Michelle Crouse: God has gifted Michelle to bring the right kind of leadership to our children's ministry. Pray for her as she works with an extensive volunteer rotation, and as she relates to children and families. Pray, too, for her family: Joshua, Daniel, and Tiffany. Pray specifically that God would raise up a high level team around Michelle to coordinate Sunday mornings on a rotating basis.
• Tim Inman: In God's providence he has brought Tim and Angela to plan and lead our worship team and worship services on an interim basis. Pray for them, as Angela works a full-time job, and as Tim resumes his seminary studies. Pray for them, too, as they help lead our congregation to the throne of grace each week,
• Terri Poulos: Our new church administrator has stepped into this role with a great mix of admin skill and people skills. She and her husband, Jamie, just adopted a newborn child, and she is in New Orleans with the new baby. Pray for their family. Also, pray for Lisa Rigsby as she fills in for Terri during maternity leave.
• Mike and Molly Tilley: We always appreciate your prayers as we have the joy of relating to the LBC congregation. Pray for boldness in my preaching of Exodus. Pray for our spiritual and emotional strength in navigating a range of responsibilities.in 
• For the whole team, pray that we would experience and embody the grace of the gospel of Christ, serving him in dependence on the Holy Spirit. Pray that we would experience the fullness of faith, hope, and love as we follow Jesus

August Daily Prayer #24: Stand and See

Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord. (Exodus 14:13)

This scene from the Book of Exodus finds the people of Israel between a rock and a hard place. Behind them: the fearsome army of Pharaoh. In front of them: the impassable sea. These stirring words of Moses call them to stand and see the salvation of the Lord. 

Today, on Sunday, we rest in an even greater victory. Jesus, the greater Moses, won the salvation for us that we could never win for ourselves. Now we, too, are free from fear, for perfect love casts out fear. We, too, stand and see the salvation of the Lord. We rest in Christ's finished work, and we gather for worship to celebrate his mighty victory.

In the days ahead, we continue to express our dependence on God as we pray. Today, the day of the Lord, we rest and worship!

August Daily Prayer #23: Community Groups

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16)

Have you noticed how the parts of your physical body are interdependent? So it is, with the body of Christ, the church. When we're connected in healthy ways to others in the church, we grow up into Christ. Notice that the body "builds itself up in love." Each person has something to give, and is vital to the community. And, each person has something they need from relationships in the community. In a growing church, the relationships are dynamic, not static. Time and space are given for new people to be added, adding new richness to our community.

At Lake Baldwin Church, this process of relationship-building and growth are lived out in worship, in hospitality, in serving together, and in community groups (small groups). We've learned that our groups are one of the best places to help people grow as followers of Christ, as his disciples. Today, let's take some moments to pray for our growing network of community groups at LBC.

• Thank God for the people he has raised up to lead small groups. Pray for our group leaders as they meet on September 13 to prepare for the upcoming ministry season. Pray that God will raise up new leaders for new community groups.
• Pray for the many new people at LBC, and for those we have yet to meet. Pray that they will be able to connect to groups naturally and easily, as they are ready. Thank God for the welcoming environment that has been created in our groups.
• Pray for gospel community in all of our small groups. Pray that relationships will flourish, and that people will experience a safe place to bring their "real selves" into community.
• Pray for gospel growth in all of our small groups. Ask God to give a richness to the study of the Bible, and the use of gospel-centered content.
• Pray for gospel mission in our small groups, as people provide a place of care and use of spiritual gifts. Pray that people will be equipped to serve and minister as God leads them.
• Pray for the whole body of Christ at Lake Baldwin Church, that we will "grow up in every way into into him who is the head, who is Christ."

LBC Weekly: 8/24/14

This Sunday we begin a new series on the Book of Exodus. Over the years, we’ve found that people of all stages of the spiritual journey have enjoyed the stories of the Old Testament.  As I’ve been preparing over the course of the summer, I’ve fallen in love with Exodus all over again. We’ve entitled the series, “Take Off Your Sandals.” That’s a reference to Exodus 3:5, the famous story where God appears to Moses in the burning bush. I hope you’ll plan now to join us every week that you’re in town. And, this will be a great series for inviting friends and family to church. Thank you for your prayers, as we all, like Moses, prepare to meet with God in the Book of Exodus!

Worship This Sunday at 10:45

* We will begin our Exodus series with a message on Exodus 1:11-14, “Dark Clouds.”
* Molly Tilley will share her story of experience with the “dark clouds”--wondering “where is God” in times of depression, loss or disappointment.
* Remember to pray for worship, and for all who might be going through a time of “dark clouds.”

How to Enjoy and Benefit from the Exodus Series

* Think of this series as an opportunity to become better acquainted with this amazing story. Read the sermon text each week before you come to church.
* Take advantage of discussion questions that will be posted on our web site each week. You can use them with your small group, with your family, or for personal devotions.
* Look for a personal “take-away” each week, and share it with someone. You’ll see that each story in Exodus is our story, relevant to our lives.

It’s not too late to sign up for daily prayer in August!

* Almost 80 people at LBC have signed up to pray each day!
* To sign up, just send an e-mail to: Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com.
* You’ll receive a daily e-mail with a passage of Scripture and a brief prayer focus.
* Take some moments to pray at a time and in a way that is comfortable for you.

Come to the prayer gathering Monday evening at 7:00

* Come and join us, right after dinner!
* We gather for an hour of prayer at the LBC Office/Hub, 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando, FL 32814.
* A simple prayer guide is provided. No experience needed.

Save These Dates

* August 24: Exodus series begins!
* August 25 at 7:00: Prayer gathering at LBC Office.
* September 13, 9 am to noon: Small Group Leaders
* September 26, 6:00 PM: Hospitality Event! Everyone invited as elders and wives host dinners in their homes.
* October 5, 9:30 am, LBC Office: “Survey of the Bible” class with Richard Hostetter begins.
* October 19, noon, in the park: Food Truck Event right after church.

In His Grace,
LBC Staff

August Daily Prayer #22: Baldwin Park and beyond

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

After his resurrection, Jesus entrusted his mission to the disciples. He promised them the power of the Holy Spirit. He also gave them a geographic mandate. The result was the planting of vital churches throughout the Roman world.

We like to think of Baldwin Park as our "Jerusalem." We worship there, but it's not an end in itself. Before Baldwin Park existed, the area around Lake Baldwin was a Naval Training Center. Men and women were trained and then sent out around the world. Today, we see Baldwin Park as a community in need of Jesus. And, we see it as a place to equip believers to fulfill God's purposes wherever He has placed them. The "gathered" church that worships in Baldwin Park is also the "scattered" church that lives and works throughout the city, in Winter Park, Maitland, Oviedo, Orlando, Longwood, College Park, Thornton Park, and other neighborhoods.

So our Baldwin Park location is not an end, it's a means to reaching our Judea, our Samaria, and the ends of the earth, by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Thank God for the people who live around the city who dreamed of a church in Baldwin Park before we ever existed. Thank God for their prayers, their time, and their resources.
Thank God for the trust relationships that our church has with the organizations and businesses that are shaping Baldwin Park. Pray that this trust continues and grows.
Pray for the slow and steady growth of the kingdom among the 10,000 or so people in Baldwin Park. Pray for growing bridges of connection through relationships, parties, events, our worship service, and creative media.
Pray for the growing number of people around the city who worship at Lake Baldwin Church. Pray that God would use LBC to equip believers throughout the city, nurturing a network of small groups in homes and businesses around the city.
Pray for the heart-softening work of the Holy Spirit on behalf of the many individuals and families who need a genuine taste of the gospel. Pray for genuine conversions, and for a growing number of Christ-followers.
Pray for Audobon Elementary and Glenridge Middle School. Pray that students and families will be drawn to SPLASH and our youth ministry.
Pray for business owners in Baldwin Park, such as Vincent and Marilyn, French owners of the new Cafe 906. Pray for the "good" of these businesses, and for the openness of business owners to the good news of Jesus.

August Daily Prayer #20: Hope

We have this hope as an anchor of the soul, firm and secure. (Hebrews 6:19a)

On storm-tossed seas, a ship needs a strong anchor to keep the ship from drifting off-course. We learn from this passage that our hope, our anchor, "enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf." (Hebrews 6:19b-20). Christian hope is not a "hope so" hope--it's a "know so" hope. It is firm and secure.

"...remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 1:3) In a healthy Christian community, hope produces a kind of steadfastness in the storms of life.

In the early days of Lake Baldwin Church, someone said that hope is the main thing that we offer to the world around us. That's a good point, because before we knew Christ, we were "having no hope and without God in the world." (Ephesians 2:12) Today, let's pray for the nurturing of hope in our hearts, and for the offering of hope to the world.

• There will be storms that come our way, of suffering or persecution or testing. Pray for our congregation, that we would be steadfast in hope.
• There are some who feel a loss of hope, who grow weary in waiting. Pray that God, by his grace, will strengthen their hope.
• Romans 15:4 teaches that the stories of the Old Testament are given to strengthen our hope. Pray for this miracle of God's grace as we engage the stories of Exodus starting this Sunday.
• The prosperous culture around us obscures the despair of heart and the longing for hope of those without Christ. Pray that God will use the outreach efforts of our church community to extend the hope of the gospel.
• "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Let's pray this prayer for one another, for all of our gatherings, and for the continued renewal of hope in our lives.

August Daily Prayer #19: Faith

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

When the apostle Paul wanted to affirm the health of a church in the New Testament, he noted three things: faith, hope, and love. Today, we pray simply for the nurturing and strengthening of faith in the hearts of the people of Lake Baldwin Church.

Faith is dependence on the promises of God, even when we don't yet see the things for which we hope. Faith is about the future, trusting God for all the unknowns of the future. Faith is not a blind crossing of our fingers, but rather a resting in God's gracious character, his love, his power, his wisdom.

• This fall, some will experience suffering and ask the question, "Where is God?" Pray in advance for all who might struggle in this way. Pray that the upcoming message from Exodus 1 will encourage those asking that question.
• This fall, some of the "lost sheep" (Luke 15) will hear the good news of the gospel. Pray that they would put their faith in Christ, trusting his death and resurrection, which they cannot see.
• This fall, those who follow Christ will face the subtle and alluring temptations of sin, risking the future for the immediate. Pray for faith in God's goodness being better than the passing pleasures of sin.
• This fall, some will face the darkness of despair, wondering if God's grace is indeed greater than their sin. Pray that we all will trust the gospel.
• This fall, many will take a step of faith, trying something new. It might be leading a small group, serving, loving another person, or even starting a new ministry in the church. Pray for joy in the adventure of faith.
• This fall, we will meet individuals and families we do not yet know. Pray in advance for them, that they will connect in loving community.
• This fall, we will trust God for staffing decisions, new leaders, new volunteers, resources, and outreach events. Pray that we would see God work as we pray and trust him now.
• Pray that each Sunday in worship we would see again, through eyes of faith, the beauty of our Savior, "looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 11:1).

August Daily Prayer #18: School

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17)

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)

It's Monday morning, and it's back to another week of prayer. These verses remind us of the high view of Christ in the book of Colossians. He is not only the head of the church, his body, but he is also Lord of all creation. As Colossians 1:17 says, "He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."

Last week and this week, children of all ages are back to school. Our teachers are back to teaching, with all of the pressure that goes with that. Administrators are back to all the complexities and challenges of school. For those who belong to Christ, we are reminded that there is not really a split between sacred and secular. Our academic efforts matter to God, and we serve "the Lord Christ" in all things.

As a church, we pray not only for "the church gathered" on Sunday mornings, but we also pray for "the church scattered" around our city. Let's pray today for students and teachers who are returning to school.

• Thank God for the teachers and administrators in our church, who teach in public schools, private schools, and home school. Pray for Patti Rader, Ravi Jain, Kelley Jain, Lynn Steele, Valerie Kennedy, Dwain Noble, Abby Noble, and others who serve in the education field.
• Pray for the young children who are beginning school for the first time. Pray for good teachers, friends, and safety.
• Pray for our middle school and high school youth, at a time in life when peers begin to exert a major influence on them. Pray for strength to remain faithful to Christ, and the wisdom to navigate social situations.
• Pray for the children in SPLASH who are off to elementary school. Pray for supportive learning and social environments. Pray for their parents as they continue to nurture these children in the faith.
• Pray for the LBC students who are off to college this month. As you recall their names, pray for them specifically. Pray that they would find strong local churches and campus Christian movements where they can grow in their faith.
• As the "church scattered" lives out the love of Christ, pray that the joy of the gospel will fill the hearts of students and teachers. Pray that the richness of knowing and serving "the Lord Christ" will come alive in each heart.

August Daily Prayer #17: Praise

Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name. (Psalm 100:4)

It's the Lord's Day! So we rest and worship today. We rest from our daily labors in prayer, knowing that the Lord builds the house. We worship because the Lord is good, and his steadfast love endures forever.

Today is the day the Lord has made. How do we receive this gift?

• Look back on the last week. Thank him for mercies he has shown. Acknowledge and turn from sins in thought, word, and deed. Look to the Savior who paid for all your sins, and who gives you his righteousness.
• Look up to him today, giving praise with our hearts and lips. We gather with his people to re-focus our hearts on God. Let the worship service be for you a time of renewal. Let new love for Jesus spring up as you sing new songs, and hear the preaching of the Word.
• Look forward to the week ahead, with a renewed heart and a fresh beginning. Enter the week with new reserves of faith, hope, and love. Remember that the risen Christ lives in you, through the Holy Spirit.

August Daily Prayer #16: RTS

For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel. (Ezra 7:10)

Ezra's approach to the Word of God is an example to every follower of Christ. He sought to learn the Scriptures, to obey the will of God, and to teach others. Jesus himself placed a high value on the Word of God, using it frequently and quoting it three times in the temptation story of Matthew 4:1-11.

We can also apply Ezra's example to the many young graduate students at our nearby seminary, Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS). Like other churches in Orlando, Lake Baldwin Church works closely with RTS as that school seeks to train a new generation of Christian pastors and counselors. We can rejoice that the global church is being strengthened through the work of RTS. Today, let's pray for our friends at RTS, and for the faculty and students who work closely with LBC.

• Pray for Don Sweeting, president of RTS. He will be preaching at LBC tomorrow. Pray, too, for Cheryl Foca, LBC member, who serves as assistant to Dr. Sweeting.
• Thank God for Mike Glodo and Steve Childers, professors who worship with us at LBC. Steve teaches church planting, spiritual formation, and evangelism. Mike Glodo teaches Old Testament as well as communication (preaching) classes. Pray for them as they touch the lives of so many future leaders.
• Thank God for the RTS students who have been able to get practical ministry experience at LBC: Dave Abney, Soon Pak, Tyler Groff, Mike Aitcheson, Josh Bales, Fritz Schalmo, Ben Mills, Liz Edrington, and many others who have gone into church work and counseling. Pray for a lifetime of fruitfulness.
• Pray for RTS students currently serving at LBC: Tim Inman (worship), John Hill (sound, set-up), and others who have been a blessing to us.
• Pray for the pizza lunch at RTS this Thursday, when we will be making connections with incoming students. Pray for the continued development of internship opportunities at LBC.
• Thank God for the promise of Jesus in Matthew 16:18--"I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Pray that God will mightily use his servants who graduate from RTS to be part of Jesus' plan.

August Daily Prayer #15: Shepherds

So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. (1 Peter 5:1-4)

The Lord Jesus Christ is the chief Shepherd, and he has called the elders of the church to be his under-shepherds. In God's wisdom, there is a plurality of leadership. And, there are words for the heart of the elder: to be willing and eager; to be an example; and to look to Christ for the reward.

The people of LBC elected their first elders in 2009. Almost a year ago, based on this passage and others, we began to put in place a "shepherding plan." Shepherds are to know the flock, feed the flock, lead the flock, and guard the flock. God's grace is needed, as human elders are sinners too, never feeling adequate for the work. That is why it's good to pray for our elders!

• Pray for our elders: Danny Anderson, Richard Hostetter, Ed Holtz, Mike Mikkelson, and Bart Johnson. Pray for caring hearts, humble hearts, eager hearts.
• Knowing the flock: Pray for the elders as they initiate relationships with those who are part of their charge.
• Feeding the flock: Pray for the oversight of preaching and teaching throughout our church. Pray that the people of LBC will always be provided with green pastures of growth.
• Leading the flock: Pray for wisdom in the work of planning, oversight, decision-making, etc.  Specifically, pray for God's grace upon our ministry planning process, taking place in November as we anticipate 2015.
• Guarding the flock: Pray that God will continue to protect our church from division, spiritual attack, and unhealthy teaching.
• Pray that our elders will look to Jesus as the chief Shepherd, humbled by the gospel, empowered by the Spirit, and following the loving example of Jesus.
• Begin praying now for future elders who will begin officer training this fall.

LBC Weekly: 8/17/14

We are happy to announce that Dr. Don Sweeting will be preaching at Lake Baldwin Church this Sunday. Dr. Sweeting is the president of Reformed Theological Seminary, and author of the book, How to Finish the Christian Life.

Read on for: Sign-up to pray daily; latest financial update; dates for your calendar.

Worship This Sunday at 10:45

* Dr. Don Sweeting will wrap up our summer series with a message from 2 Timothy 4:6-8, “Finishing the Christian Life.”
* Soon and Erin Pak will be with us! They will share highlights of their 2 years in China, serving with English Language Institute of China (ELIC). Soon served for four years as the youth director at LBC.
* Please take some moments to pray for the work of God’s Spirit in worship. Pray also for SPLASH, and for youth group on Sunday evening.

It’s Not Too Late to Sign up to Pray Daily in August

* The elders have called our congregation to prayer during August, for the spiritual opportunities ahead of us this fall.
* Over 60 people have already signed up to pray each day. People have been signing up throughout the month.
* Sign up by sending an e-mail to: Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com (mailto:Mike.Tilley@lakebaldwinchurch.com) .
* You will receive a brief daily devotional from Scripture, and some prayer requests.

Prayer Gathering Each Monday from 7-8 pm

* Elders are hosting a weekly prayer gathering at the LBC Office/Hub, 1300 Lake Baldwin Lane, Orlando 32814.
* Everyone is welcome to join us! We will have a prayer guide, and will be praying for the work of the church, as well as personal needs.

Financial Update as of July 31

* July contributions: $54,936.08
* July expenses: $53,005.06
* January-July contributions: $355,563.43.
* January-July expenses: $344,851.32
* If you’d like to bring your giving up-to-date, simply go to www.lakebaldwinchurch.com.

Dates for Your Calendar

* August 18, 7-8 pm: Prayer gathering at LBC office
* August 25, 7-8 pm: Prayer gathering at LBC office
* August 24: Exodus series begins--”From Slavery to Freedom”
* September 13, 9 am to noon: Small group leaders’ gathering
* September 26, 6 pm: Hospitality Event--Elders & Wives hosting Shepherding Groups
* October 19 after church: Food Truck Event

In His Grace,
LBC Staff