February 10, 2023

Reconciliation

Scripture Focus this Sunday, February 12: Matthew 5:21-37

Jacob had every reason to be apprehensive. Years earlier, he had stolen the birthright of his brother, Esau, and taken away his blessing. As a result, Esau sought to take Jacob’s life, forcing him to flee to a distant land.

Years later as Jacob returned home, he was filled with anxiety and fear and made elaborate preparations to be ready for Esau’s reaction. But when these two brothers met, all the animosity and anger seemed to have disappeared. The bitter memories seemed forgotten. Both were in tears as they embraced. No matter what had happened in the past, they were restored.

How easily we can allow wounds of words and actions to fester! Over the years, emotions can grip our lives and poison our hearts and minds. The Bible tells us that God wants us to be reconciled with others. He wants us to live in harmony and peace and realize that He can help set us free.

Jesus even taught that before bringing our gifts and approaching Him in prayer, we need to be reconciled to our brother (Matthew 5:23-24).

Ask God to show you if there are people with whom you need to be reconciled – perhaps an old friend, a relative, someone at your work or church. Remember, Jesus taught us to pray, “Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” (Matthew 6:12). May this be a day of reconciliation and forgiveness!

Copied: Inspiration Ministries

To the members of the Joy Sunday School class: those who can are asked to please make plans to come to the Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am this Sunday, February 12. We will be working on a Valentine’s Day project for our shut ins. We also welcome all who would like to join us as we reach out to those unable to attend church and let them know they are remembered and missed.

Our Grief Support Group is meeting on the first and third Mondays of each month in the Fellowship Hall at 11:00 am. Our next meeting will be Monday, February 20. All are welcome!

Our Administrative Board met on Sunday, February 4. Our Pastor, Lay Leader, church leaders, and board members are aware of the concerns and confusion about the future, especially in relation to changes in The United Methodist Church. There are informational packets that have been prepared and are available in the church vestibule. Please pick up a copy and if you have questions or concerns, please speak with Pastor John or your Lay Leader, Steve Moseley. Please be aware that if you hear concerning information from friends, or those in the community, it is better to get clear answers from your informed church leaders.

Steven Duell is selling Lancaster area multi use discount cards for $10 each for Scouts. Please see Steven to purchase your cards!

Our United Women in Faith will meet on Monday, February 13 (PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE) at 7:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. 

Our Adult Sunday School classes continue to meet each Sunday at 10:00 am. If you are unsure which class would better suit you, please contact the church office, 285-3864. Our Youth and Children’s Sunday School classes will be meeting at 10:00 am as well, youth and children in the family life center.

The Staff Pastor Relations Committee is asked to meet on Saturday, February 18 at 10:00 am in the Fellowship Hall. This will be a training meeting.

The United Methodist Men’s Ministry of Hopewell UMC extends an invitation to all who are helping bring the love of Christ to our communities. On Saturday, February 18, we will host the 22nd annual Christian Men’s Fellowship. We will be serving dinner from 5-6 pm This is a free event. A love offering will be received for a local charity! Our guest speaker will be Dale “Bumpy” Walters. Worship will begin at 6:15 pm.  

All men of all ages are invited to our United Methodist Men's Breakfast on Sunday, February 19 at 7:45 am in the Men's Rec. Bldg. Join us for breakfast, a devotional and business meeting.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR A CHILI COOK OFF

 to benefit Bethel Homeless Shelters

Sunday, February 19th beginning at 4 p.m.

India Hook UMC, 3300 Mt. Gallant Rd. Rock Hill

All Rock Hill District United Methodist Churches are invited. Come and learn about Bethel

Shelters, and enjoy fellowship with others from around the district. Each congregation is also asked to bring salads and/or desserts to share. District Superintendent Anthony Hodge will be one of our judges, along with Bethel personnel and a local politician. Direct questions to Kendall Farnum (kendall.j.farnum@gmail.com)  

Join us for our Ash Wednesday service on Wednesday, February 22 at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary.

Zion will be hosting the Rock Hill District Clergy meeting on Thursday, March 2. Thank you to the ones who have agreed to help set up and serve breakfast for those who will be attending.

Spaghetti Luncheon

Sunday, March 5 following worship in the TFLC

Eat in or take out, plates are $10 for adults and $6 for children under 10. Proceeds to benefit the Tony Neal Scholarship Fund.

To my family and church

family;  January 28, 2023 was my 80th birthday and thanks to my Family it was a very special day. My heartfelt thanks to each one of them for having a birthday party to celebrate. Thank you to everyone who came out and helped me celebrate.  Your presence, love, cards, kind words and gifts are greatly appreciated. Love to each one. You are all so very nice!       

                             ~ Thank you, Barbara Hall

Dear Zion Church Family, Thank you for all of the thoughtful cards, phone calls, visits, and prayers. I have been so blessed by the kind thoughts and words of encouragement. Continue to pray that I will be able to walk again.      ~ Yours in Christ, JoAnne Smith

Special Gifts to Zion Church

In Honor of:

Ashley and Daisy Brunson and Barbara Hall by Hazel and Terry Robinson

Linda McAteer and Faye Murphy by Frances Parris

Ryan and Miriam Griffin, Ivy and Luther McAteer, Mike and Barbara Vick, Susan and Steve Duell and Family, and Kim Yost by Judy Hammond

In Memory of:

In loving memory of Harris Plyler by Hazel and Terry Robinson

Congratulations to Cody and Brooke Steele Haigler in the birth of a baby girl, Joleigh Ann on January 31 weighing 9 lb., 9 oz., 22 1/8 inches long. Proud big sisters are Emmie Lou and Allie Mae and proud grandparents are Wayne and Leigh Ann Steele.

February 9: Zach Hall, Mason Parr, Mr. and Mrs. Danny Thomas

February 10: Ryan Griffin

February 11: Lane Knight

February 12: Kim Williams

February 14: Tim Ray, Frances Robinson, Kristina Ray

February 15:Lee Watts

February 16: Ryan Middleton, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Hinson

The Record Speaks....

Present 2/5 for Sunday School: 43

Present 2/5 for Worship: 76

Needed each week for General Fund: $4,182

Received for 2/5 for General Fund: $4,304

Received for Building Fund: $110

Received for Children's Fund: $30

There are many options available to give to the continuing ministry and outreach of Zion UMC. You may give through Paypal on the website www.zionumc.com, text your giving to 803-525-1834 and follow the secure link, or if you are not comfortable giving online, you may drop your offering in the mail to Zion UMC at 1665 Zion Road, Lancaster, SC 29720 or drop off in the secure drop box that is located beside the double doors where the buses are. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Missy at 803-804-2434 or leave a message at the church office, 803-285-3864 and your call will be returned. Thank you for your continued support of the Mission that is Zion!!

"...because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to."

Deuteronomy 15:10