See You in Robinson!

It seems like life and ministry always present new challenges! This year's theme at General Conference will be THE REFINER'S FIRE! Learn how God is using our struggles for His good! God bless you all as your serve the risen Lord!

Blessed Christmas

The Angels were thrilled to announce the birth of Christ! They had seen fellow angels destroyed by sin and mankind had fallen into the same sinful, hopeless condition. But wait! God had found a way for man. Jesus was coming as a real man in order to succeed where Adam had failed! Man would have the opportunity to turn from Adam's failure to Jesus' success! We can turn and let Jesus rule instead of sin! Glory to God in the highest!

See Y'all in Port Neches!

I hope to see you all in Port Neches for General Conference!  Whether you make it not, please pray!!!

Thanks for your prayers!

I thank God for all the prayer warriors in the Bethel Methodist Church! Our precious Angie Carleton has been in the fight of her life with Multiple Myeloma! Thanks again for praying. Many of you know that I've had my own health scare. I'm still trying to shake the effects of a heart rhythm issue. But life, for the most part, has returned to "normal"! Keep praying for all our churches, we all have need of God's grace for our hour of opportunity! Never forget what the church is to be! "The church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth"! I Timothy 3:15. Press on!

Summer Has Ended

"The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved" Jeremiah 8:20

These sad words are followed by "is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?"  There is an effective medicine and there is a qualified physician! God's grace is sufficient! We can be forgiven and we can have the victory over sinning if we only hear the truth and believe it!  Why don't they hear? Sadly, many do not want to hear. But I thank God for those who are hungering and thirsting after righteousness! What a productive summer! Many have heard His words and have believed the truth!  Youth Camp was great and the various VBS programs has planted seeds and reaped a harvest! This summer ends with much rejoicing in what God has done and how satan has been thwarted! Thank you for your prayers!

We've A Story To Tell

We've a story to tell to the nations that shall turn their heart to the right!  We have the truth of Jesus Christ to share with the world!  We also have a testimony of His faithfulness.  Our General Conference was a true blessing to all in attendance.  I am very proud of the way the Hill Country church hosted this year's conference.  I am thankful for all who participated and were instrumental in such a marvelous work.  We thank God for grace that creates pure hearts and clean hands.  For anyone out there who refuses to believe in God's scriptural holiness, I plead with you to use objective revelation as your guide.  We fail to see the truth when our own subjective experience is our guide.  We must look to God's Word and let His grace work through our faith!  Believe Him!  "For the grace of God hat bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" Titus 2:11&12 

Back Home

It has been a joy to be in every Bethel Methodist Church!  Cindy and I found many reasons to be encouraged about what is happening in every local church.  We all have important challenges that require constant vigilance and prayer, but God is with us!  As we get back to a more regular schedule in our home church, preparations have kicked into high gear to host this year's General Conference.  The Conference is scheduled for May 1-3, 2014.  The Bethel Methodist Church of the Hill Country is excited to welcome you all to our local church home.  Please be in prayer and make plans to join us! 

Little Is Much!

Please be in prayer for the Winter Retreat.  Also, pray for Cindy and me as we hit the road for all the local conferences.  We always look forward to seeing everyone!  When I ask you to "pray", do you really do it?  Please pray for me as the spiritual leader of the Bethel Methodist Church.  I know that we are not large.  But remember what Jesus did with a little boy's lunch one day.  He took it, blessed it and used it to feed a multitude.  Join me in asking God to take the "little" we have and make it much! Read John 6:1-14

Preaching the Truth

Since I'm not a constant blogger let me say blessed Thanksgiving, meaningful Christmas and Happy New Year.  How's that for efficiency?  I know how busy most of you are.  Let me get to the point.  The Bethel Methodist Church has chosen the "one thing needful"(Luke 10:38-42).  Because of that we stand ready to preach.  If we sit at His feet and hear His word, we are indeed ready!  Like Jeremiah, it burns in our bones!  But wait a minute.  God gives us one very important guiding principle when it comes to proclaiming the good news.  That good counsel can be found in Ephesians 4:15, "speaking the truth in love".  We do not speak all the truth and stand back with a "take it or leave it" attitude.  Yes, we understand that God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge(Hosea 4:6).  We also know that "through (our) knowledge a weak brother (can) perish"(I Corinthians 8:11).  The way we present the truth is critical.  Without the proper foundation of genuine human compassion and real love we will fail.  We must learn to speak the truth in love!  We must learn to provide plenty of milk for babies to grow and we must carefully introduce meat to those who are ready.  Jesus was the master at putting this into practice.  Look to Him.  Learn how he operated.  They will know we are Christians by our love!    

High Flying Retreat

It was a great blessing to preach the gospel to a wonderful group of young men and women at the last retreat!  From the first service on Saturday night to the goodbyes on Monday, I saw evidence of the presence of God's Holy Spirit.  God helped in us sharing the Word and the young people were still and willing to hear.  Thank you to all who helped make this retreat a blessing!  The North Texas church prepared outstanding meals, Tim Hogan's organization was impeccable, the devotions were riveting and the attitudes were the best!  I enjoyed watching the campers fly through the woods of east Texas on the zip line.  I look forward to riding God's zip line through the gates of glory!  Have a great school year and keep believing in Jesus Christ! 

Back In School Retreat

I have the privilege of being the speaker at the retreat.  Please pray that God would give me the right message and that the young people will have open hearts.  I thank God for one of the camp testimonies that we heard in the Hill Country church.  It went something like this: "I loved camp and thank God that it was simply a time of strengthening instead of a time to get back on track. God has been faithful to me as I have trusted Him throughout the past year!".  Wow!  What a blessing.  God's grace is sufficient for teenagers living in this sinful world!

See You at Camp!

As Senior Camp Evangelist I am looking forward to camp.  It wasn't long ago (or at least it doesn't seem that long ago) that I was a camper at youth camp.  Some of my best childhood memories are from camp.  My favorite memories since becoming an adult are of my Dad preaching and the Holy Spirit coming in such a mighty way that we were, in my Dad's words, "breathing the air of heaven".  I also remember as a teenager being glad on the rare occasion of Dad not being present at camp.  Dad has now gone on to heaven and I will never, ever again be glad that Dad is not at camp!  This will be one of those first for all of us.  Arthur Slye will not be present for a Bethel Methodist Youth Camp.  He will be missed.  But be of good cheer, God, the Holy Spirit shall be there!  Pray that the gospel will have free course!  These young people need to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ!

Arthur L. Slye May 13, 1931 - February 2, 2013

Each person we know in this tiny but significant denomination has a journey which crossed paths with Arthur Slye.  My first meeting was at a Youth camp in Weatherford, Texas when I was 12 or so.  I got to know Larry and Jerry fairly well from camp, but seldom bumped into Arthur at EMC Conferences we attended.  I was at the Western EMC Conference as a quiz-team member, but don't recall anything of Arthur's ordination at Azuza Pacific College that year. 
In July of 1973, our paths crossed again as "The Good Life" sang at the Irving EMC.  Again in 1975, I was with the Duncanville EMC when Irving dedicated their new sanctuary. 
In the spring of 1978, Brenda and I moved from Little Rock to Irving to begin my radio career in Dallas.  From that time to this, we have never been a part of any other church. 
The most amazing experience was the turbulent District Conference in Sweetwater shortly after our church had withdrawn, then returned to the denomination.  Arthur was nominated for DS along with five other candidates.  From receiving only a handful of votes on the first ballot, he was overwhelmingly elected on the fifth ballot, which was nothing short of a miracle for a man so out-of-favor with church leadership.  Events soon snowballed within a year when Arthur chose to preach some of his deepest-held truths to the District Conference at Irving.  The firestorm of his corrupt heresy trial was followed by the withdrawal of Port Neches, Robinson and Irving EMC.  I belive Cross Plains EMC might have withdrawn, too, but can't be sure. 
The work of forming a new denomination from three churches was hard work, but exciting.  I would not trade that experience for anything.  Working with Arthur to develop founding principles, a new government structure, a new discipline and the first brochure was a high privilege for those of us who were able to help. 
Fast forward to yesterday's meeting in Bryan: 
Arthur and Chris both looked great.  We had a wonderfully sincere Interchurch Council Meeting with a great turnout.  We were looking forward to a similar experience at the North Texas church during Conference weekend in May.  Finally, Arthur and Chris would see our new facility and experience the traditional organ and piano hymn music they so appreciated. 
They spent lunch with their families, Jerry, Cindy, Nate, Jennifer, Eric, Kendall and Allie.  Not a bad last day on earth for our Founder in Faith.  Now, he's experiencing all the wonder and excitement he has looked forward to nearly 54 years.  May God bless and keep Arthur and all his relatives and christian family he has left behind.   

Light Sent Into Darkness

"The people which sat in darkness saw great light" Matthew 4:16

When Jesus came to the earth it was a time of great darkness.  While Jesus was still a baby, Herod the king put out an order to kill all the children two years old and under that lived in the region of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16).  Can you imagine the great sorrow that spread through the land?  Today we see the same kind of darkness in our world.  It is into this great darkness that God seeks to send the light of the gospel.  God desires that we provide a stark contrast to the darkness of sin.  By His grace we are children of light.  We shine as lights in the darkness.  God is exposing sin in the light of His goodness through Jesus Christ.  When God is finished, sin shall not rise up a second time (Nahum 1:9).  Stay strong in the Lord and shine as lights in this present darkness.  "I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" Romans 8:18.   

I Am "Back"

Many of you know that I broke a bone in my back a few weeks ago.  Thank you for all the cards and prayers.  I am back and ready to be out there in the ministry of the Word.  I know that God has used my down time to get me ready for the task ahead.  There are many reasons to be excited and many challenges to discourage those who look at the size of our enemies instead of the power of our God.  Remember, "the kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven" Matthew 13:33.  Yeast is a tiny, rounded, colorless one celled plant that floats through the air everywhere.Yeast creates chemical reactions on the starch and sugar in bread batter.  From one cell of yeast another is formed, creating the same chemical reaction within the neighboring starch or sugar.  All we need is to allow the Holy Spirit to impart His Word in us!  We then will naturally impart change to those around us.  All we have to do is be with people.  We need to look at every relationship as an opportunity for the leaven(yeast) of the kingdom!

Summer Ends With A Bang.....or a fang!

We have had a wonderful Summer that will not soon be forgotten!  VBS reminded us that God gives us the power to do the right thing!  Camp brought fresh commitments that have shown lasting results.  I had the privilege of baptizing five young people after camp. "IN, Not Of" was not just a camp theme, it is God's call on our lives!  I enjoyed some needed time off with my family in Florida.  The Summer ended with me walking to turn off a small water sprinkler that I had placed on one of the many parched places in my yard.  With little water around, a near by snake decided that my dripping water hose was the perfect opportunity to get a refreshing drink.  Little did that snake know what a ride it was in for when it slithered between my bare foot and the inside of my sandel.  After stomping around like someone trying to summon rain through a strange ritual I found that I had been bitten on the end of a toe.  I must have slung that snake into the next county because I haven't seen it since.  As I was stomping around I saw enough of the snake to be 99% sure that it was a garter snake.  Never let anyone tell you "they wont hurt ya".  The bite may not be venemous enough to hurt, but the bite itself is no picnic!  Stay cool and trust God to keep you from that old serpent whose bite is indeed poisonous!

Revival

We were blessed by a wonderful host, the Robinson church, at General Conference.  Thank you Robinson for a tremendous job.  Remember, true revival can come if two things are present.  First, the message must be right.  Second, the people must be right by that message; they must believe the message.  Pray that we will continue to be a message centered people with a God centered message.  Pray that our people would believe that message, the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Pray for revival!

Will I See You in Robinson?

May 3-5 are the dates of our General Conference. I hope you are making plans to be there. It is my prayer that 104 South Old Robinson Road, Robinson, Texas 76706 will be remembered as the place where that revival began. When we look back to 2012 will we simply remember a conference theme or will we be grateful for something real and lasting? I'm trusting God for a General Conference that will make a lasting impact for the kingdom of God! Will you join me in asking God for what we need?

Praying For Revival

As I finish my tour of local churches, my attention turns to General Conference. At the last council meeting I informed our Robinson church that the theme for this General Conference shall be Revival. Now I am asking every Bethel Methodist and all other concerned Christians to ask God for revival in and through the Bethel Methodist Church. At our last Pastor's retreat we sensed a move of God in our own hearts. We felt directly led to pray for God to send revival. Pray for all the preparations leading up to this important event in Robinson, Texas.

Respect For Authority

Respect for authority is one of societies greatest needs. Ephesians chapter five and six deal with the principle of authority. All authority under God is to be a reflection of the ultimate authority. Husbands are the authority in marriage. However, Ephesians 5:25 says, "husbands, love your wives,even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it." Authority under God is never given for the selfish ambitions of the earthly authority. It is granted to benefit God in the entity that the authority is authorized to serve. The same is true of parental authority. Ephesians 6:1 says "children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right". It goes on in Ephesians 6:4 to say, "fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord". Again, this authority is not granted to serve the one in authority! Authority is granted to serve God in every aspect of human life. This principle can be seen in governmental power(Romans 13:1-7). Listen and heed God's wise counsel in Hebrews 13:7, "obey them that have the rule over you". Parents; do your children know who is in charge? They better know.....and you better know who is in charge of you! God help us to maintain proper godly authority!

Have a Blessed Christmas

I pray that you will all have a Christmas filled with the wonder of our salvation. God needed one holy man to remedy what Adam did when he failed us and plunged us into sin. God could not find such a righteous man so He became one! Now because of Jesus Christ you can reject what Adam did and accept Jesus as your new head(authority). Have you received and are you following that precious savior?

Thanks Be Unto God

"Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift" II Corinthians 9:15

Let us pause and consider where we would be without the grace of God! May we dwell upon what Jesus Christ made possible for our heavenly Father. He longed to forgive; yet His justice demanded that we be forever separated from Him and His creation. Jesus came, laying aside the privileges of his Deity, and lived as a real man. He faced the temptations and the sorrow of the world in the weakness and frailty of human nature. He was faithful unto death by depending on the power of the Holy Spirit. He qualified as the Lamb of God. Where Adam failed; Jesus succeeded! Through Adam we all were separated from God and were total failures. By faith in Jesus Christ, accepting his forgiveness and accepting him as our new and living head, we are more than conquerors. As I express my thanks to God for his unspeakable gift I am compelled to say "unspeakable" thanks to the God of my salvation! We do speak of the gift and we do give thanks; but all language falls short when it comes to speaking of the gift and for expressing the gratitude God's people hold in their hearts. Have a blessed Thanksgiving. And since I'm writing this the day before Veteran's Day I say thank you to all who have served in our armed forces. Thank you all for being earthly examples of the greater heavenly sacrifice and reality.

Workers for the Harvest

In Luke 10:2 Jesus said "the harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest". Jesus said these words as He was sending his disciples out "two and two". From where are these new workers going to come? They are going to come from the harvest! As we are instrumental in bringing people to the Lord we are at the same time being instrumental in God sending workers! What a double privilege it is when we see the Lord reap His harvest!

Rain!

Saturday Cindy and I drove back from Robinson, where Cindy had spoken to the Robinson women on "Relationship Evangelism". As we arrived back in town it was raining! Praise God for the rain! When I looked at my "Brad Barton" rain guage it indicated that my yard had welcomed 1 3/4" of rain! The next day we were blessed with another 1/2". In two days we had been blessed with more rain than in the last three months. At church on Sunday you could see the joy on the faces of God's people. We had all grown weary of the drought! We thank Him for the physical showers of blessing and we praise Him for His precious Truth and grace, those greater showers of blessing!

A Thank You

Our church received a thank you for the donation of school supplies that our Junior Camp provided this year........


"To thank you. Some lives are true reflections of God's Love. Sending a prayer of thanks to God...and a note of thanks to you. Bless you for your kindness! We thank all of you with a grateful heart for your generous 'shoe box blessings'. The summer youth group from Bethel Methodist Church has truly blessed children in Acuna. Every child who receives a "blessing box" has the opportunity to go to school!!! You all have made a difference in these children's lives. Be blessed today and always.

Craig and Jan Maser, Jeff and Jennifer Johnson"


Thank you Pam Samford, your staff and campers for this great work!

Back In School

I heard we had an adventurous, fun and meaningful Youth Retreat. I can't wait until I'm the speaker so I can try the zip line! As these young people get back into the school year, pray that they would believe God for the strenth they need in the challenging times they face. Greater is He that is in them! But never forget that greater is he that is in the world than them! What I mean by that is that they cannot face the power of satan in their own strength; they need God! Again I say, PRAY!

Lift Up Your Eyes

"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world" I John 4:4

I just felt led to remind you of this fact.......and one more;

"Then saith He unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; pray ye the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest" Matthew 9:37&38

May we lift our eyes from the lower reality and look to the greater reality........then look at the harvest.......for He is great and so is the harvest! May God use us in the fields that are ripe for the true gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord!

Pray for Camp

We leave this Sunday for Camp! If we did not have faithful workers we could not have camp. If you do not pray....our work will be in vain! Pray for safety and most importantly that the Word shall have free course!

Robinson BMC Expansion Project

Upcoming Events at BMC of Fredericksburg

This Sunday (July 17th) is Friendship Sunday at our church with a Potluck meal afterwards.

On August 6th, we are having another garage sale/bake sale. All the garage sale proceeds will go to Joplin, Missouri tornatdo victims throught Samaritan's Purse. All proceeds from the bake sale will go to camp expenses. It will be located at the house next to the Greater Grace Coffee House on San Antonio Street in Fredericksburg starting at 8 a.m.

Sandra Kirchner

Hill Country Bethel Church VBS 2011 Photos

Bethel Methodist Church of Fredericksburg

The Bethel Methodist Church of Fredericksburg has hired a child-care person for the Sunday morning service. Her name is Beth and she just recently moved to Fredericksburg. She is very qualified as her mother had run a day-care center while she was growing up and she has a great personality. We are happy to welcome Beth to our church and the kids love her.

Also, we continue to get a few visitors now and then. We are blessed to have them come and we are thankful for the Golden Hub Community Center where we can worship. You are all invited to come visit us anytime. We have Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and the service at 10:30 a.m. Reverend Nathan is doing a wonderful job for Christ and His church.

Sandra Kirchner

Dear Hill Country VBS Surfers!!!

The BMC of FBG caught wind that some VBS boys and girls were collecting pennies for the newest mission church in the Bethel Methodist denomination...


Well...on behalf of our church here in Fredericksburg, we wanted to say, "Thank you SOOOOOO Much and God Bless you!"


We are so very touched by you wanting to give your hard earned pennies to help our church. Let me tell you why a new Bethel Methodist Church is so important to God...


Starting a new church is not that different from why you are at VBS this week. Did you know that? God's greatest desire is for all people to love Him the way that He loves you. And because you know people there at VBS this week who love God with all their heart, they want you to learn all you can about God at VBS so you can love and trust Him also!


Well, our new church in Fredericksburg wants to do the same thing for people in our new town: tell people how much God loves them and how much they need Jesus as their Lord and Savior! It is the greatest and best thing anyone could ever do; love Jesus everyday with all their heart. That is what God wants us to do in this place.


Our church is praying for all of you this week and beyond this week. Thank you again for your support and prayers. God loves you and so do we! Now...surf's up!


With Love and Appreciation,


Pastor Nate and The Bethel Methodist Church of Fredericksburg

VBS

Several Bethel Vacation Bible Schools start Monday. Please do all you can to support those who work hard to plant seeds in the fertile soil of our children! I still remember those good days in Irving when several of the current members of our church in North Texas taught me! Thank you for being there for me! If you cannot do anything else, please pray!

Bethel Southlake moves to Colleyville and becomes Bethel Methodist Church of North Texas

Nearly 5 years after moving from Irving to Southlake, the Bethel Methodist Church of North Texas moved to a new temporary location at 1901 Industrial Blvd in Colleyville, Texas, 76034. In a process that took most of three days, church volunteers finished packing boxes Wednesday night and unpacked them as they arrived at the new location Thursday morning. Unpacking and setup took most of Thursday and all of Friday. A large turnout of volunteers set up the congregational seating and sanctuary decorations on Saturday.

By Saturday evening, the sound system, instruments, platform furnishings, chairs, tables, nursery and kitchen were all ready. Sunday morning between Sunday school and worship, the church enjoyed a brief fellowship with a continental breakfast. The morning service was well-attended and heard a wonderful message from Rev. Curtis Morton on Our Charge to Keep. And despite the open ‘industrial’ ceiling, the main sanctuary hall has far better acoustics which enhanced the congregational singing and instrumental music. The new worship space is a large square hall oriented on a 45-degree bias with a 36’ radius platform in one corner. Arranging congregational seating, greenery and platform furnishings including a new organ was a challenge but it all came together fairly well.The Colleyville location has several additional rooms and a large storage closet next to the platform. The extra rooms will allow the Sunday school classes and nursery some much-needed space along with extra room for fellowships and choir practice. And for the first time in nearly 5 years, the church finally has a full kitchen again.

All the areas will likely need additional cleanup, paint and other work but we are all very grateful for this new start in Colleyville with the space we need to resume the programs and activities for all ages that people expect from a church. Please pray that God will send hungry people to all of our churches in each of our communities and give us insight for outreach.

Plans for a church office and Pastor's study are still being considered so there is no 'church phone' yet. Please contact Rev. Curtis Morton or any other church member directly. There is nothing new to report about the Southlake property situation at this time.

Due to the uncertainties of summer vacations, VBS and Youth Camp, no formal open-house or grand opening is scheduled yet. Until then, consider yourself invited anytime!

No Greater Love

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13

We celebrate those who gave the ultimate price for a freedom that was obviously not free. "Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil...if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil" Romans 13:3 &4

For the brave men and women who have died bearing the "sword", we give thanks! For Jesus who laid down His life so that we could be His friend, we give thanks! For a God that shall remove all evil from His creation once and forever, we give thanks!

Justice Served

"...the powers that be are ordained of God...for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil" Romans 13:1&4





Romans thirteen is dedicated to reminding God's people that God has ordained earthly authorities. He has not ordained the abuse of power; He has ordained proper use of earthly authority. Although Rome was an ungodly place ruled by ungodly men, Jesus told his disciples to render honor to those in positions of authority. We are to do the same! The only exception to our responsibility to earthly authority is when to submit would mean disobedience to God. Romans 13:4 clearly states that these governments have the right to bear the "sword". The sword is an instrument of execution. Governments have the authority, in the cause of justice, to use lethal force. Recently justice came to a house in Pakistan. We rejoice that justice was done and that evil has been removed. However, our celebration is tempered by knowledge that a life was lost. Every human life is precious and represents an opportunity to be a child of God. Our hearts are saddened by the ruin that sin has wrought. May God bless our nation and may we use that blessing as an opportunity to spread the gospel to all men....even to the "chief" sinners!

Ordination Reception For Reverend Nathan Aviles

After the morning service on April 17, 2011 the Bethel Methodist Church of Fredericksburg had a reception/luncheon for Reverend Nathan Aviles and his family at the Golden Hub Community Center where they worship each Sunday.

Sandwiches, deviled eggs, salad, chips and tea were served along with cake. The cake was done in white with a blue cross on it and Reverend Aviles’ name on it.

There were approximately 25 people in attendance. It was enjoyed by all.

The church wants to congratulate Reverend Aviles on his ordination that was held at the General Conference in Port Neches TX on April 8, 2011.

Sandra Kirchner

I Thirst

Hear the words of a song we recently heard in church. "Cool clear water, cool clear water to me. One day I came to Him, I was so thirsty. I asked for water, my throat was so dry. He gave me water that I never dreamed of. But for this water, my Lord had to die. He said, "I thirst", yet He made the rivers. He said, "I Thirst", yet He made the sea. "I thirst", said the King of the ages. In His great thirst, He brought water to me. Now there's a river, that flows as clear as crystal, and it comes from God's throne above and like a river, it wells up inside me, bringing mercy and life-giving love." Think about these words uttered by our Lord while he hung on that cruel Roman cross......"I Thirst".

John Wesley Quote

It is hard for me to tell you the excitement I had when Pastor Slye used this quote in his Friday evening message. For those of you who missed it, here it is:

"Give me one hundred preachers who fear nothing but sin, and desire nothing but God, and I care not a straw whether they be clergymen or laymen; such alone will shake the gates of hell and set up the kingdom of heaven on earth."

Here is a good supporting scripture: Psalm 97:10 "Ye that love the Lord, hate evil..."

What do these say to me? God can and will use those who truly love Him, no matter how few or how many. Christians, those who will be faithful to Him daily, are given the grace to make a difference for God, not by their works or deeds, but by their will to believe and trust. Christians believe they CAN make a difference for God, even if no one will follow them. Do you believe your faith (love of God) matters for the kindgom's sake? It does!

Do not let the "realities of life" discourage you from the reality of God and what He seeks to accomplish in you and all men! Oh yes, His grace IS sufficient for YOU!

God Bless...Pastor Aviles

A few pictures from conference.

Rev. Nathan Aviles and Family

Our Bethel Methodist Preachers

Thank You Port Neches!

God was present with us at conference in very obvious ways. Our host church was so good to us and all their work was used of God! Thank you pastor Tim and all the great people in the Port Neches church. We will never forget this very special time in the history of our denomination. What's next? Pray for our "North Texas" church as they relocate and seek to build the house! Pray for your pastors as they meet in Clifton April 25-28. Pray for Youth Camp July 24-30. The work continues and the enemy is still present. As long as we are trusting God we have nothing to fear and everything to gain! Pray for me as I seek to be the leader God needs!

Are You Praying?

Are you praying for General Conference In Port Neches, Texas April 7-9, 2011? Preparations are now being made by many Bethel Methodists. Are you praying for our mission church in Fredericksburg, Texas? Are you praying for our ministers and all who enter the doors of every Bethel Methodist Church? Before I write another word................I am praying for you,the one reading this. "Ye have not because ye ask not" James 4:2. We cannot have the will of God in the Bethel Methodist Church if we, the members of the Bethel Methodist Church, are not asking Him for it! Will you join me right now in praying? If you are out there please let me know by making a comment!

Be Still

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

If you look up the word "still" in a Hebrew dictionary you find words such as "abate", "cease", "forsake", "leave", "let alone", "become idle". In other words, stop what you are doing and know Him! The exact same Hebrew word translated "still" is used by Pharaoh when the people, led by Moses, asked for time to go and worship God in the wilderness. That wicked pagan ruler instead ordered that the work load of God's people be doubled by requiring them to gather their own straw for brick making. Pharaoh increased their activity because, in his words, they were "idle"(Exodus 5:17). This is the same word translated "still" in Psalm 46:10. God is exposing satan's tactic. God says be "still". Satan says "I will keep them so busy there is no time to be still". Satan's tactic is to keep us occupied with the constant, unceasing noise of activity. That evil fallen spirit with his network of influence would like nothing more than to keep you so immersed in technology, worldly information, work, children's activities, running to and fro, listening to the noise of worldly music, that there is no time to "be still". Make a firm commitment.....I will not let that happen!

Thoughts For The Season

"And there were shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night" Luke 2:8

As we listen to the angels announce creations greatest event, don't miss the small details that God included in the text. In your quiet time stop and ponder each word in Luke 2. Ask God to show you new things in that old, old story. Underline words that spark thoughts. Read words like "angels". Ask, "why did God use angels?" or "what is the glory of the Lord?" Maybe we could ask "why great joy?" Why is this good news to "all people?". The possibilities seem endless. For now lets ask "why shepherds?". The job of the shepherd was not the dream job of that day. These men were ordinary men doing ordinary things. God did not send this message first to the palace, He sent it to the fields. God loves to use the common and ordinary to confound the self reliant exalted elite. God uses a mom at home with her child. God uses a man barely scratching out a living for his family. God comes to us all, from the least to the greatest, to announce that because of Jesus we can become a child of the King. And no matter what our title on earth may be there is no greater job than to be a servant of the living God. May the glory of the Lord shine about you as you abide in the field keeping watch over your flock. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thanking God for You

"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure" II Thessalonians 1:3&4

May we use these inspired words to remind us of what is really important. We thank God that your faith is growing and that your love for each other grows with it. Faith cometh by hearing the Word of God! If we have God's Word being preached and we have ears to hear, we are growing in faith and in love! For a home and a church home where faith is fed and love grows, I am thankful!

Serpent Attempts to Spoil Retreat

One of our campers at the Back In School Retreat was bitten by a copperhead. He is doing well thanks to cool heads and fast action on the part of camp leaders. Please pray for a full recovery as this young man continues to deal with swelling and ongoing blood tests. All indications point to no lasting effects. We praise God that this physical serpent was not allowed to ruin an otherwise great retreat. We also rejoice that that old serpent, the devil, was defeated. Just as that physical copperhead's head was crushed, our Lord and Saviour has prevailed over satan and has provided the grace that defeats and shall ultimately destroy him from God's creation. God's grace in Christ Jesus shall make you free through your faith! Is satan being defeated in your life? Will you spend eternity with God forever after God has been revealed and sin fully exposed? You shall if you are abiding in Christ by faith in His Word!

Youth Retreat

I am looking forward to sharing God's Word at the Back In School Retreat! Pray for me. Everyone who is going..........see you there!

Answered Prayer

Wow! Thank you all for being faithful in prayer. Camp 2010 may have been the best camp yet! Camp kept giving as one of the Hill Country's youth came to the altar Sunday and surrendered his life to the Lord! Do not stop the prayers for these campers. They need your prayers more now than ever. Thanks again for all you faithful prayer warriors.

Pray For Camp

It is time to reread the plea I made just before conference! Read "The Essential Ingredient of Prayer" and apply it to Camp! I know Allen, Pastor Tim, Pastor Freedman and a host of others would say a loud "amen". We need to ask God to keep satan from interfering with preparations and with the week of camp. May God's Holy Spirit be with us in a mighty way for His cause!

The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold

Matthew twenty-four is the great New Testament prophecy chapter. Verse twelve tells us that in the last days "the love of many shall wax cold". The greek word translated "love" is agape. Most of you know that agape is the love of commitment, not the love of emotion or of false enthusiasm. That tells us that many of those once committed to God by faith in Jesus Christ shall fall away. Why did Jesus say that? Why would He tell us such devastating news? He wanted to help protect those that would abide faithful in Him. He wanted us to be aware of the environment of the last days so that we would not be caught off guard or devastated by it. He also wanted us to understand the power of the environment. That same verse(Matthew 24:12) begins..."because iniquity shall abound". God wanted us to know how powerful the majority can be in human society. We tend to question ourselves when we perceive that we are a tiny minority. "How can I be right and everyone else wrong?" seems to be the natural question. The only way we can stand in the face of such odds is with "Great Faith". The power of God's Word to show us the conditions of the last days and, more importantly, the beauty and wonder of the nature, character, purpose and plan of God makes it very difficult for satan and his world to deceive us! Hang in there by constantly hearing His Word and by never forsaking the assembling of yourselves together! And when others fall, pray! Pray that they shall return to their loving, merciful God. And pray that you shall abide in Him always!

Prayer Works

As our GS Rev. Jerry Slye wrote, the essential ingredient for a great conference is prayer and that principle was demonstrated in the Hill Country General Conference just last month. I'm convicted that prayer may still be a "missing" ingredient in our churches and I'm trying to become part of the solution instead of the problem. Instead of praying, "God bless our church," I'm praying that our church will "bless God" simply by doing His will whatever it is and wherever it takes us. "Accomplish your purpose and reveal yourself through us," whether in a blog, a kind word or gesture, an email, a card, a book, a poem, a song, an image, a personal witness or a new place of worship. The Christian lives of decency and grace we lead today may lead others to want what we have and find the source of it when they need it most. The life of purpose and peace we live every day is what so many in the world are still desperately seeking. May we never take it for granted.
Rev. Curtis Morton preached a great sermon last Sunday, May 2 on Faith, Purpose and Gratitude. Listen to it when you get a chance. You may want to share it with some of your friends and family.

Bethel Blast 4-25-10 Conference Afterglow

 Just a note to officially say thanks to the Hill Country church for a great conference experience. 

 

From the first glimpse of the steeple on the hill to the last hug in the parking lot, we all enjoyed a wonderful time of warm Christian fellowship, fantastic food and feasting on the word of God in message and song.  A special thanks to Rev. Jerry Slye, Chris, Andrew and Joanne for their leadership roles in hosting the conference.    

 

 

I'm already looking forward to Conference in Port Neches.   

Up next, Youth Camp!      

The Essential Ingredient of Prayer

Everything is falling into place for an outstanding General Conference. However, we must not forget the need for God's grace to carry us through. As General Superintendent I am keenly aware of the need for the working presence of Almighty God. We desperately need everyone to be fervent in prayer. As II Thessalonians 3:1 says, "pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified...". I ask you all to do as Hebrews 4:16 says, "come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain...help in (this) time of need". Thank you in advance for you faithful prayers! See you in the Hill Country!

General Conference Update

Greetings from the Hill Country!  As we approach General Conference (how exciting), we would like to send you an update with some helpful information.

Denominational Reports:

If at all possible, we would like to have any Denominational reports that you would like to have included in the conference booklet emailed by Friday, April 2, 2010.

Google Map

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=117620035724713435965.00047fd2614c77d2ec717&ll=29.800135,-98.197861&spn=0.259192,0.694199&z=11&iwloc=00048169fd2384a1c6257

By clicking on the link above (or pasting it in your address bar), you will be able to load a Google map for General Conference.  Included in this map are the local accommodations, directions, and other items that may be helpful during your stay in the Hill Country.  You may also, for example, click on the church icon, and from there you can search for places of interest nearby, as well as get directions from/to a hotel that is not listed on this map.

Hotel Discount Rates

We would like to remind you that the discounted rates for the La Quinta Inn and Microtel are only available if you book before April 5.  This deadline was given to us by the hotel properties in order to set aside a block of rooms for possible Bethel Methodist visitors.

Abbreviated Agenda

Listed below are the highlights of the General Conference Agenda.  A more detailed agenda will be included in the conference booklets available upon registration.

Thursday

 Evening worship service:  7:30 p.m.

Friday

-        Conference business:  9:00 a.m.

-        Denominational Choir practice:  5:45 p.m.

-        Evening Worship Service:  7:00 p.m.

Saturday

Conference business:  9:00 a.m.

We are truly looking forward to General Conference hope each and every one of you is able to attend.  If you have any questions or are in need of any further information, please do not hesitate to email Andrew.

Why Am I Sad?

I could ask, "why am I down?" or "why am I depressed?". I personally choose not to use the word "depressed" because of its clinical meaning of "feelings of hopelessness". The individual who is abiding in Jesus Christ by faith is never without hope! Yes, many, if not all, have various psychological needs and suppressed hurts that God helps deal with as we grow and are ready to face those difficult realities. Even the christian with the deepest wounds is never without hope. Do we have times of real sadness? There is a universal "yes". Psalm 43 is a beautiful example of those feelings that come and the very real and effective answer to those dark days. "Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man..." Here the Psalmist is pleading for help in an unjust and even deceitful world. The first step is to express to God what is going on and how you feel. Psalm 43 goes on..."For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?" Here is an honest question about these feelings. Why do I feel "down"? Why am I not feeling anything from God at this moment? Why do I let these things get me? The Psalmist gives these feelings and what a blessing the answer is as the Psalm continues! "O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me...". Let your truth, your light be what leads me, not my feelings! "...let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God". I love the honesty of this Psalm and the real answer that works for me every time! I hope this Psalm will help when you are feeling low! God bless you all for abiding in Christ and being lovers of truth when so many love only themselves!

Please Pray...

for Sandra Kirchner. She will be having knee replacement surgery on Wednesday, March 17th.

A brief devotional...I recall a local pastor's report of a few years ago that stated, "God is Awesome." Is He? I know you would all agree with me that He is and forever shall be! Consider that statement and let the Holy Spirt speak to your heart. It is amazing to me that something so seemingly simple can be so wonderfully powerful...God bless you all!

Ken's sign suggestion

Following the last Inter Church Council meeting, Ken Tindell approached me with an interesting idea. Ken commented to me that many people in our communities would never pull into the parking lot of our church, but may be able to access our message another way. Here's Ken's idea:

2/21/10

Greetings to my Bethel family
I’m convinced that the Bethel Methodist message is the best presentation of the Gospel available today. Unfortunately, a God centered message is not very popular in a world that has been immersed in man centered theology for two or three generations. We have a passion to get our message to a world that desperately needs it. That passion has born lots of conversation about changing our name. I have prayerfully considered alternatives to no avail. Our roots are entwined in the teachings of Arminius, the Wesleys and Adam Clark.  The Bethel churches are each uniquely different in personality and urban setting, which is why we all do business differently. I propose that instead of changing our name, each church should have the option of removing the denomination name, replacing it with their web address. People who would never be motivated to enter our churches may very well take the time to browse our websites. Our message has the power to move hungry hearts. Please consider this idea and may God enlighten and empower us to do His will.
Ken Tindell
Bethel Methodist church of Robinson

Thanking God

I have finished my tour of churches for the annual conferences, it was good seeing you all. I am very confident and excited by your qualification and availability for our Lord. It was a blessing seeing what God has done in each church. I have now listened to every sermon that was preached in the Hill Country in my absence. I can say without reservation or hesitation that the people in my local church were well cared for. In fact, I'm feeling the pressure now as I get back home. You guys may have done too well! Pray for me.

Thank you Bethel Bloggers!

Thanks to all who have joined us on the Bethel Blog! As we grow we will always remember Mike, Jennifer, Ella, Pamela, Whitley and Tori !

Preaching and Singing

"I will declare thy name unto my brethren in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee" Hebrews 2:12

I am in the midst of my annual visits to our local churches. I have been blessed to declare the name of our Lord unto my brethren. It has been a blessing and a priviledge to join you in singing praise unto Him! I once expressed a desire for "General Conference" type services in every church every Sunday. The last two Sundays have given evidence that my hope might become reality. Thank you for making each Sunday Service all it should be for Him. I cannot wait until we fill the house with preaching and singing in the Hill Country April 22-24!

General Conference Information

Bethel Methodist General Conference 2010

Accommodations Suggestions

Greetings, and we pray this email finds you all well as we count down the days to General Conference in April.  We wanted to remind you of the dates of General Conference (April 22-24) and provide you with some accommodation suggestions as you begin your planning.  We look forward to great food, fellowship, and most importantly, for the Lord to meet with us as we worship and conduct the business of Bethel.

Listed below are some suggestions with negotiated rates and easy access/close proximity to the church.  Maps from these locations to the church will soon follow.  If you are interested in other hotel chains, bed and breakfasts, RV sites, etc., please do not hesitate to email Andrew Sedlacek.

Microtel Inn & Suites, New Braunfels, TX:

            -     Rate:  $65.00 per night

            -     For reservations:  Contact the local hotel at 830-557-4409 and mention

                   “Bethel Methodist Conference” rate.

            -     Deadline:  Reserve by March 22, 2010 to guarantee rate.

            -     Hotel info:  visit www.microtelinn-nb.com

New hotel as of August 2009.  Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, Coffee available 24 hrs. a day, Outdoor pool, Within one block of local restaurants and Walgreens, Located on Hwy 46 (30 minutes from church) one block away from I-35.  If desired, be sure to request a room with fridge and microwave.

LaQuinta Inns & Suites, New Braunfels, TX:

-          Rate:  $85.00 per night

-          For reservations:  Contact the local hotel at 830-627-3333 and mention “Bethel Methodist Conference rate.

-          Deadline:  Reserve by April 5, 2010 to guarantee rate.

-          Hotel info:  visit www.lq.com

Remodeled December 2009.  Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, coffee available 24 hrs. a day, outdoor pool, within one block of local restaurants, Located on I-35 and Hwy 46 (30-35 minutes from church).  All rooms have fridge and microwave.

Creek Hollow RV Park (near the Hill Country Church):

-          RV sites and cabins available

-          Rates: vary depending on site and cabin choice (RV: $25+, Cabins:  $60-165)

-          Property info:  visit www.creekhollowrv.com

Less than 5 minutes from the church (just north of church on FM 3159)

We also have 2 hookups on the church property and room for more campers/trailers.  These will be a first email/first serve basis.

Something for Nothing

A few months ago (ok, last summer) I read a news article that told the story of children who had received e-mails after playing on a popular online game site. The e-mail told the children that if they were to click on the attached link they would receive a free upgrade to the game they had just played. But when that link was clicked a virus was downloaded which allowed the hacker full access to all of the information on the family computer. Not only was the child disappointed, the parents were shocked at the theft of their identity!

Oh, the promise of something for nothing! This attitude of taking a shortcut to a desired outcome is running rampant in our world, and in the Church. We want eternity with God but are not willing to count the true cost of walking daily with Him. What did Jesus say? "Come, take up your cross and follow Me." Yes, salvation full and free, based on grace and not our merits or works, for all who are believing. There's the cost, the committment, that is required: "Follow Me." The daily choice to follow and believe, to receive God's grace by faith and be shaped into His moral image is a price that is worth it all!

Days like this....

A few weeks ago I was driving to Temple to visit my dad in the VA hospital. My step-mom had already signed the papers to admit him into the hospice program. As I was driving and praying, I was reminded that God's faithfulness far exceeds anything that this world can offer. I've been praying for my dad for years, that he would fully commit to Christ. Now the time seemed even more desperate.


Funny thing: Dad didn't qualify for hospice! It wasn't a money issue, but a health issue. He wasn't sick enough! So they moved him to the Waco VA's long-term care facility.


Another funny (!) thing: I found out today that he is MUCH sicker than originally supposed. His doctor talked about making him comfortable in his last days. I've known this time was coming, and yet it still kinda caught me by surprise.


Let me go back to that previous statement: "God's faithfulness far exceeds anything this world has to offer." I know that God can work in my dad's spirit, and I know that God can provide a level of spiritual healing that no doctor can ever bring to Dad's body. That's what I'm praying for. And I want to ask each of you to pray also. If you want to pray for his healing, or relief from his constant pain, that's great. I'm asking that you join me in praying for my dad's eternal salvation. God is faithful, and I am trusting Him.