Judy Sattler Growing in Stillness A Thanksgiving of Rest
Kay Waugh A SONG FOR THE SABBATH
THE PROVIDENCE OF MUD
John Maust The Full and Final Embrace
RESTING OR WAITING
Sacred Rest A Storm-full of Blessings
GOD’S REST ACCORDING TO HEBREWS
Wallace Alcorn
the Cover: Alcohol Inks Painting by Lisa Pires
Our Pastors, Directors and Residents: Caleb Aulie, pastoral resident | Cheryce Berg, ministry director of children | Roger Burgess, pastor of visitation | Julie Clemens, ministry director of STARS disabilities | Erik Dewar, pastor of worship and music Matt Heaton, pastoral resident | Baxter Helm, high school pastor | Dan Hiben, middle school pastor | Tim Hollinger, technology director | Jim Johanik, pastor of evangelism | Ann Karow, human resources director | Howard Kern, facilities director | Ethan Kim, pastoral resident | Bruce Main, pastor of visitation | Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship and care | Curt Miller, missions pastor | Josh Moody, senior pastor | Mindy Rynbrandt, ministry director for women’s discipleship and care | James Seward, pastor of community | John Seward, executive pastor Nancy Singer, director of administration and finance | Wil Triggs, director of communications
Our Council of Elders: Mark Bradley, vice-chair | Jay Cunningham | Steve Ivester | Randy Jahns | Heinrich Johnsen | Anson Johnson | Jonathan (J.J.)
| David Setran, secretary
Connections is a monthly newsletter published for and about the people of College Church. Send news items and suggestions to: connections@ college-church.org. Keep Connections in mind to promote a community event to the College Church family. Send event information by the following dates: For the September issue: August 9 | For the October issue: September 9 | For the November issue: October 9
332 E. Seminary, Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 668-0878 | www.college-church.org
CONTRIBUTORS
WALLACE ALCORN
Because Wallace considers the Book of Hebrews to be “the most neglected fulllength book in the New Testament,” he has dug deeply into it and titles it “An Exhortation Concerning Our Salvation.” He taught it each of his years while on the faculty of Moody Bible Institute, wrote the article on the book for the two-volume Wycliffe Bible Encyclopedia (Moody Press, 1974), and expounded its warnings and exhortation passages in Momentum (Tyndale, 1986). He has taught Hebrews in the Logos and Forum Fifteen Adult Communities.
JONATHAN BARRETT
is a member of the audio visual team at College Church and has participated in several SOHL events. He works in Wheaton as a software developer, and enjoys reading anything by Wendell Berry.
PAT CIRRINCIONE
makes good use of her time reading, attending musicals and coffee and conversation with friends, old and new. She is devoted to praying for her grandchildren and writing.
GARY COOK
serves as the ministry associate for small groups at College Church and as an adjunct professor in theological studies. His pastoral experience and study of church history have given him a passion for faithful stewardship by the church of the essential truths of the Christian faith and a desire for believers to grow deeper in their relationship with God. You can often find Gary reading and writing at a table in the Commons, and he’d welcome the opportunity to meet you and hear your story!
JOHN MAUST
Recently retired as president of Media Associates International, John and his wife, Elsa, were long-time missionaries of College Church. John and Elsa first met in a writer workshop in Lima, Peru, and in November they will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.
CHARLENE MILLER
preschool teacher, wife to Daniel, mom to Jonah—enjoys gardening, reading and painting.
ESTHER WALDROP
lives and works in the Philippines, where her husband, John, teaches in a seminary that trains Christian leaders from southeast Asia and beyond. She enjoys hearing and seeing ways the gospel is bearing fruit all over the world, and teaching students to write their experiences of God’s faithfulness.
KAYE WAUGH
and her husband, Kurt, have been members of College Church since 2019. She loves getting together with friends and families from College Church. A retired banker, Kaye’s passion is to start writing stories about seasoned missionaries, past and present.
REST FOR THE REST OF US
WIL TRIGGS | EDITOR
Isuppose there may be a person who is always in a state of rest. You know, the calm, neverflustered person who always seems to have everything under control. That one person who seems to have restfulness in his nature. Then there’s the rest of us. In this issue we explore many perspectives on rest for those of us who need some help in this area.
John Maust’s story of the rocking chair marathon (p. 2), Pat Cirrincione’s “The Power of the Pause,” (p. 14), Wallace Alcorn’s journey back to the Book of Hebrews (p. 12), Gary Cook’s article (p. 4) taking us all the way back to Genesis and then Matthew, help me see the core elements of true rest and how Jesus is connected to the rest we need—these four help me see how our struggles are not isolated and the Bible is not silent when it comes to spiritual elements of the word “rest.” Thanks to Judy Sattler’s presentation of God as a hilarious giver (p. 6) and for Kaye Waugh’s thoughts exploring the relationship between resting and waiting (p. 11), I see that resting is about a lot more than taking a nap. Charlene Miller’s inspiring assertion (p. 22) that resting in Jesus could mean saying yes to something life-changing and new stops me in my tracks.
Summer means time for rest. Give that a try. Looking toward fall, we might also consider these truths from this issue. Alta Johnson’s ministry to the deaf with a new take on “he who has ears, let him hear” (p. 15). Susan Krisch’s testimony and appeal for volunteers at Outreach Carol Stream (p. 23). Pastor Moody’s words from p. 20: “The core idea and experience of membership is not organizational but organic. Christ saves us not to remain as individuals but to become part of his body, the church. Jonathan Barrett’s different take on the Good Samaritan and its relationship to the sanctity of human life (p. 24). All these plus updates on a second STARS Resale Shop, our parking lot project and our Giving Joy column answers the question: “What is money, anyway?”
There’s a lot packed into this issue. It’s all good. So, take this issue with you, and in your moments of rest, read on.
There are many who say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!” You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. —Psalm 4:6-8
LESS ROCKING,
During my Indiana hometown’s Centennial celebration some years ago, organizers held a “Rocking Chair Marathon.”
To an overly optimistic college student like me, the competition sounded like a good way to earn some spending money. Surely, it wouldn’t take too long before the other competitors dropped out, and I would be left to collect the $250 grand prize.
The day came for the marathon, and there we were—51 competitors seated in chairs of every description in the grocery store parking lot where the competition was held.
The marathon director quickly covered the rules. Every two hours, he said, we would be allowed a seven-minute bathroom or exercise break. The rest of the time we must keep rocking, including while eating and drinking. Contest judges would be patrolling the area, and anyone found to have stopped rocking, even for a second or two, would be immediately eliminated from the competition.
Then the director told us to get ready. He pulled the microphone close to his mouth and cried, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your rocking!” Then he waved an Indy 500-style starting flag with a flourish, and the flurry of rocking began.
Friends standing at the edge of the ropedoff area for the marathon shouted their encouragements. Nappanee was a small town where everyone knew everybody, and we rockers didn’t want to disappoint.
Most made it through the first night of the marathon, and many of us continued rocking through the next day and evening. But by then our group’s carefree mood had evaporated in the hot August air.
Back and forth, back and forth, we rocked. Oh, for a chance to lie down or take a longer than seven-minute break. We all desired to win, but what we really wanted was some rest, and rest seemed nowhere in sight.
A BETTER KIND OF REST
You may never participate in a rocking chair marathon (and you would be smart not to do so!). But you and I all experience times when we desperately need rest. Maybe not so much the physical kind, but rest of an inner spiritual nature.
As Christians, our rest-deficit often comes from trying to manage life situations in our own strength. We may say a prayer for Christ’s help with our situation at work, family disagreement, financial crisis, relationship issue, friend’s spiritual struggle or any num-
ber of difficulties. But then we lapse into trying to resolve these peace-stealing situations alone.
We keep on rocking, as it were, but our marathon efforts to handle things in our own supposed strength become a test of will rather than a triumph of trust, and we reach a point of spiritual stress and exhaustion.
If you are doing more rocking than resting at the moment, it’s time to remember and obey Christ’s invitation, “Come to me,” and receive the rest that he promises.
Jesus offers both eternal rest through our trust in him as our Lord and Savior (Hebrews 4) as well as daily spiritual rest to his children through a vibrant personal relationship with him.
We likely know the verses well: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29, NIV)
So, why does it sometimes take us so long to come to Jesus?
RELEASE CONTROL
If we are honest, we need to admit that sometimes we don’t really want to relinquish our burdens to Christ. We attempt to stay in control, even of situations
JOHN MAUST
MORE RESTING
completely out of our control, while our frustrations and worries increase.
Other times we may not even be consciously aware of every burden that has crept in to steal our peace, lightness of heart and joy in the Lord. For me, the disquiet and upset sneak in from dwelling on the violence, corruption, greed and injustice that is daily in the news and on social media. It’s important to keep up on current events, but God is impressing upon me not to fret because of evildoers and to be still and rest before him (Psalm 37:7).
We find rest in Jesus when we give over to him whatever is disturbing our peace or steady trust in him. This is not a “one-and-done” kind of coming to Jesus, but a daily, even hourly dependence on him. As the hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour,” says:
“I need Thee, O I need thee Every hour I need Thee O bless me now, my Savior I come to Thee.”
We delay our coming to Jesus to our own detriment, as noted in another classic hymn, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”:
“Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer!”
As we come to Christ in surrender and trust, he gives us his rest from disquiet, doubt, unease, fretting, anxiety, tension and whatever else is disturbing our trust in him. Just as much or more importantly, he shifts our focus from ourselves to him and the needs of others.
This is the kind of rest experienced by David, crying out to God for deliverance from his enemies. “Truly my soul finds rest in God,” David writes. “My salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” (Psalm 62:1-3, NIV)
It is the rest that God gave to Moses in answer to his prayer for help in leading the Israelites to the promised land. “My Presence will go with you,” God assures Moses, “and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14, NIV).
Jesus promises us this same rest. So given his command, “Come to me,” we have to ask ourselves a question.
“Do I want to get to this place of rest?” writes Oswald Chambers in his classic devotional My Utmost for His Highest. “I can, right now. The questions that matter in life are remarkably few, and they are all answered by the words ‘Come to me.’ Not ‘Do this, don’t do that’ but Come to me.’”*
LESS ROCKING, MORE RESTING
As it turned out, I came up short in the rocking chair marathon. During the middle of the third night, exactly 57 hours and 13 minutes into the competition, someone tapped my shoulder (more like, shook me awake).
“John, you fell asleep and stopped rocking,” a contest judge said. He kindly offered to take me and my chair home, where I slept for the next 15 hours straight.
Not only did I lose out on the prize money, but also two days of work at my summer job. For several days after the marathon, I found my body involuntarily rocking back and forth, whether I was sitting or standing. At least, I hadn’t gone literally “off my rocker” from all the rocking, as my mother had feared.
I do know there will be a lot less rocking in my future and, I pray for a lot more resting in Jesus. May each of us consistently heed Christ’s call, “Come to me,” and find his rest.
To paraphrase the marathon director, Ladies and gentlemen, start your resting (in the Lord)!
What does it mean to rest? In our contemporary culture, there are many concepts of rest. Rest can be simply sleep at the end of a long day of work. Rest can be pausing or reducing our workload to provide moments of relaxation and reflection. Rest can be taking a vacation, traveling to a different setting and getting time away from the challenges and difficulties of life with hopes of recharging for days ahead.
These certainly are practical and common ways that people seek rest, and there’s nothing secular or sacred about them. Still, the Christian may ask, does the Bible provide any insights about rest?
Great question—and the answer is—absolutely! There are many biblical passages about rest, and I think you’ll find them quite distinct from the ways we seek to rest. Let’s look at four passages that are worthy of our understanding, reflection and application.
GOD RESTED (GENESIS 2:1-3)
The very first account of rest is found in the second chapter of the Bible at the culmination of creation.
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation. (Genesis 2:1-3, italics added)
Now while there are implications in this passage for humans to set aside a day for rest, this speaks solely about God resting. It’s helpful to read every detail of the full narrative of creation to appreciate the context of why and how God rested. The meaning for the Hebrew word translated as “rested” in this passage is simply “ceased.” Each of the first five days of God’s work to create
GARY COOK
the heavens and the earth closes with a statement confirming the nature of his accomplishment: “God saw that it was good.” The sixth day culminates with “God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.” Then, on the seventh day, God ceased—rested—and declared that day holy in recognition of the goodness of his completed creation. Notice there is no indication in the creation account, particularly the seventh day, that God was weary, exhausted or burdened.
What about human rest? On that climactic sixth day, God created humanity in his image as stewards to tend the garden, care for all its inhabitants, and produce offspring that would do likewise. While rest for Adam and Eve is not mentioned in the creation account, having a human nature carries with it the expectation that with the joy of experiencing all the blessings of God’s creation and the opportunities they were given to steward it, physical rest would be needed. Yet there would not be a longing for rest due to carrying an unbearably heavy workload, conflict, anxiety or other burdens. Humanity, made in the image of God, entrusted with meaningful purpose, and in perfect fellowship with God and one another, would experience rest appropriate to their nature in a sacred and satisfying life. Sadly, the experience of this perfect rest in the garden by Adam and Eve was short lived.
FROM REST TO UNREST (GENESIS 3)
Everything changed in the moment that Adam and Eve disobeyed God. This one act converted Adam and Eve from sinless to sinful, bearing now a sin nature that was transmitted to their offspring. The consequences of their disobedience, as spoken by God to them, reflect this in Genesis 3.
• Perfect fellowship with God was broken (“the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God” v. 8).
• Pure relationships with other humans were corrupted (“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring” v. 15). Conflict would be present not only in marriage and the home, but in every venue of life.
• Producing offspring became physically painful and emotionally challenging (“in pain you shall bring forth children” v. 16). The children of Adam and Eve—and every single child henceforth—would suffer the consequences of this one act of disobedience.
• Purposeful stewarding of creation assigned to humanity was now hard labor as land itself suffered the consequence of human sin (“cursed is the ground because of you” v. 17).
Anything about this tragic list sounds restful? From this moment forward, we witness in Scripture, and in life, a complete transformation in the human experience of rest. Because of sin and separation from God, humanity’s quest for rest focuses on worldly concepts that cannot satisfy the true need of our soul, mind and body.
This is why the venues we seek out to secure rest, such as sleep, vacations and retreats, can only provide temporary (and not always successful) respite from the struggles and stresses of life. But reader, despair not—and don’t throw out your plans for rest just yet!
JESUS OFFERS REST (MATTHEW 11:25-30)
Everything changed again, this time, in a good way, when the Son of God came, taking on human flesh and living among us. Listen carefully to his words about rest in this passage.
At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (italics added)
God the Son, Jesus Christ, fully God and fully human, who walked the earth among humans, knows the reality of the consequences brought on by sin: that life is difficult, labor is difficult, and relationships are difficult. He understands our need for true rest and shares how he came to provide it. His work of redemption—his incarnation, sacrificial death and resurrection—launched the reclamation of the creation design of rest for the people of God. For you see, the rest we long for is not found in vacations, relaxation, deep slumber. True rest is only found by restoration of a right relationship with God. The provision and promise of this rest begins at the very moment one comes to faith in Christ, who died for our sins, the sin that robbed us of true rest.
Now a quick reality check. While our Good Shepherd supplies the Christian with what he termed an “easy yoke and light burden,” that does not mean the rest Adam and Eve experienced before their disobedience is fully restored. Jesus was honest about the difficulties his followers would experience as they follow him, obey him and testify of him. Our sin nature is not yet eradicated and opposition to Christ, the gospel and the Christian life will be experienced by faithful disciples.
But do not be discouraged or doubt the words of Jesus. Notice the language he used: not “you may find rest,” but “you will find rest.” Followers of the Savior can and will experience rest through growing focus on and understanding of their relationship with God even while living in a seemingly increasingly rest-less world. You have a relationship with God the Father, who has adopted you as his child and knows the rest you need. You have the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit, working out his fruit in you and through you to bring you rest and peace. And Jesus Christ, God the Son, is your conduit for rest, just as he said in his gentle and lowly voice: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me . . . and you will find rest for your souls.” (italics added)
Such a promise! Through faith in Jesus Christ—who he is and what he did for you—the pathway of true rest begins.
But there’s more . . . while we live out this promise of rest in the present rest-less world, just wait—the hope of a better and perfect rest is yet to come!
THE UNENDING RESURRECTION REST IS COMING (REVELATION 21-22)
The hope of the resurrection promised when Christ returns will consummate God’s design for true, perfect and holy rest. And this day is coming!
• Think for a moment about the nature—the unending and unchanging nature—of our resurrected bodies: free from sin and all the burdens of life. An eternal, restful life.
• Think about the restoration of all of creation, creation which has been seeking rest from its decay. The new heavens and earth will be the perfect, restful environment for unending worship of and service to God.
• Think about Jesus’ promise of rest today as we await his return. He is our moment-by-moment source of rest and peace. And finally, continue to seek rest in slumber, reflection and vacations. These are neither fruitless nor pointless, even Jesus took time for rest, but may I recommend a helpful perspective on what these might look like? Remember that it’s not so much “where” as it is “with whom.” That is, don’t leave behind focus on the true rest that can only come from your relationship with the Lord. May I suggest a travel package for your bedside table, lounge chair or suitcase? Genesis 1:1 – 2:3; Matthew 11:25-30; Revelation 21-22. May time in these words, guided by the Holy Spirit, bring you better and better rest as we await the return of Jesus!
Iwalked out of church one Sunday several years ago into a wall of humidity. After weeks and weeks of drought there was no question, it was going to rain— too much ominous promise in that dark thunderous sky. The question was whether I could make it to my car parked at the library two blocks away before the rain began to fall, so I began to run.
“I’m going to outrun this gust front,” I laughed as I passed other churchgoers on the sidewalk. The wind blew harder. I caught up with a woman even older and grayer than I and was about to race past her when I pulled up short and stopped.
“Are you walking home?” I asked her.
“Yes,” she replied looking a little distressed. She didn’t even have an umbrella.
I offered her a ride home, and she accepted eagerly. We reached the car just as the clouds broke. Within seconds we could hardly see the road ahead. I was glad the woman lived close; by the time we pulled into her driveway it was raining so hard she couldn’t get out of the car without getting drenched, so we waited for the worst of the storm to pass. Then it began to hail. We were parked under large oak trees, and I hoped they would break the fall of hailstones and protect my car from dents. A long time passed, and we had a lovely chat. She had been a missionary schoolteacher in several countries and led an interesting life before she retired.
At last, the rain subsided, we said our goodbyes, and I headed for home. As soon as I backed out of the driveway, I realized how providential it was that my car had not been damaged or even crushed beneath the oaks. Tree branches littered the streets. I crept home, weaving around the storm-wrack: downed power lines, flooded roadways, snapped and uprooted trees, flattened fences
house did not come through unscathed either, but it could have been so much worse. We lost power but had a generator to provide the basic necessities. More importantly, my husband had just returned home earlier that morning from training pastors in Indonesia, and I wouldn’t have to manage the clean-up and deal with the insurance alone.
When Tim joined a ministry of training pastors globally 19 years ago, we wrestled with the idea of raising our own support; it challenged us in ways we had not previously experienced. One of our concerns was that we would not be able to raise enough to meet the ongoing needs of keeping our home and property in good repair. We had been praying about the resources we needed to replace our roof, but it was a lot of money, and I was struggling to trust God for it.
and street signs bent to the ground. The storm was worse than I had realized. By the time I reached my neighborhood I was praying, “Please, Lord, not the birch tree…”
It turned out that the birch was the only tree in the yard left intact. With 90 mph straight winds, I had lost two mature silver maples and three evergreens. The
In the end, our insurance not only paid for a new roof, but also new siding and a garage door as well. When my refrigerator broke down a month later, there was enough insurance money left over for a new one. God is truly a hilarious giver. Later, as I reflected on all that had happened, I concluded that it sometimes takes the peeling away of the common, everyday graces for us to glimpse God’s power and blessing in his providential acts. And sometimes that means a storm. I know I am not the first of his disciples to learn a lesson that way.
OUR VISION
2025 INITIATIVES
Vision: “Proclaiming the Gospel”
PATHWAY. We will foster a pathway for our gospel ministries: Discover Jesus, Grow in Your Faith and Impact the World. In 2025, we will continue to expand and strengthen this pathway by 1) equipping and encouraging congregants so that they are motivated to share the gospel and their personal faith stories within the community; 2) expanding outreach initiatives by building upon our existing programs and developing new efforts designed to invite community members to engage with the church more frequently and meaningfully; and 3) promoting the proclamation of the gospel and what College Church offers to the community through a variety of communication channels.
Rationale: After consultation with a Christian communications company, and surveying the neighborhood, we have discovered that we need to present the distinctive gospel ministry opportunity of College Church more clearly and invitationally to the surrounding community.
COMMUNITY. We will cultivate care, encouragement and connection in 2025 by: 1) Calling a pastor focused on care, encouragement and connection; 2) Establishing a permanent Care Team to support congregational care; and 3) Exhorting our congregation to: make consistent attendance on our Sunday morning worship a priority; be active in a smaller gathering; and to be involved in an area of service.
Rationale: After conversations with key ministry leaders, it is apparent we need to increase connectivity between members and attenders of the church through mutually loving and caring hospitality.
DISCIPLESHIP.
We will elevate biblically rigorous and practical discipleship in 2025, by developing a clear track to introduce people to the foundations of Christian discipleship: basics of the Christian faith, spiritual growth (including training in Bible study and prayer) and gospel impact. This will parallel our church-wide ministry pathway of discover, grow and impact.
Rationale: After a churchwide discipleship survey, we have ascertained a growing need for more rigorous and practical discipleship that is coherently coordinated across both small and large groups.
CAMPUS. We will increasingly activate our campus by utilizing the Crossings as a crossover space to reach the community and for student, worship and family space, executing year two of the three-year capital campaign launched in 2024, prioritizing safety and accessibility upgrades to our parking and other key areas, and clarifying the highest and best missional use for our portfolio of rental properties.
Rationale: After the Site and Facilities committee’s extensive work surveying the ministry pinch points, it is apparent that we need to develop our ministry space, and we will target the Crossings space.
PARTNERSHIPS. We will leverage the church’s history of church planting, training programs, and connections across the country and world by seeking to develop one new church partner in each category (planting, strengthening, revitalizing) by December 2025.
Rationale: By partnering with like-minded churches and organizations, and by broadening our scope to including planting, strengthening, and revitalization, we can increase our gospel impact through gospel-centered, Bible preaching churches.
We bathe all these initiatives in prayer.
Gallery SPOTLIGHT
ART & STORY
Written word meets visual image in this unique collaborative gallery where creatives from our community make words and images that go together in some beautiful and surprising ways. Allow time to read and see both parts of the stories we’re telling.
ART STORY
Helen Read Megan Stough
Philip Hossu Keith Bodger
Ruth Gregornik Richard Moomjian
Lisa Pires Judy Sattler
Adriaan Van Wijk Ian Van Wijk
Kathy Burke Pat Cirrincione
Kathryn McBride Wil Triggs
Elizabeth Moxley Morgan Moxley
Nadia Gordeuk Victor Gordeuk
J Marr Miller Daniel Block
Jerry Sundberg Daniel Block
Liita Forsyth Wil Triggs
Katie Karr Virginia Hughes
Lenita Marson Anita Deyneka
CJ Wenninger Gwenyth Wenninger
RUTH GREGORNIK
HELEN READ
PHILIP HOSSU
KATHY BURKE
ELIZABETH MOXLEY
JERRY SUNDBERG
J MARR MILLER
AUGUST 2025 CONNECTIONS
GALLERY
ART & STORY
Artist & Writer collaborative Works
AUGUST 3 - SEPTEMBER 12
Opening reception on August 3 from noon to 2 p.m. in Crossings
With writers and artists in our community working together to create visually rich imagery paired with thought-provoking words, the Art & Story gallery provides viewers/readers with works of beauty and freshness. Come more than once for an especially strong gallery experience.
GATHERING
A monthly coming together, where we discuss our personal projects and the many facets of creativity and God.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 at 7 p.m. in Crossings
Join us for our August gathering as we discuss chapters 4-7 in the book Rembrandt Is in the Wind Copies are available ($15 cash or check while supplies last.) We will discuss portions of it at our gatherings now through September.
August word of the month: REST ALL ARE WELCOME!
WORKSHOPS
NEW: IMPROV GROUP
SEPT 13, OCT 11, NOV 15
12-2 p.m. in Crossings conference room
Join this new recurring group to learn and practice principles and practices of improv, led by Doug Lindhardt.
POTTERY WORKSHOP
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
1-3 p.m. at ClaySpace Studio, Lisle, IL
Cost: $75 per person. Space is limited. Registration is required. Work under the guidance of our own potter Lin Fallon to create your own pottery. All pieces will be fired at the studio and available for pick up at a later date.
For more information or to sign up for a workshop, visit our webpage: college-church.org/artspace.
a Song for the Sabbath
ESTHER WALDROP
For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy. How great are your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep. (Psalm 92:4-5)
It is morning. Mist gathers in the folds of the Pennsylvania hills around the conference center where John and I met 37 years ago. Swallows dart among the eaves above the large wraparound porch, where guests rock on rocking chairs, Bibles in laps and coffee in hand. My thoughts are like the swallows, floating out above the voices of the guests, and I long to hear God’s voice.
As in a stormy, anxious sea, my thoughts toss about, flooding my heart and blocking access to the peace of the Lord. How can I find it? This clamor in my mind makes it hard to find his peace. I turn to Psalm 92. “A psalm,” it says. “A song for the Sabbath.” What kind of a psalm, I wonder, is a song for the Sabbath? I read a song about God’s work, the works of His hands. The psalm celebrates the “steadfast love” of God “in the morning,” and his “faithfulness by night.” It celebrates the ultimate triumph of God over his enemies, and by faith rejoices that one day “all evildoers shall be scattered.”
It celebrates the oil of blessing that God pours out on “the righteous,” who “flourish like the palm tree,” who “grow like a cedar in Lebanon.” They “are planted in the house of the LORD; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are “ever full of sap and green, to declare that the LORD is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” (Psalm 92:15)
My husband, John, is the main speaker this week, and I wonder how in such a busy time he can find rest. But this is what it is like to be in Christian service, working hard that others might find rest in relationship to Jesus, meanwhile finding our rest in him along the way. In the midst of this full, busy life, we also find strength, joy, help and rest in being a part of God’s finished work, in creation and in Christ. The natural rhythms of sleep, weekly sabbath and periodic longer seasons of lying fallow keep us reminded of our need for him, our limitations as humans and our complete dependence on him for all those things that matter most. Enforced rest caused by illness or loss (of relationship, function or loved ones), and the accumulated losses of growing older also toss us back on his care. And we rest.
“Be still,” he says, “and know that I am God.” I find it difficult to be still—both when life feels full and when it feels empty. That is why I am thankful for sleep, for Sabbath, and most of all for salvation. And when it comes to the end (of the psalm and of our lives), I am especially thankful for this reminder that the Lord is our rock, and “there is no unrighteousness in him.” He makes us glad by his work, in the world and in people’s lives. And we trust that who he is and what he has done infuses both our rest and our work with hope.
Resting or Waiting?
KAYE WAUGH
In Genesis 2:2–3, we read that on the seventh day, God had completed his work of creation and rested from all his work. He then blessed the seventh day and made it holy, “because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.” (verse 3)
If God himself rested on the seventh day after completing the work of creation, then it stands to reason that we, his creation, are also called to rest. This is emphasized in his command found in Exodus 20:8–10; “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work.”
Nowadays, we often use “resting on God” and “waiting on God” interchangeably. But are they truly the same? As I reflect on my own spiritual journey, I’ve come to realize some important distinctions between the two.
• Resting in God is a posture of trust. Resting is about ceasing from striving and choosing to be still, ceasing from inner struggles and trusting in his care.
• Waiting on God is a posture of expectation. Waiting on God implies hope, longing and patience, as well as trusting in his timing when answers haven’t come, doors haven’t opened, and life feels stuck in the in-between.
• Resting is internal peace. Waiting is external patience. Recently, I had a phone conversation with a dear longtime friend, someone I consider more like a sister than just a friend. With excitement in my voice, I shared about my STAMP trip to Thailand; how God faithfully provided, how his grace carried us, and how the Thai people, with their warmth and kindness, became an unexpected blessing to our hearts.
What she said next completely shifted the tone of our conversation. After celebrating the success of the mission trip with me, she quietly shared news that hit me like a thunderclap—she had been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The doctors advised against surgery at her age (she’s 75), and because the cancer had already progressed too far for surgery to make a difference. Their recommendation was to begin chemotherapy and focus on keeping her as comfortable as possible for the time she has left.
I sat in silence for a while, struggling to find the right words. As I searched my heart for a response, I was overwhelmed by the weight of her journey. This precious sister had already endured so much, losing her only son just last year, losing her husband the year before that, and undergoing double-bypass heart surgery four years ago. And now, on top of it all, she’s facing cancer along with several other serious health challenges.
Fighting back tears, I told her how much I loved her, how deeply sorry I was to hear this news, and assured her that I would be walking with her in prayer every step of the way. In a gentle, steady voice, she responded with a peace that both comforted and humbled me. She said, “I’m at peace. My soul is at rest, because I know God is in control.”
Her words settled over me like a quiet balm. Peace. Rest. Trust. Not because her circumstances had changed, but because her confidence was rooted in the unchanging character of God. In that moment, I saw what true rest looks like, not the absence of hardship, but the presence of God during it. My friend was living out the familiar words of Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
She wasn’t denying the reality of her pain, she was resting in a deeper reality; that her life like ours is held in the hands of a faithful, sovereign God. And that kind of peace isn’t something we manufacture. It’s something we receive when we surrender not just our outcomes, but our very selves, to him.
As human beings, we all face seasons of unrest, weariness and inner turmoil. A devastating diagnosis, the sudden loss of a job or a loved one, or a misstep that spirals into financial hardship and personal shame, these moments shake us. And often, our first instinct is to take matters into our own hands, scrambling to fix the damage and regain control.
True healing begins not with striving, but with surrendering. When I stop trying to patch things up in my own strength and instead turn to God quietly, honestly and fully, I discover a peace that steadies me in the chaos. It’s in those moments of letting go that I begin to experience what it really means to rest in him.
Sometimes the most sacred growth happens in the stillness. Sometimes the deepest trust is formed not when God moves quickly, but when he teaches us to stay close to his heart in the quiet of waiting.
If you’re in a season of longing, watching, hoping, remember you are not forgotten. You are not overlooked. God is not silent. He is simply drawing you nearer, inviting you to rest in him, even as you wait on him—both postures of a heart that know and love their heavenly Father.
“The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.” (Lamentations 3:25–26)
Note from Kaye: My dear friend passed away on July 16. Her waiting is over—she now rests peacefully in the tender embrace of her loving Creator.
God’s Rest According to Hebrews
The apostle who wrote the Book of Hebrews presents a unique concept, or doctrine, of rest. We cannot, well, rest until we understand his description of what he means by rest. The lexical or popular uses of the English word “rest” is irrelevant to Hebrew’s meaning and its meaning in the rest (are we having fun?) of the New Testament. What counts is the Greek word the writer uses that is rendered “rest” in all English versions, and we need to understand his exhortation in order to enter God’s rest. Actually, entering into God’s rest is the burden of the book.
The writer uses katapausis (noun) and katapauo (verb). (Only Luke also uses these with no relation to rest as meant
WALLACE ALCORN
in this book.) Hebrews uses them eleven times from chapter 3:11 through 4:10.
This usage is in the section of 3:7-4:13, which exhorts: Let us work to enter God’s rest while it is still accessible, or the Word himself will deny us entrance as the consequence of our disobedience. The entire book is an exhortation concerning our salvation, and this section specifically exhorts us to strive to enter God’s rest (4:5). Unlike the reception of salvation, entering God’s rest is conditional upon our obedience to live out our salvation.
The Hebrews writer, I have concluded, uses this word in three distinct but equivalent senses. He uses it in the sense of arriving at our destination but also in the sense of accomplishing our purpose. The ultimate sense, I feel, is the final and full embracing of salvation, i.e., peace (shalom) with and in God.
The Old Testament background to Hebrews is the Book of Numbers with its historical narrative of the journey of the Hebrew people, the nation of Israel, from their exodus from Egypt to entrance into the land (and condition) God promised them. But theirs is a sad story of national tragedy with its geographical wandering in the arid wilderness of Sinai but also its spiritual and moral wandering in disobedience of God. He means rest for the Hebrews to be faithfully arriving at their destination beyond Jordan. The apostle warns his readers: Don’t be like those earlier Hebrews who failed to enter into God’s rest (3:7-19).
He reasons that God’s rest is also the accomplishment of believers’ purpose or work by reminding that God himself rested on the seventh day upon the accomplishment of creation (4:3-10). He applies this to his readers: “…for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his work as God did from his” (4:10). There was work for the exodus Hebrew people to do as the nation of Israel as there was a particular work
for each tribe, family and individual. They were so preoccupied with a series of disobedience and rebellion that they never completed their work and never rested in this second sense.
The multi-faceted sense of rest culminates in the sense of final and full acceptance of our salvation as the continual experience of our salvation yet beyond initial acceptance and eternal possession. Not just the exodus out of Egyptian bondage but also finally entrance into and possession of the land promised.
It is that we have been saved (past tense) but also are being saved (present durative) and, finally, will have been saved (future perfect). More than merely “I am saved,” I must be saying, “I am being saved.” After all, we need to be saved from every sin we commit subsequent to being born again.
Arguably, all this was already embodied in the Old Testament word “shalom.” This is (inadequately) rendered “peace.” Fully valid attempts include but cannot be limited to “wholeness,” “wholesomeness” and “health.” It is spiritual and moral maturity, i.e., sanctification. It is, I suggest, close to that glorious word Jesus used in the Sermon on the Mount: blessedness. Equanimity comes to mind.
“For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God....” (4:8, 9) This and the tone of the section suggests to me that we are always reaching our destination, always accomplishing our purpose and always becoming at peace.
The writer tirelessly warns his readers though out chapters 3 and 4—by using Psalms 95—against failing by disobedience to enter God’s rest. More, he is not writing hyperbolically when he swears upon himself that he will himself actually prohibit it, i.e., “As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my
rest’” (3:11; 4:3, 5, see Psalm 95:7-11). While the possession of our salvation is eternally secure, our experience of salvation is not. It is, rather, conditioned upon our faithful obedience. It pains me to think of the monstrous number of actually saved believers who will never enter into God’s rest on this earth.
“Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it.” (4:1) He reminds us that while the Israelites actually exited Egypt (saved from), not all entered what was promised. “Was it not with those who sinned whose bodies fell in the wilderness?” (3:17). “So we see they were unable to enter because of unbelief.” (v 19)
If this upsets you today, thank God. It is still Today. “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (4:7) God, through Moses, warned those Hebrews described in the Book of Numbers, but their hearts became hardened (calloused), and they fell in the wilderness of their sin. This can (indeed, will) happen to today’s “Hebrews.”
Hebrews 4:11-13 conclude the section, The Word as the Guardian of the Rest. Please consider my rendering:
11Let us, therefore, do everything we can to enter this rest, that no one fall by the same sort of disobedience. 12For the Word of God is dynamic and operational, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even to the very division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13And before him nothing that has ever been created is hidden, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we are held accountable.
The Power of the Pause
PAT CI RRINCIONE
It’s hard to believe August is here, because I feel like I just woke up and it was January 1. I was wondering how God’s plans were going to unfold for the coming year, until August arrived—the month I have dubbed “the pause.” Why “the pause?” It’s the month before all activities go back into full drive! School begins in a few weeks, teachers are getting their schedules organized, football and fall soccer begin to gear up for the season, Bible Study and church groups begin to come back together, and for some early birds, Christmas cards begin to get addressed and sent as are requests for Christmas lists from children and grandchildren. Not to mention October fests, Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays (The Hallmark channel is already promoting its Christmas movies)! For my husband and me, we resume picking up granddaughters from school and delivering them either to their homes or to dance practices. It’s hazy, it’s crazy, it is life filled to the brim with fun, laughter, tired days and nights, preparations, and okay,
so many memories being made. But, right now, for the next few weeks, I am enjoying the power of the pause: a physical cessation of work and activity, a state of peace and tranquility, with time to sleep in, read more and shop leisurely.
I must tell you, I first came across this phrase, though said in a slightly different way, as I read Genesis and realized that it was not a new concept but has been there forever, since the creation of the universe. Imagine that! Remember? God created man during the sixth day of the creation story, and on the seventh day God rested. He took a pause on the seventh day.
However, it has taken this energizer bunny a long time in making Sunday a day to pause, to rest, to begin to come back to the Sunday I knew in the church community of my early life. When it came back, I appreciated God allowing a day to breathe, reflect and rest in him.
Biblical rest or resting in the Lord is more than just physical relaxation. It’s about spiritual renewal and peace; it’s about trusting God and surrendering your worries. It’s about finding rest and security in God’s provision and love and involves ceasing (at least for a day) from striving, worrying and relying on self.
Biblical rest is about spiritual renewal, trusting in God, observing the Sabbath, seeking God’s presence, learning from Jesus and resting in the Lord.
Allow me to backtrack for a moment, because I was remembering a list of “what to do” for each day of the week my grandmother and Mom used to chant:
Monday Wash Day, referring to laundry
Tuesday Ironing the freshly washed clothes
Wednesday Mending clothes, repairing rips and tears
Thursday Churning, likely referring to making butter
Friday Cleaning, likely focusing on the house
Saturday Baking, preparing food for the week
Sunday Resting, traditionally a day of rest and church attendance
I re-read Sunday’s “to do”—resting, traditionally a day of rest and church attendance.
Aha! It’s always been there! The importance of finding rest for the soul, or as Psalm 46 calls us to “be still and know that I am God.”
My family was very committed to the Sunday gathering at church, for taking time to worship God and spend the day together with family. Nothing got in the way of going to church on Sunday (except sickness, and stomach aches didn’t count). As Paul Tripp says in his book Everyday Gospel (yes, I’m really enjoying this devotional): “The Sunday gatherings of the church for worship is not so much a duty as it is one of God’s kind and essential gifts to us.” How I wish I realized the importance of gratitude, anticipating, enthusiasm and privilege it was all those years I walked away, and yet God, in his mercy brought me back home.
My friends, remember the “power of the pause,” not only during August, but on each and every Sunday you are privileged to attend his house of worship and spend time with God’s people. It’s a gift to you, to me, to us. It gives us a place of quiet and peace (except for the narthex between services), it rejuvenates our relationship with our Divine God, and it allows us to surrender our worries and find peace through Jesus. I don’t know about you, but the weekly pause of Sunday worship refreshes me, rejuvenates me, reinvigorates and revitalizes my soul.
As Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest….and you will find peace for your souls.” (NIV)
Amen.
How Are They to Hear?
ALTA JOHNSON
Did you know . . .
• Deaf people are considered one of the least reached people groups in the world for the gospel.
• that a majority of Deaf people who use American Sign Language also take pride in their unique language and culture.
• many people who are Deaf would not choose to become Hearing.
• And many deaf people would rather be called Deaf than Hearing-Impaired.
• that many people who are born deaf have hearing parents, and most of those parents never have a meaningful conversation with their children.
• family dysfunction and lack of communication can put a deaf person at high risk for abuses such as substance abuse, physical and emotional abuse as well as sexual abuse.
• because reading is based on hearing, it can be very difficult for a deaf person to learn to read.
• very few evangelical protestant churches have any kind of outreach to deaf people.
• that putting an interpreter at the front of the sanctuary at the morning service does not equal a deaf ministry.
The latest census in DuPage County lists the number of deaf people at over 28,000, and College Church is strategically situated in the area to collaborate with other local ministries and reach out to deaf people (and sign language interpreters).
Even in a church, many deaf people aren’t greeted by hearing people. It doesn’t take much to smile, reach out a hand, learn a name, or a few signs. This can make a huge difference between feeling connected or left out.
If any of these facts break your heart as they do the heart of the loving Father who created all people and desires that they come to salvation, please pray with us and consider attending some of our upcoming events to learn me. You may also reach out to me at altajohnson@ college-church.org. I have been working in and among the deaf community for more than three decades and have personal witnessed everything those previous statements represent. I am humbly willing to help connect, educate, equip and network with this local body of Christ toward this goal.
See our upcoming events on page 18.
CHURCH LIFE
AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES
Everyone welcome.
Join us at 9:30 and 11 a.m. throughout August. You can watch it at college-church.org/livestream
MORNING SERMON SERIES:
The Gospel of Matthew
Senior Pastor Josh Moody preaching
AUGUST 3: Prioritization, Matthew 10:34-42
AUGUST 10: Twelve Like None
Other, Luke 6:12-19, Pastor Jim Johanik preaching
AUGUST 17: Longing for the Temple, 1 Kings 5, Pastor James Seward preaching
The Gospel of Matthew
Senior Pastor Josh Moody preaching
AUGUST 24: Preachers and Hearers, Matthew 11:1-19
AUGUST 31: Repent & Rest, Matthew 11:20-30
SUNDAY EVENING SERVICES:
Everyone welcome.
Join us at 5 p.m. in Commons Hall. Songs of Wisdom Sermons from the Psalms
AUGUST 3: Psalm 119:81-88, Pastor Dan Hiben preaching
AUGUST 10: Summer Hymn Sing in the Sanctuary
AUGUST 17: Psalm 119:89-96, Pastoral Resident Matt Heaton preaching
AUGUST 24: Psalm 119:97-104, Pastor Josh Maurer preaching
AUGUST 31: No evening service
SUMMER FORUM
Sundays 9:30 a.m. in Commons Hall
Praying Together through the Psalms
AUGUST 3: (the last forum for the summer). Praise the Lord, O My Soul, Psalm 146, Phil Ryken teaching
ADULT COMMUNITIES
Begin August 17
FORUM 15 Sundays 8 a.m. in C104F
• Teacher: Bruce Main, John Maust, David Fetzer, Dick Albright
• Study: A Journey Through the Five Books of Moses
• Description: prayer, singing and study with class interaction.
GREEK EXEGESIS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in the Board Room
• Teacher: Jon Laansma
• Study: 2 & 3 John
• Description: reading and discussion of the Greek New Testament. Knowledge of Greek is not required for this class.
LIFE TOGETHER Sundays 9:30 a.m. room 211 (old library)
• Teacher: David Kelley (teaching team coordinator)
• Study: TBA
• Description: short teaching with small group discussion. Authentic biblical community for adults, ages 25-40.
LIVING WORD Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104A & C104C
• Teachers: Felipe Chamy, Phil Ryken, Dick Albright, Jay Cunningham, Gary Cook
• Study: John 16-21
• Description: A “community within a community,” where we share, pray and learn together.
LOGOS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104E
• Teachers: Rob Nordstrom and Tim Sattler
• Study: TBA
• Description: A caring community centered around interactive Bible teaching and prayer, spanning a range of ages and family situations.
THRIVE Sundays 9:30 a.m. in Clapham Fine Arts Center
• Teachers: Joe Becker (teaching team leader)
• Study: TBA
• Description: a vibrant group, ages approximately 40-60, committed to growing with Jesus and his church through Bible-based teaching, small group discussion, common prayer and fellowship.
VERITAS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104B & D
• Teacher: Dr. Gregg Quiggle
• Study: The Person and Work of Christ
• Description: a teaching class with active discussion and interaction. Most attendees are middle to upper age.
WOMEN’S MINISTRIES
MOM2MOM
Park Playdates at 9:30-11:30 a.m.
AUGUST 11: Graf Park, Wheaton
AUGUST 25: Northside Park, Wheaton
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Join us on Wednesdays for Women’s Bible Study, starting September 10, as we study the book of James this fall and Daniel next spring. We have either a morning (9:30-11 a.m.) or evening (6:45-8:15 p.m.) session available. Our weekly study combines individual preparation, small group discussion and expository teaching to deepen our understanding of Scripture. Learn more and register on our website.
SUMMER BOOK GROUP
7 p.m. in Commons Hall. Join us for a chapter-by-chapter discussion of Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age
AUGUST 5: Chapters 13 & 14
AUGUST 12: Epilogue and review
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES (KIDS’ HARBOR)
SUNDAY MORNING
Starting August 17
9:30 a.m. Nursery (0-2) and Preschool (two-preK), Elementary (K-5th grade), fourth and fifth graders will start in the service until dismissed to their classes about 9:45.
11 a.m. Nursery (0-2), young and older Children’s Church (twoyears-old through kindergarten) and WOW (first- and secondgraders), Children in WOW and the older Children’s Church classes will be dismissed from the service to their classes about 11:15
AUGUST 3: Last Sunday of Summer Schedule
AUGUST 10: Family Worship Sunday (No Kids’ Harbor classes) / Nursery (0-2) at 9:30 and 11
AUGUST 17: First Sunday of School Year Schedule
MIDDLE SCHOOL ( KINGS MESSENGERS)
SUNDAY MORNINGS:
AUGUST 3 & 10: Students are encouraged to join their families in worship services.
AUGUST 17, 24, 31: KMs meets 9:30-10:30 in CL02 (Commons Lower Level)
WEDNESDAY NIGHT:
AUGUST 6 & 13: NO KMs
AUGUST 20 & 27: KMs meets 6:458:15 p.m. in Crossings
NOTE: August 27 – Parent Night when KMs parents are invited to join their students for the evening and meet with KMs leaders and Pastor Dan.
HIGH SCHOOL (HYACKS)
SUNDAY MORNINGS:
HYACKS meets in the Clapham Space in the Crossings building from 9:30–10:30 for a time of teaching and worship. The entrance is on Wesley Street across from the ATM machines. There will be a flag outside the entrance door.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT:
7-8:30 p.m. starts on August 20. The locations for the small groups will be sent out as we get closer to the date!
COLLEGE GROUP
(for college-age young adults)
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 & 31: Meets at 11:00 a.m. in Crossings for musical worship, small-group Bible study and fellowship
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26: Missions and Evangelism Prayer Night (location TBD)
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28: Word and Worship Night in Crossings
STARS DISABILITY
Children, Adult and MultiGenerational Sunday classes meet at 9:30 a.m. only. This will be our summer schedule until September.
AUGUST 3: STARS who participated in Summer Music Camp will lead worship in the Sunday morning services at 9:30 and 11 a.m.
AUGUST 24: Volunteer training for Sunday morning volunteers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in C002.
PRISON TASK FORCE
Every Saturday our Prison Task Force heads to Stateville Prison for ministry to the inmates there. Join them in prayer in the parking lot at 9:10.
Other ways to get involved:
• Commit to pray at home during our services (15 minutes).
• Pray for the names of men who share requests (10 minutes).
• Help establish a new ministry of weekday, in-person visitation.
• Be a pen pal to help disciple believers behind the walls.
Find out more by emailing prison taskforce@college-church.org.
ARTSPACE
Details on page 9.
SIGNS OF LOVE
First and third Sunday afternoons, 3:30-5 p.m., the Crossings conference room. Lessons in American Sign Language and Culture, aimed for ages eight to adult, taught by continued on next page
deaf people. Light refreshments. Free. No registration required. All are welcome. Invite friends.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Each event is twice a month, unless indicated. We will be able to offer more as we get additional staff and resources.
SIGNS OF LOVE BUILDING
BRIDGES: First and third Sunday afternoons, 3:30-5 p.m., the Crossings conference room. Lessons in American Sign Language and Culture, aimed for ages eight to adult, taught by deaf people. Light refreshments. Free. No registration required. All are welcome. Invite friends.
PARENTS & TOTS CLASSES: best for ages 0-7 years old, plus caregivers, second and fourth Fridays, 4-5 p.m., September-May, taught by Alta Johnson. Free. No registration required. All parents and tots are welcome. Invite friends.
INTERPRETED WORSHIP
SERVICE: 11 a.m., first and third Sundays, Sanctuary, front, west side. Offered by local interpreters and skilled signers. Please join us in worship and invite others.
DEAF PRAYER ZOOM: 5:30-6:15 p.m., second Saturday every month, in American Sign Language. Email altajohnson@college-church.org for Zoom link.
Various bi-monthly outreach events coming soon. Watch for details.
Looking Ahead
THE ADULT CHOIR is kicking off its 2025-2026 season on Thursday, August 28, at 7:30pm. We invite anyone interested in serving through singing to join us for our first rehearsal and a sweet treat afterwards! Email music@collegechurch.org for more information.
ABOUT US LUNCH
Under the Radar
GOLF
GOLF FOR THE STARS Prairie Landing Golf Club Monday, August 25, 2025
Are you new to College Church or would you like to learn more about us? If so, you’re invited to a special lunch on Sunday, September 7, at noon in the lobby outside the Sanctuary. Come and meet pastors and staff, learn about College Church, and find out how you can get involved. Lunch is on us! RSVP to help us plan.
GRIEFSHARE
Despite it being part of life, death is never easy. It hurts to lose someone, and it may be hard to feel optimistic about the future. GriefShare is a 13-week class which features video seminars with experts, focused group discussions and personal study and reflection that can help you face your challenges and move toward rebuilding your life.
GriefShare begins on Monday, September 15, 7-8:30 p.m. in the College Church Commons. It is open to College Church members and attenders, as well as people you know from the community or other churches. You are welcome to begin attending GriefShare any week. Each session is “self-contained,” so you do not have to attend in sequence. You will find encouragement and help whenever you begin. For more information, contact Christy at griefshare@ college-church.org, or register using the QR code.
Get your clubs ready and tee off for a great cause. Proceeds benefit STARS Family Services. Registration includes green fees, cart, breakfast and lunch. Space is limited, so reserve your spots now!
SHAKESPEARE
Shakespeare in the Park: The Winter’s Tale Memorial Park downtown Wheaton August 28, 29 & 30 at 7 p.m. Additional time info: 5:30 p.m. park opens, 6:45 p.m. puppet show
Facilities FACTS
SIGNAGE
is something that is extremely important, yet often overlooked, unless you are assigned to put them up, take them down, straighten them out, repair them, or keep track of them. The facilities inventory includes detailed files of banners, city signs, in-house signage, indoor/exterior, maps for locations and constant scheduling to check them. There are required signage and exit signage—that need to be checked and updated. There are dozens of types of signs and hundreds of rooms that need to be checked each month. To join the team of volunteers that help to keep facilities flowing, contact Howard Kern at hkern@ college-church.
Work with US
GENERAL CUSTODIAN (25 hours per week)
College Church in Wheaton has an opening for a year-round, permanent part-time custodian to join our facilities staff to help maintain our buildings and set up for events. A successful candidate for this 25-hour year-round position will be able to lift up to 50 pounds, move an 8-foot table and stacks of chairs, have a thriving relationship with Jesus and be able to be treat all church people and visitors in a courteous and professional manner. Facilities is looking for someone with an excellent attendance record, a willingness to learn new tasks and functions and who can follow instructions with a good attitude. Must be able to work 25 hours per week consistently (6 a.m. to 11a.m, Monday through Friday) and be able to read and understand directions in English as well as supervisory instruction is in English. All applicants must be able to sign and adhere to our Articles of Faith and Standards of the Christian Life document.
MINISTRY ASSOCIATE FOR INCLUSION
(10-13 hours per week)
College Church in Wheaton is looking for a person to assist the Disability Ministries with integrating children with special needs into the programs of College Church in Wheaton. A successful candidate will have a thriving relationship with Jesus, have some experience and training in disability ministries and have a love for children with special needs. Candidates need to be able to participate in Sunday morning service times and inclusion events during the school year. Regular attendance and membership at College Church in Wheaton preferred.
Visit the college-church.org/job-openings or email Ann at akarow@college-church.org.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRAYER
Call the church office or email info@college-church.org for details on these prayer meetings.
SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER: 8:15-8:40 a.m., meets in the Commons board room
MONDAY MORNING PRAYER: 6:15 a.m., meets in C104A
MIDWEEK PRAYER MEETING: Wednesdays at NOON via Zoom
AUGUST 6: Jim & Julianna Gieser, YMCA, discipleship and training in South Africa
AUGUST 13: Ann & Phil Baur, Pioneers, administration and organizational leadership worldwide
AUGUST 20: Nathan & Vera Beck, GEM, evangelism and church planting in Czech Republic
AUGUST 27: Terri Miller, ReachGlobal, organizational leadership and communications in Europe
PRAYER FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: Fridays, 12-1 p.m. in the Board Room.
AARON-HUR PRAYER FELLOWSHIP
will meet on Thursday, August 7, at 7 p.m. at the home of Eric and Marilyn Enstrom, 1460 Stoddard Avenue in Wheaton, (630) 2485016. Our guests will be J. and E., serving in North Africa.
BARNABAS PRAYER FELLOWSHIP
welcomes Phil Smith to its August meeting to learn about a new non-profit organization, “promoteHumility,” which grew out of Phil’s doctoral work on leadership and which should prove helpful to many mission and other leaders. The group meets Tuesday, August 19, at 1:30 p.m. in the Patio Dining Room at Windsor Park.
WHY JOIN?
The Biblical Case for Church Membership
Each membership class, I present a brief rationale for membership in a local church in general, and then for membership at College Church in particular. Of course, by nature of the occasion of such a talk most of those who hear it are already persuaded enough of the veracity of the argument to have registered to attend a membership class in the first place. A few of the staff team, then, thought it would be good (again briefly) to replicate the material I teach there in written format, to be disseminated more widely for those who attend church and are not yet members of a church.
The first point to make is that “membership” of a church is not a latter invention of a denomination, or ecclesiastical historical factoid. Membership of a church is a biblical quality, clearly taught in the Bible. We might mention that there is no instance in the New Testament of a Christian who is not a member of a local church. But, in addition to that argument from silence, Paul uses the language of membership in 1 Corinthians 12 about the body of Christ in the church at Corinth. In fact, C.S. Lewis somewhere argued, the concept of “membership” in general has Christian roots, devolved over time from this core biblical idea of church membership. The apostle Paul puts it like this: “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” (1 Cor. 12:12) In other words, being a member of a church is like being a member of a physical human body. My physical member is my hand or my foot. Similarly, in the body of Christ we are members of the body. In fact, this is true of all real, genuine, born again, converted, Christians: “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” (1 Cor. 12:27)
So, this first point to make is that “membership” of a church, while it inevitably has certain bureaucratic and institutional superficial elements related to it (a list on a database somewhere; classes; and the like), the core idea and experience of membership is not organizational but organic. Christ when he saves us saves us not to remain as individuals but to become
part of his body, the church. So it is, again, that we are told in Acts 2 verse 41 that when the people repented and believed, were saved, they were then “added to their number” – that is, added to the number of those who were already part of the church. By reflection, then, the task of an evangelist is to perform a transplant operation: to bring someone out of the world and transplant them into the body of the church. When someone becomes a Christian, they are made a member of the church.
That said, and given that organic reality, we should be unashamed, bold and public about our membership of a particular local church. To hide, or to avoid associating ourselves publicly, with a local body as its member, would make as little sense as a hand pretending it did not belong to an arm of a human body. When we are members of a local church, we join together for mutual edification, for the progress of the gospel, for ministry to each other, and for the great mission of reaching the world around us. Again in 1 Corinthians 12, Paul therefore argues that an eye cannot say it does not need the hand, or a head the feet - but every part is needed. If you are not a member of a local church, deliberately, consciously, with full understanding and comprehension, you are living in a way that is contrary to biblical norms of what a saved person is like. You are also diminishing the public witness of the church, its strength, and power, to turn back the forces of darkness in our world. We are to join in then as members of church for the reason that this is what Christians do by nature of being a Christian as it is understood biblically. (Of course, there are exceptions to this principle. I have had pastoral conversations down through the years where for various personal and unavoidable reasons formal association is at least temporarily, and sometimes extensively, difficult and perhaps even unwise. But such “hard cases” do not disprove the general principle outlined above. To be a Christian, in biblical norm, is to be a member of the body of Christ, and therefore a Christian is to associate publicly as a member of a local church).
PASTOR JOSH MOODY
The second point, then, is more in terms of the practical outworkings of it all. And for that I tend to point people to Paul’s teaching in his letter to the Philippians. There he frequently uses the language of “partnership” to express the covenant commitment of one Christian to another in membership of a local church. For instance, he remarks how he gives thanks because of their “partnership in the gospel” (Phil. 1:5). This theme continues throughout the letter in various ways and is returned to again at the end when he remarks on their remarkable “partnership” (Phil. 4:15). Such partnership in the gospel is illustrated in the letter through the lives of Timothy and Epaphroditus, and their ministry and evangelism and service (Phil. 2:19-30), is compared to an athletic contest of team work (“striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,” Phil. 1:27), and is most of all exemplified in the humble service of Jesus Christ our Lord (Phil. 2:1-11). In short, our membership of a church is not merely theoretical, notional, nominal, but is active, involved, committed, covenantal, servant-like, and dynamic. We are a team, like a team of athletes. We are a partnership, like business partners. We are a group of citizens of the kingdom of Christ, working together for his glory, for the good of his church, all as members and therefore “partners” in the gospel.
Of course, the final point that needs to be made, and is made, when we gather for membership classes, is why join College Church in particular. That would be another article, message, and for that I encourage you: come to the next membership class.
MEMBERSHIP CLASS
Come find out about College Church’s history, core beliefs, ministries and what it means for you to be a member. This one-day only membership opportunity will be on Saturday, September 13, from 8 a.m. to noon in the Commons; registration is requested.
For more info, contact Christy at membership@college-church.org, or call (630) 668-0878, ext. 175.
We said “Yes”
Two boys, ages one and two, stayed in our home in early July so that their foster mom could go on vacation. The state calls this respite. Oxford Languages define respite as “a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.” Let me be clear, these children weren’t difficult or unpleasant. Quite the opposite actually, they were joyful and chill. As I reflect on our brief brush with providing respite and the foster care system, I hold competing thoughts—the hard: taking in kids I don’t know (and how unrestful that is for me), and the joy: watching these kids laugh at the silly faces my sixyear-old makes. The ease in which the baby comes to me for cuddles and the two-year-old for hugs after a boo-boo. I hold the sadness I feel of these innocent children in a hard situation, separated from their family.
We said “yes.”
I watched my husband wrestle with the two boys and heard contagious giggles from our foster son. My husband was supposed to be working, but he had these two boys saying, “Play with me.” My mind flashed to the story of Mary and Martha. Martha, who had many things to prepare, to clean, to cook, chose work over time with Jesus. Mary sat and listened to Jesus. And when Martha complained about Mary not helping, Jesus rebuked her and said that Mary had chosen “the good portion.” And I wondered how many times in this child’s life had he giggled like that?
Not that his foster mom doesn’t make him giggle or his bio mom for that matter, but he’s in foster care for a reason. And that reason is hard. So, I told my husband, “I think you are choosing the good thing. I know work is stressful and you have other people counting on you, but this is good.” Wrestling is good.
We said, “yes.”
Jumping from one child to three was not a cake walk. There were many competing needs. The baby ended up getting sick and needed to be held the bulk of the time he was here. The two-year-old had a potty accident on our couch. My six-year-old complained that the twoyear-old kept touching him and wasn’t sharing. And somehow there were never enough snacks. In the end, the two-yearold cried as he left our home and our plethora of cars. My six-year-old said he will miss having a wrestling buddy. And I calculated how many hours till my son’s bedtime when I would be able to sit down and relax. So now the question is will we do this again?
The psalmist talks about God leading him to green pastures, still waters, and restoring his soul. While this sounds picturesque and charming, what if foster care and respite care is being the green pastures and still waters for a child? What if it is being the calm, stable loving in their little worlds that have been chaotic and upended? While I think daily about that elusive next time I’ll be able to rest, maybe the better portion is being someone’s green pasture.
Ultimately, we are called to find our rest in Jesus, and that his yoke is lighter and better. But what about the child that doesn’t know Jesus? Where will he find rest? I would argue that a child can find rest in you resting in Jesus’ goodness. But how will that child know Jesus if you don’t say yes? Say yes to volunteering in Kids’ Harbor. Say yes to watching a young mom’s littles while she gets ready for her day. Say yes to kids in foster care. Say yes to supporting God’s love of children. Say yes to sacrificing some of your own rest and comfort.
Will we provide respite again? We will say, “yes.”
If you are interested in learning about respite and foster care please contact the Family Advocacy Task Force at familyadvocacy@college-church.org.
CHARLENE MILLER
FAITH & SERVICE: Volunteer at Outreach this Fall
SUSAN KRISCH
Many people in our congregation have heard of Outreach, a local ministry that purposefully lives out its mission: “To restore hope and provide opportunities for people to become all that God intends them to be.” In fact, College Church members and attenders have supported Outreach since its inception in the mid-1970s. For me, partnering with various ministries through Outreach has allowed me to express my faith through service, and has expanded my awareness of the work of the Lord happening daily to strengthen youth and families.
My volunteer experience with Outreach began years ago with an invitation from Sarah Bradley to put my Spanish speaking ability to good use by helping with the annual Christmas Store. My involvement has grown from that point. As a bilingual teacher of English Language Learners in District 200 for 12 years, I frequently referred the parents of my students to Outreach Carol Stream. My students would get academic support in the after-school program, and their parents would often receive other helpful services from Outreach. When I left teaching in 2020, I immediately began leading the reading and grammar portions of the SAT Practice course for the juniors in the high school program. Imagine my delight when
some of my former ESL students show up in the SAT prep class each year! I have known these students since they were five years old, and could barely speak English. And now, I am blessed to see them again, fluent in English, so grown up, and continuing to grow academically with the help of Outreach.
If you have a heart to serve your neighbors and a couple of hours to spare weekly, I highly recommend considering a volunteer role at Outreach. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that “we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Prayerfully consider your gifting and talents and then inquire about the needs at Outreach. Your volunteer opportunities range from cooking for the older adult Lunch-and-Learn, tutoring students, assisting with driving for the job coaching department, and more. Did you know that some of our high school students go weekly to tutor on Thursdays? Perhaps you could partner with them!
To learn more and apply, go to weareoutreach.org/volunteer or contact Mindy Inman at (630) 682-1910 or minman@weareoutreach.org.
LOVING OUR PREBORN NEIGHBORS
JONATHAN BARRETT
The following are my key takeaways from the Gospel of Life Training held in March at College Church. The training was led by John Ensor, president of PassionLife Ministries and author of multiple books including Innocent Blood and Stand for Life. Quotations attributed to Ensor are taken from “4 Questions: Leaders Guide” which can be found at passionlife.org/resources.
Every human life is a gift from God, sustained by his mercy and guided by his all-encompassing providence (Ps. 139:1316; Matt. 5:45; 6:26). Each of us carries a weighty gift that makes us capable of sublime acts of love and acts that provoke God to righteous wrath (John 15:13; Is. 26: 20-21). From the moment of conception, we are each endowed with intrinsic, equal, exceptional, eternal value (Ensor).
Abortion, the killing of an innocent preborn human being, is a shocking juxtaposition of the beautiful, mysterious gift of life and the senseless cruelty of this fallen world. The taking of innocent life is directly opposed to God’s design for his creation. He protects the life he has given in two ways. First, by the negative command, “you shall not murder.” (Ex. 20:13). Second, by the positive command, “you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Lev. 19:18) Loving our neighbors as ourselves requires us to intervene when we see an injustice, especially the shedding of innocent blood. In Deuteronomy 21, God instructed Israel on how to respond when someone was slain in their midst. The local community was to gather in prayer and reaffirm the negative (“our hands did not shed this blood”) and positive (“nor did our eyes see it shed”) commands (Deut. 21:1-9). The inhabitants of the closest city were to take moral responsibility for addressing the injustice; God commanded his people to love their neighbors in a very real and physical sense.
Recognizing God’s precious gift of life and the grievous harm of abortion can be overwhelming. By God’s grace, however,
nothing can shake our standing before him, for nothing can shake Christ, the rock on which we stand (1 Peter 2:6). We experience God’s grace in receiving his forgiveness and having our consciences cleansed. We have peace with God. Our secret shames and regrets become “a joyful testimony of God’s mercy in our life through Christ” (Ensor). This transformation “may be sudden or slow, but always involves faith” (Ensor). We trust Christ who carried all our sins to the cross “and that he suffered the full punishment due for each one of them” (Ensor). Faith keeps us near the cross and allows us to rest in Christ’s provision. Returning to and meditating on Christ’s perfect sacrifice “is the only pathway to freedom from guilt and healing from past choices” (Ensor). Jesus delights in receiving us and walking with us on this pathway. He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30).
How do we respond practically? By rescuing the innocent (Prov. 24:10-12). The Good Samaritan models this well. He sees his bleeding neighbor. He stops. He risks his safety to save the man, tears pieces of cloth (from his own shirt perhaps) to cover the man’s wounds, and gives up his money to house the penniless man. The care he gives is practical, personal, and costly (Ensor). Rather than passing by on the other side, he chooses to share in his neighbor’s suffering.
Other resources to consider:
• caseforlife.com
• The Case for Life: Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture by Scott Klusendorf
• Just Courage by Gary Haugen
SANCTITY
OF HUMAN LIFE ANNOUNCEMENTS
40 DAYS FOR LIFE PRAYER
is Saturday, August 9, 1-2 p.m. Join the Sanctity of Human Life Task Force at 40 Days for Life’s year-round peaceful prayer vigil. Meet on Waterleaf pregnancy center’s property across from Planned Parenthood Aurora. Questions? Contact sohl@college-church.org.
CHICAGO ABORTION LANDSCAPE UPDATE
The Hope Clinic, a late-term abortion business, opened in the Uptown neighborhood in Chicago in June. This third trimester abortion business advertises abortions through 34 weeks on their website. This is likely to become a national abortion destination, with only 10 other advertised third trimester clinics in New Jersey, Maryland, Washington D.C., Colorado, New Mexico and Oregon. In Chicago, there are 15 inperson locations that perform abortions at clinics and hospitals, and eight out of the 15 abortion clinics in Chicago do abortions of viable babies, those who can live outside the womb.
BE ENCOURAGED
The newest Caring Network pregnancy center on the west side of Chicago opened in July and welcomed clients the very first day! The next center will open on the north side in September—the building is ready, staff have been hired and are now being trained.
STAFFING NEEDS
Two additional Caring Network pregnancy centers in Chicago, one on the far west side and the other on the south side, are ready to open, but still lack essential nurses and sonographer staff. A southwest location is currently being built and will need bilingual staff. Please pass on job listings to your contacts. https:// caringnetwork.bamboohr.com/careers
BABY BANK
Bring diapers (size six especially needed), wipes, baby lotion, shampoo/wash, diaper cream and formula to the crib (outside the sanctuary on the first Sunday of every month and in the Commons the rest of the month). Check out Everylife diaper company which funds pregnancy centers. (20% off with auto renew. Use code LIVEACTION10 for an additional $10 off first order.) You may also order from the Baby Bank Amazon QR code.
UPDATE: ON SECOND STARS RESALE SHOP
1421 Main Street, Wheaton
We’re getting more and more excited about the upcoming opening of another location for our STARS Resale Shop. This is not replacing the STARS shop located in our Crossings building on Front Street but is a second location. This store will augment the great work that is being done at the existing store to provide:
1. A place other than landfills to donate gently used (and often new) clothing, household items and furniture so they have a second “forever” home at very affordable prices.
2. Service/employment opportunities for our STARS Disability Ministries participants, which in turn frees up other volunteers and staff for other work. Our STARS love being involved, helping the sales and interacting with customers.
3. Some of the necessary funds to support the three houses where some of our STARS reside, learning how to live more independently and with other STARS.
By the time you read this article, we will have submitted the final paperwork to the City for the permits to do renovations to the interior space. It is an ideal location with plenty of parking in the lot, easy drop-off, and a much larger storage space for furniture and out-of-season merchandise.
Lots of work has gone into the planning process since we signed the lease in February, and on our current trajectory, we hope to be able to open our doors sometime in September. Please continue your prayers for City and regulatory approval and safety for those performing the details.
MILESTONES
BIRTHS
Shepherd Daniel was born to Caleb and Lydia Krumsieg on July 6, joining his big brother Hudson. His maternal grandparents are Dave and Julie Sohmer.
Allen Frederick was born to Kevin and Alicia Rafferty on June 24. He joins his siblings Philip, Moira and Dennis at home in Oswego. Maternal grandparents are Todd and Susan Zimmerman.
Florence Hope was born to Noah and Chloe Rodman on June 21, joining her big sister Rosie. Her maternal grandparents are Dave and Julie Sohmer.
MARRIAGES
Lindsay McCracken married Jeff Hamberg on June 21 at College Church. They are making their home in Winfield.
DEATHS
Pray for Bill Pehrson, College Church missionaries Ben and Mandy Pehrson, and family and friends as they grieve the sudden loss of Bill’s wife and Ben’s mother, Vivien, who died on July 8.
Pray for Marcelyn (Everett) Peterson and family as they grieve the loss of Marcelyn’s sister Gwendolyn Wright, who passed away on July 3.
Pray for Frank Sprouse and family as they grieve the loss of Frank’s wife, Gundy, who passed away on July 3.
Pray for Corina (Valentin) Hossu and family as they grieve the loss of Corina’s mother who passed away on June 27 in Romania.
Pray for Nat (Christy) Truitt and family as they grieve the loss of Nat’s father, Douglas Truitt, who passed away on May 28.
Pray for Ardy (Bill) Peterson as they grieve the loss of Ardy’s oldest son, Jeffrey Howe, who passed away on May 27 in Montana.
Pray for Michelle (Doug) Linhardt and family as they grieve the loss of Michelle’s mother, Shirley Wicks, on May 18 in Bloomingdale, IL.
Update on the Accessible Parking Lot
Let’s face it, building projects take time. Particularly for a project where we are not building a building but a parking lot, it would seem that it would be relatively simple thing to figure out how to demolish the structures, haul away the debris, and put down rock and asphalt. There are so many processes that need to be completed that the time it takes to plan and garner approvals for the project is generally greater than the time it takes for the actual construction.
Building our accessible parking lot project west of the Sanctuary on Seminary Avenue and the build-out of the second STARS Resale Shop on North Main Street in Wheaton are two such projects.
There is a score of different professional studies which are required. Some can be done simultaneously, and others require one must be finished before another can begin. Environmental studies for potential pollution, requirements to separate recyclable and non-recyclable materials when the houses are demolished, soil, water and drainage, fire protection and the regulatory requirements from the City just take time. Of course, we’ve been doing as much of this as possible during the sixmonth window that we gave the tenants to vacate the houses, and there’s about a month left on that process. Many tenants have relocated already, and all tenants will have moved by August 15. This process has gone well as the tenants were well informed of our intentions to construct a parking lot when they began renting, but it doesn’t make it any easier for them to leave such a prime location and find another affordable apartment, close to the train, downtown, Wheaton College and, of course, College Church.
During August, we are scheduled on the agenda with City Planning for a special use permit since we’re changing the use of the property from residential to parking, and you will soon see some City-generated signs at the front of the houses to notify the public. Neighbors will have an opportunity to address the open meeting, and if the Planning group approves our plans, they will go to the City Council meeting for discussion and a final vote.
Then the actual construction can begin. If the weather is decent through the fall, we should be able to get the lot finished by Thanksgiving, but if the asphalt plants must close because of inclement weather, the lot will be grass-seeded and the work concluded in the spring.
Please continue to pray for a smooth transition for our current tenants, for those who are diligently completing the needed paperwork, for the additional funds needed to be donated, for neighbors and City approval, and as always, for safety for those who will be doing the project.
The lot will add about 114 spaces with many designated has accessible, and an easy, same-side-of-the-street parking for others with mobility issues and visitors.
at the BOOKSTALL
A GIFT FROM 10OFTHOSE
To show our appreciation for College Church, 10ofThose is offering a $5 discount for College Church attendees at 10ofthose.com. Simply sign in to your account (or create one if you don’t have one yet) and use the code collegechurch5 at checkout to receive your discount.
STUCK?
by Nate Akin
Feeling stuck and just going through the motions in your faith?
In Stuck?, Nate Akin draws on Scripture and his own story to help rekindle your love for Christ through five priorities that will encourage and refocus your heart.
Bookstall Price: $8
THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD
by Bear Grylls
Bear Grylls shares the incredible true story of Jesus, the humble Galilean who changed the course of history and continues to transform lives today. Told through the accounts of those who knew Him best, this short, engaging book invites you to explore who Jesus really is and why it matters for your life. A powerful read to share with friends or to refresh your own faith.
Bookstall Price: $17
Visit the Shepherd Shelf
KNOWN & LOVED
by Glenna Marshall
In Known and Loved, Glenna Marshall takes readers through Psalm 139 to show how deeply God knows and loves us, even when we feel unlovable or unseen. This encouraging book will help you rest in God’s steadfast love and remind you that you are never alone. A beautiful invitation to let these truths transform your heart and daily walk with Christ.
Bookstall Price: $12
THE FIRST SKYRIDER
by HR Hess
“What if dragons can be… trained?” In The First Skyrider, farm-boy Cairn is chosen to train as a dragon rider for the Star-King, taking him on a thrilling adventure of courage, friendship, and faith. Perfect for middle-grade readers, this engaging fantasy will captivate young imaginations while pointing them to hope beyond the story.
Bookstall Price: $12
Between the fireside and the bookstall checkout desk, we are building a “Shepherd Shelf,” a curated collection of books our pastors and directors are referencing in their varied counseling and Christian living situations. Be sure to check out this new “Shepherd Shelf.”
WHAT IS MONEY?
ANONYMOUS
If asked that question, most people would probably say that money is the way we pay for things. And they would be correct—partially!
Money serves three basic purposes in our economy.
1. Method of exchange. This is the term for saying money is the way we pay for things. Before paper money, societies used other physical items to pay for things, like chickens, livestock, pieces of land, even salt, whatever was valuable among those who were trading one item or service with another. Bartering was another way people compensated others and sometimes it’s even done today though the IRS certainly doesn’t like it. An example would be if we traded shoveling a neighbor’s driveway for their agreement to watch our children when we go out on Saturday night.
2. Determining relative value. How do we know whether this item is worth more than that somewhat similar but not identical item? It’s at least partially determined by the dollar value attached to each. There are many issues besides the price since there needs to be a willing buyer and a willing seller, and each would probably have different motives for their actions, but it is a starting point.
3. Store of value. We’ve all heard we should establish an emergency fund in case we lose our job or suffer a financial setback. That’s putting aside a store of money. Hopefully, unless we bury it in the yard, or put it under the mattress, that money will grow as much or more than inflation so that we don’t lose purchasing power.
Money is neither intrinsically good or intrinsically bad. It is what we choose to do with it that matters. If we save to purchase a needed vehicle or a house downpayment, that can be a very good thing. If we start saving well beyond what is needed for an emergency or a specific purchase just so we can watch the balance grow to provide security, we’re placing our trust in the wrong place. There are many admonitions in Scripture against placing our security in money. Here are just two:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-24)
“The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’” (Luke 12:16-21)
Let’s be sure to place our trust in Jesus Christ, who lived and died on the Cross for our sins, reconciling us to God and leading us to where money can never take us—eternal life with God.
