Cincinnati Youth Choir And Ringers In Concert

Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church presents the Youth Choir and Ringers from Church of the Saviour United Methodist in Cincinnati, Ohio, in concert on June 13, at 7 p.m. The worship concert is a free and open event. Marking their twentieth summer tour, these singers and ringers present the worship concert Lift Up based on Psalm 121. The program features choral anthems, exciting handbell pieces, and dra- matic sketches. The junior and senior high students who participate in these choirs are committed to sharing their faith through music that delivers an inspiring and uplifting message of hope and assurance. Plan to attend and experience an uplifting evening of music and worship. “I lift up my eyes to the mountains. My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121

By Larry Strong

As the story goes, a pastor was out for a drive in the beautiful rolling hills of Amish Country in Northeast Indiana. As he came upon a farm that was spectacularly stunning, he stopped and motioned the Amish farmer to come over to the fence. The pastor said, “My good man, God has certainly blessed you with a magnificent farm!” There was a pause as the Amish farmer took off his hat, wiped the sweat off his brow and said, “Yes He has, and we’re sure grateful. But you should have seen this place when He had it all to Himself.”

I planted four trees in my back yard a few years ago and used rocks to create a re taining wall around each tree.

With the ad dition of good soil, wire fenc ing to keep out the critters and a fair amount of sweat, the proj ect was completed. As I viewed the trees and pristine rock beds from my deck, the sense of satisfaction was well worth the sweat equity.

Over the past four years I did nothing except water the trees. About three weeks ago I remembered the old saying that “children, marriages, friendships and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get.” Today the trees, beds and rock retaining walls look better than they did originally but only because I got tired of looking at the weeds, dead vegetation, encroaching grass and fast disappearing retaining rock walls. Therein lies wisdom…the pain or dissatisfaction to make positive change must become lower than the pain or dissatisfaction to remain the same. Cowboy logic would say, “If you’re tired of lookin’ at weeds, pull ‘em.”

The Bible tells us wisdom is more precious than rubies but my experience is that wisdom usually shows up in work clothes, often on her knees, pulling weeds. Whatever the collective amount of wisdom is of the guys at Men on Fire we sure do spend a fair amount of time on our knees pulling weeds and other dead stuff out of our lives. A bit more cowboy logic…” it’s easier to grow weeds than flowers.”

At Men on Fire we’re not confused about being more flawed than we may have ever believed. We realize our faith journey must include vigilance about the stuff that lives and loves to kill and choke out what God desires for us. But we also know that we’re more accepted and loved than we ever dared hope—because of God’s amazing grace. It’s His grace and love for us that compels us to keep pulllin’ up weeds and removing other junk from our lives.

Men on Fire gathers every Saturday, 8:00 a.m. at the American Legion for “Breakfast with a Purpose!” What’s the purpose? We’re a band of brothers stackin’ hands and hearts to grow in our personal relationship with Jesus. Yep, we still have work to do on them weeds but it’s sure easier and more fun to be suitin’ up and in the fight with other guys. So if you like a good breakfast, encouraging conversation and maybe have some stuff in your life to “pull up,” you’ll be in great company to “Weed ‘em and reap!” From out of town? Join us! Breakfast is free for our first time guests! Saturday, 8:00 a.m., 850 N. St. Vrain. See ‘ya there.

Estes Park Special Olympics Tuesday Bowling Fun

Just In Time For Summer

SPECTACULAR END UNIT with private yard, mountain views and remodeled throughout. Cozy fenced area with flagstone patio and beautiful mature aspen trees as you approach the private entrance of this home. Attractive single level condo, recently updated with new kitchen appliances, composite flooring and paint throughout. The square footage feels larger due to the open floor plan and vaulted ceiling, and flows comfortably to the 2 bedrooms and 1.5 baths. Large Windows showcase the mountain views and allow an abundance of bright light. Relax on your patio or take a walk on the nearby Lake Estes walking trail, you will find this to be a convenient location to enjoy all Estes Park has to offer. Call Trisha for an appointment to view 506 A Grand Estates Drive, offered for $449,000

Estes Park Special Olympics organizers are hosting bowling fun at the Bull Pin, 555 S. St. Vrain Ave. on Tuesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. All ages are welcome to par- ticipate.

For more information, contact Audri Smith at 970-451-3762 or email epspecialolympics@yahoo.com.