Partnering with God’s Abundance

You have the opportunity to join God’s mission for the world by supporting CCC’s mission partners through a monthly Faith Promise offering. But what exactly is a Faith Promise? It’s modeled after the Macedonian Christians’ example in 2 Corinthians 8—a commitment to give toward mission work, even beyond your regular giving. It’s an act of faith, where you express your desire to be generous, trusting that God will make your small contribution go further than you could imagine. It's not about meeting a need that God has—God doesn’t need our money—but about participating in His desire to funnel His abundance into the world through our generosity.

In 2 Corinthians 8, we see the Corinthian and Macedonian followers of Jesus facing their own issues and needs, much like we do today. Life is full of pressures, and it's easy to adopt a mindset of scarcity—thinking we don’t have enough to give, and that we need to hold onto our limited resources to manage our own circumstances.

Paul’s words to the Corinthians still resonate today: “I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others” (2 Corinthians 8:8). Like Paul, I’m not commanding you to make a Faith Promise to support our mission partners. But I want to invite you to reflect on your love for God’s mission and consider the example set by the Macedonians. Despite their poverty, they gave generously, trusting in God's abundance.

Their approach mirrors Jesus’ example—entering into our scarcity to reveal the richness of God’s love and provision. God is inviting us to trust in that same abundance. He isn’t asking for something we don’t have; He’s asking for a heart that’s willing to give what we can, trusting that He will multiply our offering.

You can learn more about the Faith Promise process and submit a paper form in the offering box at the church building, or digitally at ClarenceCC.org. You can submit your Faith Promise anytime between now and November 3rd.

Will you couple your desire to give with God’s abundance? Where we see limits, God sees opportunity. Generosity is a response to His overflowing love. When you trust in His abundance, you step into a partnership with Him that brings life and hope to others. Generosity arises out of God’s abundance.

What is the ICOM (International Conference on Missions)
The Clarence Church of Christ has a long tradition of connection to the annual International Conference on Missions (ICOM). This event unites followers of Jesus, leaders, and global missionaries to encourage and spur engagement in God’s mission. The ICOM offers a valuable opportunity to learn about God’s work globally and helps each follower discover their role in His mission. This year's conference is in Lexington, KY, and the theme emphasizes that Jesus has entrusted us with the gospel—the best news—to share with those around us. As we experience His grace, we are called to extend His glory. Every believer is created, called, commanded, and commissioned to be a disciple-maker, making participation in God’s global mission essential.

Join the ICOM at Home
While many attend ICOM in person, technology now allows for remote participation. We invite you to participate purposefully in this way. We understand that you have a busy schedule and aren’t able to join all the digital ICOM programming, so we encourage you to set aside time to watch 1-2 of the ICOM workshop live streams, along with one keynote speaker session live stream – all available to stream live between November 14-16.

How to Participate at No Additional Cost to You:
Continue reading to register for access…

Continue to trust that God is present and active.

Jordan Byrd

God is on mission

God is on mission…

Over the past two months, we have revisited and re-familiarized ourselves with the mission work of God, which we, as a church, have the privilege of joining. For many years, God has enabled CCC to be part of making Himself known on three continents.

As we read the biblical accounts of Peter being imprisoned, Paul being beaten, and John being exiled for aligning their lives with Jesus and guiding all people to abundant life in Him, we realize that these situations are not so distant, based on what we’ve heard from some of our visiting mission partners. Our mission partners have willingly placed themselves in locations that are spiritually, socially, emotionally, and physically hostile.

Currently, most of us regularly experience a greater degree of freedom and openness to live like Jesus and share His abundant life. While we do not have to suffer to the same extent as our mission partners, we are called to suffer with them as we are able. We are to live out Romans 12:15 (NIV): “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

Although we may not endure the same hardships as our mission partners, we have the opportunity to support them sacrificially, both financially and through prayer. By investing our resources in the work of making Jesus known where few, if any, have heard of His abundant life, we share in the sufferings of our mission partners. The path to knowing Christ more deeply often comes through suffering with Him, as Paul states in Philippians 3:10 (NIV): “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death….”

By coming alongside our mission partners in their painstaking work to make Jesus known, we share in the sufferings of Christ and come to understand the heart of God more clearly—His heart that desires no one to perish but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9, NIV).

Over the past two months, we have had the opportunity to witness the frontier ministry in which we are involved, making Jesus known in challenging places. We’ve heard the good news of new children being adopted into the family of God, and we’ve learned that progress is being made toward the completion of the Alley Project. We’ve also heard that God is always present and active in making Himself known, even when we or our mission partners cannot see it as clearly or as soon as we’d like from our limited human perspective.

Thank you to everyone who has given their time, talent, treasure, and attention to become more aware of what God is doing to make Himself known around the world through our limited efforts. It is humbling and awe-inspiring that we have the opportunity to be part of such profound work, which has eternal and life-altering impacts for so many who have yet to know the hope of abundant life available in Jesus.

This Saturday (October 12th), you are invited to set aside an hour and a half from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the CCC building to join others in guided prayer for CCC’s mission partners. This interactive experience will assist you in interceding for our mission partners’ work and help position our hearts before God for the Faith Promises we will make on Sunday, October 20th, to financially support our mission partners for the coming fiscal year. I hope you will make time to join!

Continue to trust that God is present and active.

Jordan Byrd

God on Mission Through Jesus: How to Notice God’s Presence in Your Life (John 5:16-30)

Have you ever tried spotting something that’s right there, but somehow still hard to see? A couple of weeks ago, my family and I were sitting on the steps of our house when we heard a distinct *tap, tap, tap*. It was a woodpecker. We could hear it but couldn’t see it. We narrowed it down to a tree in our neighbor’s yard. Eventually, with each other’s help, and binoculars, we managed to spot it blending into the dead branch it was hammering away at. The bird was there all along, but it took a different perspective to notice it.

That woodpecker reminded me of how often we want to see God in our lives but struggle to recognize His presence. We know He's there, but we don’t always see Him clearly. And when things don’t go our way or answers seem delayed, it can feel like God pops in and out, helping only when He absolutely has to. But that perspective misses something vital: God is always at work, even when we can’t see it.

The Challenge of Noticing God’s Presence

In John 5, we find a story of a paralyzed man who sat by a pool believed to have healing powers. He had likely been waiting for years, unable to be healed and experience the life he longed for. The man was searching for God’s presence, but he couldn’t encounter it—until Jesus arrived and healed him. 

The religious leaders who witnessed this miracle had their own struggle. They couldn’t recognize that God was being revealed in Jesus because they were blinded by fear of losing their status under Roman rule. God’s presence was right in front of them, but they missed it.

Jesus Helps Us See God Clearly

In John 5:19, Jesus says, “The Son can do nothing by Himself; He can only do what He sees His Father doing.” Jesus models what it looks like to live with the awareness that God is always present and active. Just like I needed help with my perspective to find that woodpecker, we all need help to see God’s presence in all areas of our lives. Jesus shows us that God is never absent—He is always working.

With the healing of the paralytic we see that God is continuously moving. He’s never "popping in and out." He’s always on mission, sharing His love and bringing life. The more we focus on Jesus, the clearer we see God’s presence at work.

God’s Mission in Motion

God’s mission didn’t start with us, and it won’t end with us. It began before creation, when God’s love overflowed into everything He made, and it continues today through Jesus. When we follow Jesus, we’re joining a mission that has been in motion for eternity. 

Sometimes we get frustrated because we don’t always immediately see how God is at work. I’ve struggled with this myself—wondering if I’m missing opportunities to share Jesus with people in my life. But here’s the good news: We don’t carry the weight of the mission. Our job is simply to notice where God is already working, ride the wave of God’s mission, and, along the way, guide people to see God’s presence as best we can.

So, How Do We Do This?

1. Focus on Jesus: When you struggle to notice God, turn to the life of Jesus in the Bible. He shows us what God’s presence and activity look like. Like a pair of binoculars, Jesus helps us see God more clearly.

2. Trust God is Always at Work: Shift your perspective from thinking God pops in-and-out of your life to trusting He is always present and active. Even when it's hard to see, God’s work is constant.

3. Be a Guide for Others: Just as Jesus helps you notice God, you can help others see God’s presence too. Ask them reflective questions like, "What if God is working in this situation in ways you can’t see by yourself right now?"

Are You Ready to See God’s Presence?

Maybe you’ve been feeling like that paralyzed man by the pool—wondering where God is in your situation. Or maybe you’re like the religious leaders, so distracted by other concerns that you’ve missed seeing Jesus at work. Either way, Jesus invites you to notice God’s presence today.

Ask God to help you see Him more clearly through Jesus. Whether you’re new to following Jesus or have been a disciple for years, God’s mission is unfolding, and you are part of it.

Jesus helps us notice God’s presence. Are you ready to notice?

Note:

During this Sunday's worship gathering, we’ll hear from one of our partners working among the Alley people. I encourage you to prioritize attending and hear how God has faithfully made Himself known through His witnesses in an incredibly challenging context. Please note that the worship gathering will not be streamed; the only way to participate is in person at 10 a.m. this Sunday.

Being there in person not only allows you to hear their story but also provides essential encouragement and energy to our partners, strengthening their resolve for the work ahead. I hope you will join us.

Continue to trust that God is present and active.

Jordan Byrd

August 8, 2024 - You worship because Jesus was clearly communicated to you.

When we worship Jesus, it's often because someone clearly communicated who He is to us. 1 Corinthians 14 reminds us of the importance of clarity in sharing God's message. Just like an unintelligible message on social media or a complex word that a child doesn’t understand, if we don't communicate the gospel in a way that others can grasp, they might miss the message entirely. The Apostle Paul emphasized that in our gatherings, the truth of Jesus should be conveyed in a way that everyone can understand. This way, they can fully experience God's presence and respond in worship.

As followers of Jesus, we need to be mindful of how we share our faith. We can't assume everyone understands the language or concepts we use, especially if they've never encountered Jesus before. It’s crucial to find new and relatable ways to communicate the love of Christ, just as Paul encouraged the Corinthians to do. Ask yourself: How can you make Jesus known to those around you in a way that’s clear and accessible? Whether through your words or your actions, rely on God’s Spirit to guide you in sharing the message of Jesus so that others, too, can come to worship Him.

Please read below for upcoming CCC opportunities.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Download a shareable image (above) to help invite families to register for a fun, four-day, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. If interested in serving as well, contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

Join us on Wednesdays as we fast from breakfast to pray for our church and the world. You can participate in person at the CCC auditorium or online via Zoom here. The auditorium and Zoom call will be open for prayer from 8:28 AM to 9:15 AM. Feel free to pray as you’re led and come and go as needed. Guided prayer points will be provided. Our goal is to intentionally surrender ourselves to God's leading and provision.

Thank you to everyone who gave their time and energy to clean many of the seldom-tended areas of the CCC building! Your efforts help make the building a tool of hospitality to the communities around us, just as God has shown us hospitality in His eternal kingdom.

Pre-Register today!!! MountainviewChristianCamp.org

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14 (Please contact Mitch Knight for a ride and further details.)

2024 Ladies Retreat at Mountainview Christian Camp

To our sisters in Christ, we pray you are well and looking forward to the Ladies Retreat. We are looking forward to presenting it to you. Our speaker will be Suzanne Bracci, a Christian Life Coach and author from Western New York. Reserve the dates of September 13-14, 2024 to attend. We want each of you to know that God loves you, has given you gifts you may not be aware of, or as our kids mature, our purpose changes. These times can be scary and/or frustrating and Suzanne will speak to us on Saturday of our uniqueness as women of God in the Scriptures and putting on the Mindset of Christ. Registration fees are as follows. If possible please register and send to Mountainview Christian Camp, c/o Sharon Schmaltz, Registrar, 7240 Dryer Road, Victor, NY 14564 (registration form enclosed): $35 Weekend, $20 Friday, $20 Saturday. As always, there will be a registration table at the camp if you come in later at camp. ALL LADIES 18 YEARS AND OLDER ARE WELCOME. There will be music, fun and catching up with friends we haven’t seen. Save the date now! It can be a great time to decompress after all the preparation to send our children to school as well as a time for the kids to bond with Dad for 24 hours. Please consider the benefits of taking time out to be rejuvenated with other sisters in Christ and to commune with our Heavenly Father. September is a wonderful time to do that before the Fall schedules return to normal. Please feel free to contact Valerie Hubert with any questions.

This Sunday, August 4th, we’ll reflect on 1 Corinthians 15:1-34. Be prepared for God’s word to disrupt your ordinary, call you to faithfully follow God’s Spirit, and invite you to be uncommonly present with others like Jesus.

July 31, 2024 - When we live in love, we live like Jesus.

From Mitch Knight’s sermon this past Sunday:
First Corinthians 13 is often called the 'wedding passage', which describes what love is and isn’t. While its use in weddings is common, its true value shines when we understand it in context. Paul wrote this chapter to guide the Corinthians, who were struggling between following Corinthian culture and Jesus’ teachings, urging them to grow out of selfishness and into love. Love is fundamental in Scripture, mentioned over 500 times, because living in love means living like Jesus. Love is indispensable to our faith. Without it, our actions, no matter how miraculous, are meaningless. Just like a car without fuel, our faith without love goes nowhere. God’s mission to rescue humanity is built on love, demonstrated through Jesus, and we are called to show this love to others. Let’s embrace the transformative power of love, living like Jesus, because when we live in love, we live like Jesus.

Action Step:
This week, think of someone you have difficulty loving. Right now (or make a note or set an alarm to) intentionally pray for that person who is difficult to love or recognize their inherent value as a person created in God's image. When we live in love, we live like Jesus.

Please read below for upcoming CCC opportunities.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

Would you consider joining others in fasting from breakfast and praying from 8:28 am until 9:15 am on Wednesday mornings? Join in prayer, in-person at the CCC auditorium or online via Zoom here: https://clarence-cc.squarespace.com/connect - for guided thoughts to help you pray.

This Saturday…

To prepare the CCC building for the Kids Summer Extravaganza, several areas need cleaning beyond the usual weekly tasks. As a church, we are ALL stewards of the worship space God has entrusted to us.

Please consider cleaning part of the church building on Saturday, August 3rd, from 9 am to 12 pm (or at another time of your convenience between now and August 18th).

Choose a room to clean the following: dust, remove cobwebs, clean marks on surfaces, walls, windows, floor (if needed), vacuum corners and edges, and sort, declutter, trash, or recycle unused* items (*if an item is not broken or obviously trash, please check with staff before moving it).

A number of people who participated in the Sunday morning Chosen group this past year gathered this week at the Ebersole home for fun, fellowship, and community building. They also enjoyed delicious!!! smoked pulled pork and other fixings. The Chosen group will resume watching and discussing episodes of The Chosen this fall. This Sunday morning group is a great way to connect further with people in the church.

Pre-Register today!!! MountainviewChristianCamp.org

Sr. High Camp (9th-12th) - August 4-10

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14

2024 Ladies Retreat at Mountainview Christian Camp

To our sisters in Christ, we pray you are well and looking forward to the Ladies Retreat. We are looking forward to presenting it to you. Our speaker will be Suzanne Bracci, a Christian Life Coach and author from Western New York. Reserve the dates of September 13-14, 2024 to attend. We want each of you to know that God loves you, has given you gifts you may not be aware of, or as our kids mature, our purpose changes. These times can be scary and/or frustrating and Suzanne will speak to us on Saturday of our uniqueness as women of God in the Scriptures and putting on the Mindset of Christ. Registration fees are as follows. If possible please register and send to Mountainview Christian Camp, c/o Sharon Schmaltz, Registrar, 7240 Dryer Road, Victor, NY 14564 (registration form enclosed): $35 Weekend, $20 Friday, $20 Saturday. As always, there will be a registration table at the camp if you come in later at camp. ALL LADIES 18 YEARS AND OLDER ARE WELCOME. There will be music, fun and catching up with friends we haven’t seen. Save the date now! It can be a great time to decompress after all the preparation to send our children to school as well as a time for the kids to bond with Dad for 24 hours. Please consider the benefits of taking time out to be rejuvenated with other sisters in Christ and to commune with our Heavenly Father. September is a wonderful time to do that before the Fall schedules return to normal. Please feel free to contact Valerie Hubert with any questions.

This Sunday, August 4th, we’ll reflect on 1 Corinthians 14. Be prepared for God’s word to disrupt your ordinary, call you to faithfully follow God’s Spirit, and invite you to be uncommonly present with others like Jesus.

July 24, 2024 - Serve the need however God's gifted you

When my wife Julia works late, it falls on me to prepare dinner for our kids. Julia is a gifted cook, unlike me. And while my meals may not be gourmet, my willingness to serve the need is what matters most on those days. This mirrors 1 Corinthians 12: willingness to serve is more important than one's specific gifts.

Paul emphasizes that gifts are given by God to express His work through us for the common good. The unity in the body of Christ means recognizing that our varied gifts are meant to support each other. If one part suffers, all parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all parts rejoice with it (1 Corinthians 12:26).

The challenge is to serve the need, no matter how we're gifted. Our willingness to serve reflects the mindset of Jesus, who, though divine, took on the nature of a servant (Philippians 2:5-7).

Consider what needs you see around you and how you can serve, even if it’s not your strongest suit. Your willingness to serve is the first step. Be part of God’s work to redeem and renew the world. Serve the need however God’s gifted you.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Click/tap image for a sharable flyer

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

consider joining me in prayer and fasting on Wednesdays, fasting from breakfast and praying from 8:28 am until 9:15 am. Join in-person at the CCC auditorium or online via Zoom here: https://clarence-cc.squarespace.com/connect

To prepare the CCC building for the Kids Summer Extravaganza, several areas need cleaning beyond the usual weekly tasks. As a church, we are ALL stewards of the worship space God has entrusted to us.

Please consider cleaning part of the church building on Saturday, August 3rd, from 9 am to 12 pm (or at another time of your convenience between now and August 18th).

Choose a room to clean the following: dust, remove cobwebs, clean marks on surfaces, walls, windows, floor (if needed), vacuum corners and edges, and sort, declutter, trash, or recycle unused* items (*if an item is not broken or obviously trash, please check with staff before moving it).

Pre-Register today!!! MountainviewChristianCamp.org

Jr. High Camp (6th-8th) - July 28-August 3

Sr. High Camp (9th-12th) - August 4-10

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14

To our sisters in Christ, we pray you are well and looking forward to the Ladies Retreat. We are looking forward to presenting it to you. Our speaker will be Suzanne Bracci, a Christian Life Coach and author from Western New York. Reserve the dates of September 13-14, 2024 to attend. We want each of you to know that God loves you, has given you gifts you may not be aware of, or as our kids mature, our purpose changes. These times can be scary and/or frustrating and Suzanne will speak to us on Saturday of our uniqueness as women of God in the Scriptures and putting on the Mindset of Christ. Registration fees are as follows. If possible please register and send to Mountainview Christian Camp, c/o Sharon Schmaltz, Registrar, 7240 Dryer Road, Victor, NY 14564 (registration form enclosed): $35 Weekend, $20 Friday, $20 Saturday. As always, there will be a registration table at the camp if you come in later at camp. ALL LADIES 18 YEARS AND OLDER ARE WELCOME. There will be music, fun and catching up with friends we haven’t seen. Save the date now! It can be a great time to decompress after all the preparation to send our children to school as well as a time for the kids to bond with Dad for 24 hours. Please consider the benefits of taking time out to be rejuvenated with other sisters in Christ and to commune with our Heavenly Father. September is a wonderful time to do that before the Fall schedules return to normal. Please feel free to contact Valerie Hubert with any questions.

This Sunday, July 28th, Mitch Knight will help us reflect on 1 Corinthians 13. I hope you’re anticipating God to call you further into his way of life this Sunday.

July 17, 2024 - From Selfishness to Service

Have you ever made a decision at the expense of someone else? Have you prioritized your wants and desires over others? Have you excluded others because of what they believe, think, or say? I have. Unfortunately, this is the human condition, and the Corinthians were just as susceptible to selfishness as we are today. The church in Corinth struggled with being shaped by the culture around them rather than the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Nowadays, we can benefit from the lessons taught to and learned by the Corinthian church. We can understand where selfishness is molded to service.

Last week, in preaching on 1 Corinthian 11, Jordan challenged us to submit ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus, find abundant life in Him, and be guided toward service out of our selfishness. More specifically, we were called to an action step by writing down the name of someone close to us that we don’t know that well yet. So, rather than having this person sit at a different communion table, we should invite them to join us at ours. Who in our Church family is God impressing upon your heart to get to know? Reach out to them and see if you can’t find a time to meet up, encourage one another, and live together as the body of Christ.

As Paul so eloquently writes in 2 Timothy: “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (2 Tim 2:22). We are not alone in our walk with Christ, nor are we meant to be. We are a family, wholly and dearly loved, and called to love one another just as Christ has loved us.

———

Grace and Peace to you as you follow Him this week!

Mitchell Knight

An Amazing Experience is Planned for our Kids!

Click/tap image for a sharable flyer

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

Camp Season is Upon us!

Mountainview Christian Camp is a great environment and opportunity for kids to learn and grow in their faith and find abundant life in Jesus! You can find out more and pre-register at MountainviewChristianCamp.org.

The Different Weeks are as Follows:

First Chance Camp (K-5th) - July 19-21

Junior Camp (4th-6th) - July 21-26

Jr. High Camp (6th-8th) - July 28-August 3

Sr. High Camp (9th-12th) - August 4-10

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14

Youth Group Continues into Summer

We are excited to continue offering weekly Youth Group meetings throughout the summer. Our students are currently studying the Old Testament and learning about the prophets, the promised and sent messengers of God during times of disobedience in Israel and Judah.

In a culture where we have many things competing for our attention, how can we return to God with our whole soul, heart, mind, and strength? The prophets help us to consider these kinds of questions and more. We encourage any and all junior-high and senior-high students to join us at Youth Group on Sundays from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at the church building, where we hope to guide all students to abundant life in Jesus!

Youth Group Students After our Lesson

Join us Next Sunday at 10am!

This Sunday, July 21st, we’ll examine 1 Corinthians 12 and how God equips us to build up the body of Christ. Spiritual gifts are a fantastic blessing, and they help point us and others back toward the gift giver, our Heavenly Father. Join us Sunday at 10 am to see the abundant life God has given you and how you can help others receive it!

July 10, 2024 - Is the church outside the U.S. different?

Since January 2024, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to participate in an online Learning Community (LC) hosted by Renew.org. These LCs are designed as webinars complemented by two Zoom debrief sessions, featuring insightful content delivered by ministry practitioners—ministers, church planters, consultants, missionaries, and more.

One particularly impactful session was with Josh Howard. Originally from the U.S., Josh married an Indian woman and now resides with his family in India. He ministers in coordinating and equipping a disciple-making movement across the country. If you're familiar with India, you know it's home to a staggering population nearing 1.5 billion people. During the webinar (and also on a separate podcast) Josh shared eye-opening insights into the state of the church in India.

In India, the traditional strategy of establishing churches with a congregation and a building is seen as insufficient for reaching over a billion people. Instead, discipleship occurs on a much more personal level—one group, one family at a time. While India may not have an abundance of large, growing churches, it is filling with disciples making disciples, spreading through second and third generations of relationships. This is not just about making disciples; it's about igniting a disciple-making movement. This movement is akin to a wildfire, not reliant on any single person or congregation but spreading organically as followers of Jesus make new disciples as He commissioned.

Why is This Happening in India and Not Here?

Why do we not see similar disciple-making movements here? Why are tens, hundreds, even thousands of people not becoming disciples of Jesus as they are in India (and similarly in the underground church in China)? The difference appears to lie in worship, particularly in the priority given to seeking God through prayer and fasting.

Prayer and fasting are not magical tools to coerce God into action, but there is a noticeable difference between the churches in the U.S. and India: this practice often precede significant disciple-making movements. The practice is to seek God first, surrendering to Jesus, and asking where His Spirit is already at work. This approach contrasts with the practice of implementing plans and strategies and then asking God to bless them. While this is an oversimplification of what has become characteristic of the church in the U.S., it highlights the core difference between the two approaches.

Biblical Foundations and Personal Convictions

Throughout the Bible, we see figures like Moses, David, Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, Ezra, Paul, Barnabas, and Jesus Himself seeking God through prayer and fasting. They implored God to show His presence, guidance, and action—seeking what only He can make happen. Changing a person’s mind or heart is one of the hardest things in the world, and that is God's specialty. He continually woos people to Himself, as seen from Genesis to Revelation.

Reflecting on this, I am convicted by my lack of routine in prayer and fasting. Specifically, I feel called to dedicate time to fasting and prayer for our church, its future, and our role in guiding people in our sphere of influence to experience abundant life in Jesus. I am convinced that we need to seek God's leading for our future.

A Call to Action

To put this conviction into practice, I plan to set aside Wednesday mornings from 8:28 am to 9:15 am for fasting and prayer. I invite you to join me in this routine. My vision is for participants to fast from dinner the previous night until 9:15 am on Wednesday morning. You can join me physically in the CCC auditorium or online (via Zoom). Whether you’re at work, watching your kids, or driving, you can tune into the Zoom call and join us in prayer.

This isn’t intended to be a dialogue but a time for us to collectively seek God in prayer. The 8:28 am time frame is inspired by 1 Kings 8:28, where Solomon prays, “...give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy, Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day.” While we no longer worship in a temple like Solomon’s, our bodies and Christ’s church are described as the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 6:19). It's from this temple of God that we seek God in prayer today.

I plan to start this prayer gathering on Wednesday, July 17th, and continue weekly. Along the way, I aim to provide some direction to assist us in prayer. My hope is that together, we will seek God’s presence and guidance, making His movement among us clear and evident.

I pray you will join me in this endeavor, in person or online, each Wednesday. Let us seek God together, prioritizing His will and presence in our lives and in our community.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Click/tap image for a sharable flyer

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

Pre-Register today!!! MountainviewChristianCamp.org

First Chance Camp (K-5th) - July 19-21

Junior Camp (4th-6th) - July 21-26

Jr. High Camp (6th-8th) - July 28-August 3

Sr. High Camp (9th-12th) - August 4-10

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14

To our sisters in Christ, we pray you are well and looking forward to the Ladies Retreat. We are looking forward to presenting it to you. Our speaker will be Suzanne Bracci, a Christian Life Coach and author from Western New York. Reserve the dates of September 13-14, 2024 to attend. We want each of you to know that God loves you, has given you gifts you may not be aware of, or as our kids mature, our purpose changes. These times can be scary and/or frustrating and Suzanne will speak to us on Saturday of our uniqueness as women of God in the Scriptures and putting on the Mindset of Christ. Registration fees are as follows. If possible please register and send to Mountainview Christian Camp, c/o Sharon Schmaltz, Registrar, 7240 Dryer Road, Victor, NY 14564 (registration form enclosed): $35 Weekend, $20 Friday, $20 Saturday. As always, there will be a registration table at the camp if you come in later at camp. ALL LADIES 18 YEARS AND OLDER ARE WELCOME. There will be music, fun and catching up with friends we haven’t seen. Save the date now! It can be a great time to decompress after all the preparation to send our children to school as well as a time for the kids to bond with Dad for 24 hours. Please consider the benefits of taking time out to be rejuvenated with other sisters in Christ and to commune with our Heavenly Father. September is a wonderful time to do that before the Fall schedules return to normal. Please feel free to contact Valerie Hubert with any questions.

This Sunday, July 14th, we’ll reflect on 1 Corinthians 11:2-34. What disruptive truth might God’s word have for you to hear this Sunday? What simple faithfulness might he call you toward this Sunday? How might he call you to be an uncommon presence to those disconnected from God’s kingdom?

July 3, 2024 - What ignites your purpose?

Have you ever tried lighting birthday candles with matches? It's a race against time before the match burns out. With a lighter, however, you have a continuous flame. A match is limited, while a lighter has a longer-lasting purpose.

Finding Your Fuel

This brings up a deeper question: What ignites your purpose? What motivates you and keeps you…

• Caring for Children: Is it about giving them the American dream, or having them support you in old age, or is there a wider calling?

• Learning: Is it just for a diploma, or is there a wider use of your training?

• Maintaining a Home: Is it just for shelter, or does it exist for something more?

• Working: Is it just about money and status, or does your job have a wider purpose?

• Living: Why do you continue to live, eat, and take care of yourself, even in old age? Is it merely to avoid pain, or is there a wider purpose driving you?

• Participating: For those who belong to a church, what keeps you participating? Is it tradition, social ties, or a wider purpose?

Lasting Purpose

Many purposes, while good, are limited. A family, education, home, and job are beneficial but often only impact a few. Participating in a church community is valuable, but its full potential is reached when it benefits more than just yourself.

In a world separated from the life of God, whom gave everything it’s original purpose, we’re tempted to chase lesser goals that can't fully satisfy. This is like trying to light many candles with one match. Each purpose flames out, leaving us wanting more.

A Wider Calling

As much as we might sense our individual purpose from God, what about our purpose as a worshiping community? Over the past few months, the CCC leadership team has been dreaming and seeking Jesus for the broader purpose God may have for the Clarence Church of Christ in the coming years, beyond our current activities. Paul’s testimony in 1 Corinthians 9 offers a spark of imagination for what this broader purpose could be.

In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul shares that he found a lasting purpose in God's mission of redeeming the world and guiding everyone he encountered to abundant life in Jesus. This purpose goes beyond personal gain and comfort, offering a challenging yet enduring and eternally impactful mission. Paul's purpose wasn't just a program in addition to the rest of his life. No. Paul's purpose was a way of life. The way of Jesus' life fueled his purpose in all he did.

Paul's testimony provides a framework for a broader purpose that we too could more fully embrace as a church in Western New York — the vision and mission of this church involved in guiding all people within our sphere of influence to experience abundant life in Jesus. Paul found this purpose to be lasting and impactful, and we believe it can shape how we step further into a more enduring and impactful purpose as a church in the coming years.

What Ignites Your Purpose?

Are you seeking purpose with fuel that will burn out quickly? Or are you seeking purpose with fuel that will burn for a long time and make a great impact for God’s eternal kingdom?

Jesus ignited Paul’s purpose. What ignites yours?

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Starting this Sunday, July 7th, we will begin a new series called Ordered: God’s Order for Living and Worship, exploring God’s revealed order for living and worship as given in 1 Corinthians 10-16. This series will run through July and August. This Sunday, we’ll reflect on an overall life of worship and the impact it brings to other areas of life. Read ahead and prepare yourself to hear how God’s Spirit will be calling you to respond in obedience to his word.

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

Pre-Register today!!! MountainviewChristianCamp.org

First Chance Camp (K-5th) - July 19-21

Junior Camp (4th-6th) - July 21-26

Jr. High Camp (6th-8th) - July 28-August 3

Sr. High Camp (9th-12th) - August 4-10

Mountain Do Camp (7th-12th) - August 11-14

To our sisters in Christ, we pray you are well and looking forward to the Ladies Retreat. We are looking forward to presenting it to you. Our speaker will be Suzanne Bracci, a Christian Life Coach and author from Western New York. Reserve the dates of September 13-14, 2024 to attend. We want each of you to know that God loves you, has given you gifts you may not be aware of, or as our kids mature, our purpose changes. These times can be scary and/or frustrating and Suzanne will speak to us on Saturday of our uniqueness as women of God in the Scriptures and putting on the Mindset of Christ. Registration fees are as follows. If possible please register and send to Mountainview Christian Camp, c/o Sharon Schmaltz, Registrar, 7240 Dryer Road, Victor, NY 14564 (registration form enclosed): $35 Weekend, $20 Friday, $20 Saturday. As always, there will be a registration table at the camp if you come in later at camp. ALL LADIES 18 YEARS AND OLDER ARE WELCOME. There will be music, fun and catching up with friends we haven’t seen. Save the date now! It can be a great time to decompress after all the preparation to send our children to school as well as a time for the kids to bond with Dad for 24 hours. Please consider the benefits of taking time out to be rejuvenated with other sisters in Christ and to commune with our Heavenly Father. September is a wonderful time to do that before the Fall schedules return to normal. Please feel free to contact Valerie Hubert with any questions.

June 26, 2024 - Knowledge in the posture of Jesus.

In the divided and tribalistic world we live in, it’s easy to be drawn to one side of an issue over another. As followers of Jesus, this can be tricky, as we believe in the objectively revealed truth in God’s word. How can we avoid contributing to tribalism and division when compromising on truth isn’t an option? Ultimately, the determination of right and wrong lies in God’s infinite wisdom, not our limited perspective. In a world separated from God, creation, and each other by sin, unity is not fully attainable on our own. We need someone to bring clarity and correct our perspectives.

So, is there anything we can do? Absolutely. We can participate in this process. One word sums up the difference a follower of Jesus can have, compared to the proud and arrogant and divisive ways of the world: posture. We can adopt the posture Jesus takes with us. We can emulate Jesus’ humble, compassionate, and loving posture toward us and others. This does not mean compromising on truth, but it does mean approaching the truth with a posture that is non-manipulative, non-coercive, and non-mean-spirited.

We can live out the truth from a posture of care. We can speak the truth with concern and curiosity, wanting to understand why others don’t see the truth as we do, and recognizing them as people with real struggles, concerns, and frustrations with the way a broken world is experienced. Taking the loving posture of Jesus allows space for God’s presence in our interactions, enabling God’s Spirit to bring connection rather than division, allowing God’s Spirit to convict and make hearts long for more than a skewed version of truth. As Mitch preached this past Sunday, knowledge of the truth is good, but love is greater. May we continue to allow Jesus to shape and mold us to interact with others in the posture he took, while steadfastly holding to the truth.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Join us in hosting a fun, four-day, Bible, mystery-themed experience – helping kids (PreK to 5th grade) explore some big questions about God. Volunteers needed for set-up, registration, tech support, group guides, general assistance, cleanup, and more. Contact Alexandra Fish to get involved and help kids discover the abundant life God has for them!

This Sunday, June 30th, we will conclude the Holy Wholly: Sanctified Unity series from 1 Corinthians 1-9 by reflecting on 1 Corinthians 9. Starting Sunday, July 7th, we will begin a new series called Ordered: God’s Order for Living and Worship, exploring God’s revealed order for living and worship as given in 1 Corinthians 10-16. This series will run through July and August.

June 12, 2024 - Trust that Jesus isn't limited by your situation.

Marriage is increasingly unstable and less common these days. Our responses to marital troubles are often limited to enduring the issues alone, divorce, or avoiding marriage altogether. However, 1 Corinthians 7 shows us that Jesus offers a broader perspective.

His solutions aren’t limited to these options. God's word provides far-reaching answers for marital troubles. Trust in Jesus’ grace and support, knowing He can meet you in your situation and offer hope beyond your limited options.

Embrace His comprehensive perspective for navigating marital challenges. Trust that Jesus’ wisdom and imagination extend beyond the options you can see. Trust that Jesus isn't limited by your situation.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

If you missed the first Share Your Faith Workshop last Sunday, Sean Cronin shared a tool to share the good news of Jesus with another person by using 3 circles. Below is an overview of that tool.

A Vacation Bible School-like experience at CCC, August 19-22, from 6pm-8pm, for PreK-5th. See Alexandra Fish to help fill one of the number of needs for this week.

Ahmed Zayan on Unsplash

This past Sunday (June 9), we reflected on what God’s Word revealed about navigating trouble in marriage. How is Jesus calling you to trust that He isn’t limited by your situation?

This Sunday, June 16th, Sean Cronin will help us reflect on what 1 Corinthians 7:25-40 has to say about the unmarried, single life. If you know of someone who needs to encounter God in such a situation, share and invite them to join you here next Sunday. Grab them a coffee. Meet them at the door. Sit with them. Take them out for lunch to follow-up after. I pray you’re open to hear what step of faith God’s voice will direct you to take in response to his Word.

June 5, 2024 - Align with Jesus no matter where you find yourself

How aligned is your life to God?

1. Understanding the Importance of Alignment

A level is a tool used to determine the horizontal straightness of an object, ensuring it is aligned with the earth's gravitational pull. Similarly, a plumb-line checks vertical straightness. These tools ensure structures are true to the standard. Without proper alignment, construction projects become messy and frustrating. This principle can be applied to our lives, particularly regarding sexuality, where alignment with a true standard is essential to avoid chaos and frustration.

2. The Modern Landscape of Sexuality

In today's world, there are countless standards for sexuality, leading to confusion and messiness in personal relationships and self-perception. The differing views on sexuality range from it being a personal right to a mere physical activity. This lack of a unified standard parallels the frustration of working on an unlevel house, making it difficult to measure and make progress accurately. When our sexual standards are misaligned, our lives reflect the same disorder and frustration found in construction projects with misaligned building materials.

3. Finding Fullness of Life through Alignment with Jesus

The Bible, particularly in 1 Corinthians 7:1-9, offers a standard for sexual activity, emphasizing that true alignment and fullness of life are found in aligning with Jesus. Whether in marriage or celibacy, living according to God’s design brings clarity and fulfillment. Jesus provides a clear standard, inviting us to align with His teachings to avoid the messiness of multiple, conflicting standards. By aligning with Jesus, we experience true fullness of life, ensuring that our personal relationships and self-identity are built on a solid, unchanging foundation.

Align your life with Jesus, and discover the true standard that brings clarity and fulfillment in every aspect of your life.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

If you missed the first Share Your Faith Workshop last Sunday, Mitch Knight shared a tool to share one’s transformation story with Jesus in 15 seconds (or: elevator testimony), with the following framework:

1. Before Christ: “There was a time in my life when __________. (e.g., I tried to be perfect on my own).

2. Come to Christ: But, then I met Jesus and _______. (e.g. I know I’m not alone; and that I have a power greater than my own ability.)

3. After Christ: So, now _____________ (e.g. I know that I’m not alone and can trust his perfect guidance to do what’s best.)

This Sunday, Sean Cronin will lead the last session of this workshop, and talk about another tool to assist you in sharing your faith in Jesus with others. Join immediately after worship, in the youth room (snacks and child-care available). Participation in previous weeks of the workshop is not necessary to participate in the workshop session this Sunday.

This past Sunday (June 2), we reflected on the alignment of our lives to Jesus, including with our sexuality. How is Jesus calling you to re-align your life with his design and purpose for your life? What’s standing in the way of that happening; and how is God’s Spirit calling you to respond in obedience to his word? This Sunday, June 9th, we’ll reflect and respond to what God’s Word in 1 Corinthians 7:10-24 has to say to us. I pray you’ll be open to hear what step of faith God’s voice will be directing you to take.

A Vacation Bible School-like experience at CCC, August 19-22, from 6pm-8pm, for PreK-5th. See Alexandra Fish to help fill one of the number of needs for this week.

May 26, 2024 - Finding wholeness in Jesus.

Imagine a cream-filled donut. Without the cream, it’s an empty shell. Without the dough, the cream would be a messy blob. This simple treat offers a profound metaphor for our lives, showing the need for harmony with our physical bodies and inner selves.

Many struggle with self-understanding, often torn between physical appearance and inner life—thoughts and feelings. This struggle isn't unique. The first-century Corinthians faced similar issues. Paul, an early Christian leader, reminded them and us that we are whole beings, created in God's image, though broken due to separation from Him.

Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians 6 is timeless: our true selves are fully understood in Jesus. Created by God, our bodies and spirits are meant for Him. Separation from God leads to confusion and brokenness.

Using the example of sexual immorality, Paul illustrates how deviating from God's design distorts our sense of self. This distortion isn't just about sexual immorality; it’s about re-aligning our inner and outer selves; and this is only possibly by turning to Jesus for clarity and healing. God knows us completely and can restore our brokenness.

Paul reminds us that through Jesus, we can experience a whole, restored life. Jesus lived in perfect harmony with God, and through his death and resurrection, made a way for us to be healed. We can experience a resurrected wholeness like Jesus. We are called to trust in God and allow Him to guide us toward wholeness.

If you’re struggling to understand yourself, consider how Jesus can bring clarity and wholeness to your life. Reach out to trusted followers of Jesus for support. Experience your whole self in Jesus, knowing He understands every part of you and desires to bring you into complete harmony with His purpose.

Experience your whole self in Jesus.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

If you missed the first Share Your Faith Workshop last Sunday, Sean Cronin shared a tool to share one’s transformation story with Jesus in 2 minutes, with the following framework:

1. Life before Christ (or personally surrendered to Jesus, if grew-up in a church-participating family) (what your life was like before Jesus changed it).

2. Process of coming to Christ (your “aha” moment in Jesus).

3. Life after Christ (what is different about you because of Jesus).

This Sunday, Mitch Knight will help you engage with another tool to assist you in sharing your faith in Jesus with others. Join immediately after worship, in the youth room (snacks and child-care available). Participation in previous weeks of the workshop is not necessary to participate in the workshop session this Sunday.

This past Sunday (May 26th), we reflected on the wholeness of life that Jesus can bring to our life. How has Jesus brought wholeness to your life? This Sunday, June 2nd, we’ll reflect and respond to what God’s Word in 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 has to say to us. I pray you’ll be open to hear what step of faith God’s voice is directing you to take next.

Help guide your PreK-5th grade-aged kids to apply what they encounter about Jesus in Little and Big Impact on Sunday mornings by referencing or re-playing the lessons here: youtube.com/@cccimpactkids

EmbedSocial on Unsplash

In 2024, if you buy a product online or want to try a new restaurant, you’ve likely checked out an online review beforehand. Like it or not, reviews make a strong first impression and influence people's choices, including where they attend church. It would be a great help if you could leave a simple review about the impact CCC has had on your life and your growth in Christ. You can leave a Google review here, and help others be encouraged to take a step toward experiencing Jesus with us.

May 22, 2024 - Live your true identity.

In 2002, my brother and I applied for passports to go on a mission trip to Honduras. Somehow, we mistakenly signed each other’s passports. We were told to just cross out the wrong signatures and add the correct ones, which made me anxious that my identity would be accepted at customs. Fortunately, it all worked out okay.

We all use identification to indicate who we are to others. Overall, what would you say is your primary identity?

In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul challenges the Corinthians to consider their true identity. They were caught up in their culture's values of power and prestige, leading to disunity and exploitation. Paul asks whether their primary identity is as Corinthians or as citizens of God’s kingdom. In our context, we’re asked to consider if our primary identity is as Americans (or based on our gender, sexuality, culture, or status) or as citizens of God’s kingdom.

Our actions reflect our primary identity. Identifying with the world means living by its distorted standards, separated from God. Identifying with Christ means embodying His values of restoration and true justice. God offers us a fuller identity through Jesus, calling us to live as citizens of His kingdom.

So, who are you? Are you primarily living as a citizen of God’s kingdom or according to another identity? Consider the true life that Jesus offers. Embrace your identity in Him, confess and repent where needed, and let His teachings guide your actions. Live your true identity in Jesus.

Below, see further CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

If you missed the first Share Your Faith Workshop last Sunday, Sean Cronin discussed the five levels of conversation that help move a dialogue with a stranger from casual to gospel-focused:

1. Casual

2. Personal

3. Meaningful

4. Spiritual

5. Gospel

Another session will be held this Sunday, May 26th, following worship. Consecutive attendance isn’t necessary to participate.

Braxton Apana on Unsplash

This Friday, May 24th, is the next Merge (6-12th grades) "One" Day event at Akron Falls Park. It will be 2pm-5pm, and we will be meeting right at Akron Falls (44 Parkview Dr, Akron, NY 14001).

There will be some hiking to start, and some outdoor games in the more open areas for all of us to enjoy. Please encourage your kids to invite a friend if they haven't already!

Come with a water bottle for hydration, sunscreen if needed, as well as having eaten already. Forward any questions to Mitch Knight.

Check out MountainviewChristianCamp.org for summer program dates and more. You can help prep the campground on May 25th, 9am-6pm. Tasks: building cleanup, groundskeeping, and small projects.

EmbedSocial on Unsplash

In 2024, if you buy a product online or want to try a new restaurant, you’ve likely checked out an online review beforehand. Like it or not, reviews make a strong first impression and influence people's choices, including where they attend church. It would be a great help if you could leave a simple review about the impact CCC has had on your life and your growth in Christ. You can leave a Google review here, and help others be encouraged to take a step toward experiencing Jesus with us.

This Sunday, May 26th, we’ll reflect and respond to God’s Word in 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. I pray you’ll be open to God’s Spirit directing and shaping your life where it needs to intersect further with Jesus’ abundant way of life.

May 15, 2024 - Come as you are, but don't leave as you came.

This past Sunday, Mitch led us in a reflection on 1 Corinthians 5, where Paul addressed the sin that the Corinthian church was tolerating. While God accepts us as we come to Him in our sin—messed-up, broken, ignorant, with distorted views, etc.—He knows it’s best for us to be healed from our sin and be renewed out of it into the abundant life of God that we see in Jesus.

While this overall message of "Come as you are, but don't leave as you came" may sound familiar to you, the effort (not earning) that we’re called to is an honest assessment of our life and what sin (where your life doesn’t line up with Jesus’ life) needs acknowledgment and turning away from to follow in the life-giving way of Jesus. The good news is that Jesus isn’t just a band-aid for our sin. The hard news to accept is that we may have deceptively believed that Jesus is just a band-aid, and we’ve suffered from life-sucking sin that’s been embedded in our lives for years. It’s not easy, but the payoff is a life of freedom in the abundant life that God has for you. How is God’s Spirit calling you to respond to His costly grace today?

Below you will find other CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

This Sunday, May 12th, Mitch Knight will help us reflect and respond to God’s Word in 1 Corinthians 5. I pray you’ll be open to God’s Spirit directing and shaping your life where it needs to intersect further with Jesus’ abundant way of life.

We hope many moms were honored this past Sunday through words of appreciation and gift of beauty through snapdragon flowers.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
(Ephesians 6:1-3)

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

Starting this Sunday, May 19th (snack food and childcare available)…

Do you want to share your faith, but don't know how? If so, come check out the Share Your Faith workshop Sean Cronin will be leading after our church worship gatherings on May 19th, 26th, June 2nd and 9th in the Youth Room. Every week Sean will present different content to equip you to share your faith with others, so come to all or as many as you can. Join for all four (45 minute) sessions, or individually as able. Any session will independently help equip you with a practical tool to sow the seed of your faith in Jesus with others.

Check out MountainviewChristianCamp.org for summer program dates and more. Help prep the campground on May 25th, 9am-6pm. Tasks: building cleanup, groundskeeping, and small projects.

May 8, 2024 - This is needed to live like Jesus.

In our pursuit of success, we often prioritize qualities like dominance, innovation, and prosperity. However, the Apostle Paul reminds us, through his letter to the Corinthians, that true leadership and fulfillment are found in Jesus Christ. He challenges us to let go of worldly values and embrace humility, service, and surrender to God's will.

Paul warns against the dangers of pride and arrogance, which obstruct our alignment with God's purpose. He urges us to recognize that everything we have is a gift from God, and true significance is found in following Christ wholeheartedly.

By letting go of worldly wisdom and power, we can embrace the transformative life of Jesus. This radical shift in perspective leads to enduring fulfillment and joy, free from the constraints of human expectations. Let go to live like Jesus—this is the invitation that offers true success and abundance.

Below you will find other CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

Continue to trust that God is present and active. See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

This Sunday, May 12th, Mitch Knight will help us reflect and respond to God’s Word in 1 Corinthians 5. I pray you’ll be open to God’s Spirit directing and shaping your life where it needs to intersect further with Jesus’ abundant way of life.

Earl Wilcox on Unsplash

Mission partner in Egypt: Safaa and Mona F.

Celebrate and offer your Amen in praise for the construction of 18 new churches, which will train and save more people to participate in God’s mission of global redemption!

Mission partner in Alleyland: Don T.

Please pray for God’s relief and provision to massive flooding that has been happening in a land typically filled with drought. During this difficult time, pray that God’s people in and connected to this mission field are able to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those in need.

Ponder this perspective on Jesus’ parable of the soils. Click/tap to read.

Hunter Haley on Unsplash

Do you want to share your faith, but don't know how? If so, come check out the Share Your Faith workshop Sean Cronin will be leading after our church worship gatherings on May 19th, 26th, June 2nd and 9th in the Youth Room. Every week Sean will present different content to equip you to share your faith with others, so come to all or as many as you can. Join for all four sessions, or individually. Any session will independently help equip you with a practical tool to sow the seed of your faith in Jesus with others.

May 1, 2024 - Without God, ______ happens

Have you ever pondered the nature of a hole? It’s not just a gap in fabric or a void in space; it represents the absence of something, like the missing threads in a sock. In essence, a hole is a real indicator that something is amiss.

But there are other kinds of holes in our lives, in which we invest our time and energy. We delve into people, things, and ideas that shape our routines, thoughts, and even our identities.

Yet, according to 1 Corinthians 3, these paths can be deceptive. They can divert our allegiance from where it should be: with God. Pursuing these other paths tears at our connection to the life of God, leaving us with a void – an absence of God’s presence in our lives.

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians addresses this division and the consequences of misplaced allegiance. Giving precedence to worldly wisdom and power leads to emptiness (a void of true substance). Without God at the center, we find ourselves pursuing nothing of significance.

However, there’s hope. The life of God, revealed in Jesus, offers the substance and purpose we long for. Following the path of the crucified Jesus realigns our priorities and fills the void left by other pursuits.

In essence, 1 Corinthians 3 reminds us that without God, nothing happens. It’s only by centering our lives on the life of Jesus that we find true meaning and substance.

Below you will find other CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

---

This Sunday, April 28th, we'll be reflecting on 1 Corinthians 4. I pray God will show us how we need to further align with the life of Jesus and his mission to for all people to find abundant life in him.

---

Thank you for praying for the CCC staff (Mitch, Sean, and Jordan) as they attended the Renew Gathering in Indianapolis, Indiana, over the past two days. Your prayers mean a lot. Please continue praying, asking God to help us digest the insights gained and strive to grow in our leadership and service to CCC and the Kingdom of God in WNY.

April 24, 2024 - Who can understand God?

Who can understand God? In today's age, there's a prevalent misconception that understanding the way of God comes naturally. However, In 1 Corinthians 2, Paul reveals that God's wisdom is not readily apparent; it's a mystery veiled to those who lack the guidance of God's Spirit. Sin blinds us, separating us from God's truth and preventing us from comprehending His ways. Yet, there's hope. Despite its mysterious nature, God's wisdom is accessible to us through His Spirit. This passage reassures us that we don't have to navigate life's complexities alone. With the presence of God's Spirit, we gain insight into His wisdom, enabling us to live according to His truth.

So, what's the next step? It's embracing the role of God's Spirit in our lives. Rather than relying on our understanding alone, we must cultivate a relationship with God's Spirit by following Jesus and obeying his Word and adapting his rhythms of life (like: worship, prayer, praise, service, generosity, etc.). As we allow God's Spirit to work within us, our eyes are opened to His wisdom, guiding us in making choices aligned with His will. Let's lean into the worldview of 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, trusting God's Spirit to illuminate His wisdom within us, leading us into a life rooted in the truth and love of Jesus.

With this in mind, we can choose humility, recognizing our privilege to have God's Spirit with us. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, we're urged to engage others with compassion, understanding that we too were once lacking in spiritual insight without God's Spirit. From this empathy, we seek to extend God's Spirit to others. Our mission is to lead others to grasp this wisdom by surrendering to Jesus and experiencing abundant life. Moreover, we have the opportunity to respond to this privilege with constant praise. As the song we sang this past Sunday says, "As long as I'm breathing... I've got a reason to praise the Lord, oh my soul!" 👇

Below you will find other CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ and God’s mission.

See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

---

This Sunday, April 28th, we'll be reflecting on 1 Corinthians 3. I pray you’ll be open to God’s Spirit directing and shaping your life where it needs to intersect further with Jesus’ abundant way of life.

A follow-up reflection on items that didn’t quite make the sermon this past Sunday. Think of it as a mid-week Bible study.

---

One advantage of our congregation's diversity is the opportunity for different age groups to witness each other's worship and journey with Jesus. This unfolded spontaneously last Sunday during the music team's rehearsal before the service. Children wandered into the auditorium and were eventually invited to join the music team in singing and using tambourines and egg shakers for the 'Praise' song that we later sang during worship. You can catch a glimpse of this heartwarming moment in the video above.

Mission partner in Egypt: Safaa and Mona F.

Safaa turns 73 this year. Please pray for the following CAS needs as the 50 year ministry legacy of Safaa continues and passes on to the next generation of leaders and recipients.

1. Pray for physical stamina

2. Continued training of new leaders

3. Expansion of the ministry, planting of hundreds of new churches, goal of $1,000,000 for the CAS budget

this year.

Mission partner in Alleyland: Don T.

A recent conference aimed to strengthen disciples in the Alley church, attracting attendees from multiple continents. More than 200 copies of Alley New Testaments and discipleship booklets were distributed. Networking for future projects was a significant benefit. There is increasing support for creating Bible commentaries to accompany the new translation of the Alley New Testament. This long-term project requires teamwork. Your prayers and support are appreciated as we serve our Lord.

In light of the message from this past Sunday, you might also find this insight from Athanasius, a third century (post-Scripture) father of the early church, “We only really see and understand spiritual things from the inside, as we participate in them.” Read more on this insight from this post by Ben Sternke.

Finally, here is a simple guide to use in fostering spiritual conversation with an unbeliever (this guide can also work well as a guide for personal prayer). Jeff Vanderstelt explains…

April 17, 2024 - Why don’t people get it?

“Why don’t people get it?”, “Why would someone do that?”, “How could someone think that way?”. In many conversations, these questions can capture the spirit of our confusion. We live in a broken and fallen world where it’s easy to make the wrong choice, live in darkness, and run from the light of truth. Why is this the case?

First, how do you view people who disagree with you? How do you view those who are making wrong choices or those who are pursuing evil? More importantly, how do you treat them? Paul offers some very helpful advice to Timothy when he writes the following:

In order to convince others that Jesus is the way, truth, and life, we first need to instruct them gently. The inspiration to do so comes from an understanding that those outside of Christ are deceived, as they have fallen under the devil’s trap.

Not only are they deceived into a false worldview and way of life, but they are lost because they do not have a shepherd. Jesus, in recognizing this, had compassion on the people he served, taught, and healed (Matt 9:36). How much larger would God’s kingdom be if we all lived like Him? This week, I challenge you to be humble, gentle, and compassionate!

——-

Below are some updates and highlights from the various ministries in our church. I’m looking forward to seeing you all this Sunday!

Be blessed,

Mitch Knight
Clarence Church of Christ

Adult Ministry

Paul has much advice to give to the church in Corinth, and that advice has many applications for us today in Clarence. What is the standard for doing life with God, or even with God’s people? Our series “Holy Wholly” on 1 Corinthians 1-9 dives into to Paul’s words to find the answers to those questions!

---

Youth Ministry

Mitch Knight and the CCC Youth Group at “Get Air” in Cheektowaga, New York. Photo taken by Joseph Ludwick.

The CCC Youth Group is a place where every student belongs. To help foster that vision, and to help our students help their friends find Jesus, we’ve started monthly “One” events (sometimes called “One Night” or “One Day”). The idea is to encourage students to bring “One” friend to the “One” true God. On April 5th, 2024, we had a group of students attend our latest “One Day” at Get Air in Cheektowaga, New York. We had many laughs, and we enjoyed a great deal of fellowship. Our prayer is that our invited guests learn about the love of Christ for each one of them!

Sunday from 6:30pm-8:30pm, students meet at our church for Youth Group. It is a great opportunity to have some fun and learn about Jesus. We’ve just finished our discussion on the fruit of the Holy Spirit, and we are now talking about Jesus’ life and ministry.

Jesus claims in John 14:6 that He is the way, the truth, and the life. Over the next few months, I will be guiding our kids through selections of the various gospels highlighting Jesus' ministry. Hopefully, they will see that Jesus shows us the way to live for God, the truth of His good news, and the life that we can experience when we walk with Him in faith!

Kids Ministry

YouTube.com/@cccimpactkids

New resource for families. Recently the Little Impact (PreK-1st*) and Big Impact (1st*-5th) programming got a refresh. You can see what the new experience is like by clicking the image above. Families are encouraged to subscribe to the channel, as we hope the CCC Impact Kids Youtube channel allows parents and kids to revisit and guide kids in further conversation and thought about the activities, songs, stories, and lessons between Sundays.

Benediction and Prayer

Please read the following and offer your heart and your words to our Heavenly Father:

Lord, you alone are God. In a world where we are tempted to pursue avenues that we know are not healthy, we confess that we sometimes make that wrong choice. But, Your name is Holy among us, for You have washed away the stain of our sin for all eternity by exhausting its power on the cross through Jesus Himself.

Today, in recognition of Your forgiveness, may You help us to live lives worthy of the calling that we have received. We submit our thoughts, words, and actions to You this day, that we might both take steps further into the narrow gate and invite those around us to do the same.

To Him who is able to do more than we can possibly ask or imagine, to whom is the power, glory, authority, and dominion;

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Go in peace, and know that God goes with you!

April 10, 2024 - What fills your life?

Life is a reflection of our deepest loyalties, shaping how we think, speak, and act. Whether it's politics, beliefs, or ideologies, our allegiances shape us.

Our lives are shaped by what we hold dear. Whether consciously or not, our actions align with our beliefs, forming patterns that guide our interactions. However, this can lead to division, tribalism, and being over and against each other.

But this isn't the life God intended for us. In Paul's letter to the first-century followers of Jesus in Corinth, he reminds them that true life is found in Jesus' sacrifice of love on the cross. Yet, the Corinthian church was divided, each faction claiming allegiance to something over and above Christ.

Paul's message is clear: the essence of Christianity lies in the self-emptying love of Jesus. Anything else empties the cross of its power. Just as the Corinthians were shaped by allegiances other than Christ, so too are we at risk of being molded by allegiance to something other than Christ.

So, what prevents you from being poured-out like Jesus? This question challenges us to reassess our allegiances and align our lives with the transformative power of Christ's sacrificial love. Only then can we be shaped away from division and experience unity in Christ.

(Re-)reflect on this call of discipleship to Jesus with this song from this past Sunday…

Below you will find other CCC updates and resources for participating in the body of Christ over the coming weeks.

See you Sunday if not before then!

Jordan Byrd

---

This Sunday: 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5

This Sunday, April 14th, we'll continue reflecting on the first chapters of 1 Corinthians. We'll be focusing on the importance of following God's Spirit to become a sanctified (holy) and united (wholly) body of Christ. May we be ready to hear from God and obey His guidance as we reflect on the wisdom He shared with the Corinthian church through the Apostle Paul long ago.

---

Who is your one? Throughout Jesus' life, he exemplified living for God beyond the weekly Jewish gatherings at the synagogue. He interacted with people daily, such as meeting a woman at the well, visiting Zacchaeus' house, and mourning with Mary and Martha after Lazarus' death. Jesus demonstrated living the life of God one person at a time.

The Bible promises that where two or more gather in Jesus' name, God's presence is there. As followers of Jesus, we're called to emulate his example. This includes practicing the principles of community found in the New Testament letters, known as the "one-anothers."

To better live out the life of God between Sundays, we can connect with fellow believers throughout the week. While it may be tempting to postpone interactions until the next Sunday gathering, our modern culture often disrupts regular attendance due to work, travel, or other commitments.

While we can't change our culture entirely, we can control how we engage with one another during the week. Checking in with fellow believers is within our power. So, this week, who will you reach out to? When you gather in Jesus' name with that person, God's presence is there, and His life is manifested. Who is your one?

YouTube.com/@cccimpactkids

New resource for families. Recently the Little Impact (PreK-1st*) and Big Impact (1st*-5th) programming got a refresh. You can see what the new experience is like by clicking the image above. Families are encouraged to subscribe to the channel, as we hope the CCC Impact Kids Youtube channel allows parents and kids to revisit and guide kids in further conversation and thought about the activities, songs, stories, and lessons between Sundays.

Play video

How did you view the eclipse? Share in the comment section below, or comment on the video above.