Blessed to be a Blessing (Pastor's article, pages 2-3)
Summer Dates to Keep on Your Calendar (Pages 4-5)
(See pages 12-15)
Cool Crest Family Night (Pages 16-18)
The Alpha Course Returns This Fall (Page 10)
Praying Through the Heart of the City (Pages 7-9)
REV. DR. BOB FULLER
This past weekend, I was in Santa Monica, California, to perform a wedding on June 13. When I agreed to participate more than a year ago, I had no idea that the same weekend the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team would be playing its opening World Cup match nearby in Los Angeles. By now, you know the result: the United States defeated Paraguay 4–1.
What struck me most was not simply the victory itself, but the atmosphere surrounding it. The streets of Los Angeles and the beaches of Santa Monica were filled with people wearing American flag-themed shirts and Team USA jerseys, marching, cheering, and celebrating together.
Morgan and I are not particularly devoted soccer fans, and we did not have tickets to the game. Yet it was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. We were not merely cheering for a soccer team; we were reminded that people from every corner of the world were gathering in the United States during the year in which we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding.
As Christians, anniversaries like this invite us to reflect not only on our blessings but also on our purpose. In Genesis 12, we witness the birth of a nation unlike any that had existed before. Israel was not founded primarily on geography, ethnicity, language, or military necessity. Rather, God called Abram and gave him a mission:
"Get out of your country, from your family and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing."
Israel was created for the express purpose of being God's instrument of blessing in the world.
That purpose ultimately found its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus was not only a Hebrew; He became the living embodiment of what Israel was meant to be—the blessing of all peoples. Through Him, God's promise to Abraham reached every nation and every generation.
That raises an important question for us: How have we been blessed to be a blessing? The late President Ronald Reagan reflected on this question in a way that still resonates today. He wrote:
"Our nation exists for one purpose only—to assure each one of us the ultimate in individual freedom consistent with law and order. God meant America to be free because God intended each man to have the dignity of freedom."
Long before Reagan, James Madison described the American experiment in these words:
"It has been frequently remarked that it seems to have been reserved to the people of this country... to decide the important question, whether societies of men are really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend... on accident and force."
According to Madison, America's purpose was to demonstrate whether free people could govern themselves through moral conviction rather than coercion, force, or fear. At its best, our nation has sought to affirm the truth that all people are created in the image of God and possess inherent dignity and worth.
Of course, America has never perfectly lived up to its ideals. Yet our calling has never been perfection; it has been faithful pursuit of the principles upon which we were founded. Former President Bill Clinton said something that is absolutely true—“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be fixed by what is right about America.” Time and time again, when our laws, leaders, or government fall out of alignment with our ideals—when our republic is “out of order”—the dissent, patriotism, and diligence of ordinary Americans, armed with our freedoms, faith, and Constitution, have proven that we can police ourselves.
Abraham Lincoln expressed this beautifully in the Gettysburg Address when he spoke of a nation "conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal." He challenged his listeners to dedicate
themselves anew to the unfinished work before them so that "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
The prophets repeatedly reminded Israel that God's people were not blessed merely for their own benefit. They were blessed in order to bless others. The same principle applies to us. As a nation, we are at our best when we remember not only our freedoms and opportunities, but also our responsibility to use them for the good of others.
On July 5, 1976, during America's bicentennial celebration, British journalist Ferdinand Mount wrote words that remain remarkably relevant:
"What the world needs now is more Americans. The U.S. is the first nation on earth deliberately dedicated to letting people choose what they want and giving them a chance to get it."
He acknowledged America's faults, but concluded that the nation occupies a unique place in the history of human hopes because it was "founded solely on a moral dream." Perhaps most strikingly, he wrote, "The greatest of all the gifts the Americans have given us is hope."
Reagan echoed a similar theme when he reflected on both the material and spiritual blessings of our nation. Beyond prosperity and opportunity, he pointed to America's generosity, its support of churches, libraries, education, medicine, and the arts. Then he concluded:
"All we need is to be reminded of our destiny—that God intended America to be free; to be the golden hope of all mankind."
As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, may we remember that it is not enough that God has shed His grace upon us. The question is what we will do with that grace.
Like Abraham, like Israel, and like the Church itself, we are blessed to be a blessing. As we welcome visitors from around the world during this season of celebration, may we demonstrate not only the blessings America has received, but also the ways America can be a blessing to others. May we show hospitality, generosity, humility, and gratitude. And may we remember that every blessing entrusted to us carries with it a calling—to share that blessing for the good of our neighbors and the glory of God.
Happy Birthday USA!
Bob Fuller
What is First Press? Each ministry magazine/newsletter reflects on the previous month’s life and ministry while looking ahead to upcoming events, opportunities, and important church updates. Content is submitted by ministry leaders and members and is due on the first of each month. Final placement and editing are determined by the Communications Team.
Hank Cherry, Director of Communications
Dorothy Hecimovich, Graphic Designer
Edwin Stephens, Media/AV Manager
Robynn Amy, Media/Production Specialist
Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org)
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SUMMER BIBLE STUDY: PIVOTAL TIMES AND EVENTS IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF CHRIST: Sundays through July 26, Room 315 (Covenant Hall). Meets at 9:30 AM in June and 11:00 AM in July. Join Janet Anderson and the Bridges Sunday School Class for an 8-week summer Bible study exploring key moments in the life and ministry of Christ. Coffee and comfortable seating provided. All are welcome.
COLLEGE SUMMER FELLOWSHIP: Wednesdays Jun 17–Jul 29 (no meeting Jul 1), 6:30–8:30 PM. College students and young adults (ages 18–24) are invited to gather for dinner, worship, teaching, and discussion as we explore how the Old Testament points to Christ. Locations vary weekly. Learn more and join the group at http://bit.ly/fpcsa-college-summer
19 KEYS JUNE BIRTHDAY LUNCH: Friday, Jun 19, at 11:30 AM, The Cove 606 W Cypress Street. Join the KEYS Older Adult Ministry for a birthday lunch ($15) and fellowship. A shuttle will depart from FPC at 10:30 AM for those who wish to ride. RSVP to the Front Desk at 210-226-0215.
20 FPC STUDENTS YPM MISSION TRIP: June 20–27, Yucatan, Mexico. Please be praying for our students and leaders as they travel, work, learn, and build relationships with our ministry partner Yucatan Peninsula Mission.
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YOUNG ADULT DOCTRINE DINNER: THE AUTHORITY OF SCRIPTURE: Monday, Jun 22, 6:30–8:30 PM, 829 Terrell Road. Join other young adults for dinner and conversation as we explore the authority of Scripture with Dr. Jonathan King, Program Director of the Zbinden Center Fellows Program. Free Cabo Bob’s dinner provided. Submit discussion questions in advance to megc@fpcsat.org
DISCOVER, KNOW, & JOIN FPC! Sunday, Jun 28, 8:30 AM–2:30 PM, Geneva Room. Join our FPC family! Dive into our theology, connect with others, and find your place with us. A light lunch and childcare are provided. Register at fpcsanantonio.org/join. For questions, contact Wendy Garcia at 210-226-0215.
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING: Sunday, Jun 28. At the conclusion of all worship services, a meeting of the congregation will be held to hear the reports of the Nominating Committees for Associate Pastor for Outreach and Associate Pastor for Formation. The congregation will vote on any nominees presented by the committees.
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CHURCH OFFICES CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY: Friday, Jul 3. The Church offices will be closed in observance of the 4th of July and will reopen for regular hours on Monday, July 6.
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SUMMER WORSHIP SCHEDULE
CHANGE: Sundays, Jul 5–26. FPC will move to a two-service Sunday morning schedule for the month of July: Traditional Worship at 9:30 AM and Modern Worship at 11:00 AM. Both services will be held in the Sanctuary and will continue to be livestreamed online during flooring repairs in Westminster Hall.
AMBASSADORS 1ST SUNDAY SUPPER: Sun, Jun 7, 5:30 PM. Family-friendly gathering for parents of young children. Offsite; location varies. Contact Meg Culp.
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NEXT-LEVEL SUNDAY SCHOOL: THE PRIMEVAL HISTORY: Sundays, Jul 12–Aug 2, 9:30 AM, Room 226. Join Dr. Jonathan King for a 4-week study exploring Genesis 1–11 and their significance for Israel’s journey to the Promised Land. Register now at http://bit.ly/next-level-class
2ND SUNDAY YOUNG ADULT LUNCH: 12:30 PM, Make Ready Market. Postworship lunch with young adults. Contact Meg Culp.
KEYS JULY BIRTHDAY LUNCH: Friday, Jul 17, at 11:30 AM, Pam’s Patio Kitchen, 11826 Wurzbach Rd, 78230. Join the KEYS Older Adult Ministry for a birthday lunch ($15) and fellowship. A shuttle will depart from FPC at 10:30 AM for those who wish to ride. RSVP to the Front Desk at 210-226-0215.
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BACK-TO-SCHOOL PRAYER AT THE FLAGPOLE: Sun, Aug 16, 5:00 PM at a local school. Pray for students, teachers, and staff as the year begins. Gather at your child’s campus or a nearby school for a brief (30 min) time of prayer. Contact Jeannie Dullnig or Jeanie Wehmeyer.
SAVE THE DATE FOR ALL CHURCH POOL PARTY! More information coming soon.
KEYS AUGUST BIRTHDAY LUNCH: Friday, Aug 21, at 11:30 AM, Morningside Ministries, 2201 Saint Cloud Rd. Join the KEYS Older Adult Ministry for a birthday lunch ($15) and fellowship. A shuttle will depart from FPC at 10:30 AM for those who wish to ride. RSVP to the Front Desk at 210-226-0215.
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KICKOFF SUNDAY: Plan to join us as we launch the fall semester of classes, groups, and ministries with a churchwide morning of worship and fellowship.
QUARTERLY MEN'S DINNER: Sunday, Aug 23, 5:00 PM–7:00 PM, Westminster Hall. Come join us Men's Ministry for a BBQ Dinner. Enjoy fellowship with other men of the church to kick off our fall semester. RSVP at http://bit.ly/fpcmen-dinner
YOUNG ADULTS & AMBASSADORS KICKOFF RETREAT: Saturday, Aug 29, Hunt, TX. Contact Meg Culp.
"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." — James 5:16
Every ministry begins somewhere.
Before a class is taught, before a mission team is sent, before a volunteer says "yes," God's people pray. Prayer is not merely preparation for ministry—it is ministry. Through prayer, we place ourselves before the Lord and ask Him to guide, equip, and call His people according to His purposes.
Over the next several months, First Presbyterian Church will be preparing for a new Stephen Ministry training class beginning on September 22. Stephen Ministry is our congregation's oneto-one caring ministry, providing Christ-centered support to people who are walking through difficult seasons of life. But before training begins, before applications are submitted, and before caregivers are commissioned, we believe the first step is prayer.
Right now, we are praying for the people God is calling.
Perhaps that person is someone you know. Perhaps it is someone sitting beside you in worship each Sunday. Perhaps it is someone who has a natural gift for listening, encouraging, and walking faithfully alongside others. Or perhaps God is quietly stirring something in your own heart.
The writer of Hebrews encourages believers to care deeply for one another: "Remember those who are in prison as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured as though you yourselves were being tortured" (Hebrews 13:3). Christian care begins with compassion— the willingness to notice the struggles of others and respond with the love of Christ.
As we enter this season of prayer, we invite the entire congregation to join us in asking God to raise up the next generation of Stephen Ministers. Pray that He would reveal His calling clearly. Pray that those He is calling would recognize His voice. Pray for the people who will one day receive care through this ministry. And pray that our church would continue to reflect Christ's love to those who are hurting, grieving, lonely, or facing life's challenges.
Who is God calling?
This month, let's begin by praying and trusting Him to answer.
To learn more about Stephen Ministry, contact Rev. Scott Simpson.
On Thursday, May 7, members of First Presbyterian Church joined believers from across San Antonio for the National Day of Prayer. Despite forecasts calling for rain, God provided a beautiful morning as participants gathered to walk, pray, and seek His guidance for our city, our nation, and our world.
This year's National Day of Prayer theme, "Glorify God Among the Nations, Seeking Him in All Generations," invited Christians across the country to unite in prayer and place their trust in God's faithfulness. At First Presbyterian, that invitation took the form of a prayer walk through the heart of downtown San Antonio.
Beginning at the church and concluding at Main Plaza, participants stopped at key locations throughout the city to pray for the people, institutions, and communities that shape daily life in San Antonio. Along the route, prayers were offered for families, churches, civic leaders, schools, military personnel, first responders, businesses, and the spiritual well-being of our nation.
Each stop served as a reminder that prayer is not confined to Sunday mornings or church buildings. As followers of Christ, we are called to pray for the places where people live, work, learn, serve, and gather. Walking through downtown offered a unique opportunity to see our city through the lens of faith and to lift up the needs of our neighbors before God.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the day was the spirit of unity among participants. Christians from different churches and backgrounds came together with a shared purpose: seeking God's wisdom, peace, and blessing for our community. In a world often marked by division and uncertainty, gathering in prayer was a powerful reminder that our hope remains firmly rooted in Christ.
The walk concluded with a citywide National Day of Prayer gathering at Main Plaza, where worship, Scripture, and prayer united believers from across San Antonio in a common expression of faith. Together, participants celebrated God's faithfulness and entrusted the future of our city and nation to His care.
As we reflect on this year's prayer walk, we are reminded that prayer is both a privilege and a responsibility. God calls His people to pray faithfully—not only for ourselves, but for our neighbors, our leaders, our churches, and our communities. We are grateful for all who participated and look forward to continuing this tradition of prayer in the months ahead.
Mark your calendar now for our annual Back-to-School Prayer at the Flagpole on Sunday, August 16, as we gather once again to pray for students, teachers, administrators, schools, and the coming academic year.
We are excited to host Alpha again this fall!
Wednesdays • Sept. 9 – Nov. 18
FPC Student Center • Dinner Included Childcare Available with RSVP
Alpha is a welcoming place for people of all backgrounds and beliefs to explore life's big questions. Alpha creates space for honest conversation, meaningful relationships, and spiritual growth.
Each session includes a meal, a video presentation, and small group discussions. The videos share Christian teachings, and guests are invited to express their views freely, with no wrong answers or judgments, as the Holy Spirit moves among us. This is a wonderful opportunity to invite someone to fellowship and explore the Christian faith in a welcoming environment.
We encourage you to prayerfully consider whom God may be calling you to invite to Alpha. One of the best ways to support someone exploring faith is to attend alongside them. Whether you invite a friend, neighbor, coworker, or family member, you may find that the conversations deepen your own faith as well. Alpha is designed not only for those asking questions about Christianity, but also for those who want to grow in their understanding of faith and learn from the perspectives of others.
To learn more contact Elizabeth Crites: crcrites@aol.com, 713 822-0222.
RSVP at https://bit.ly/fpcsa-alpha
1. Write down the names of at least three people you would like to invite to explore faith and discover Jesus.
2. Commit to praying for them regularly over the next few months with expectancy for how God might use you!
3. Invite them to Alpha–a welcoming place to explore faith, life, and meaning.
This summer, First Presbyterian is sending teams to serve alongside our Global Mission Partners around the world.
Uganda Mission Trip
In early June, members of our Uganda Mission Team served alongside Operation Uganda, Rescue One More, EMI, and YoungLives. We are grateful for their faithful service and look forward to sharing highlights from their journey in this issue
Upcoming: Youth YPM Mission Trip
June 20-27 • Sign up to pray & receive updates at the table in Mauzé Lobby Please continue praying for our students and leaders as they serve with the Yucatan Peninsula Mission.
FPC is thankful for many opportunities to care for our neighbors, in partnership with ministries like the KRL, CAM, CUB, Haven for Hope, and more! This summer, we invite you to consider one of the many ways volunteers are needed to serve our neighbors, with these partners: donation of resource items preparing and serving food being trained to become a client advocate being available for conversation and prayer leading chapel services and more!
Please contact Lindsays@fpcsat.org to learn how you, your family, and your small group may be able to serve this month!
For more information about these or other ongoing serving opportunities with our FPC Mission Partners, please contact Lindsay Selli at lindsays@fpcsat.org.
After nearly 30 hours of travel across three continents, FPC's Uganda Mission Team arrived in Kampala eager to reconnect with ministry partners and see firsthand how God is at work through local churches and Christian organizations. What followed was a week marked by joyful relationships, powerful ministry experiences, and a deeper understanding of both the challenges and the hope found in Uganda. The team partnered with two organizations—Operation Uganda and Rescue One More—each serving vulnerable children and families through Christ-centered care and discipleship.
One of the team's first experiences was arriving at Operation Uganda's Jordan House community center, where they were welcomed by singing, dancing children dressed in colorful Ugandan clothing. Throughout the week, team members joined staff in caring for children, leading games and activities, visiting schools, sharing meals, and encouraging local leaders who faithfully serve their communities every day. The children of Jordan House quickly captured the hearts of the team through their joy, enthusiasm, and resilience.
The team also witnessed the practical impact of Operation Uganda's ministry. Through partnerships with local schools, scholarships, mentoring, and spiritual formation programs, children are being given opportunities to continue their education and grow in faith. Several members of the local staff once received support
through these same programs and now serve the next generation, providing a powerful picture of lives transformed through long-term Christian investment.
One particularly memorable day centered on a community meal following worship services at Jordan House. As staff and volunteers prepared food for hundreds of neighbors, the team reflected on Jesus feeding the five thousand. Despite uncertain weather and concerns about serving such a large crowd, everyone was fed and cared for. The experience became a vivid reminder that God faithfully provides for His people.
Later in the week, the team partnered with Rescue One More, an organization dedicated to protecting
vulnerable children and supporting survivors of abuse. Through visits to safe houses, conversations with staff, games with children, and times of worship and fellowship, team members witnessed both the realities of hardship and the transformative power of Christ-centered care. Rescue One More's staff welcomed the team warmly and demonstrated extraordinary commitment to restoring hope and dignity to those they serve.
Throughout the trip, team members encountered heartbreaking poverty. Many families live in homes no larger than a small American walk-in closet, often without running water or sanitation. Yet alongside these difficult realities, the team consistently encountered remarkable faith. Local believers continue to serve their communities with joy, perseverance, and a deep trust in Christ. Their witness became one of the most meaningful lessons of the journey.
As the trip drew to a close, the team spent time reflecting together on everything they had experienced. While they returned home grateful for the opportunity to serve, they also returned with a renewed commitment to prayer, partnership, and ongoing relationships with both Operation Uganda and Rescue One More. The mission may have ended, but the connections formed and the work God is doing through these ministries continue.
The FPC Uganda Team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone whose prayers, encouragement, and financial support made this journey possible. Together, we witnessed God's faithfulness, the joy of Christian fellowship across cultures, and the hope of the Gospel at work in Uganda. "God will provide."
"God will provide."
The team witnessed this firsthand as Operation Uganda prepared and served a community meal for hundreds of neighbors following worship at Jordan House.
"Hope can flourish in difficult places."
Though many families face significant poverty, we encountered deep faith, joy, and resilience throughout the communities we visited.
"Ministry is relationship."
The most meaningful moments often came through conversations, shared meals, laughter, and time spent with children, students, and ministry leaders.
"Local leaders are changing lives."
Many Operation Uganda staff members were once children served through the ministry and now help guide the next generation.
"The Church is bigger than we imagine."
From Kampala worship services to local schools and safe houses, we were reminded that God is at work throughout the world.
"Prayer matters."
The Uganda Team was sustained by the prayers of the congregation throughout the trip. Team members repeatedly experienced God's provision, protection, and encouragement through the faithful support of their church family.
Compiled from reports written by members of the Mission Team. A full account of their trip, along with many more photos, can be found at https://bit.ly/2026-uganda
More than 150 people gathered at Cool Crest Miniature Golf on June 2 for an evening of fellowship, food, music, and fun. Guests enjoyed putt-putt, dinner from the Schilo's food truck, and music from the Cox Family singers. Since Covenant Partner Bill Lyons and his family acquired Cool Crest earlier this year, it has become a wonderful place for First Presbyterians to gather and connect.
The 1929 course gave the older kids and adults quite a challenge but even those just learning to walk enjoyed playing on the 1959 course. Both Barrett and Chambers Hill were the big winners and were presented the Green Jacket for their excellent putting skills! Everyone that attended immensely enjoyed the fellowship, the food and all the fun.
Mark your calendar for our End-of-Summer Pool Party on August 16. More details coming soon.
More than 150 people joined us for an evening of fellowship, food, music, and mini golf.
The Literature Circle meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month September-May in the McCullough Room at 1:00 PM.
September 8, 2026
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Reviewer: Mrs. Martha Smith
October 13, 2026
Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton
Reviewers: Reverend Scott and Suzie Simpson
November 10, 2026
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Reviewer: The Honorable David Peeples
January 12, 2027
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson Reviewer: Dr. Rick Taylor
December 8, 2026
Orphans of The Storm by Celia Imrie
Reviewer: Mrs. Grace Clouse
February 9, 2027
The Birds That Audubon Missed by Kenn Kaufman
Reviewer: Mrs. Morgan Fuller
March 9, 2027
Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict Reviewer: Ms. Jane Hansen
April 13, 2027
Defender of The Texas Frontier by David R. Gross
Reviewer: Mr. Hank Cherry
May 11, 2027
Custodians of Wonder: Ancient Customs, Profound Traditions, and the Last People Keeping Them Alive by Eliot Stein
Reviewer: Dr. Tripp Stuart
Dear KEYS Friends,
As we wrap up another wonderful season together, we are grateful for the many opportunities we have shared through KEYS for learning, fellowship, and meaningful connection.
During May, members enjoyed a fascinating presentation by Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller on backyard birds, discovering the remarkable variety of species found throughout South Texas and reflecting on the beauty of God's creation in our own neighborhoods.
Later in the month, KEYS members partnered with Morningside Ministries for an afternoon of bingo, laughter, and fellowship. The gathering provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with residents and friends while sharing joy and encouragement through friendly competition.
Our spring season concluded with a memorable Memorial Day presentation by Rev. Dr. John Kaiser, retired Army chaplain. Drawing on his years of military service, Dr. Kaiser shared reflections on sacrifice, service, and remembrance, helping us honor those who have faithfully served our nation.
While our regular Friday programs pause for the summer months, KEYS continues through birthday lunches, Friday Fitness on Zoom, Mah Jongg gatherings, and other opportunities to stay connected. These summer activities help strengthen the friendships and fellowship that make KEYS such a special ministry.
More than a calendar of events, KEYS is a community where friendships are nurtured, faith is encouraged, and lives are enriched through shared experiences. We look forward to staying connected throughout the summer and gathering again this fall for another season of learning, laughter, and fellowship.
Grace and peace, Rev. Dr. Joe Moore
Assistant Pastor for Older Adults and Congregational Care
Our summer off-site birthday lunches begin at 11:30 AM and are $15 per person. Make reservations by signing up at the Front Desk, calling the church office, visiting http://bit.ly/fpcsa-keys, or responding through the regular KEYS emails. A shuttle from the church is available at 10:30 AM for those who wish to ride.
• June 19 – Birthday Lunch at The Cove 606 W Cypress Street
• July 17 – Birthday Lunch at Pam’s Patio Kitchen, 11826 Wurzbach Rd
• August 21 – Birthday Lunch at Morningside Ministries, 2201 Saint Cloud Rd
KEYS Games
Mahjong and Bridge players are meeting on the 2nd & 4th Fridays, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. You don’t have to be a seasoned player, and if you have a game you would like to play, let us know and we will make room for you!
Friday Fitness will continue via Zoom. Join Jacqueline Crow at 9:30 AM. Jacqi has been a champion for us and everyone loves the time with her. If you want to be included on the email notifications, send your email address to Pastor Joe. You will be sent a link to join the Zoom Meeting.
Blessings and love in Christ, Sandy Sturch
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.— Psalm 143:8
1 Jeremiah 31:27-34; Romans 11
2 Lamentations 1; Isaiah 1; 2 Chronicles 7:13-14
3 Lamentations 2; Matthew 23; 2 Timothy 4:1-5
4 Lamentations 3:1-36; Matthew 5:39; 2 Cor. 6:1-10; Psalm 123
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God, my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou has been Thou forever wilt be. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow—blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! (Hymns for the Family of God, #98)
5 Lamentations 3:37-66; Job 30; Psalm 37
6 Genesis 19:1-29; Lamentations 4; Jeremiah 19:9; Matthew 24:1-35
7 Lamentations 5; Isaiah 49; 1 Thess. 4:13-5:11
8 Luke 1:1-25; John 1:1-34
9 Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-56; Genesis 17:19; Psalm 132:11-18; Galatians 3:16
10 Luke 2:1-20; Colossians 1:15-23; Isaiah 43:1-3; 45:22
11 Leviticus 12; Luke 2:21-40; Isaiah 42:1-9; 8:13-17; John 10:11; Psalm 23
Come, Thou long expected Jesus, Born to set Thy people free. From our sins and fears release us; Let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s Strength and Consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear Desire of ev’ry nation, Joy of ev’ry longing heart! Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and yet a King, Born to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious kingdom bring. By Thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone; By Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne. (Worship in Song, #181)
12 Micah 5:1-5; Matthew 2
13 Luke 2:41-52; Proverbs 3:1-6
14 Luke 3:1-22; Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-11; 16:15-16; Acts 1:5, 2:38-41
15 Luke 3:23-4:13; Deut. 6:13-19; Hebrews 2:10-18; 4:14-16; 1 Peter 5:5-10
16 Isaiah 40:1-11; 52:7; 61:1-3; Luke 4:14-21; John 16:13-15
17 Luke 4:22-30; 10:13-16; John 1:9-14; 15:18-16:4
18 Luke 4:31-37; Deut. 32:17; Isaiah 14:12-15; Luke 10:18; John 12:27-50
Out in the highways and byways of life, Many are weary and sad. Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife, Making the sorrowing glad. Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love; tell of His power to forgive. Others will trust Him if only you prove True every moment you live. Give as ‘twas given to you in your need; Love as the Master loved you.
Be to the helpless a helper indeed; unto your mission be true. Make me a blessing: Make me a blessing. Out of my life may Jesus shine. Make me a blessing, O Saviour, I pray. Make me a blessing to someone today. (Worship in Song, #342)
19 Luke 4:38-44; Psalm 103
20 Luke 5:1-11; John 12:20-26; 1 Peter 2:11-15; Psalm 32
21 Numbers 12; 2 Kings 5; Luke 5:12-26; Psalm 147:3
22 Luke 5:27-32; John 15:18-27; 2 Cor. 5:16-21; James 4:4; 1 John 3:13-15
23 Luke 5:33-39; Leviticus 16:29-31; Joel 2:12-14; Nehemiah 9:1-3; Matthew 6:16-18
24 Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 16; Deut. 5:12-15; Matthew 5:17-20; Luke 6:1-11
25 Psalm 7; Luke 6:12-36; Proverbs 16:7; Romans 12:17-21
Come, ye sinners, poor and needy, weak and wounded, sick and sore; Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, love, and power; He is able, He is able, He is willing; doubt no more. Let not conscience make you linger, nor of fitness fondly dream; All the fitness He requireth is to feel your need of Him: This He gives you, this He gives you; ‘Tis the Spirit’s glimmering beam. Come, ye weary, heavy laden, bruised and mangled by the Fall; If you tarry till you’re better, You will never come at all; Not the righteous, not the righteous; Sinners Jesus came to call. (The Baptist Hymnal, #241)
26 Luke 6:37-45; Romans 2; 14; James 4:11-12; Matthew 18:15-35
27 Luke 6:46-49; James 2:14-26; John 15:1-17
28 1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 4:1-37; Luke 7:1-17; Jeremiah 32:17-27; Psalm 107:20-22
29 Psalm 38; Luke 7:36-50; Psalm 32
30 Luke 8:1-18; Psalm 119:1-16; 89-112; James 1:22-25
31 Psalm 119:33-88; Luke 8:19-21; John 14:15-21
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Romans 8:26)
