The River Church Community

Dear River friends,
 
I shared in my message Sunday that generosity is an “aspirational” value in the Wong family.  I long to be the cheerful giver that God delights in (2 Corinthians 9:7).  But, the reality is that giving comes as naturally to me as sky-diving.   On the other hand, my wife and my daughter have a freedom in giving that seems to flow like a great river.  When God has called me to part with my abundance, I have often felt like something in me might die.  It reminds me that money is indeed a power that seeks control of my soul.  It also reminds me that, if we are to be a people who trust in the gracious provision of Jesus, we really do need one another.  Over the years, Jesus has often met me in vulnerable interactions with family and friends.  In mercy, he helps me die to my the strong passions of my flesh.  That death, while painful, always results in the surprising resurrection of new life – a character that is more Christ-like, and a freedom and joy of soul that are unnatural to me.
 
It is this freedom and joy that we are seeking during this current Sunday series on finances.   We can never attain these blessings by sheer force of will.  They are the gift of God to those who surrender control of the most practical aspects of their lives.  In that spirit, I hope you’ll take a risk to open your “books” before God and a friend. (We have created a budget worksheet to help you get started.)  May His grace flow to you in abundance as you do.
 
Peace,
Brad Wong, Lead Pastor

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Hello River!

Welcome to Mikayla Julianne Girard!  Born on Monday at 3:30pm.  19", 7lbs 4oz.  Congratulations to Amy, Garrett and big sister Mia!

The students are geared up to give parents a Valentine's break this Saturday!  We have many kids signed up for babysitting and many happily anticipatory parents.

The parent retreat was a meaningful respite for many parents last Saturday.  Each childcare room in the ministry center was set up with reflection stations appropriate for parents of kids of different ages.  David and Jill had long lines outside their doors for prayer and spiritual direction.

The Giving Team recently had the privilege of giving away over $60,000 to our ministry partners and friends.  Check out The River Website for more information.  We've also posted our latest financial update.

Dave

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Closing Announcements – Feb. 8, 2009

Bone Marrow Drive on Feb.22

• The River is hosting a bone marrow drive in 2 weeks here at SJSU to support Jodie Gee. Jodie is the cousin of a Jocelyn Lai.
  
• The Bone Marrow drive will be in the Music Room, on Feb.22, immediately after service under 1 pm. Getting tested is free and simple.
• Stop by the Connecting Table to talk to Jocelyn if you have any questions.
• There is a playing card in your River Invitation as well.
• Also, special thanks to our very own Baker Cleveland who made the video, which is being shown in churches & community gatherings all over the country to help Jodie.

Liberia ICE Fundraising - If you would like to support the Liberia ICE team, please write a check payable to The River and enclose a note with "Liberia ICE" or the team members name.  Please do NOT write the team members name on the check itself.

Islam 101

• If you want to be better informed about world events, gain insight into what 1/5 of the world believes, and be encouraged to love Muslim people, come today after service to the Ohlone Room at noon for Islam 101
• Islaom 101 is an introduction to Islam, an overview of what Muslims believe, and how we as followers of Jesus can enter into loving and friendly dialogue with our Muslim friends, neighbors and coworkers.
• This course will last about an hour, and there will be light snacks to tide you over to lunch. 
• Julie Priest will be hosting – Julie has lived in Iraq for a year and have an interest in bridging the cultural gaps between muslims and christians.  You may remember Julie from the last Flow video we showed a few weeks ago.

Lenten Retreat

• Friday, Feb. 27 to Saturday, Feb 28th at the Presentation Center in Los Gatos
• Sign up at the connecting table or on our website.