The River Church Community

Dear River friends,
 
This morning, I awoke to a dream . . . unfortunately, it was not the pleasant kind!  In my sleep, I tried vainly to mumble words that would fend off a taunting figure.  My heart rate soared.  And needless to say, I woke up not feeling particularly refreshed. I’ve learned that it's important to pay attention to dreams such as this; often, they are signs that my soul is needing more attention than I am giving it.  What do you do when your soul is not at peace?  My prayer for us all, in these days of stress, is that Jesus lead us to streams of cool water that refresh the soul.
 
In my spiritual life, one of the most healthful practices is the Examen – the Ignatian practice of naming Consolations (the places in which I am experiencing the presence of God) as well as Desolations (the places in which I lack a sense of God’s presence).  Naming consolations reminds me of the goodness of Jesus.  Naming desolations helps me come to grips with places of discontent, fear, and even anger.   Sometimes, I do this in isolation via the practice of journaling.  On other occasions, I do it in conversation with family or friends.  Almost always, the practice leaves me feeling more centered in the presence and work of God in my life.
 
Our current Sunday morning series is intended to address the reality that the area of finances is a profound desolation for many of us.  Whether we have much money or little, many of us feel a significant degree of stress, anxiety, or guilt in our financial world.  For some, it is a source of relational or marital tension.  The promise throughout our series is that great freedom and joy await those who surrender this area to Jesus.  If you were traveling this past Sunday, I encourage you to listen to Jeff Hopkins’ story at the beginning of the message.  It’s a great story of the grace that Jesus longs to bestow upon those who follow.
 
“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 2) 
 
Shalom,
Brad Wong, Lead Pastor

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Hello River,

The youth successfully watched over 20 children and let many happy parents enjoy a night out together.  Way to go youth!  Most of the youth have this week off for winter break so Kyle is taking advantage of the time to meet with students.

David reports of God's continuing, faithful work in the Healing Path.  Last Monday the group experienced a powerful testimony about abuse and recovery leading to deep and honest sharing in many groups.  Yesterday David shared a teaching on connecting to our hearts.  Please continue to pray for healing and protection for participants and leaders.

We hosted a full women's self-defense class here at The Ministry Center on Saturday morning.  Thanks to Mary Lucitt for pulling it all together!

And here's a picture of the newest member of the Girard family - Mikayla, born February 9th.

Dave

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Closing Announcements – Feb. 15, 2009

Men’s Breakfast

• Saturday, March 7th, 9:30A.M. - 11:30A.M.
• Fit for the Kingdom: Becoming Holy Warriors:  Come join us for some fellowship around food and a teaching on how God the Father enables us to stand and fight the idol gods we face everyday here in the valley. How do we apply Christ’s victory in the face of evil? How do we prevail over difficulties? And, how do we deal honestly with areas of weakness in our lives. Our Father has made a way for us to rise up and out of natural cycles of failure and despair. He has given us His Spirit through which His inspired will becomes our own. Our speaker will be Pastor David Alvarez.
• The breakfast will be held at The River Church Offices (701 N. First St., San Jose, 95112). All are welcome to attend.
• Sign up at the Connecting Table, RSVP at the event page, or e-mail

Bone Marrow Drive on Feb.22

• The River is hosting a bone marrow drive next week (2/22) 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 immediately after service until 1 pm. Getting tested is free for minorities.
• Stop by the Connecting Table to sign up or to talk to Jocelyn if you have any questions.
• There is a playing card in your River Invitation as well.

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.