The January entries were my favorites! Enjoy!

As we recall from last week, we discussed why it is that God sets apart certain groups of people? It’s God’s desire to redeem humanity and bring them back to worship of Him. He works through an empowered church to accomplish this. (Great Commission)

But preaching the good news and making disciples goes beyond merely talking about Christ.

Bob Lupton, a long time urban community developer in Atlanta, Georgia, said something at a symposium I attended earlier this year that blew my mind. It was something very simple, but something that made a lot of sense. He said, “You cannot skip over the Great Commandment to get to the Great Commission”

Think about that for a second- what does that mean?
Many people have been very good at trying to enact the Great Commission - ‘to evangelize’ - and call people to the altar to repent. Many however, have forgotten about the Great Commandment along the way.

I believe that you get to the Great Commission most effectively via the the Great Commandment.
Love God and Love others.
This sounds simple, but it is really powerful when we truly enact it with the guidance and assistance of the Holy Spirit.

Vision and the Holy Spirit
Pastor Mark did a great job at explaining an aspect of the Holy Spirit this past weekend. He talked about how a filling of the Spirit conjures up dreams and rustles up those things in us that cause us to see things in a different way. We absolutely need this new vision.
With this new vision, we see the world around us differently. As this continues to take root in our lives, we are unable to continue to carry on as usual, tolerating the extreme injustices that are so prevalent in our midst. Our new set apart existence has been established by God, so that with our new vision and our new identity, we will be able to bind together as the church to begin to overturn the pain and destruction of our sinful nature. The church, empowered and equipped by God, will begin to redeem, reclaim, and bring light to those places that have been overrun by darkness, evilness - greed and destruction. We must respond to these situations as we encounter them.

Often however, in our contemporary world and in the church, relief work is compartmentalized. It can be falsely labeled as something liberal- Something for good-hearted people to do- Something for our missionaries or our missions budget. And though I do think that God has assigned certain people to specific works both home and abroad, there is plenty for every Christ follower to be involved in.
As our world has become so intricately global, all of us partake in the world’s successes and failures. No one is exempt. We all participate in the global economy by way of our consumption and therefore we must be absolutely mindful of what that means for us. God will hold us accountable to our choices, and the more we know, the more we are expected to act. Only ignorance, greed, selfishness, and laziness can excuse our inaction.

Poverty/Injustice/Scripture
It is interesting the amount of Scripture that speaks to injustices that are similar to many of our contemporary situations. Most of the world today does not live like we do in the West and in the United States. More individuals in the world live off of direct agriculture than those who do not. That makes a lot of Jesus’ parables to an ancient agrarian society still quite relevant today. No major hermeneutics is necessary to try and interpret those crazy farming examples. 80 percent of the world’s population lives in a country where the gap between rich and poor is widening. 1 billion people still live on less than $1 dollar a day and 40% of the world’s population lives on less than $2 a day*. That makes the references to the rich and poor in both the Old and New Testaments intricate to our life today.

Most of the injustices in the world today are not something new either. As this is a shortened version of a much longer teaching, I will provide just a few examples of current justice issues with one accompanying Scripture reference.

Human Trafficking: UN statistics estimate that 2.5 million people are entrapped in trafficking each year*.
Revelation 18:11-13

Homelessness/Urban Poverty: DC has the highest child poverty rate in the U.S. at 32%*.
Isaiah 58:7

War/Conflict/Genocide: World Military expenditure estimate for 2006- $1204 billion*.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Sweatshop/Slave Labor: In major corporate factories (from Wal-mart to Nike and Disney) piece-rates increase output, and falsified documents help withhold the paying of overtime*.
James 5:4

Next week we will explore this further and move toward some of the practicalities in responding to some of these things. What can we do to change our lives?
How can we live set apart and make positive change through our peculiar, God-driven, way of living?

Owen David Cook Brown showed up at 3:28EST on Wednesday, May 14. He was 8lbs, 8 ounces, 21 inches long. You can read more of Owen’s adventures on www.bestofthebrowns.com.

Please be praying for Owen as he transitions to new life! And be praying for Grace, Brandon, and Violet as they transition to their new life with son and baby brother.

It struck me as a very good reason to journal.

I’m so excited to welcome the newest NCCer- Hazel Matilda Gonzales. She was born Saturday night, May 10, at 5:13pm. She is 7 lbs, 15.6 ounces and 19 3/4 inches long.

Mother and daughter are doing well. And proud Daddy is doing well, too! Please be praying for them as they return home today.

Small Groups May Term - May term is going on now! Come be a part of one of our exciting three week studies. The Story, Bible Study Methods, and Set Apart: Foundations for Social Justice. For more information, please contact .

Summer Service Schedule - Our summer service schedule will go into effect on Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 24. The Ebenezers Coffeehouse location will have one service at 5:00pm. The service schedule will remain the same at our Union Station, Ballston and Georgetown locations. We will return to two Saturday night services in the fall.

Sponsor Kids for Camp! - We want to make sure all of our kids have the chance to attend camp this summer at Camp Sandy Cove, a Christian camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you would be willing to ensure all kids have the opportunity to attend, you may contribute in the offering envelope and designate the funds for “Kids Camp”. For additional information please contact .

Benefit Concert and Silent Auction - Join us for a unique evening of live music, refreshments and a silent auction featuring local musicians, artists and bakers on Wednesday, May 14, 7:30-10pm at Ebenezers Coffeehouse. This event will benefit the work and mission of Ambassadors in Sports Kenya, an organization that NCC Team Kenya worked with, building hope and relationship with the children of Kenya through the game of soccer. All proceeds will go directly to AIS Kenya.

Calling All Musicians! - You’ve got talent. You are created to worship. NCC has a perfect place for you to serve on the Worship Team! NCC worship teams are looking to incorporate new guitarists, keyboardists, drummers, and vocalists, etc. It’s time to get plugged in and get your instruments plugged in! Contact for more information and to schedule an audition.

Marriage Matters: Dieciocho de Mayo - Do you ever feel like your spouse is speaking a different language? Join us for a fun night of Marriage Matters as we explore this question with other engaged and married couples at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on May 18 (el dieciocho de mayo) at 6pm. The cost is $15 per couple and includes dinner. Please by May 11. Childcare will be provided for this event. If childcare is needed, please by May 4 and include the names and ages of any children so the church can coordinate sitters.

SALT - SALT (Seeking After Liberating Truth) is a 20-lesson support program for all men who are struggling with the overt sensuality and sexual assault we experience in our everyday life. Beginning in late May, the program offers help to find freedom from these struggles and any associated behavior. Please contact Regeneration of Northern Virginia at 703-591-4673 for an application.

Childcare Opportunities - If you would like to earn a few extra dollars and are interested in providing childcare for occasional church events or small groups contact . You will be added to the email listserv and will hear about paid opportunities. We especially need you if you are available during day-time hours!

NCC Re-use and Recycle - We want to be good stewards of our blessings and God’s creation at NCC! Please join us in re-using and recycling our leftover bulletin pieces by placing your unused connection cards and offering envelopes in our new collection bins located near the exit at your location or drop them off at a hospitality table. Please help make NCC a little greener!

Credit Card Giving Online - If you give to NCC via credit card, you can now give online for more convenient and secure giving. Visit us to give securely online.

THIS WEEK’S MESSAGE - This week, Pastor Mark began a new series titled, The Ghost in the Machine.

NEXT WEEK’S MESSAGE - Next week, Pastor Mark will begin continue the series, The Ghost in the Machine.

Live message:
5pm on Saturday at Ebenezers
9am on Sunday at Union Station
10:15 on Sunday at Union Station

Video message:
6:30pm on Saturday at Ebenezers
10:00am on Sunday at Georgetown
10:30am on Sunday at Ballston
11:30am on Sunday at Union Station

I’d encourage you to pass this info along to all of the men who were in your small group this past semester. Here’s the info from their brochure:

SALT is designed to offer support and minister to men who are struggling with the overt sensuality and sexual assault we experience in our every day life.

SALT explores the cycles of behaviors practiced, root issues, triggers, and how to live in freedom. The program is scripturally based, teaching principles of how to surrender to the Cross of Jesus Christ and walk in our true identity as men of integrity and purpose!

The Basics

SALT is a 20 lesson program for all men, single or married, who are looking for support in dealing with sexual struggles in their lives. The program is presented in a closed group format which means no one is admitted into the program once it has begun.

The typical SALT evening opens in prayer followed by a teaching according to the class syllabus. After the teaching the participants go to the small group they have been assigned for the program. Each small group has two leaders. The evening typically goes from 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

All participants are required to come prepared for each class having read in advance the chapter to be discussed that evening. There are also written homework assignments which are handed in to the small group leaders each week. A commitment must be made in advance to do the assignments and attend each evening.

SALT Lessons

SALT uses Craig Lockwood’s book Falling Forward: The Pursuit of Sexual Purity as the main curriculum for the program. Additional reading materials are provided throughout the program. Below are listed the titles for the 20 chapters covered in the program:

Spiritual Aspects of Addiction
Addiction is False Intimacy
The Pain of Sexual Addiction
Intervention in the Addictive Cycle
Planning Your Way of Escape
Surrendering to God
Confession: Discovering the Cross
Practicing the Presence of God
Seeking God through Spiritual Disciplines
Understanding the Addictive System
Allowing God to Remove Our Defects
Embracing Loss as a Way of Gain
Family Origins of Addiction
Spiritual Cleansing
Facing the Mother Wound
Facing the Father Wound
Facing Sexual Abuse
Forgiving and Making Amends
Defining True Masculinity
Accessing the Power of the Cross

Should I Attend?

Every year we see men contact the ministry because their lives have totally fallen apart. They are losing their jobs, ability to focus, spouses, families, and/or hope. The common factor is they waited until it was too late!

Some excuses heard:

I really don’t have an issue.
I can stop my behaviors at any time.
I only occasionally look at pornography.
Masturbation is absolutely necessary.
I’m not really addicted or an addict.
Viewing sexual magazine ads is okay.
Sexual fantasy is acceptable for men.

If you use any of the above as an excuse to indulge in any form of sexual impurity, this program is for you. Don’t wait until you become an all too familiar statistic! This is not the life Father God intended for you. Join your brothers who are intentionally pursuing becoming the men God intended them to be since the creation of the world.

The SALT program is co-offered through Regeneration of Northern Virginia and The Falls Church. The program generally runs from the end of May to the beginning of September.

To become a SALT participant an application and interview are required. This process is done to create as safe an environment as possible. We will gladly send/e-mail you an application and set up an interview appointment. To obtain the required application or additional information, please call Regeneration of Northern Virginia: 703-591-HOPE (4673)

Please note that all information is kept strictly confidential. We look forward to hearing from you.

Luke 1:37 “for nothing is impossible with God.”

In the Old Testament, one of the Hebrew words used to convey the idea of being set apart is qodesh. The word actually means ‘apartness, holiness, sacredness, separateness.’ In the New Testament Greek the word hagiazo is used in a similar way. Both words exuded the idea of a sanctified or hallowed state of being, which in turn also meant a certain kind of separateness from the things around them. Since the fall of man, God has chosen to impart His presence on certain groups of people and individuals. This then causes them to be set apart. As He does this, it is His intent that those who are still away from God will see the goodness of God embodied by those who are worshiping and following obediently after Him. Upon witnessing this, He hopes that those who are still in rebellion will begin to turn toward Him. In doing so, He begins to bring the chaos back to order, just as He did in the beginning of creation.

Set Apart: Israel
We see this pattern throughout a lot of Scripture. For example, as the Hebrews were led out of Egypt in the desert, God was bringing them through a purification process. His intent was that when they reached the Holy Land that He had promised them, they would be stripped clean of the things they encountered in the empire of which they were slaves. During this desert period, God was preparing a nation of people to be set apart as His own. The giving of the Law to Moses was at the core of this uniqueness. The Law was put into place to create a society that was pure and holy, but also fair and benevolent. God’s hope was that His people would think and live radically different than the other nations and empires around them, and through this, others would come to know and see the goodness of God.

Unfortunately, this set apart group of people was not able to fully carry out the uniqueness of the Law. Often they strayed from obedience and began to conform to the ways of the chaotic world around them; even to the extent of worshiping their gods. Moreover, instead of trusting the perfect nature of the Law, they sought to install a king and kingdom. Instead of carrying out the edifying economics of the Sabbath and Jubilee, they fell into greed and selfishness. The sinful, chaotic nature of the human being took over the presence of God through the Law and Prophets. This Holy Nation was unable to advance the Kingdom of God throughout the earth, though it did provide a familial line for the One who would.

Set Apart: Christ
With the coming of Christ, also came a new Covenant. The stone tablets were replaced by human flesh and the incense of burnt offerings was replaced by bloody crucifixion. And though the form now looked different, the intent was still the same; to advance the Kingdom of God on earth through people.

Through the acceptance of the sacrifice of Christ, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to be the new people, set apart by God to embody His presence and goodness. We as Christians get to take part in the great redemptive work of God. As we receive the Holy Spirit and grow in faith, the fruit of our lives begins to break down the chaotic system of the devil in the world. Christ triumphed over death, but it is through our manifestation of His love and power through the Holy Spirit that helps so many see the light and Word of God.

Set Apart: The Church
This is now our calling to be set apart; sanctified or hallowed.

The church is now the shining example that embodies the new life granted through Christ. We are called and empowered to enact and display the goodness of God to the chaotic world around us.

What does this mean for us? Is this surprising news? Can we think a little bit deeper about how we can and should live, set apart from our world, culture and society?

Living truly set apart requires that we undergo renewal, both in our hearts and minds. If after encountering and accepting Christ, our lives look the same with perhaps a little Jesus sprinkled in, then I’m afraid we are no better than the white washed tombs (Pharisees) that Jesus rebuked. This is not the installation of a new law or code of conduct, for only Christ is the fulfillment of the law, rather it is the deep sanctification that transpires as we follow the Spirit of God. Good fruit is the result.

Can we view our new life in Christ as something deep and powerful? Can we allow the fruit of the Spirit manifest in our lives? Can we be set apart but still be engaged in the chaotic lives of others? Can we employ the wisdom of God and embody purity, peace, gentleness, humility and mercy, while enacting good with sincere hearts? This will bring glory to Christ and the nations will then turn to repentance, advancing the Kingdom.

What does this have to do with the idea of social justice? More on that next week.

(Ballston location)

All Creatures of Our God and King

Trading My Sorrows

Blessed Be Your Name

Amazing Love

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Small Groups May Term - May term is starting up soon! Come be a part of one of our exciting three week studies. The Story, Bible Study Methods, and Set Apart: Foundations for Social Justice. For more information, please contact .

Mother’s Day Paint - Every year, we bless a single mom in the area by beautifying her house (painting and planting flowers). Come be a part of this great tradition and give back to a deserving mother in the community on Saturday, May 10. You can sign up via connection card if you’re interested in helping.

Informational Meeting - Engaged couples or those considering are invited to an informational session about PreMarriage Perspectives (PMP) with Pastor Paul Irwin in the upper office level of Ebenezers (201 F St. NE) on Wednesday, May 7, from 6 to 7pm. If there is enough interest, a summer group will be planned. For more information, please contact .

Sponsor Kids for Camp! - We want to make sure all of our kids have the chance to attend camp this summer at Camp Sandy Cove, a Christian camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you would be willing to ensure all kids have the opportunity to attend, you may contribute in the offering envelope and designate the funds for “Kids Camp”. For additional information please contact .

Marriage Matters: Dieciocho de Mayo - Do you ever feel like your spouse is speaking a different language? Join us for a fun night of Marriage Matters as we explore this question with other engaged and married couples at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on May 18 (el dieciocho de mayo) at 6pm. The cost is $15 per couple and includes dinner. Please by May 11. Childcare will be provided for this event. If childcare is needed, please by May 4 and include the names and ages of any children so the church can coordinate sitters.

SALT - SALT (Seeking After Liberating Truth) is a 20-lesson support program for all men who are struggling with the overt sensuality and sexual assault we experience in our everyday life. Beginning in late May, the program offers help to find freedom from these struggles and any associated behavior. Please contact Regeneration of Northern Virginia at 703-591-4673 for an application.

Childcare Opportunities - If you would like to earn a few extra dollars and are interested in providing childcare for occasional church events or small groups contact . You will be added to the email listserv and will hear about paid opportunities. We especially need you if you are available during day-time hours!

NCC Re-use and Recycle - We want to be good stewards of our blessings and God’s creation at NCC! Please join us in re-using and recycling our leftover bulletin pieces by placing your unused connection cards and offering envelopes in our new collection bins located near the exit at your location or drop them off at a hospitality table. Please help make NCC a little greener!

Volunteers Wanted - Interested in being a part of an NCC ministry team? For more information please fill out your connection card including what ministry you are interested in or contact .

Upcoming Ebenezers Concerts - Come join us at Ebenezers Coffeehouse for our Friday concerts! Upcoming guests include Christopher Williams on Friday, May 9. Visit Ebenezer’s website for more information.

2008 AMR - The 2008 Annual Ministry Report has finally arrived! Stop by the hospitality table at your location today to pick up your copy!

Credit Card Giving Online - If you give to NCC via credit card, you can now give online for more convenient and secure giving. Visit us to give securely online.

THIS WEEK’S MESSAGE

This week, Pastor Mark continued the Potential series with an on-site interview with Dr. Dick Foth via video.

NEXT WEEK’S MESSAGE

Next week, Pastor Mark will begin a new sermon series.

Live message:
5pm on Saturday at Ebenezers
9am on Sunday at Union Station
10am on Sunday at Georgetown

Video message:
6:30pm on Saturday at Ebenezers
10:30am on Sunday at Ballston
10:15am on Sunday at Union Station
11:30am on Sunday at Union Station

Here’s a final post to wrap up the series with links to all of the articles:

Introduction

Biblical Framework for Hospitality

The Practice of God’s People

The Provision of God

Jesus and Hospitality

Hospitality in Weekend Services

Hospitality in Small Groups

Shared Meals

Adding Value to People

The Requirement of Leadership

An Interview With the Gurus

A View From the Front Lines

The Story is one of our most popular NCC discipleship experiences. You will go through the entire chronological story of the Bible in 3 nights. You will learn who Obadiah was, when he lived, and why he wrote his book. You will untangle the missionary journeys of Paul and discover the link between Leviticus and Hebrews. Join Heather Zempel on Monday nights in May for Exploring the Backlot, Exploring the Old Testament, and Exploring the New Testament.

On Tuesday nights, come hang out with John Hasler for Set Apart: Exploring the Foundations of Social Justice.

On Wednesday nights, join Sarah Owen for a seminary-level class on Bible study methods and resources. Bible Study Methods is designed to help empower you with tools to study God’s Word. The focus is on why we should study the Bible, methods we can use to study the Bible, and how we can apply biblical truth to our daily lives. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to purchase Bible Study Methods: Twelve Ways You Can Unlock God’s Word (Rick Warren).

Need a Small Group Community Service Project? Help out with the Ride on May 17! Fix a flat tire, hand out gatorade, take photos or simply cheer on cyclists and friends.

Contact to assist.

Join your fellow NCC Ministry Volunteers in a workshop aimed at equipping you to pray with others. Come learn scripture, techniques, and guidelines so that you will be equipped for the next time someone asks you “can you pray with me?”

When?

Saturday, May 3, 10:00AM to 12:00PM

Where?

Ebenezers Lower Level

(Georgetown location)

All We Need

How Beautiful the Blood Flowed

How Great is Our God

Blessed Be Your Name

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Small Groups May Term - May term is starting up soon! Come be a part of one of our exciting three week studies. The Story, Bible Study Methods, and Set Apart: Foundations for Social Justice. For more information, please contact .

Ballston Picnic - It’s picnic season! On the first Sunday of each month this summer we will have a Ballston picnic followinng the service. These picnics are a time to get to know others at NCC, enjoy the weather, and have some outdoor fun! Bring a side, dessert, or drink and we’ll provide the chicken. All are invited. The first picnic will be next Sunday (May 4th) after service a couple blocks away at Quincy Park.

Sponsor Kids for Camp! - We want to make sure all of our kids have the chance to attend camp this summer at Camp Sandy Cove, a Christian camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you would be willing to ensure all kids have the opportunity to attend, you may contribute in the offering envelope and designate the funds for “Kids Camp”. For additional information please contact .

Marriage Matters: Dieciocho de Mayo - Do you ever feel like your spouse is speaking a different language? Join us for a fun night of Marriage Matters as we explore this question with other engaged and married couples at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on May 18 (el dieciocho de mayo) at 6pm. The cost is $15 per couple and includes dinner. Please by May 11. Childcare will be provided for this event. If childcare is needed, please by May 4 and include the names and ages of any children so the church can coordinate sitters.

SALT - SALT (Seeking After Liberating Truth) is a 20-lesson support program for all men who are struggling with the overt sensuality and sexual assault we experience in our everyday life. Beginning in late May, the program offers help to find freedom from these struggles and any associated behavior. Please contact Regeneration of Northern Virginia at 703-591-4673 for an application.

Childcare Opportunities - If you would like to earn a few extra dollars and are interested in providing childcare for occasional church events or small groups contact . You will be added to the email listserv and will hear about paid opportunities. We especially need you if you are available during day-time hours!

NCC Re-use and Recycle - We want to be good stewards of our blessings and God’s creation at NCC! Please join us in re-using and recycling our leftover bulletin pieces by placing your unused connection cards and offering envelopes in our new collection bins located near the exit at your location or drop them off at a hospitality table. Please help make NCC a little greener!

Volunteers Wanted - Interested in being a part of an NCC ministry team? For more information please fill out your connection card including what ministry you are interested in or contact .

Upcoming Ebenezers Concerts - Come join us at Ebenezers Coffeehouse for our Friday concerts! Upcoming guests include Ryanhood on Friday, May 2 and Christopher Williams on Friday, May 9. Visit Ebenezer’s website for more information.

Credit Card Giving Online - If you give to NCC via credit card, you can now give online for more convenient and secure giving. Visit us to give securely online.

THIS WEEK’S MESSAGE

This week, Pastor Mark continued the Potential series. His message focused on the biblical qualities for leadership as outlined in I Timothy 3:1-7.

NEXT WEEK’S MESSAGE

Next week, Pastor Mark will continue the Potential series with an on-site interview with Dr. Dick Foth via video.

Yelo is an Awaken event that focuses on unleashing your creativity, elevating your influence, challenging your character, and maximizing your leadership potential. Yelo uses the Gallup StrengthsFinder and Character Matrix to help individuals uncover their unique strengths and make their irreplaceable contribution to humanity. Join us at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on April 26th from 9am - 3pm for this unrivaled experience and discover the life you are created to live! You must pre-register for this event. For more information or if you have questions, please contact .

This is night is guaranteed to be one of the funniest and most entertaining events that we have this year. You’ll have a great time while supporting some NCC’ers showing off their talents. Come on out and invite a friend!

You don’t want to miss the standup comedy, lively dance, classic videos, Ol’ skool Pastor-off, and much more…

This Sunday @ 6pm
Stuart Hopson School (410 E Street NE)
Red line (Union Station)

Check out one of the trailers for the show: http://theaterchurch.com/mail/outreach

Today, Heidi Scanlon gives us her perspective on this topic. Heidi has a strong gift of hospitality, and she is investing it into Kingdom activities through the small groups she leads and the relationships she cultivates. Let’s lean into Heidi’s encouragement and challenge to us as she shares from her front lines experience in showing radical hospitality.

In his letter to the young church in Galatia, the Apostle Paul writes that “the only thing that matters [for the church] is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6).

Interestingly, if you polled 50 of our NCC small group leaders and asked them what that verse means, you most likely would get a few dozen answers – serving the poor, visiting prisoners, caring for orphans, etc.. And those are all good answers.

But Paul gives one prescription for “faith expressing itself in love” in the close of his letter in Galatians 6:9-10 that may have an additional meaning for us. He writes:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Paul hits the nail on the head – sometimes ministry is hard. We can grow weary. We get tired. We do ministry out of memory and not from a sanctified imagination. When we are animated and energized by the Holy Spirit, we have staying power and in due time we reap a good harvest (think water on bare ground and carrots).

As leaders we must focus on opportunities that abound for us in the realm of hospitality – doing good – especially to those who belong to the family of believers (i.e., people in our small groups and service attendees).

Hospitality begins inside of us and makes space for others. According to Paul Habersang, “genuine radical hospitality begins on the inside of who we are and radiates to those we know and to those we don’t know. Practicing radical hospitality begins with making space for other people – within our hearts and within our lives.” It’s more than just leading a great discussion or teaching a solid bible study. We must go beyond that.

Hospitality that radiates is a decision. You don’t have to have the “gift of hospitality” to radiate Christ’s love. Sometimes we get too busy with the business of small group or church. Radiance that is hospitable is a conscious decision and expression of a generous spirit.

The 51% Club. In the New York Times best-seller Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business, entrepreneur and author Danny Meyer describes the power of developing leaders who are “100 percent people” whose skills are divided 51-49 between emotional hospitality and technical excellence. Meyers explains that he is looking to grow leaders who are 51 percenters:

“Imagine if every business were a light bulb and that for each bulb the primary goal was to attract the most moths possible. Now what if you learned that 49 percent of the reason moths were attracted to a bulb was for the quality of the light (brightness being the task of the bulb) and that 51 percent of the attraction was to the warmth projected by the bulb (heat being connected with the feeling of the bulb).

It’s remarkable to me how many businesses shine brightly when it comes to acing the tasks but emanate all the warmth of a cool fluorescent light bulb. Our team must be like a scintillating string of 100 watt bulbs, whose product is the sum of 51 percent feeling and 49 percent task.”

Radiate warmth. Put that into our context. Imagine that the church’s purpose is to attract as many people as possible. (It is!) Now imagine that we focus not just on the tasks of hospitality but on the feelings of hospitality? How many of us have attended a church that preached the Word but seemed as emotionally cool to guests as a fluorescent bulb?

The hospitality tasks we embrace that make our guests feel comfortable and welcome are great: comfortable seating, good temperature, great snacks, available materials, greeters, coat checkers, helpers and the like. Hospitality tasks are great but they are only half of our purpose.

As Meyers puts it, “we can train for tasks but training for emotional skills (the 51 percent) is next to impossible.” But nothing is impossible with God! We can garner emotional skills when we are transformed by the Holy Spirit. As small group leaders we can train for hospitality tasks. But without the Holy Spirit, our bulbs are dim and our hospitality becomes just another item on our leadership to do list.

Develop emotional reflex. Meyers notes you either have this emotional reflex of warmth or you don’t. It’s just not true with us as believers. We have the living, breathing, resurrected Spirit of Jesus Christ living inside of each of us. So we can’t really say with a straight face that we don’t have the “gift of hospitality”. When we clothe ourselves with Christ we are hospitality. And we become a gift to the members of our small groups and to guests who attend our services.

Meyers says “to be a 51 percenter a team member will have five core emotional skills to be a champion at the team sport of hospitality”. They are:

1) Optimistic warmth (genuine kindness, thoughtfulness and a sense that the
glass is always at least half full)
2) Intelligence (not just “smarts” but rather an insatiable curiosity to learn for the
sake of learning)
3) Work ethic (a natural tendency to do something as well as it can possibly be
done)
4) Empathy (an awareness of, care for, and connection to how others feel and how your actions make others feel)
5) Self-awareness and integrity (a natural inclination to be accountable for doing the right thing with honesty and superb judgment)

Spiritually speaking, 51 percenters can adapt the Meyers hospitality model to include a Christ-like outlook based on scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit:

1) Optimistic warmth – if the joy of the Lord is your strength, could you please inform your face? Practice purposefully smiling at your small group members and people you meet at church for one week. Be the light of Christ. Watch the transformation.
2) Thoughtfulness – do you take time in your small group to connect guests with others? Connect two tennis players. What about people attending the same graduate school? How about two people from the same state? Leaders who are “thoughtful connecters” have great groups. If people don’t make one significant friend in the first year they are in church they won’t come back (according to data from the Catholic Church USA). Help people become friends.
3) Have more than a glass half full – if you have the Holy Spirit, your glass is more than half full – it’s filled to overflowing. Are you a broker of hope? Bring hope with you to your small group. Refill constantly. Otherwise you can’t overflow.
4) Intelligence – take the time to learn about your guests for the sake of knowing them. Don’t ask them how they’re doing if you don’t mean it. Care. They can tell if you don’t.
5) Work ethic – model godly excellence for guests. Alpha does a great job at this – they work very hard to have the best party possible because Christians should have the best parties. Model godly excellence – not perfectionism. Perfectionism is not from the Holy Spirit.
6) Empathy – genuine care for others includes ministering to them in more than a teaching capacity. It makes me crazy to hear a Christian tell me they don’t have the gift of compassion. We have Christ in us. We are compassion. Who needs an extra bit of your time? Who needs a coffee date? Who is brand new and needs a prayer. Who have you been leading with for months or years that is secretly in great pain? Ask God to give you words of knowledge so that you can empathize with the guests and team members in your group through the power of the Holy Spirit.
7) Other-awareness – as Rick Warren says, “it’s not about you.” Hospitality is a sacrifice. Sometimes that means sacrificing our time with our friends in small group for the sake of greeting new comers. Be other aware. People who are emotionally hospitable will know when to drop a task for the sake of not leaving a person in the room or at church standing alone. No person in any small group or at a service at NCC should ever be standing around by themselves. If you don’t have time to talk to them then if you have to –walk them into another group that is chatting. Just do it. This is being radically hospitable. This is saying “you matter.”

In their book, Radical Hospitality: Benedict’s Way of Love, co-authors Father Dan Homan and Lonni Collins Pratt describe radical hospitality as a willingness to make room for God in the unexpected. The unexpected is one place where we find opportunity.

Paul Habersang says “it means listening to others without judgment and extending compassion that opens up possibilities of seeing Christ in other people. When we extend ourselves to others, we create an opportunity for them to see Christ in us…perhaps even without uttering a word. For most of us, operating in the “unexpected” means making time to extend hospitality when opportunities are presented. Even if we don’t have the time.

A guest on the Alpha that meets in our home recently said out of the blue, “you guys [Alpha] have given me a renewed hope in humanity.” What? This guy is a believer. That statement tells me that somehow this guy in the family of believers was getting overlooked. I am not even sure what we did or said that made a difference to his life. I say that not to point the finger but to point the way. Our Alpha team is radically hospitable and it has made a difference in the life of at least one person.

How do you see hospitality? Does every small group bring opportunity? Do you see extending hospitality as a have to or a get to? Pick one practice from the list above and ask God to transform your hospitality. And do good to those who belong to the family of believers.

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. (2 Tim. 1:6-7)

“I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit on them!” (Num. 11:29)

What would happen if we saw each other the way that God sees us?

* Sometimes it is easier to identify gifts in others than it is to see them in ourselves - this is where leaders can play a huge role in helping others reach their potential. We can help them realize their unique gifting.
* There is no way that my faith in God is greater than His faith in me - no one believes in me the way God believes in me.

Principles for Reaching Potential/”Fanning Into Flame the Gift of God”

1. Discover your gifts (1 Tim. 4:14) - it is difficult to play to your strengths if you don’t know what they are. As leaders, we can help those we lead discover their gifts.
- supernatural gifts (1 Corinthians 12)
- natural gifts (Romans 12)
2. Throw yourself into your tasks (1 Tim. 4:15) - as leaders, we can give people a little “push” and help them gain confidence in their calling/gifting.
3. Learn from your mistakes (1 Tim. 1:12-14) - give yourselves (and others!) the freedom to fail. Our mistakes become the foundation God builds on. If we are too afraid of failure or looking foolish, our spiritual growth will stagnate. When those we are discipling make mistakes, we should help them see the lessons to learn and encourage them to keep growing and keep trying.
4. Under-promise and over-deliver (1 Tim. 1:6-7) - none of us will ever reach our full potential if we are more wrapped up with our position, paycheck, reward, fame, etc. than we are with using the gifts God has bestowed on us. Pride has a way of hindering us from growing into who God wants us to be.
5. Start at the bottom (1 Tim. 3:10) - we must be willing to start at the bottom and work our way up to greater responsibility. I love what Pastor Mark said, “Serve like a leader and you will lead like a servant.”
6. Develop daily disciplines (2 Tim. 1:7) - a mark of spiritual growth is the practice of disciplines such as prayer, study, fasting, tithing, etc. As leaders, we can help others develop disciplines by teaching and modeling them in our own lives, encouraging intentionality (e.g., using the spiritual development plan), and practicing them in community with others.
7. Stay in the Word (2 Tim. 3:16-17) - if we want to become the people God wants us to be (and to help others become the men/women God desires them to be), then we need to know what that looks like. Studying the precepts in God’s Word and the person and life of Jesus Christ is absolutely critical.

View everything as an opportunity to grow! There is no limit to what God can do in us and through us. We are called to “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:1).

What are some specific ways you as a leader can help people reach their potential? Please use the comment thread to share ideas with one another. Let’s help each other “fan into the flame the gift of God” by devoting ourselves to learning!

(Ballston location)

How Awesome is the Lord Most High

King Of Glory

Mighty To Save

Be Thou My Vision

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spring Semester Small Groups - Check out a full list of groups, times, and locations. If you have any questions or would like more information on how you can get involved, email .

Variety Show - The Annual NCC Variety Show is coming soon (April 27)! If you’ve got a talent or if you’d like to put together an act, now is your time! Sign up today with your talent by e-mailing .

Yelo Conference - Yelo is an Awaken event that focuses on unleashing your creativity, elevating your influence, challenging your character, and maximizing your leadership potential. Yelo uses the Gallup StrengthsFinder and Character Matrix to help individuals uncover their unique strengths and make their irreplaceable contribution to humanity. Join us at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on April 26th from 9am - 3pm for this unrivaled experience and discover the life you are created to live! You must pre-register for this event. For more information or if you have questions, please contact .

Marriage Matters: Dieciocho de Mayo - Do you ever feel like your spouse is speaking a different language? Join us for a fun night of Marriage Matters as we explore this question with other engaged and married couples at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on May 18 (el dieciocho de mayo) at 6pm. The cost is $15 per couple and includes dinner. Please by May 11. Childcare will be provided for this event. If childcare is needed, please by May 4 and include the names and ages of any children so the church can coordinate sitters.

Childcare Opportunities - If you would like to earn a few extra dollars and are interested in providing childcare for occasional church events or small groups contact . You will be added to the email listserv and will hear about paid opportunities. We especially need you if you are available during day-time hours!

NCC Re-use and Recycle - We want to be good stewards of our blessings and God’s creation at NCC! Please join us in re-using and recycling our leftover bulletin pieces by placing your unused connection cards and offering envelopes in our new collection bins located near the exit at your location or drop them off at a hospitality table. Please help make NCC a little greener!

Volunteers Wanted - Interested in being a part of an NCC ministry team? For more information please fill out your connection card including what ministry you are interested in or contact .

Credit Card Giving Online - If you give to NCC via credit card, you can now give online for more convenient and secure giving. Visit us to give securely online.

THIS WEEK’S MESSAGE

This week, Pastor Mark continued the Potential series. His message focused on the passage in II Timothy 1:6-7 in which Paul encourages Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God”. Pastor Mark’s message described ways in which we can fan into flame the unique gifts that God has given to each one of us as His children. The Yelo Conference is a great opportunity to discover the gifts that God has given us so that we can be all that God has designed us to be - so take advantage of this opportunity!

NEXT WEEK’S MESSAGE

Next week, Pastor Mark will continue the Potential series.

The message will be live at:

5pm at Ebenezers on Saturday
9am at Union Station on Sunday
10:30am at Ballston on Sunday

The message will be on video at:

6:30pm at Ebenezers on Saturday
10:00am at Georgetown on Sunday
10:15am at Union Station on Sunday
11:30am at Union Station on Sunday

“One of the happiest lessons I ever learned about evangelism came not from a professional evangelist, but from a watermelon vendor.

It was in a Korean village, and my wife came up to ask him how much a watermelon cost. He was so surprised at finding a long-nosed foreigner who spoke Korean that at first he was struck dumb. He even forgot to tell her the price. There was something more important he wanted to say. He asked, “Are you a Christian?” And when she replied, “Yes,” he smiled all over. “Oh, I’m so glad,” he said, “because if you weren’t I was going to tell you how much you are missing.”

If more of us were so happy about what we have found in the Lord Jesus Christ that we couldn’t wait to tell those who have not found him how much they are missing, we would need to worry no longer about the future of evangelism.”

“It is easier to sing about “laying all on the altar” as long as we ourselves do not end up on the altar. In order that we might share the suffering of Christ, God has engineered the fruit-making process so that it always involves sacrifice. But people invariably seek ways to turn the altar into a stage for seeking applause.”

We’ll be playing on a field near 1st and New York Avenue NW. There’s plenty of street parking. Come out and cheer for your favorite discipleship pastor and her team of crazy people.

1:00 pm, Sunday, April 20

Today, we will pick the brains of some of our NCC Hospitality Coordinators. We will talk with Sara Kruger, who, with her husband Mike, runs hospitality at Ebenezers, Pat Thomas, who runs hospitality at our Georgetown location, and Amy Foley, who leads the charge at Union Station.

Next time you see these ladies, give them a big high five and thanks for who they are and for what they do!

How did you get involved in hospitality ministry?

Sara Kruger: Indirectly, through Amy Doolittle. I attended her Scribes small group and responded to her email requesting hospitality help for the following weekend’s services. Mike and I continued to help out bi-weekly, and at the end of the academic year, she approached us about taking over the ministry.

Pat Thomas: The first Sunday I attended NCC was around Christmas time, and of course it was almost like a Ghost Town at Union Station…there was only one person setting up for Hospitality and I asked them if I could help and the rest is history.

Amy Foley: I got involved in the hospitality ministry back in 2001 when I started coming to the church regularly. The church had mentioned needing people and I ended up volunteering to shadow the hospitality team. I wanted to serve in a ministry and had previously led the hospitality team at the church that I was coming from prior to NCC. I felt that my gifts would be most utilized in greeting people and making them feel welcome at the church. I ended up shadowing Bill (who is also still on hospitality) and stayed with the team ever since that time.

Why did you stay?

Sara Kruger: Our hospitality team has become another family for us. We really enjoy serving with these volunteers. Also, I enjoy making connections with newcomers and regular attenders, and having a part in helping Ebz’ services run smoothly.

Pat Thomas: I knew (but had also forgotten) that hospitality was one of my spiritual gifts and I really enjoy helping people to feel comfortable and receptive

Amy Foley: I stayed with the ministry because I felt that the Lord could really use me to welcome people to the church. I wanted to be involved in the church and hospitality team offered a great way of both serving the church and meeting people (both serving on the team and attendees to the church.) I felt that this ministry definitely complemented my personality and gifts.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being involved in hospitality ministry at NCC?

Sara Kruger: Feeling like I belong and am needed.

Pat Thomas: In the beginning, it was creating an environment of welcome and receptivity for others and although that is still somewhat rewarding, now, it more about helping Hospitality Ministry Team learn how to do that very same thing.

Amy Foley: Most rewarding thing about the hospitality ministry has been the opportunity to meet the newcomers and make them feel welcome. People often walk into the church looking confused or uncertain with a lot of questions or concerns. Being able to welcome them and show Christ’s love, even if it is only for a couple of minutes with a friendly smile or a several answers to fundamental questions, has been one of my favorite things about the hospitality ministry. I love hearing stories later on of how people got involved in NCC because they saw a friendly face or were greeted by someone in hospitality on their first Sunday.

On zonegathering, we’ve talked quite a bit about hospitality requiring a willingness to enter uncertainty and invest risk. Can you think of any examples or stories from your own experience with hospitality ministry that reflect that?

Sara Kruger: Every time I approach a person I don’t recognize, it’s a risk. I just know that I’m going to introduce myself and they’ll already know me because I’ve introduced myself so many times before! I’ve had that happen a couple times. Although, each time the person points it out, I never forget their name after that. Or I’ll ask how long they’ve been attending NCC and they say something like 5 years. I always feel a little silly then, since clearly I should know them — especially if they’ve attended Ebz for the last two years.

Pat Thomas: Well, although hospitality was one of my spiritual gifts, practicing it in an open environment like NCC was a risk for me, because I’d always played it safe because of fear of rejection. Once, I decided to step out and really trust God and practice this special gift, I was rewarded far beyond what I could ever imagine…I was rewarded with a team(s) of people who I can pour love and care on and who I can pray for and who actually return this love, care and prayers. For me, taking the risk was a step of growth in knowing and being known, something I’ve always wanted to do but was very afraid to do.

Amy Foley: At Union Station services, we definitely have the opportunity to encounter quite a bit of uncertainty and risk. Because of the high homeless population at the services and between services, we often have both good and bad encounters with them. We often have to deal with difficult situations involving disturbed or intoxicated attendees. Also, because of the public nature of Union Station, we encounter a lot of patrons that are attending movies in the theater, giving us the opportunity to reach out and explain a bit about our church and its mission. These encounters are sometimes met with diffidence or hostility but are also often very rewarding as some people seem receptive to hearing what we are about at NCC.

We’ve talk about how God brings his presence, power, protection, and provision when we practice hospitality. Which of those things have you personally witnessed as you have practiced hospitality at NCC?

Sara Kruger: I have witnessed God provide people for hospitality, whether it’s new volunteers interested in joining us on a regular basis, regular attenders who jump in to help stack chairs and put away tables after the services but don’t necessarily want to be ’scheduled’ for hospitality, or other leaders who are willing to help out when a scheduled volunteer is unable to make a service. We always have enough people for the tasks that need to be done.

Pat Thomas: I think that I’ve experienced all of them at one time or the other…but I think I’ve experienced his provision most of all…the many times we’ve appeared to be short handed, and God sent the one or two people we needed. The answers to prayers for the team has been another provision. One of our team leaders needed a job and although there has been some delay in starting it, God has provided the position and is working out the details. These are just a couple of examples, out of many.

Amy Foley: God has definitely brought his protection to us at the Union Services as we practice hospitality. There have been several occasions where attendees have gotten rather upset and violent but God has definitively protected us. God’s presence has also been very prevalent in many situations where later on we realize that He led us to speak with certain people. He has often led us to situations where the people need a friendly face or direction.

As Hospitality Coordinator, what would be your greatest encouragement to the small group and ministry leaders of NCC?

Sara Kruger: Our actions have impact, often in ways we might never see. No action is trivial. Everything we’re doing is storing up treasure in Heaven.

Pat Thomas: My greatest encouragement is this: Whatever gift God has given to you, the greatest way that you can praise …that you can worship God is by giving that gift away to others!

Amy Foley: My greatest encouragement to you as a Hospitality Coordinator would be to stress that, although one is not on a targeted “hospitality team,” we can (and should) all be practicing hospitality daily…in our small groups, at our church services, throughout our work days. It actually takes very little effort to smile and greet someone once you get in the habit of doing it. And God can open amazing doors once we allow ourselves to be used by Him to reach out to His children. Amazing experiences will happen and you will be so encouraged to hear months or even years down the road how your simple hospitality has affected someone that you didn’t even realize you touched. And even when you are having a rough time and it is hardest to reach out to bless someone then, you will often find yourself blessed back in innumerable ways, just when you need it most.

Like 1 Timothy, this second epistle focuses on responsibilities in leadership and has one unifying theme: responsibility to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul exhorts and instructs Timothy, his “beloved son” (1:2), throughout the book.

Structure of 2 Timothy

Paul begins by thanking God for Timothy and letting him know how much he longs to see him (1:3-4). He speaks of Timothy’s “sincere faith,” a legacy from his mother and grandmother (1:5). He urges Timothy to “kindle afresh the gift of God“ within him, to stand firm in the power of the gospel, and to overcome fear, even in the face of suffering (1:6-18). Paul models himself as an example of a guardian of the gospel and exhorts Timothy not to be ashamed.

“For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you.” (1:12-14)

In Chapter 2, Paul encourages Timothy to be strong in his faith and to reproduce in the lives of others what he has received in Christ. Paul essentially instructs Timothy to “entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others“ (2:2). (Does this sound familiar? Timothy has been one, is called to make one, and to do so for the One.)

Paul warns Timothy that he may suffer hardship for Christ (2:3), but encourages him to work hard and discipline himself like a solider, athlete, and farmer (2:3-6). Paul uses himself as an example of persevering under hardship (2:1-13). He also instructs Timothy to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth” (2:15) before warning Timothy not to give in to foolish and ignorant speculations and quarrels (2:23). Instead, he urges Timothy to flee from lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (2:22).

Paul opens chapter 3 warning Timothy about the last days, anticipating a time of increasing wickedness when men and women will be susceptible to empty religiosity and false teaching (3:1-9). Arrogance and godlessness will breed further deception and persecution, but Paul instructs Timothy not to waver in using Scripture to combat unsound doctrine and moral failure (3:10-17). He stresses the important of God’s Word very succinctly in 3:16-17: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.“

Paul’s final exhortation to Timothy is a summary of his responsibility (indeed, the task of any godly man or woman) to proclaim the gospel in spite of opposing circumstances (4:1-5). Paul’s charge to Timothy is followed by the revelation of his own situation — he knows his time on earth is coming to a close and makes a powerful statement: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith” (4:7). He pleads with Timothy to come quickly before winter (4:9, 21), to bring Mark along (4:11), and to bring his cloak, books and parchments (4:13). He warns Timothy about Alexander, gives praise to God for standing with him when others had deserted him, and asks Timothy to greet the saints (4:14-19). He ends by bestowing a blessing on Timothy: “The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you” (4:22).

Instructions to Timothy

Paul gives several instructions to Timothy throughout the course of the book. Here is a sampling of the ones that most closely relate to the book’s theme of responsibility to the Gospel.

* Kindle afresh the gift of God (1:6)
* Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord (1:8)
* Join in suffering for the gospel (1:8)
* Retain the standard of sound words (1:13)
* Guard the treasure entrusted to you (1:14)
* Be strong in the grace of Christ (2:1)
* Suffer hardship (for the gospel) (2:9)
* Handle accurately the word of truth (2:15)
* Be diligent to present yourself approved (2:15)
* Avoid worldly and empty chatter (2:16)
* Flee lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (2:22)
* Continue in the things you have learned (3:14)
* Preach the word (4:2)
* Be ready in season and out of season (4:2)
* Reprove, rebuke, and exhort with patience (4:2)
* Be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry (4:5)

Food for Thought

Am I entrusting what I have learned to faithful men and women? (or, Am I being One, making One, for One?)
Am I meeting my responsibility to the gospel (handling it accurately, retaining the standard of sound words, guarding it, preaching the word)?

Give us an overview and a little bit about your group.

Christian Masculinity is all about bringing guys together to learn about being Christian men. We currently are working through the John MacArthur book “Twelve Ordinary Men” in which we are discussing the lives of the disciples and how God can use even us to change our world.

What was the genesis of the group, or the God-inspired idea behind starting it?

So often we can get caught up in living our lives socially and on a “scratch the surface” level. We wanted to create an environment in which we could allow guys at all different places of their faith journey be comfortable breaking the norm of casual Christianity. Relationship should be authentic and more than connecting to be friendly; we are working to create a core group that is destine to push each other to greater things and a bigger faith. Living in community without actually living in community.

What do you think God is doing within your group for those who are a part of it?

We are all pushing the limits on how we see the history of our faith playing out and what that means for us living as Christian men today. And we are finding that in pursuing this truth we are forging relationships that force us to be accountable to one another; not in a “gotcha” context but one that encourages and provides a base from which to search God’s plans for our lives unceasingly.

How do you think God is using your group to Advance His Kingdom?

That question must have come from the Baptist on staff… The group is going through a great time of finding our passions and purpose in God. Whether it is a career change or making new commitments to follow unique calls in our lives we are witnessing first hand transformation in our lives that will be lasting and effective, not only for the individual but for our community and for our God.

If you’d like to find out more about this group and/or contact Jonathan or Gary you can find the info in our online Discipleship Atlas at www.theaterchurch.com/groups

(Ballston location)

How Awesome is the Lord Most High

If You Lead Me, I Will Follow

You Never Let Go

Ever More

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spring Semester Small Groups - Check out a full list of groups, times, and locations. If you have any questions or would like more information on how you can get involved, email .

Variety Show - The Annual NCC Variety Show is coming soon (April 27)! If you’ve got a talent or if you’d like to put together an act, now is your time! Sign up today with your talent by e-mailing .

Yelo Conference - Yelo is an Awaken event that focuses on unleashing your creativity, elevating your influence, challenging your character, and maximizing your leadership potential. Yelo uses the Gallup StrengthsFinder and Character Matrix to help individuals uncover their unique strengths and make their irreplaceable contribution to humanity. Join us at Ebenezers Coffeehouse on April 26th from 9am - 3pm for this unrivaled experience and discover the life you are created to live! You must pre-register for this event. For more information or if you have questions, please contact .

Men’s Small Group Retreat - On Saturday, April 26th, the Strength in Numbers Men’s group at NCC will be traveling to Gettysburg, PA for a one-night cabin retreat and would like to extend an invitation to other men at NCC to participate. We will fellowship, learn more about our role as Christian men in today’s society, and grow in our relationships with God. For more information, e-mail .

Childcare Opportunities - If you would like to earn a few extra dollars and are interested in providing childcare for occasional church events or small groups contact . You will be added to the email listserv and will hear about paid opportunities. We especially need you if you are available during day-time hours!

NCC Re-use and Recycle - We want to be good stewards of our blessings and God’s creation at NCC! Please join us in re-using and recycling our leftover bulletin pieces by placing your unused connection cards and offering envelopes in our new collection bins located near the exit at your location or drop them off at a hospitality table. Please help make NCC a little greener!

Musicians Wanted - Interested in being a part of the NCC worship team? For more information and to schedule an audition please contact .

Credit Card Giving Online - If you give to NCC via credit card, you can now give online for more convenient and secure giving. Visit us to give securely online.

THIS WEEK’S MESSAGE

This week, Pastor Heather continued the Potential series.

NEXT WEEK’S MESSAGE

Next week, Pastor Mark will continue the Potential series.

The message will be live at:

5pm at Ebenezers on Saturday
9am at Union Station on Sunday
10:00am at Union Station on Sunday

The message will be on video at:

6:30pm at Ebenezers on Saturday
10:00am at Georgetown on Sunday
10:30am at Ballston on Sunday
11:30am at Union Station on Sunday

As leaders, we’ve got to take the lead in creating a community that is risky in its welcome. We’ve got to recognize hospitality as part of our job description. That doesn’t mean we have to possess the gift of hospitality or be the most hospitable person in the group. It just means that we’ve got to place a high priority on its importance, create an environment where people feel safe and secure, and identify those with hospitality gifts and unleash them to use their gifts freely in our groups and our lives.

Most importantly, it means we must make hospitality a priority in our personal lives. Over the past few weeks, we’ve given you ideas about how to create an environment of hospitality in your groups and ministries. Today, we want to help you practice hospitality in your personal life. Here are five specific things to consider:

• Be on the front lines of welcoming others at our weekly worship gatherings.
• Meet at least one new person this weekend and invite them to lunch. Then, invite them to be a part of your group or ministry.
• Look at your resources and give something away to someone who needs it more than you.
• Invite someone over for dinner.
• Initiate a conversation with a homeless person. Get to know their name and their story. If possible, have that conversation over dinner.

John Piper said, “Freely you have received. Freely give. Is there any greater joy than the joy of experiencing the liberating power of God’s hospitality making us a new and radically different kind of people, who love to reflect the glory of his grace as we extend it to others in all kinds of hospitality?”

If you’ve got other creative ideas, post them on the comment thread!

This year we’re really focusing on raising money to send about
100 kids to camp this summer!

We’re super excited about that, but…
we need all the support we can get!

If you’d like to attend, please rsvp here to ensure they have enough delicious OUTBACK steakhouse.