Ralston Elementary

Today is 1/11/11.  Ten days ago, our church flooded.  Our service Sunday was held at Ralston Elementary School and it was one of "perserving joy"!  It was a time to "begin...again".  The short sermon was:  Christ died for our sins, our punishment has been paid, so get on with glorifying God by reconciling ourselves and the world to Him.  James reminds his brethren that we should rationally THINK in responding to the testing of our faith and "realize" these experiences worketh perseverance!  Hence, the title of the sermon, "Persevering Joy", an ideal place to begin for those of us in the desert or those of us that are "all wet".

The long sermon began in the snow at our deserted church building, reminding us of our roots, when Rev. Lyle Schossow held the first service at our pioneer church in the valley.  He stood on the front step and wondered if anyone would come.  There have been many trials and temptations since then, and now, we begin, again, which, incidentally, is an American institution.

We now take "the next step", individually and corporately, lead by an experienced, committed team.  In a week or so, we will have the opportunity to participate in a new, inspiring way.  To prepare, pause and think about James I and also about your dreams and your story as you begin 2011.  You will have a unique opportunity which begins simply by writing down answers to two questions:  1) What are your dreams? and 2) What is your story?  Our goal is "persevering joy"!  Your answers may reveal whether you are choosing to just react to life or that you realize you're standing in the gap and can proactively,...become.  Should you trust enough to share your story, prepare for a miraculous 2011!
RJ