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Responding to the Flooding, Christmas in July Food Drive, New Sermon Series (Pastoral Emphasis for 7/13)

Responding to the Flooding

All of us are painfully aware of the devastating flooding that struck our nation recently. As of Friday evening, the confirmed death toll in Texas has risen to 129, with at least 150 individuals still missing across the state. Our hearts are heavy, and we grieve for the lives lost and the families enduring unimaginable pain.

One of the first things people tend to do is look for someone to blame. Was it the fault of the warning system not being early enough? Was it the fault of the government (state and federal)? Was it the fault of God? If God is so good, why do we suffer with natural disasters like flooding that takes the lives of seemingly innocent people like young children?

The reality is that the fault lies with us. Humanity decided to rebel against the Creator God, thereby, ushering in sin and the fall from God's perfect creation. Natural disasters happen because we live in a fallen world ravaged by sin. Natural disasters like these floods are tragic consequences of living in a fallen world—not God’s original design.

Yet even in disaster, God is not absent. He permits these events for reasons that point us back to Him:

  • Natural disasters remind us that we are not in control. No matter how advanced our technology or sturdy our infrastructure, nature can overwhelm it. In Texas, some areas saw river levels rise from 3 feet to 30 feet in just 45 minutes.

  • Natural disasters remind us that this world is not our home. We should not get comfortable in this present world. We are to live with hope, awaiting the day when Jesus returns to usher in a new heaven and new earth, free of pain, death, and disaster.

  • Natural disasters remind us of our need for God. Human beings desire to live autonomously from God until disasters strike. Tragedies strip away our illusions of independence and drive many back to the only One who can provide lasting hope and peace.

  • Natural disasters remind the church to be the church. This is our opportunity to reflect Christ’s compassion. Whether it's offering prayer, material assistance, or the message of salvation, let us be His hands and feet in hurting communities.

In Our Church Family

Please keep the following individuals in your prayers:

  • Bereavement: Bro. Jay Hagood’s mother passed away. Her homegoing service will be held tomorrow in Greenville, SC. Let’s lift up Bro. Jay and his family during this difficult time.

  • Prayer Request: Sis. Danelle Clark’s mother, Kathie (Sister Karen Gray’s twin sister), had surgery recently. Please pray for healing and clarity in determining her illness.

  • Church-Wide Prayer Rally: Join us Tuesday, July 15, from 7–8pm for a special time of corporate prayer. Our Hospitality Ministry will host, but everyone is invited. Prayer requests can be submitted on our website or dropped in the box at the back of the sanctuary.

Christmas in July Food Drive

Mt. Zion is once again partnering with Dorcas Ministries to support families in need through our Christmas in July Food Drive. Donations are being collected from July 1 through July 25.

  • Week 3 items: Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toilet paper, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products.

  • Weekly donation lists are available at the Welcome Center. Every contribution helps and is deeply appreciated!

160th Church Anniversary – Save the Date!

 

Mt. Zion is turning 160 years old! By God's grace, we’re celebrating on Saturday, October 18 at Ritter Park with a free family cookout. Themed “Rooted in Christ, Growing in Grace,” this day will be filled with:

  • Delicious food and fellowship

  • Music and games

  • Face painting, basketball, softball, board and card games, and line dancing lessons

Registration is required, so please sign up yourself and your guests—including children. Visit the Anniversary Info Table in the lobby to:

  • Volunteer

  • Register

  • Order your souvenir T-shirt

  • Learn more!

New Sermon Series: “Plumb Lines – What We Value”

As God has blessed us with many new members over the past few years, we’ll be taking time this summer to walk through the core values of Mt. Zion. This new sermon series begins Sunday, July 20 and will include a brief Q&A session after the service. Let’s come together to re-center ourselves on what matters most as a church family.

Church Family Meeting

All members, please mark your calendars for our Church Family Meeting on Sunday, July 27, immediately following the worship service. Your presence and participation are important as we review our financials and discuss key updates.

In closing, as we process the heartbreak of the flooding and lift up those grieving and in need, let us remember that we are not without hope. Christ is with us in every storm, and He has called us to be vessels of His love and grace. Let’s continue to pray, serve, and trust in the One who holds the world in His hands.

In Christ,
Pastor Willie Harris
Mt. Zion Baptist Church

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