Jesus died and rose again. This is the greatest event in the history of the world. There is no greater story than this story of Good News! I am blessed to be a part of the great story of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Like Mary the mother of Jesus, my humble response is *I am the Lord*s Servant.* I have faith in the assurance of the resurrection. I have hope that Lord will return. I have confidenc in God*s power to save. And I have freedom to live by the redeeming blood of Jesus.

     We are blessed to be back in North Bend to serve as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We were in North Bend from 2001-2007, serving the Church of Christ as Youth Minister. We have spent the last nine years in Oklahoma serving the church in Weatherford, OK as Youth and Family Minister. We have been called by God to return to serve the church and community here once again. We are blessed to be back in the beautiful North West. I hope to get to know the church and community well and to be able to share my story and the greatest story of Jesus with you.

I invite all members to share your stories of how you came to faith, what keeps in the faith, and what your hopes and dreams are for your future as a follow of Christ. Tell you stories to your families, your friends, and your neighbors. Please come and share your life and stories together with me. I look forward to sharing my stories with you.

Bryan Johnston

        It is difficult at times to know when it is time to go. There have been CEOs who have hung on when it was obvious that their talent for that particular company has run its course. Middle managers are often caught in a squeeze between down sizing and expediency. Even preachers sometimes have difficulty knowing when their time has come.

        My time has come and I cannot be more at peace with that. For several months I prayed that God would bless this church I have served with what would be best. He has answered that prayer and I am confident that the future will be an exciting time. The new preacher, Bryan Johnston, [began his work here] Sunday September 18th. He and his wife Leah are no strangers to our community. He served this church for six years as a youth minister. We were blessed to have them then and we are blessed that they are returning.

       I hope all of you who read this will take the time to get acquainted with them. Let me say that those of you who wrote me cards expressing your thanks for this column, “thank you.” You made writing them more joyful. I pray I will get to meet you in person. May God bless each of you.

--Norm Russell

(Editor's Note: Norm and Dee Ann will be staying in the area, and have been serving the church for 27 years!)

       The two words that make up the title of this article are very powerful when used often. When someone does something for you, it should be second nature to say “Thank You.” Recently a neighbor went next door to help an elderly man unload his car of some heavy blocks. When they were finished the man said “Thank you, now I need to do something for you.”  His neighbor replied “You already have, you said thank you.”

       I have at times done for others and never heard the words “thank you” uttered.  But, I am sure that there have been times when I have not said those words myself.  (I would be embarrassed if I had done that.) Jesus was always coming in contact with those who needed something.  It was mostly people who were suffering and wanted to be healed.  The Bible is replete with Jesus responding to those needs, not because He had to, but because He felt compassion for them.  On one occasion He healed ten lepers.  He told them to go show themselves to the priests.  One, a foreigner, when he saw he was healed, returned and gave thanks to Jesus for his healing.  Jesus’ response was, “Where there not ten who were healed?  Where are the nine?”

       We need to be thankful always.  But more importantly, it just might be good if we told God “Thank You.” Come worship with us Sunday, and remember: EVERYONE is welcome here.

Norm

       Yesterday, August 20, our church opened the doors to anyone needing free clothes. We wanted everyone who came to take as much as they wished. This ministry was born out of a recognition that many in our community were not able to provide for their family. It has grown because of great people who had a heart to help others.

      We have received clothing from all around the county and some of it is new. We have been doing this for a number of years and feel blessed that someone was encouraged and lifted up. I know it has been difficult economically in our county. People have been talking about how we have emerged from the recession and that people are finding jobs and buying new homes. However, it appears we have been left behind. There are some good signs appearing on the horizon, but we are still struggling. (Editor's Note: This message is being posted on Sunday, the day after - reports are that the event was heavily attended as it has been each year - indicating the need hasn't lessened at all)

      God has called us to be sensitive to those who could use some assistance, and that is what we are trying to do. I pray you will come see us. Feel free to also come and worship with us Sunday. We have Bible study at 9:30 AM, worship at 10:30 AM, evening study at 6 PM. You're always welcome here.

Norm Russell

     Everyone wonders at times how people seem to get away with so much. They seem to be above the law and it is not unusual for them to have hundreds of supporters, even worshippers. We have even witnessed this with organized crime figures. They are even given hero status even though they are so crooked and dishonest.

    When Moses spoke to Israel prior to his death, he informed the tribes who chose to remain on the eastern side of the Jordan, that they were to give aid to the nation in their upcoming campaign to drive out the people living in the promised land. He then said “if you will not do so, behold your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23)

    That warning has been proven throughout history. I think of such individuals as David, Solomon, Judas, and a host of others. People do not get away with anything. There is a God in heaven who is aware of every sin and every cover up. We can point to sports figures, and politicians and, even some preachers, who had committed sin and attempted to cover it up, only to have it exposed later.

    I cannot do anything about those who insist on doing what they do, but God can and will. My responsibility is to take care of myself. Please: Come and worship with us Sunday. And remember: EVERYONE is welcome here.

Norm Russell