Greetings in the grace of Christ.  What a wonderful way to conclude the month of August.  Thinking back on our Homecoming service my heart was overjoyed to see how God has worked and continues to work in and through the lives of brothers and sisters in Christ.  God certainly spoke through our time of worship through song, as well as our worship in God’s word.  I believe God sowed some seed in that service, in which we will see in the future, that will grow up into something beautiful for the glory of God. 

If you watch the news at all you are hearing and seeing an extremely difficult and trying time for our brothers and sisters in Houston, Texas.  As we think about and pray for those in Houston that have been so severely impacted by this latest natural disaster our hearts go out to them.  I am currently praying and searching out ways we can contribute to their needs.  Often in dark times like this where we see pain and loss we are tempted to ask the question “why would God allow things like this to happen?”  Charles Surgeon once said, “When we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.”  Romans 8:28 “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” 

We are looking forward to several things coming up in September:

• Family Night scheduled for September 3^rd at 5:00pm.  This will be a great time of fellowship with finger foods and games outside.  If you are interested in participating in the corn hole tournament see Michael Mays by the end of the morning service to sign up.

• We have been approached about helping out at Corner Middle School during volleyball season this year.  Some of our own students at NTBC play on the middle school team this year.  On September 11^th beginning at 3:30pm there is a game that we have been asked to help cover in the concession stand.  If you can help, contact Mrs. Toni at the church office.

• Football season has begun and our first opportunity to serve Corner High School breakfast will be September the 15^th.  If you are interested in helping out please let me or Toni know at the church office. 

• Also beginning on September 18^th New Temple Baptist will be a host site for a community bible study for women. See Denise Buxton for more information if you are interested in attending.

God is doing great things in our midst. It is a joy and privilege to be on this journey with you all.  God bless.

For God’s Glory,
Bro. J.J.