Brothers and sisters,

Gratitude, what a wonderful word and thought. We all appreciate hearing words of gratitude from those that we may have done something for. So, when we consider the sacrifice that Christ Jesus made for us all, suffering more than we can imagine on the cross, shouldn’t we be extremely grateful? Not only that but once we begin counting our blessings, from family, friends, our homes, closets full of clothes, and the food on our table, we are truly blessed. Instead of focusing on what we lack, we need to be thankful for what we have.

Showing gratitude/thankfulness is a concept that appears throughout the Bible. We are called to give thanks to God for everything – not only to be thankful but to rejoice: “Rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing. Give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1Thessalonians 5:16-18. See also Psalm 95:2 and Psalm 103. Much like counting our blessings can uplift us, reading or reciting Bible verses about thankfulness to God has a way of filling us with hope. (Matt 13:16, 1 Chronicles 16:34, Colossians 3:15, Colossians 4:2, Philippians 4:6-7, Psalm 50:14)

Brandon Lake has written a very popular song called Gratitude. Part of the song says:

So come on my soul

Oh, don’t you get shy on me

Lift up your song

Cause you’ve got a lion inside of those lungs

Get up and praise the Lord

Many of us have probably gone to a ballgame or concert and jumped out of our seats, punching the air with our fists screaming at the top of our lungs. But when we come to church, we are as quiet as a church mouse. The Lord deserves our exuberant praise far more than any ball team or concert group. We need to SHOUT out our praise, giving Him our highest praise!

John F. Kennedy once said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” This year let’s not wait until Thanksgiving to express our gratitude to God. Let’s do it daily with exuberance!

Your fellow servant in Christ,

Roger Cook

Brothers and sisters,

Entering this month of July brings much excitement in our nation, as we all anticipate celebrating our nations Independence Day. It is a time for us to remember that we did not once have the freedoms and liberties that we have today. There was a time of oppression that we escaped on the account of many men spilling blood and with the work of a group men relying on God and the Holy Spirit to guide them in establishing law and rule. Our freedom has come at a great cost in this nation and we cannot soon forget that.

This year it will be 247 years America has been a free nation, but long before the United States of America established the freedoms we now enjoy Jesus Christ was working on the whole worlds behalf. With this wonderful work of Jesus Christ was established in heaven and on earth a ruling that will last through all the ages. It can never be dismissed or overruled. It will never fade away. It will never lose its power or strength. Freedom has been made available to all who would look to Jesus Christ to be set free from the bondage and oppression of this world.

The Lord God desires that we would all, young and old, tall and short, light and dark, receive this life and liberty that can come only from Him. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1) Jesus Christ has set us free, untangled us from the web of death. As we are encouraged here by the Apostle Paul to stand in the liberty we have received from Christ we are also warned that we can, if we are not careful, fall back into the estranged ways of this earth. “For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13) We must heed the command to not use this great freedom we have received from Christ on the lust of our own flesh.  We have seen the results in our nation when one or many people use their freedom and liberties as an opportunity for the flesh and the many consequences that follow it. These actions are detrimental to a society and the body of Christ.

Brothers and sisters I urge you as we enter this next month, as we celebrate our nations’ freedoms, remember that our unquestionable liberty comes first and foremost from Jesus Christ. Let us use these for the glory of the name that is above every name! “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthian 10:31)

Your fellow laborer in Christ,

Pastor Damian Provencio Jr. 

ASK SEEK KNOCK

“Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you’ll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. For every persistent one will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he longs for. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door” Matthew 7:7-8.

In asking you must speak so let your voice be directed and heard by the Lord! And know sometimes or most of the time you need to ask more than once. Follow the example of Jesus. In Matthew 26: 39;42;44

39. Then he walked a short distance away, and overcome with grief, he threw himself face down on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if there is any way you can deliver me from this suffering, please take it from me. Yet what I want is not important, for I only desire to fulfill your plan for me. Then an angel from Heaven appeared to strengthen him.

42. He returned again the second time to pray in solitude. He said to God, “My Father, if there is not a way that you can deliver me from this suffering, then your will must be done.

44. So he left them and went away to pray the same prayer for the third time.

Even as I write this I’m having to seek the word for Truth and just like our God I asked and he answered I sought and I found and I knocked to get an open door for understanding! 

If you read Matthew 26:36-38 The Passion Translation you will find that Jesus led his disciples to an orchard called The Oil Press. “He took Peter, Jacob, and John with him. However, an intense feeling of great sorrow plunged His soul into agony. 38 and he said to them My heart is overwhelmed and crushed with grief. It feels as though I’m dying. Stay here and keep watch with me.”

It was this intense feeling of great sorrow and agony that his heart was overwhelmed and crushed with grief! Enough to make it feel as though he was dying yet the cross wouldn’t happen till the next day. And it was the cross and only the cross that would take this away! He was strengthened by an Angel to get him to that point!

There will be times that we will have to be strengthened by the Lord in the asking seeking and knocking! Knowing that what we are going through or feeling can’t always be removed but will have to be walked out for us to see the fullness of Gods purpose and promises fulfilled in our lives! In all this it was of the most important for God’s will to be done as it should be in our lives just as it was in Jesus life!

In His service,

Marina Provencio

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Have you at times felt as if you were an outcast? Unaccepted by your peers, or even unloved? Maybe even broken spiritually, mentally or physically beyond repair? If you have ever experienced any of those emotions or if that has ever been the case for you. Be assured that we have a Savior that is everything we will ever need and is capable of making you whole again! “Hallelujah!”

We read in the book of Mark 1:40,41 Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” When we get to a point of desperation in our lives, notice what the leper did and let us follow his lead.

First, he came as he was, then he begged for mercy, next he reverenced Jesus’ authority, now was the perfect opportunity to ask, and finally he had the faith to believe. It was a simple formula that caught the compassion of the Messiah and not only did He have compassion but He touched a man that no one else was willing to associate with for who knows how long. Then he heard those marvelous words, “I am willing: be cleansed.”

Jesus should not be our last resort once we have tried everything else in life but the one we look to first for every situation of our lives. We keep ourselves bound to sin, shame, hurt, pain, brokenness, pride and the list goes on and on. When we are unwilling to humble ourselves before our Heavenly Father, repent and ask Him to intervene in our lives, James 4:2 says, you do not have because you do not ask. So what are you waiting for?

In His Service,

Damian Provencio Sr.

Dear brothers and sisters,

We are entering the month of April, we have the incredible opportunity to celebrate the most significant event in the history of Christianity: the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a momentous occasion, as we commemorate the establishment of the new covenant between God and His people.

In the Gospel of John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him,” we are reminded of the love of God for us.

As we gather to celebrate this season, let us not make it a mere tradition or ritual, but instead, let us meditate on the weight and significance of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and our lives being transformed by the power of the Resurrection.

This Resurrection Sunday, many individuals are seeking to reconnect with their faith and attend church services. This is an opportunity to share how God is actively working in our lives. This can serve as a testimony to others about God's faithfulness and love.

Let's not miss this chance to spread the Good News and encourage those who may be searching for answers. Our words and actions reflect the hope and joy that represent Jesus Christ, and may we be a light in a world that desperately needs it. Mathew 15:14 ^“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

This is a perfect time to extend a welcome to all the newcomers and anyone who we have not had the opportunity to see lately. As we gather to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ, let us also come together and embrace one another with open arms.

Blessings,

Samantha Rodriguez

Brothers and Sisters,

March is the month when we start a new season in the calendar, Spring! Normally is season to change clothing from cold weather to a warmer temperature, but because the calendar tells us one day the spring starts does not mean the weather shifts in that day, we have experienced a weather that is not been the normal either is too cold in winter or too hot in summer. Is this a preparation in the natural for what is coming in the Spirit? For us to be prepare in season and out of season? There is a time that we will need to stand in what we believe and be ready to share with others that they may be confused. Paul warns us in 2 Timothy 4:2-4 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. ³ For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; ⁴ and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 

The world is in desperate need of hearing good news, the social media, the news are bringing confusing information, and is making people to enter in depression, misunderstanding, divorces, suicidal thoughts, hate, there is a dark atmosphere been created. But God send Jesus to bring clarity and free the captives and leave each of us to bring light Mathew 5:14“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Let’s keep our eyes open for those that need help or feel like outcasts, as the opportunities will be at hand. We need to stay alert and seek out those that need a word of encouragement, a word to lift their spirit up 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

I pray you all will have a great time this season, that it will be a season of restoration and many blessings for your family and for everyone that you meet.

Blessings,

Pastor Juan Rodriguez

Dear Family of God,

I recently heard a man of God explain “the fear of the Lord” in such a way that I am encouraged to share it with you all, in hopes to help you see our Father in a new way! The man of God said this, “the fear of the Lord is not that we are afraid of God, it’s that we are terrified of being apart from Him”. Wow! We aren’t to be afraid of God, but instead we are to be so terrified of living our lives apart from Him!

God Himself made us not only in His image, but He created us to have a relationship with Him. In order to have a relationship with our God we must get to know who He is. The Word of God says in Psalms 25:14 “There’s a private place reserved for the devoted lovers of Yahweh, where they sit near Him and receive the revelation-secrets of his promises.” I used the passion version because I love that it says “for the devoted lovers of Yahweh”.

Family, make it be so in your lives this year that you become a devoted lover and follower of Yahweh, so He can reveal His secrets and promises to you! Get into those secret places with your Father God. Be so terrified of being apart from Him that you daily run into that secret quiet place with Him to sit near Him and receive revelation secrets from the God who created you! He desires a relationship with You. He wants to be close to you, closer than anyone else is to you.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowing God intimately. So I encourage you, fear the Lord! Become intimate in new ways with the Lord this year and I know that your life will be better for it!

God bless you all this New Year!

Blessings,

Vanessa Provencio

Dear brothers and sisters, 

As we enter into the New Year we often discuss and wonder what the next year will have in store for our lives. We come up with ways we can become a better “me” so on and so forth. For much people these dreams and aspirations quickly fall to the ground with no effect and at times faster than the planning process and then left dormant until the next year when we make resolutions again. 

As disciples of Jesus Christ we should live and walk in such a manner that we aspire to grow, be better and improve every day of every year. We are instructed in Romans with the following, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” As we go about this transformation process that brings us into a righteous state before the Lord we have this wonderful promise in Psalm 37:23, “The steps of a righteous man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” What better way to find ourselves having a full and successful life than to have the Lord guiding our every step. 

If you are to make a resolution for this next year let it be to become all that God wants you to be. Our goal at the Gathering is, “To do what God desires and to accomplish it in His greatness.” There is only one way to accomplish this in our life and that is through Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Look unto Him, the author and finisher of your faith.  Jesus declares this of himself during his earthly ministry, I am the way the truth and the life, no one gets to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)

What greater goal to have than to get to the Creator of the heavens and the earth and live eternally with Him. The apostle Paul calls this “the prize”. Brothers and sisters let us be those that run, that reach forward in such a way as to attain the prize. 

With great expectations,

Pastor Damian Provencio Jr.

Dear Family of God! 

God’s love! 

I pray you are blessed and doing well. I know life can be busy this time of year but let’s make sure we stop and consider the true meaning of Christmas. When I think about the birth of Christ I can’t help but think about God’s love for us. John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This is the greatest love of all; without Jesus, the world would have no hope. 

I know that this is so familiar to most of us who already know Christ but what about those who don’t know? We have this love and hope through Christ but it’s not enough to just keep it to ourselves. It’s easy for us to be so busy with our business this season that we forget that we are supposed to share this love and hope of Christ with others. Mathew 10:7-8 says “And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received freely give.”

It’s all about God’s love for us and the world so let’s not be too busy to forget the reason for the season and let’s be about our Father’s business.  Mathew 5:14 says “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Mathew 5:16 says “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”  

So may we stay mindful of the love and hope of Christ who came to save not only us but all who are lost. 

Blessings,

Josh Rios

Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we approach this holiday season, I want to remind us to take time to be still and know that He is God. To be still and rest in the Lord. To be still and see the salvation of the Lord.

When we take time to focus on the Lord, we feel His peace come over us and that peace brings healing on so many levels. We don’t always feel the healing, but it is there. Knowing that it is there whether we feel it or see it, is faith. We need the peace of our Lord in this season of life.

Knowing the Lord God, His love for us and His care for us should cause us to give thanks. Let us give thanks unto His name for He is great in all the earth. “…You are great Lord God…” 2 Samuel 7:22b. He is great in your life, in my life, and in everything we face, He is Great. “Oh, let us give thanks unto the Lord for he is good…” Psalm 107:1a Good for us and in us.

Because He is great in us, we can do all that He is calling us to do. That isn’t just the big things He’s calling us to, it’s the little things as well. When we have practiced doing the little things the Lord is asking us to do, we will be ready to say yes to the big hard things He’s calling us to do. 

Say yes to that still small voice that is wanting to guide you into all truth. He is for you and He is what is best for you. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you today? One thing I know He is telling us all to do: Give thanks! Let’s start there.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Doris Schmalz

Dear Fellow Servants of Christ Jesus,

Who will be in heaven because you led them? In Acts 20:24, Paul said that he wanted the ministry he received from the Lord, to tell others the Good News about God's grace, and finish his race with joy. God put us on earth for a purpose. He has a mission for each of us to fulfill. Part of that mission is to tell other people the Good News of God's grace and great love for us (John 3:16). We know Christ because someone told us about Him. Now, we should all ask ourselves, “Whom am I going to tell?"

God's word tells us that we (Christians) are the light of the world (Matt 5:14-16).  We are the hope to the lost to teach them about God's grace. Jesus Christ embodied that grace. He humbled Himself and became the perfect blood sacrifice for the redemption of all humanity from their sins. However, they must know of Him and individually accept Him as their Lord and Savior. Jesus himself said (John 14:6), "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me."

Ask God to open your eyes to those around you who need to hear the Good News. Also, ask for boldness to speak and for the Holy Spirit to fill your mouth with the right words to say. Pray with them to accept Jesus and provide them with information to attend church. Encourage them to tell others of their decision to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Be sure to thank God for the opportunity He gave you to lead that person to salvation. They will eventually be in heaven, in part, because of you!  Jesus said (Luke 15:7), "In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

In Christ's love,

Roger Cook

Elder

To Encounter His Grace

John 7:24 “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

This judgment was not of the accused but of the one who would set the captive free.

John 8:3-11 ESV “The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So, what do you say?” This they said to test Him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with His finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask Him, He stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more He bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”

First Judgement Mistake

They failed to realize they shouldn’t have tested Jesus! They were looking and hoping that they might have some charge to bring against Him!

Jesus’ response to them was not what they expected.

In the middle of John 8:6-10

Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground, no one knows what He is writing for it is not written in the word, but we have come to believe that it was the sins of man. I’m sure the sin written wasn’t a name of a person or maybe it was but as they continued to ask Him, He stood up and said, let Him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her. He then bent down once again and began to write on the ground. One by one, beginning with the oldest ones, went away. Leaving Jesus and the accused alone!

Jesus asks her “where are they?” “Has no one condemned you?” She answers, “no one Lord…”

And this is where she Encounters Grace

John 8:11 “Neither do I condemn you; go and from now on sin no more!!!”

John 8:12 speaks volumes

“Again, Jesus speaks to them, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

An encounter of grace instead of judgment sets the captives free from walking in darkness!!! Is this not the point of the gospel; to bring the lost to have a life of light!!

Which brought me to ponder on the very moment when I encountered His grace. The grace that changed my life from walking in darkness to having the light of life!!

Let’s be more willing to speak with right judgment rather than judgment by appearance!! It can make a life-changing moment for the next disciple!!

May this next season be a season where grace abounds in us so that we may love the lost and lead them to the light. Offer to them what was offered to us, a moment of grace that freed the captive!

In His service,

Marina Provencio

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As you all know we serve a Mighty and Faithful God, who is looking for obedient people that are willing to place all of their trust in Him. A people that can and should die to our own selfish desires and serve the One, the only One that gave all of Himself for a people. A people who did not know Him or even still now not willing to take the opportunity at times to place their faith in Him. There is nothing more that God must do for us but to sit back and wait with open arms for us to come to our senses. To finally realize that there is nothing more important in this life than to know Him.

The Lord does not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) We serve a loving God that is patient and gracious to a people that truly don’t even deserve it. There is coming a time when we will no longer be able to take God’s kindness for weakness, when the sand in the hourglass will finally run out, do not be deceived, my brethren. God will return for His bride that is without spot or wrinkle and what a glorious day that will be!

In the book of Matthew 24:36-44 (I encourage you to read the whole chapter) Jesus gives many references to His return. In these verses, He mentions that no one knows the day or the hour. It will be a regular day where people will be eating and drinking, marrying and given in marriage, working side by side with one another, and one will be taken and the other left. If we would have known when the thief was going to come in and steal, we would have been ready. Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming. (Matt. 25:13)

My question to you today is, are you ready? Are you ready for what comes next? Have you prepared? Have you included God in your plans? Have you fully surrendered your mind, your will, your emotions, your hopes, your dreams? Have you made God the Master of your life that He desires and deserves to be? Have you willfully bowed down to your Creator? …. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. (James 4:14) Let us not squander the life God has given us but use it to honor, reverence, and glorify Him.            

In His Service,

Damian Provencio Sr.

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This is the time to remember and meditate on Jesus Christ our Savior. Jesus tells us in John 14:12 “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” Jesus’ desire is for us to believe in Him and go to our Father in Heaven.

We are in a time where the world is crying out for the Lord to manifest in His Glory and Power. We have been chosen to be a vessel in God’s hands and to do greater works: miracles, signs & wonders. If we take more time to know Him in a deeper way, our lives will be transformed into His image so that we can do His works.

When our lives are transformed to be like Christ, it will open the heavens in our lives. The Lord will use us to transform other people’s lives. Our Faith will increase in a mighty way because we know who He is. In Matthew 17:18 “Then Jesus rebuked, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment,” 19 “Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 20 “Because you have so little faith, Jesus answered”.

When we come to the Father it stirs up a desire to just do what He has called us to do. We can read in the bible how Jesus was always seeking the Father because Jesus’ desires were to do the will of the Father and not His own will. Our desire and determination should be the same.

John 5:19 “Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, The Son also does in like manner.”

Let’s seek the Father in a deeper way so that we can do what He has called us to do.

In His Name,

Samantha Rodriguez

Dear brothers and sisters,

Memorial weekend gives us the sensation that the Summer has begun and a lot of families will start planning their vacations, reunions, etc.... let’s take the time to have stronger relations, and bring restoration where it is needed. We need to remember to be ready to bring the Word of God, 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. Let’s be ready to be a vessel for God.

This year we have seen so many changes in how the world sees things and how they are changing their perspectives in a matter of months. We as God’s people need to stay rooted in His word and not lose perspective. Friends and relatives may try to persuade you to change your mind and may even tell you that the way you see things are the old ways, and that your thoughts need to be more current. Paul told us in Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

As time passes, our daily lives will be put to the test, we must remember that we can do all things in Christ that lives in us. The world will always try to shake us and try to bring fear into our lives or the lives of our loved ones. We have to remember that God is our protector.

Psalm 91:4-7 He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you.

Blessings to all,

Juan Rodriguez

Faith In The Face Of Adversity

Hello Brothers and Sisters,

In life we face many trials and tribulations. As long as we have breath in our lungs, there will come a time where we will face difficulty. Our decision to rely on our own understanding or that of our Heavenly Father becomes the choice at hand. 

I think of David in 1 Samuel 17:28 where his oldest brother Eliab became angry with him, questioning his motives while inquiring as to who would battle Goliath. Many times when we are doing what the Lord wants us to do, people around us may question our decisions, only looking at the natural things before them. 

David was already fully submitted to the Lord as should we be. When he came before King Saul again, the natural understanding was at hand as King Saul put his armor on David. David understood that this was not going to work as he was unable to move freely in it. David placed his faith in his Father above and doing so picked up the five smooth stones and went to face Goliath. 

David then meets Goliath and foretells Goliath’s demise. We see this in 1 Samuel 17:45-47 “Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.””

When we pray to our Heavenly Father and place our faith in His plans, we can rest assured that we will not only succeed but will be in His perfect will. 

So I urge you my brothers and sisters. When you are faced with trials and difficulties, seek your Father in Heaven for He has great and mighty plans for you. 

Blessings,

Aaron Wantuch

Fresh Fruit

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Once again the seasons have changed and we are now celebrating the joy of spring! Everything feels fresh and new growth is budding on trees and flowers.

Spiritually speaking we experience this new birth each and every day. We have the opportunity to go through each day fresh in the Spirit or rotting in the flesh!

When we pick fresh fruit it is bright with color and pleasing to the eye. At the peak of harvest, that fruit is refreshing and delicious. It will bring nourishment and health to our physical bodies.

In Galatians chapters 5 and 6 the Word tells us that we have been called to live in freedom, but we are not to use this liberty as an opportunity to satisfy fleshly desires but to use this freedom to serve one another in love. This becomes fresh fruit in our lives each day.

Choosing to walk by the Spirit produces healthy fruit that brings life to the flesh and bones and life to each other. It’s pleasing, tasteful, and is full of vibrancy and brightness! The Bible tells us we will know men by their fruit. Do their actions line up with their words?

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

When we spend quality time and get quiet before the Lord in His presence, we will display delicious fruit in our lives pleasing to God and others. These qualities will become an automatic expression in our lives regardless of the circumstances that affect us on a daily basis!

But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to EVERYONE - especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:8-10 NLT

Lastly, we want to become fresh fruit, full of the Spirit, not grumbling or complaining and being selfish, seeking only to please ourselves. This only produces rotten fruit that has rotted on the vine and withered. When we bear fresh fruit we will display the FRESH FIRE of the Holy Spirit and be filled with joy and peace displaying the Power of God in our lives!

Fresh fruit anyone??

With much love in Christ,

Gail Ritzi

THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE.

Today we have lots of things of great value, many have things, that if lost, would bring about much despair.

There are different degrees of loss. Say if you were to lose your wallet, immediately your heart would sink, and panic would begin to set in. What am I going to do? Where did I lose it? Many things run through your mind depending on what was in your wallet. And of course, depending on your walk with the Lord your reaction will vary.  I have heard testimonies of some who have immediately prayed, and God brought the wallet back. And I have seen some who panic so bad that they get sick to their stomach. This is just one example. We treasure many things, children, homes, jobs, etc.

With all that said, what are the things that are of great price to you? What would you do to retrieve them or do to keep them?

In Matthew 13:46 it tells of a man who found a pearl of great price, and he went out and sold all that he had to purchase it. Would you do the same?

When we find out about what Jesus Christ did, that He died for us so that our sins would be forgiven, we pray and ask Him to come into our lives and be our Lord and Savior.

This is the pearl that Matthew 13:46 is talking about. Now ask yourself, have you made Jesus Lord of your life? Did you sell all to make Him Lord?

Many have made Jesus their Savior, but many are ignoring making Him Lord of their life.

The word of God tells us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Psalms 119 gives many instructions on walking out our salvation.

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you if you have compromised your life and taken back what you have given to God.

One of the scariest scriptures to me is in Matthew 25:12 AMP it says:  But He replied, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I do not know you (we have no relationship)” He was talking about the 5 virgins who did not keep their lamps full and missed when He returned.

So, have you made Him Lord?

Pastor Chuck

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Isn’t it crazy how quickly and slowly time can go? Already, we are in February of the New Year. My question to you is this: Have you let time simply pass you by this past month?

As the Lord spoke to us at the beginning of this year, He is desiring that we be focused on Him and Him alone. Lay aside all distractions and the cares of this world. If what we are giving our attention to isn’t leading us towards Christ, it’s leading us away from Him. We are living in the times where we can no longer allow the enemy to distract us. We have to be as it says in Luke 21:34 “Be on Your Guard,” being careful not to let anything of this world distract us from Him.

God’s desire is that His church would desire Him more than anything that this world could offer us. He wants to sustain you, He wants to fill you, He wants to guide you and He wants your whole heart.

Jesus said to the one who asked Him which was the great command, Matthew 22:37 “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.” Jesus said it Himself, God wants us to love Him with all we are and all we have. Love the Lord your God by honoring Him with your life and your obedience. In every area and in all that you do, honor Him.

As we continue through the rest of the year, focus on God, His will, and His plans for you. He will never let you down! His plans for you are perfect, for good and not evil, to give you a hope and future!

Blessings,

Vanessa Provencio

Happy New Year,

As I enter into each year like many others I begin to assess my life and determine what I would like the next year to look like, things I want to do, and things I want to change. One matter that seems to be at the top of my priority list without fail is a desire to live in a manner that is pleasing to God. Though it is a general thought and desire, it a great desire; and I do hope many Christians have it as well. It is a desire that needs specific direction in order to accomplish. It seems to be a matter that must be carried out differently as time and our walk with God continues to move forward.

We have many season and stages in life. We see this most clearly in the lives of children. They go from being newborns, to learning infants, and to curious toddlers in what seems to be such a short amount of time. In the same manner as children, our spiritual development has a list of set standards for each stage that we enter into. What is now acceptable and what is not? What must change as the child or the Christian grows? What new things must be discovered as we go through the maturity process? Many people have based the answer to these questions off of research and studies that have been performed. What I have discovered having four children myself, is not each child, person or life fits into the same cookie cutter mold. We must find what is pleasing and acceptable to God according to our own personal development in Christ. Philippians 2:12-13 says, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”

Though we all do indeed have different paths I do believe we must all start at the same place with God and that starting place is faith. We find this truth in Hebrew 11:6, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him…” This primary principle in the Christian life cannot at any point be overlooked. If so, how can we ever truly please God? This is true of every Christian life.

I challenge you in this New Year that whatever the Lord’s direction or leading may be for you, begin and end each matter in faith. In doing this you will surely please the Lord your God.

Your fellow servant,

Pastor Damian Provencio

Brothers and Sisters,

During the month of December, there are many reunions with friends and family. Many of us have the memories that were created in our childhood, or that we created with our children, and for a lot of us the celebration of Christmas is family time. During this season there are so many traditions all over the world, and as believers we need to maintain and continue teaching the new generation the reason why we celebrate Christmas- the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Luke 2:10-11 says, “Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord’.” Jesus is the reason for the season!

Even with all the joy surrounding us during this season, there are still a lot of people that suffer during the holidays because of depression and loneliness. They are suffering because of the hurts they have experienced during their life, and they have not been able to find the peace that only Jesus can bring. Luke 4:18 reminds us of the reason why Jesus came to this world, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed”. We must not forget that!

Let’s keep our eyes open for those that need help or don’t have a place to celebrate the holidays, as the opportunities will be at hand. We need to stay alert and seek out those that need a word of encouragement, a word to lift their spirit up. Let’s bring to life Psalm 133:1, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity”!

I pray you all will have a great time this season, that it will be a season of restoration and many blessings for you and your family and for all you meet.

Have a blessed holiday,

Pastor Juan

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Peace and grace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! I am thankful for each and every one of you and the gifts you bring to our body!

Speaking of being thankful, this is November the month of celebrating Thanksgiving Day. The Pilgrims and the Native Americans celebrated this joyous time with a feast and we have carried on the tradition.

Although this world is in such turmoil, we are to give thanks. We as the body of Christ are to give thanks not only on Thanksgiving Day but…

Always and for all things… Ephesians 5:20 “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (KJV)

In everything…1 Thessalonians 5:18 “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ concerning you.” (KJV)

And this is the will of God concerning you!

We so much want to know the will of God for our lives and this is His will for us. Each and every one of us! When life is hard, be thankful. Oh, not for the trial but in the trial. In the midst of the trial, we are to give thanks. I choose the peace He gives and am thankful! Colossians 3:15 “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” (KJV)

So, this month of November let’s purpose in our hearts to be thankful… hard though it may be.

Love you lots,

Doris Schmalz

Hello brothers and sisters,

As I was spending time with the Lord I was reminded of my family heritage.

My great grandfather and great grandmother came from Ireland to America during the great drought of Ireland. You see they were potato farmers and because of the drought it was impossible to grow potatoes. When they arrived in America they moved to Maine where they bought land, a plow, potato seed, and two Bavarian horses.

He plowed the ground, planted his seed, and then waited for the rain to come.

I don’t know if my great grandfather and great grandmother were Christians but I know that they fully understood the importance of sowing and reaping. They understood that they could not eat their seed as there would be nothing to harvest later that year. So by sowing they would reap the benefits of investing the seed along with the labor of working the land they would soon see the rewards and the bounty of their hard work.

We see this in Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (NKJV)

It is also important to remember not only that we sow, but that we sow abundantly.

You see if my great grandfather had only sown in a small portion of the land he would have reaped very little. This would bring hardship upon him and his family.

We are reminded of this in II Corinthians 9:6 “But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (NKJV)

So whether you are sowing financially into the house of the Lord, or sowing into someone’s life, or sowing your time into the house of the Lord. I encourage you to give in abundance, as our Father in heaven will pour out more than we can store up.

Blessings,

Aaron Wantuch

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As every day passes it brings us closer to that great and glorious day of the Lord’s return, that we contend for in anticipation and faith. For we have an

assurance that our citizenship is not of this world, but we are citizens of heaven and have been granted entry by Gods mercy, grace, and by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. It is by His accomplishment and purpose being fulfilled, He said “It is finished”, and with that, He has torn the veil and forgiven a debt that we could not bear. 

Let us take advantage of every opportunity that God has allowed us to have in this life and not squander any moment, ability, or talent that God has placed

before us. James 4:14 (AMP) tells us, “yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air].”

Jesus taught by what He heard the Father say and gave the mandate of the Great Commission that as his followers and disciples we have been entrusted with carrying on the mission Jesus began. “‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirt, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen” Matthew 28:18-20 (NKJV)

We must be diligent and stay the course not only for our own lives, but for the generation after generations to come, God is not a man that He should lie, for what He has said will come to pass in His timing, “so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Philippians 2:10-11 (ESV)

In His Service,

Damian Provencio Sr.

The Sunday Potluck

“For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.” 1 Corinthians 12:14-20

The choosing of the gift or purpose is not our own but the Lord’s. So we must accept Him and His will by faith in full surrender to walk in obedience that we may accomplish all He has called us to be and do.

It is important that that we understand how vital and necessary each one of us is to the body! Remember that each one has been given and assigned a gift.

We must gain understanding and wisdom of how to function in each gift that we may execute (carry out or put into course of action), lacking nothing in our course of action to bring it to the completion of Christ! Just as Jesus did at the cross!

Just as a potluck has a variety of dishes when put together properly, so is the body of Christ! If only meat was brought but no side dishes or dessert the potluck would be incomplete, it takes a little of everything to have a successful potluck. Just as it will take all gifts to be a complete church that is whole and functions properly!!

“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:27-28

Let us each walk in what has been appointed to us that we may be whole!!

Blessings,

Marina Provencio

Greetings Gathering family,

I am so pleased to be a part of this wonderful body and to be able to serve next to each of you in God’s house. It blesses me continually to see every hand that functions in this house to support the call of God in this place. We know according to scripture in 1 Corinthians 12, that the body of Christ has many members, and we cannot function properly when even one piece is out of order. I thank you all for doing your God given part with zeal. A saint of old once said “put zeal into Christian service and out comes joy”. I pray that as we continue to move forward in accomplishing God’s work that it will fill you with tremendous joy!

There is no other place I would prefer to be than in the body of Christ. Out of all the attractions and entertainment found in the world, whether good or bad, there is no satisfaction that can be attained that is comparable to that which you receive from Christ and his work. Hobbies are great, vacation is fun, picnics are refreshing, and lazy days are much sought after, but all of these mean nothing if I do not have Christ. For to me, there is life in Christ that cannot be found anywhere else. For this found truth, I am compelled to do all that I can to attain fellowship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Recently in prayer, as I was before the Lord my spirit man shouted out to God in excitement that whether it be in life or unto death I shall do all things unto Christ. Like Paul, I am persuaded due to the grace that I have found in Christ that “…neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39). I choose to not allow anything to separate me from my God. I will not love even my own life more than Christ.

Let us all continue in great service and worship to the Lord with great anticipation to see His moving and working in our midst until the day He comes. Let this be our hearts’ passion to know more so the One that created us! “My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” Psalm 84:2

Your brother in Christ,

Pastor Damian Provencio

Hello brothers and sisters! 

I pray that you are doing well as you run the race and that you are keeping your eyes on the prize Jesus Christ.

Lately, I have been thinking about the will of God. Mathew 6:9-13 says, “After this manner therefore pray ye: our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever, Amen.”

As we look at verse 10, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” we can see that it is key for us not only to pray for His will to be done, but also for us to also live our lives accordingly. It’s important for us to apply this passage to our lives daily. It’s easier to just let our flesh rule, and want our own will to be done, but we must continue to put our flesh in submission and choose God’s will. When we are making decisions do we make them based on our will or God’s will? When someone does us wrong a lot of times we don’t want to forgive them, but it’s God’s will that we do. When God gives us a mission or an assignment that we don’t really want to do we must lay down our will and choose to obey His will.      

Jesus set the example for us in Luke 22:42 when He was in the garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion praying, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.” In Mark 3:35, He says, “For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother.” In Psalm 40:8, David says “I delight to do Your will, O my God, Your Law is within my heart.” In Thessalonians 5:18, Paul says, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

You can see that all throughout the Bible, it is clear what the will of God is. We just have to take the time to search it out, study it, and do it. Think of how powerful it would be if we would align our lives with God’s will and not our own. I just want to encourage you in this crucial hour we are living in to not be influenced by this world, but by God’s Word and His will.

Blessings,

Josh Rios

The Gift of Peace

In the book of John, chapter 14:25, Jesus said this: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Jesus is telling us here that the peace He has He is leaving with us. In other words, He is promising this incredible gift that was bestowed upon Him and transferring it into us, if we will receive it! What a powerful gift we have!

When troubles come or issues pop up that give us sleepless nights, we must learn to lean into the promise of peace and trust in God for direction and deliverance.

Each day we are faced with challenges that disturb our peace and at times make us feel helpless! This past year has stretched us in ways that we never imagined possible. Many gave into fear, anxiety, doubt, and unbelief as we navigated through all the challenges we were faced with.

But God always prevails; He is there as we pour out our hearts to Him, confessing our fears, hurts, and impossible situations. He is always there to wipe our tears, and to give us direction, strength, and power to walk through it all!

We must learn to believe His Word and respond to it in faith! In the first book of James, he tells us in verse 2, “My brethren, count it all joy knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

When a hurricane wreaks havoc on land, people seek shelter and hold on for dear life! However, when the eye of the storm comes, you are able to secure your position, and regain strength and power to go through the second half. It is the same with the Lord, when we seek Him and walk in His peace, He puts us in the eye of the storm, shelters and directs us, and infuses us with His peace and power as we go through the issues of life. Praise God!

With much love and His Peace,

Gail Ritzi

Happy Resurrection!

What joy, what love, what incredible peace we have access to because of the
resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Recently, I’ve been reflecting upon the fulfillment of promises, and what greater promise does any believer have than that of spending eternity in the presence of Almighty God?

Hebrews 11 reminds us of the fathers and mothers of our faith who held fast to the promises of God. I encourage you to read that chapter this week! In the midst of all
adversity and trials, these men and women continued to stand upon the promise of eternity. And yet, “all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.” (Hebrews 11:39-40)

In the fullness of time Jesus came, not a minute too soon. Jesus is the fulfillment of our promise of eternity and through Him we find our “yes” to every additional promise of God. “For all the promises of God find their yes in Him. That is why it is through Him that we utter our amen (let it be so!) to God for His glory. (2 Corinthians 1:20, addition mine).

All of creation groans with longing for the final resurrection (Romans 8:22-23). Are you longing for eternity or caught up in the cares of this world? Have you been feeling
discouraged in your waiting? Have you yet to see certain promises of God fulfilled in your life? Have you grown tired and weary in your daily walk? Be encouraged today family of God! Remember the great cloud of witnesses that has gone before you,
remember what they endured as they awaited the coming of Jesus. Finally, remember He has already won it all!

It is finished. Walk out each “yes” even when you don’t see it. The fulfillment of every promise will come at exactly the right moment, not a minute too soon. Today, place the full weight of your trust upon Jesus and the victory He has already won on your behalf.

In Christ’s love and grace,

Pastor Candice Peters

Getting through the dung!

The book of James 1:2 says, “consider it nothing but joy my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials.” In the last few weeks many are questioning, “what is going on in our world?” Everything is being shaken in the natural and the spirit world. If you watch the news these days, we are seeing evil rise up and changing many things we, as Christians, consider to be our religious freedoms. Many are in shock at the agenda of evil that seems to be winning every battle. There is a shaking going on, but we must remember we are not of this world, we are members of the Kingdom of God. Psalms 91 says, “he who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” So you may ask yourself, “where am I dwelling?” In Hebrews 10:24 Paul says, “and let us consider (thoughtfully) how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, not forsaking our meeting together (as believers for worship and instruction).

In this time of so much confusion and outright attack on our freedoms, it more important than ever to come together and worship and seek our God. In any job there is a saying “many hands make light work”. Each of us have a job or task to do. Each of us has different talents and may be totally able to do it on our own. However, if you have ever watched the movie 300, you saw an army of three hundred men who joined together back to back, and linked their shields as one to take on a much larger army. If we as a church will stand together, we will not only be able to help each other clean up the dung, we will accomplish so much more for the Kingdom of God.

We see today the strategy of the enemy is to separate and instill fear in us. Next, we see disinformation and the silencing of truth. We must seek the truth of His Word so we can fight the good fight of faith. So just like we are told in James 1:4, “let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed (in your faith), lacking in nothing.

God bless you!

Pastor Chuck Ritzi

Dear Family of God,

I pray your year so far has been blessed. I pray that your time with our Father God has been impactful, beautiful, and powerful.

I believe God called our church to the “God fast” to begin our year because it’s truly how He desires us to go forward with the rest of the year. I believe God is asking of us to go into this year praying, fasting, and reading our Word fervently. I believe God wants to equip His people for the fight we are clearly in. Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, “although we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh, since the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but are powerful through God for the demolition of strongholds.”

God through His Word has equipped us to fight against the enemy, to fight against the evils of this world, and to overcome through Him. We can only do that through God and His power. We, as God’s children, cannot know what God wants us to do if we do not know Him. Like we’ve been being taught, it’s time for us to have REAL intimate relationships with our Father God. We need to be close enough to hear when He calls. We cannot be like Abraham and move in obedience and faith if we do not even know who our God is.

I believe we are called to pray, fast, and study our Word like never before. It’s time we no longer make excuses as to what we can’t do; it’s time we start obeying God and His commands to us. We cannot overcome the world on our own. It is only through God, in God, and with God that we can do these things.

Family in 2021 let us together truly seek to have more intimacy with our God and spend more time with Him. Let us as His children pray, fast, and read His Word to know what His plans and desires are for our lives. I leave you with this verse from Jeremiah 29:13 “you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Let us find God wholeheartedly together this year!

Blessings,

Vanessa Provencio