February - March 2008 Newsletter

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Dave’s Didactics

I decided to grow my beard again this winter.  Boy did I get a surprise when I looked in the mirror.  It seems that my once dark beard has more gray than brown.   And I have been noticing for some time that there is more and more gray in my hair.   It also appears that more than a few wrinkles have taken up permanent residence on my face.  Still, I wouldn't give up a single wrinkle or gray hair.  I've earned them all.  They are the evidence of every laugh and smile I've ever had.

Sometimes though, I am amazed at how my young soul ended up in this aging body.  I surely don't feel like a fifty-four year old man on the inside. My soul keeps looking at this body in the mirror and wondering what happened.  I guess that life here on Earth is just too brief to grasp at times.  God meant for us to spend eternity with Him. So even if we live to be 120 it is a short time compared to eternity.   

Old Crowfoot, the great orator of the Blackfoot Nation, once said, "What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a buffalo in the wintertime.  It is the little shadow which runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset."

Before your shadow loses itself in the sunset of eternity make sure
that you live your life here to the fullest.  Don't worry about your aging body.  It is just the shell that for a brief time carries your soul.  Focus instead on the things that go on forever.  Focus on the love you can
give, the joy you can spread, the good you can do, and the oneness with God you can share with others.  Fill your days with smiles and laughter and let the wrinkles grow where they will.  Fill your days with learning to be like Jesus.  Fill your days with love and joy, peace and hope and you will be too busy living them to count them.  Remember, God only gives us a short time here.  It is up to us to make the most of it.
Be Blessed, 

Pastor Dave - PASTOR@EASTMTZIONCHURCH.COM

Tonya’s Tidbits

Greetings and Happy New Year!

It seems a good time to begin something new. As you have probably noticed in the bulletin there will soon be a new Sunday School class.  This is something I have been in prayer about and preparing for for quite some time now.  First, I want to say that this is not to take away from Jane’s class in any way!  I will miss attending Jane’s class, learning from her and the others in the class.  That said, the Lord has put on my heart things that I know He wants us to study and learn at Mt. Zion.  I have been reading and studying two books by Terry Wardle.  Pastor Dave knows Terry personally and has very good words to say about him.  Two of Terry’s books, “Outrageous Love, Transforming Power” and “Draw Close to the Fire” are speaking volumes to me.  I feel led to share Terry’s words and dig deeper into the Bible with you.  We will begin with the first book as it teaches us how the Holy Spirit shapes us into the likeness of Jesus and how to have an intimate relationship with Him.  We will study how to walk in spiritual power and be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.  I look for this study to take approximately 10 weeks but am allowing extra time for what ever the Lord may have in mind for us to learn.  Please bring your Bible and you may want a notebook or some paper to take notes.  After we have finished this study we may take a break or move right into the next book “Draw Close to the Fire”.  This book will bring us to discuss how we handle tough times or trials in our lives.  We will learn that there are priceless treasures found in dark times.  I have been and will continue to pray that God will speak to the hearts of those He wants to attend these classes.  There is no specific age requirement…just a desire to know Jesus at a more intimate level.  If you are feeling that your spiritual life is at a stand still or stagnant~ this study is for you.  If you are on fire for the Lord and are hungry for more of His word~ this class is for you.  If you are stuck in “spiritual infancy” and know that it is time for a more mature relationship with Jesus, please join us.  Salvation is AWESOME…..but it is truly the first step.  There is so much more.  Our Father God is waiting on us to take that next step….. to mature and grow in Him.  If you feel that this letter is speaking to you I pray that you will seriously consider joining me on this journey.  I know that as we learn what He has prepared for us we will never again be the same.  We will allow the Holy Spirit to guide and lead us to what we are to learn.  In the meantime I ask that you join me in prayer.  Please pray for all ears to be open to hear the still small voice of God.  Pray that we take time to quiet our minds and listen to Him.  He is knocking, waiting and forever faithful to His word.  He says He loves us and has plans for us.  You and me.  Amazing Grace, Amazing Grace!   I recently read something like “If you find yourself not feeling very close to God…..guess who moved?”.  Let’s move!  Let’s move closer to Him and become more like Him.  Please join me in prayer and if you feel so led…join me in class.  

Tonya - NEWSLETTER@EASTMTZIONCHURCH.COM

United Methodist Women

Feb. 4^th at 9AM the UMW will meet at the church.  Projects will include sewing, cutting out gowns and school bags and packing cookies for college students and service men.  Lunch is furnished and will be served at noon.  The Program will be “Prayer and Self Denial”. 

March 3^rd at 9AM the UMW will meet at the church.  The project will be the sewing of lap robes.  The Program will be “Peace~Journeying to Claim It”.  (Easter Program)

April 13^th will be UMW Sunday.  The speaker will be Roxy Chivington the wife of David Chivington, our Assistant District Superintendent. 

April 19^th at 9:30 AM --- Northwest Plains Spiritual Day held at:

Trinity United Methodist Church

301 W. Market Street

Lima, Ohio 43805

“Faith~Learning for a Lifetime”-speaker will be Joe Nero from Our Daily Bread Kitchen, Lima.

“Spiritual Day Apart”-session led by Nancy Barker with the topic being “Stories I ain’t told nobody yet”.  Collection is to go to –A Call to Prayer and Self Denial

Music by: “The Conkers”

Please Bring:  Chicken broth and instant potato flakes for out Daily Bread Kitchen.

Everyone is welcome.  Call Betty for Reservations.

Submitted by Betty Marvin

United Methodist Men of the West Ohio Conference

Visit the website: www.gbgm-umc.org/WestOhioUMM/

On Saturday, July 26^th the United Methodist Men of the West Ohio Conference presents:

"Fight Like A Man,"

Calling on the Name of the Lord, by David Adams

The Purpose God has for a Man, The Power God has for every Man and the Priorities God has for every Man, by Todd Brascher

The 2008 West Ohio Conference Cooperative School of Christian Mission 

“God saw everything that he had made and indeed it was very good” concludes the unfolding story of God’s creation of the earth and all its living creatures.  How are we as God’s people to understand the story in the midst of human acts of racism, violence and earthly destruction?

Mission Studies for 2008

Giving our Hearts Away: Native American Survival – this study will search for appropriate ways for us to be engaged in mission with Native Americans.

I Believe In Jesus – this study deals with faith in Jesus Christ, the meaning of faith in Jesus, whose faith counts, and faith in Jesus in a post-modern world. 

Israel-Palestine – the purpose of this study is to learn about the history and complexities of relationships between Israel and Palestine.

Week School – July 28-31

Weekend Event –July 25-27

Day Sampler- July 26

Ohio Northern University, Ada

For Registration info contact Jeanne Schierloh at (937)434-3107 or djschierloh1@juno.com

A Closer Look at Ray Lewis

What a joy it was to spend some time with Ray.  I went to visit him at his new home in Birchaven Village.  Having been at his auction before leaving his home on TR 251, it did not surprise me to see beautiful antiques in his new home.  I enjoy antiques so felt right at home with the chimes and dings of the ticking clock, the Findlay Glass and of course the caned bottom chairs.  I chose to sit in a caned rocker and behind me were chairs yet to be caned.  Ray is still working!  He has caned and continues to cane chairs for people across the United States.  His work will  be international  if he should get chairs from Canada that need caning.  It is so wonderful that Birchaven has a workshop and I imagine Ray will often be found there!  If you have not seen his workmanship is something to behold.  Just beautiful!

Tonya:  Let’s start by you telling me a bit about your family. 

Ray:  Well, the Lewis family moved into this area in 1800’s.  My Grandpa,  F.M. Lewis bought the home place in 1887.    I have one brother and two sisters….and four children of my own.   We (Ray and his wife Edna) had a daughter then two sons and then another daughter.  They are all great kids.

Tonya:  Where did you meet Edna?

Ray:  (eyes lighting up!)  We met up at Lakeside.  I had gone up there for United Brethren Youth Church Camp. 

Tonya:  I have been to Lakeside several times.  That is a special place. 

Ray:   I am a firm believer in youth Church camp.    I had gone with my friends from the Ark Church.  My one cousin introduced me to Edna.  We would go for walks together in the evening.  When the week was over I asked her to go on a date with me.  She said “yes” but then later had to tell me that she was not allowed to date until she turned 16….so I waited.  (He says with a huge smile and twinkle in his eye!....I take it Edna was worth the wait!!)

Tonya:  So you grew up going to the Ark Church?

Ray:  Yes. Then after Edna and I married we went to Bethlehem Church.

Tonya:  Then you came to Mt. Zion after the merge between Bethlehem and the Arcadia United Methodist churches? 

Ray:  Well, I went  to Arcadia for awhile but Mt. Zion was closer.

Tonya:  I, for one, am glad you are at Mt. Zion.  I learn a lot from you.  (it appears to me that this merge brought some heartache for Ray.  I am sure it is difficult to see your church go through this.  It seems that a lot of decisions were on Ray’s shoulders.  I am certain he did his homework and did what he could do for his church family)

Tonya:  Do you have a favorite hymn?

Ray:  “In the Garden”

Tonya: What are your study habits now? 

Ray:  Well, I study the Sunday School lesson….I used to teach Sunday School.   As a Sunday School teacher you really prepare.  I feel as a teacher one often learns more than the scholars.  I prefer the King James Version.  The others may be easier to read and understand but you know you are getting someone else’s interpretation of the Bible. 

Tonya:  Were you and Edna very involved in your church?  (it is hard to get Ray to say much about himself as he does not want to sound as if he is bragging) 

Ray:  Edna was very involved with the Women’s Missionary Association.  In the early 1900’s  (1910-20) there was “Ladies Aid” which was made up of church women and also neighbors.  They would help with auction dinners and things like that.  Then there was the WMA.  The two groups worked often together and eventually became one.   Between the two of us we served in about every capacity there is to serve within the church.

Tonya:  Do I understand that you are a Vanlue Grad?

Ray:  Yes, I graduated from Vanlue High School in 1936 ~long before you were born. 

Tonya:   I graduated from Vanlue, too.  (so, we enjoyed speaking of the people that we know in common from Vanlue.  We knew a lot of the same people and Ray knew a lot of my church people from St. Paul’s U.M..  We shared some stories together and what stood out to me is that Ray often used the word love.  “oh, I just love him”, or “I just loved her” was a statement often made…..Ray is a man filled with love for others) Isn’t that what God commands us all to do?  Love one another. 

Tonya:  Was it difficult to move from your home place to Birchaven?  How long had you or the Lewis family lived on TR 251?

Ray:  Someone from my family lived on that road since 1887.  Moving was a decision I had thought about for a few years.  It was not a quick decision but once the decision had been made I have accepted it and been happy. 

Tonya:  I read In the Bible recently where Paul “chose joy”….he chose to be happy.  Is that what you have done?

Ray:  Yes.  You know, I was aware of my situation and any day my wheels could have been taken from me or I could have fallen or whatever.  I liked being able to make these decisions on my own.  I didn’t like the idea of someone else making these kinds of decisions for me if I was not able.    (Ray does not seem like the type of person that would ever want to burden his family and is very independent)

Tonya:  What is the main difference between the United Brethren and the United Methodist Churches to you?

Ray:  I think the United Methodist Church is a little more liberal.

Tonya:  That is probably not a good thing.  We could stand to stick closer to what the Bible says and pay a little closer attention to the Holy Spirit in my opinion.   Do you think we speak about and acknowledge the Holy Spirit enough? 

Ray:  No.   But the Holy Spirit is at work.  Things happen and it can’t be because of me.  There is a driving force that keeps you going.  That is the Holy Spirit.  Being able to recall and remember the history of the churches….I get help from the Holy Sprit.  Jesus said, “I’ll send you a comforter” and He did. 

Tonya:  (we would get side tracked as Ray knows a LOT about the history of the Ark Church, Bethlehem, Mt. Zion, Salem and Pleasant View Churches. )  You know have a lot of knowledge in that brain of yours! (Ray ignores complements or turns a little red in the face!)

Ray:   The four churches (Bethlehem, Mt. Zion, Salem and Pleasant View) all opened their doors between 1838 and 1840.  The Findlay Library has film on the history of Bethlehem Church. 

At this time I couldn’t help but think that Ray loves to share his knowledge of the local churches.  It would be a great time to get those films and let Ray share.  Maybe a good topic for a Father/Son Banquet someday??  With a little help from Ray’s son Gerald it could be a great evening!

Tonya:   What advice do you have for the younger generations today?

Ray:  You make vows when you get married.  Think about them and take them seriously.  When Edna and I married you didn’t hear about divorce.  You honored your vows.   It makes me happy that my children can say that they don’t remember ever hearing Edna and I fuss.  I may have went out and kicked a tractor tire or two but I tried my hardest to never say anything out of line to her.  Sometimes you can say things that you can’t take back.  That is something we tried never to do to one another.   It is important to have some self discipline and pay attention to what the Bible says. 

Tonya:  Have you traveled much?

Ray:  We did some traveling.  It was not easy to get away from the farm as we had dairy cows.  I never worked off of the farm, although, I thought about it a few times.  When we traveled it was usually to see my brother or sisters.  At one time I had a brother living out in California and a sister in Texas.   We drove to California.  That was a good trip. 

Tonya: What is lacking in churches today?  What could be changed in your opinion?

Ray:   I go to church to be fed spiritually not physically.  I appreciate fellowship time and all of that, don’t get be wrong.  I understand that some things are done in churches to draw people in, entertain them to keep them coming.  Like I said, I go to church to be fed spiritually.   Another thing that is lacking is visitation.  That is important and I see it lacking in so many churches.

Ray:   I have never had a drop of alcohol or smoked in my life.  You know, when I was a young boy, one of my Sunday School teachers had me and some of my friends sign a paper vowing to never drink or smoke.  It must have really had an impact as I know another one of the men that signed the paper honored that vow like I did.

Tonya:  We are to treat our bodies like the temple of God.  I wonder if kids were to sign a paper like you did if it would have the same impact.  Vows, promises…..they seemed to mean more in the past than they do now.

Tonya:  Do you think God is pleased or discouraged with Christians these days?

 Ray:  It is history.  Like in the Old Testament….people said, “yes, God” then in time drifted away.  Sometimes things happen because we need to get our attention back on Him.  We need to keep focused on the Word and stay close to God. 

 By this time, Ray and I had talked for about two hours.  Our conversation flowed from one topic to another.  I found a lot of depth in Ray Lewis.  He talks very highly of his family.  The many pictures found around his apartment were a sign of his love for them.  I especially liked two larger frames of black and white photos.  I wish I had had more time so we could have looked at those pictures.  I am sure they have a lot of stories to go with them.  Ray said he likes having made new friends at Mt. Zion and his children are happy for that, too.  His children teasingly say it is nice that he has new people to share his stories with as they already have heard them all before.  Ha!  Ray holds his friends very dear to his heart.  He often mentioned Gene and Margaret Baughman, Clayton and Lorene Oman,

Krings, Fetters……and others.  As he spoke of his friends you could feel his genuine love for them.   I admire Ray for this and other reasons. I admire the love he still holds for Edna.  (Edna went to be with the Lord in November of 1997)  He holds a reverence for the Lord that is contagious.  His story telling is a talent.  I was not surprised to learn that he has done some writing and keeps a journal.    Ray has a great sense of humor, is self disciplined, enjoys people, and is very humble.  Many times when he would be telling me something interesting about himself he would ask me to “leave this part out, would you”?   I of course honored his wishes but encourage you to take time some day for a visit with Ray.  You will be entertained and enlightened, share a lot of laughs and a few tears, learn a lot and go away yearning for more.  Thank you Ray for sharing your morning with me.  May God continue to bless you! 

Submitted by Tonya Marvin

The Wannabee News

Thank you to Duane and Lisa Hackworth for having our group to their home.   We had a great turn out as sixteen gathered for great food and fellowship.  Duane led a good time of devotion and learning.  We decided to make Chopin Hall  our mission project for March and April.  We want to help get them a little better stocked with food and supplies.  The next meeting will be held on March 2nd at Mark and Tonya Marvin's.  Please plan to bring items to be donated to Chopin Hall to this gathering.    All are welcome to join our group.....we are a social group that is mission minded and of course we wannabee more like Jesus!   

To contact the Pastor

pastor@eastmtzionchurch.com

Dave Noel 419 - 894 - 6887

To place information in the newsletter

newsletter@eastmtzionchurch.com

Tonya Marvin - 419 - 894 - 6958

To start the prayer chain

prayer@eastmtzionchurch.com

Pam Scott 419-396-6042

To place information in bulletin

bulletin@eastmtzionchurch.com

Peter Zaras - 419 - 387 - 7934

ATTENDANCE

DATE /  SS  /  WORSHIP

church postcard was printed?

WEBSITE

www.eastmtzionchurch.com

Visit the website to keep a day to day update on the church schedule, meetings, birthdays and more. 

DONATIONS FOR CHOPIN HALL

Cosmetics, 15 dish towels, 20 bottles of lotion, 5 movies ,2 books, 8 rolls of toilet tissue, 1 dish soap, 1 bundle of wash cloths, 1 fur coat, 3 bags of clothes, sunflower seed snack packs, 4 pans with lids and a bag of plastic bags.

Submitted by Carol Ziessler

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Scenes from the 2007 Christmas Cantada

A scene from Sausage Day 2007

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TOP TEN PREDICTIONS FOR 2008

2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching..
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost.

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"CUPID"

Submitted by the Wise's

Tell someone "I Love You" this Valentine's Day!

The Shepherd's Poem

AN INVITATION TO EWE!

January through March is a very busy season for us as we are in the middle of the 2008 lambing season.  We have a barn full of baby lambs with many more on the way!  It is really something special to witness this event this time of year, and we invite you to stop at the farm to watch and "cuddle" one of the Lord's little miracles in your own arms!  What a perfect setting to witness God's work on an intimate level  while watching a natural birth, take the first breath, walk the first step and the natural motherly instincts of survival responding immediately!

Tom, Carol, Karen & Kaye Lynn Wise

To God Be The Glory!