One of the great principles of finding joy in life is to surround yourself with positive people. God said so in Hebrews 10:24,25. Encouragement strengthens. Negativity destroys. Enthusiasm is contagious. Chronic pessimism is toxic. If you’ve become accustomed to having negative influences in your life (friends, tv, social media, etc.), it’s difficult to set your foot down and initiate change. But as disciples of Jesus we are to live in the blessing of today. “This is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps. 118:24). Outreach into a sin saturated world requires spiritual vitality and conviction. Fuel up with faith-filled people who can see the positive in what God is accomplishing today!

Greg Clark

A date has been set for Sylvan Hills’ 75th Anniversary – October 5-6, 2024. Which means we only have two years to prepare for this milestone. Part of the preparation is creatively planning fellowship activities and additional opportunities for praise and thanksgiving. There are pictures and directories to be gathered as well as a host of other details. But another vital part of preparing is the post-pandemic recovery of Sylvan Hills. There are many brethren who will be recognized for their legacy with Sylvan Hills in the past, but remember we are the Sylvan Hills of today. The facilities – our families – our mission works – our light in the local community – our vision for the future – is all currently entrusted to us. Pray diligently for our recovery and growth. It won’t happen without the Lord’s blessings. Examine your own dedication. Speak words of faith and encouragement to your brethren.

Greg Clark

With the lower humidity I find myself spending an increasing amount of time sitting on the back deck enjoying the view of Sherwood Forest. Day by day over the next couple of months the shades of green will transform into vibrant gold, orange, and red and I’ll be reminded again of God’s excellence in creativity. I don’t listen to music when I’m sitting there, I just listen. Curiously, there are times when the birds and squirrels are communicating loudly with each other and at other times the forest is completely silent. Scripture tells us God speaks wisdom through nature. I can observe the healthy rhythms of a day, the need to prepare, the importance of being on alert, and the ways God provides for His creatures. But it’s hard to hear the message of wisdom in an office with the constant sounds of cars and sirens on Highway 107. My advice to you – find a way to get away this fall. And listen. “Until we intentionally discipline ourselves to be still and listen, we’ll miss most of what God is saying.” (Priscilla Shirer) Lord, noise drains me emotionally, physically, and spiritually. You fill me with creativity, peace, and patience. I’m listening.

Greg Clark

Way to Go Sylvan Hills! Our participation in the Congregational Health Assessment was outstanding! 161 of the 200 we have in attendance took the survey. We had around 100 in the Saturday session and over 100 in the Sunday discussion. This is a remarkable time for a 2022 REFRESH, but it will require high octane fuel from the Spirit, servant driven leadership, and everyone leaning forward together!

We were so blessed to have sister Margoth Lopez visit Sylvan Hills during her time in Sherwood. She is now headed back to Honduras but plans on seeing us again when she returns in 2024. We were impressed that she wanted to be in worship to partake of communion even though she didn’t speak a word of English. She was encouraged that we took time to say buenos dias and honor the preaching ministry of her deceased husband. May God bless all the precious souls in Honduras!

Today’s service centers around praying for our schools. We love our Sylvan Hills students and are praying for an awesome 2022-23 school year! Dream Big – Psalm 20:4.

Greg Clark