Forgiveness
Jan 31
“Oh no!” exclaimed Gary. We were travelling to Milton one Sunday morning when he spotted a police car heading our way with lights flashing. Yes, a pleasant police officer pulled us over. He came to the open car window and informed Gary he was driving 25 km over the limit. Gary admitted, with a smile on his face, that he was speeding as he was running late getting to church. The officer took Gary’s data to verify in his police car. He then returned and kindly said that the stop was just a warning but to not speed to church again. Whew! Don’t you feel wonderfully relieved when you have received forgiveness due to some misdemeanor you have committed?
Forgiveness is a significant topic in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament where it is used 37 times. One example is found in Romans 4:7, “Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” This is the message that we at Hillside Church want to relay to the citizens of Milton for so many cannot deal with the wrongs they have committed in their past. To them, their future seems hopeless. Please pray that we can be approved by Canada Summer Jobs to hire students to help in our outreach program to catch their attention this summer.
So, it really happened. Scott Lockhart, our lead pastor, married Chrissy Fliestra on Saturday, January 20 in Alliston, ON. The wedding ceremony and reception were lovely. Scott’s two young daughters and Chrissy’s foster-daughter were included in the wedding party. They were able to get away on a honeymoon for a few days. Please pray that their Christian marriage will become strong as their love grows through positive reinforcement for each other and vital forgiveness supplied when needed. They are just waiting to hear confirmation on renting a townhouse in Milton. Chrissy will officially start work with Youth for Christ around February 12. While raising her support she hopes to find a part-time job to address their income needs.
Thomas and his wife Maven, our contacts in Myanmar, are continuing to survive well with their 8 orphans in their newly built orphanage building. However, they have encountered a problem with the local police. They have been using land they do not own for a pig tent and gardening. The practice of squatting is common in this country but now they are facing a possible lawsuit to be decided upon by a court judge. They are hoping for forgiveness, a fine that is not too high and continued use of the land for growing seasonal vegetables for income. Please pray that this problem will soon be solved smoothly without severe punishment. If all goes well they plan to purchase more piglets in a few weeks when the weather turns hotter.
May you experience forgiveness in your lives where needed as you seek to follow God’s direction and enjoy a happy Valentine’s Day. Maybe you could go and watch upcoming episodes of the 4th season of The Chosen in your local theatre.
Wendy