The Scroll

2426 N. Euclid Ave. Upland, CA 91784 Ph: 909.981.4848 Fax: 909.931.0498 Email: lbfchurch@lbfchurch.com Web: www.lbfchurch.com

Reaching Up. Reaching Out.February 2008

Can I Be Holy?By Gary Keith, Pastor of Teaching/Worship

Currently we are in a teaching series going through the book of 1 Peter. Just a couple of weeks ago I covered the last section of chapter one. There are two verses in this chapter that have always intrigued me. 1 Peter 1:15-16 says, “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written; ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

So for some time now I have been asking myself, “What does it take to be holy?” Is it something I do? Is it something I am? What is this about?

In the early 1880s, William D. Longstaff wrote a poem that later became a hymn called, “Take Time to Be Holy.” In my days growing up in the Baptist church, we would sometimes sing this song. I never much appreciated it then, but today, given our study in 1 Peter, it is taking on new meaning. There’s substance here. Here is verse one:

Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord, Abide in him always, And feed on his word. Make friends of God’s children; Help those who are weak, Forgetting in nothing his blessing to seek.

There are three more verses to Longstaff’s hymn, but the second verse is also worth quoting:

Take time to be holy, The world rushes on; Spend much time in secret With Jesus alone; By looking to Jesus Like him thou shalt be; Thy friends in thy conduct his likeness shall see.

Each line of that second verse prompts an objection from somewhere within and helps me to understand why holy people tend to be scarce.

“Take time…” But I don’t have time.

“The world rushes on…” And I am busy rushing with it.

“Spend much time in secret…” Secret? I like to let people know about what I do with and for Jesus.

“With Jesus alone…” Huh? And turn off my iPod and text messaging?

“Like [Jesus] thou shalt be…” I’d rather imitate Bill, Rick, or Andy (pastors I respect).

Find It Inside:

...on page 2

Update from Kenya

...on page 3

Parents’ Night Out

Young Marrieds Group Starting

Coffee House Makeover

...on page 4

In His Steps Casting Call

Largest Giving Month Ever

... on page 5

Blessings at Camp Hope

Mercy House Thanks You

... on page 6

This Year in Exit 83

... on page 7

Mom-to-Mom Puts Mom First

Women’s Golf Day

Holy continued on page 2

Life Bible Fellowship Church

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“Thy friends in thy conduct his likeness shall see...” Whoa! That’s a lot to live up to! I wonder what my friends think about that one.

Despite its Victorian English, Longstaff’s hymn does a pretty good job describing what it takes to become holy.

Becoming a holy person is intentional; you have to work at it. When God says to Israel, “consecrate yourselves,” he is putting the ball in our court. In other words, pursue whatever it takes to be a holy man, a holy woman, a holy nation.

I’ve not really seen myself as a holy man, although I have longed to be one. There have been times when, despite my intention to be holy, I have felt that I failed God so miserably that I was tempted to settle for being a servant, not a son, in his household.

Peter uses this word to challenge a Christian generation to a unique lifestyle that will set it apart from the godless culture of the time. Those who received the challenge would know instantly that they were being called to something extraordinary.

Holy starts out as the descriptive character of God (1 Peter 1:15). Christians are urged to arrange their lives in accordance with what they know about the nature of God. Holy is also connected with being like Christ (Galatians 5:22-26).

I raise the subject because I wonder if the idea of being holy is losing ground today. Are we losing interest in being holy (in the best sense of the word)? Are holy people an endangered species? I hope not! As 2008 begins as a church family let’s be intentional about being holy. Are you a little different? I hope so!

Let me know what you think. Send me an email at gary@lbfchurch.com and we can talk more about this. God bless!

Holy continued from page 1Update from KenyaBy Anthony Guynes, Pastor of Assimilation & Spiritual Growth

Many of you have been praying for the situation in Kenya, especially for our missionaries who serve with Empowering Lives International (ELI) there, William and Michelle Kiprop. The situation is relatively stable as of this writing, but it has the potential to flare up at any moment. Please read this excerpt from William and Michelle’s last email update:

“Well life here is in a bit of a holding pattern. I must admit that I’m a bit worn down and discouraged at the moment. I was talking with a colleague about the fact that I feel I am in a constant state of exhaustion… I think that not knowing what tomorrow (or even this afternoon!) may hold is starting to take a toll. I would appreciate your prayers for strength and peace of heart as we wait to see where things are going in Kenya.

“Our little village (Chebaiywa) has remained stable, but the fact is that there was looting and rioting just two miles away in the actual Kipkaren village. We now have several friends who have been personally affected by the violence of this country. Our travel agent’s car was burnt in Nairobi. We have several friends who have lost family members due to the violence.

“The story that I am about to share is disturbing, but it is something that happened and I’m sure you are reading worse in the news. Our manager here at the training center is named Philemon Bitok. He just reported back to duty at the end of last week after suffering a terrible loss. One of his closest cousins disappeared during the violent outbreaks. Philemon spent a week looking for him at hospitals, police stations, etc. He finally got a lead and was introduced to some people who were witnesses to his cousin’s death. The man had been chopped up with pangas (machetes) and then the pieces of his body were piled with tires and burnt. Philemon told me with tears in his eyes that his cousin had just been accepted to a university and was to start school the next week. He stated that they collected a few pieces of bones and some ash so that they could hold a funeral.

“I’ve been asked by several individuals if the news is sensationalizing things or if it is really as bad as it looks. I think the answer is yes and no. Unfortunately, the stories that are being reported are true. This country is facing some severe devastation. At the same time, there is hope and there are sparks of light. William and I listen to a Christian radio station called ‘The Fish’ in the evenings. The station has been a source of encouragement to me… There have been some powerful times of praying for refugees in our area. They are also working to mobilize people to step out and help their fellow Kenyans. They are sending the message, ‘We are all Kenyans, regardless of tribe!’”

[Update as of January 22] A few homes have been burned in William and Michelle’s village, but they are safe in their home right now. Please pray for safety for William and Michelle, peace and stability in Kenya, for all the people who have been harmed by the violence, and also for peace of mind for John and Bobbie, Michelle’s parents here at LBF. Additionally, ELI is currently trying to raise $10,000 to fund relief efforts in Kenya. If you would like to give toward this, please send checks directly to ELI: Empowering Lives International, P.O. Box 67, Upland, CA 91785.

February 2008

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Parents’ Night Out By Trilby Bias

Parents’ Night Out is a new ministry starting Saturday, March 8, from 4-8 p.m. This weekly ministry provides complimentary childcare for children birth through age 12, giving parents an opportunity for a night out. The adults who benefit from this ministry will provide the childcare, operating on a ticket system. Each family starts out with a ticket good for one evening out. After that, parents earn another ticket by providing childcare for an evening. Both couples and single parents can benefit from this ministry.

This ministry is for families who call LBF their church home or are part of Mom-to-Mom. All volunteers will go through our fingerprinting procedures in order to be with the children.

If you have questions or would like to be involved in Parents’ Night Out, please contact Trilby Bias @ 975-1130.

Higher Grounds Coffee House MakeoverBy Russ Parker, Pastor of Administration & Leadership Development

Some of you might have noticed some changes made to our Higher Grounds Coffee House recently. The coffee house received a new paint job (thanks to our college group) and a new seating arrangement. The goal was to create a more simple, open, and friendly environment.

We are now proudly serving Pura Vida Coffee, which was started by a couple of Christian businessmen to help empower the poor in coffee-growing regions.

“We believe in a different approach to business. One driven by good rather than need. One that sees capitalism as an agent for compassion. Operated for charitable benefit, Pura Vida helps farmers, families, and at-risk children in coffee-growing communities around the world to build more hopeful futures. The work of Pura Vida is rooted in a desire to empower the poor in coffee-growing regions of the world. We welcome all people to serve with us in partnership.” www.puravidacoffee.com

So now when you sip coffee from the Higher Grounds Coffee House, you are giving back to help others. Pretty cool, eh?

What goes with coffee? Why donuts of course. I must admit, I love donuts. For as long as I can remember, I have partaken in the Sunday morning treat. If you’re like me, and there are a lot of you (we order 23 dozen donuts per weekend), you can relax because we will continue our donut service. But if you are one of those more health conscious types, you should know we are now selling bagels. So come on down and enjoy a toasted bagel, cup of Pura Vida, and a conversation in the Higher Grounds Coffee House.

If you would like to volunteer in the Coffee House, we’d love to have you! Please contact Julie Irvin at grafix_girl2000@yahoo.com.

Are You Young? Married? Looking for a Place to Connect?By Anthony Guynes, Pastor of Assimilation & Spiritual Growth

Are you newly married in the last few years and want to meet some other young married couples? You are at a unique time in your life where you are navigating the newness of marriage with your spouse and it may be difficult to find others that can relate. Mike and Brenda Dyar are starting a brand new home group for Young Marrieds who don’t yet have kids. The group will meet every other week for fun, Bible study and discussion, prayer, and serving people in need. Please contact Mike or Brenda with questions @ 946-0212 or brenda.dyar@verizon.net.

The Largest Month of Giving. Ever.By Russ Parker, Pastor of Administration & Leadership Development

December 2007 has now gone down in LBF history. Through you, God poured out blessings, encouragement, and financial resources to the tune of $241,648 ($217K to the general fund and $24K to the building fund). This is the largest sum of tithes and offerings LBF has ever received in one month’s time. Thank you to all of you who call LBF your church home and support this church through your generous giving. I know many of you have been praying that God would financially sustain our church. He is.

Here’s how it went down: December 2007 was a five-weekend month. In past months when we have five weekends, the fifth weekend is very light in the giving we receive – far less than the previous four weekends. So last month, we still needed to see more than $60,000 given in the last weekend. I must tell you, I wasn’t optimistic that we would receive $60,000; I honestly was anticipating around $20,000. But God has a way of breaking the mold and reminding us who’s really in charge. In our last weekend we received $71,405, pushing us past our monthly needs! I hope this is encouraging news as it is a reflection of God’s hand on our ministry.In His Steps Casting Call

In His Steps is a theatrical experience where you follow Jesus from the last supper, to the trial, and crucifixion and burial of Christ. Over the years this has proven to be a powerful event for those who attend. We need volunteers to act in this production and continue to make it a moving experience! The event is Good Friday, March 21, from 2:30-7:30 p.m. and preparation time is required. Contact Gayle Jensen @ 560-1732 for more info and to find out how you can get involved.

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Life Bible Fellowship Church

Giving Update General Fund Fiscal Year July 07-June 08

Budget Actual November $95,783 $97,709 December $211,695 $217,432 YTD (Dec.) $757,278 $752,966

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February 2008

Blessings All Around at Camp HopeBy Matt Sasso, Pastor of Jr. High Ministries

On behalf of the Exit 83 youth ministry, the jr. high and high school staff would like to say thank you to all those who donated blankets and jackets for us to distribute to those in need. In December we took more than 30 staff and students to a place called Camp Hope. If you haven’t heard any of the local news, Camp Hope, located in Ontario, is a place where some of our community’s less fortunate are calling their home. In numerous conversations I have heard that there are up to 300 people living in tents there, as they seek to survive day-to-day. It is something that words truly fail to describe. The Exit 83 staff thought that the youth ministry needed to take the compassion of Christ to these people and because of your generosity we were able to do that.

We had an amazing time just walking around, offering people lunch and something to help keep them warm through the night. As we meandered, many of us heard Camp Hope residents share their story about what has brought them there. While many were thankful for the food and blankets, some expressed how much they appreciated us just talking with them and taking the time to understand who they are. It was an eye-opening experience for many of the people that went, one that we have walked away from wanting to do more.

As we had conversations we asked people what they really needed. Many people expressed that what they need the most are common household supplies such as toilet paper, batteries, plastic coverings, and many more things that you and I could find in our homes. The Exit 83 staff is brainstorming about what we can do to help this group of people and we will be sure to let you know how you can help.

This experience has reminded us that God is able if we are willing to be used. As we were preparing we did not know how we would get food and supplies, but because of our gracious God and your generosity it happened. Specifically, the week before we went to Camp Hope, we had no idea how we would pay for the food we were going to serve. Yet during that time, someone anonymously donated cash for our cause. Because people gave and sacrificed, everything came to together. Thank you for the opportunity!

Mercy House Thanks YouBy Tammi Strasen

The staff at Mercy House would like to thank Life Bible Fellowship Church for your generous support of our Christmas program this year. The LBF family adopted all 21 of our residents and their children, as well as donating many needed items to our walk-in center. Each resident received special gifts from their individual wish lists and more than 130 men, women, and children received gifts at our walk-in center giveaway. These people are either homeless or financially struggling and they were very blessed by you this Christmas.

Mercy House continues to provide services for these people throughout the year. If you would like to extend your generosity with continued donations, we are always accepting gently used, warm, practical clothing, shoes, jackets, sleeping bags, and tents. At different times we accept other items, so if you feel you have something that a homeless or low-income person might need, contact Mercy House @ 391-2630 or you may email me at tammis@mercyhouse.net. Our operating hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday-Thursday.

Thank you and may God bless you as you have blessed others in this new year!

This experience has reminded us that God is able if we are willing

to be used.

Men’s Retreat: April 18-20Sign-ups are well underway for this year’s Men’s Retreat. We only have space for 110 men, so sign up soon! Invite a friend to come along. Call Mike Maggard @ 721-3708 for more information. Scholarships are available.

Couples Retreat: February 15-17Sign up in between any of the weekend services at the Men’s Ministry table in the courtyard. Contact Dave Karpinski @ 553-3131 for details.

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February 2008

February Anniversaries1 Anthony & Sylvia Latona, 33 years 4 David & Tiffany Lawrence, 12 years 6 James & Michelle Burden, 1 year 11 Charles & Melanie Bowyer, 25 years 11 Brian & Myrna Tuckley, 12 years 11 Larry & Sandra Sidders, 24 years 14 Jim & Janelle Hansen, 55 years 14 Bob & Cynthia Wirth, 22 years 14 Michael & Lori Peltier, 27 years 16 Murray & Martha Morgan, 40 years 17 Dale & Jackie Schnippel, 12 years 18 Josh & Diane Frantz, 13 years 18 Glenn & Tricia Ford, 30 years 23 Keith & Kathleen Sharpe, 24 years 24 Dick & Carol Volbeda, 19 years

If any anniversary information is not correct, please contact the church office.

Birth AnnouncementsMya Renee Parker January 1, 2008 – 6 lbs., 10 oz. Russ & Amy Parker, parents Gary & Miriam Keith, grandparents

Web SpotlightAre you inspired by the weekend message, then come Monday morning you’re already forgetting what it was about? Be challenged to really think about the message and apply it to your life. Join in on the discussion each week with “Reflections.” It’s on the home page of our website, www.lbfchurch.com. Women’s Golf Day

Reserve Wednesday, April 9 for a great round of golf and lunch. Women: invite your friends for a great time of encouraging each other on the golf course! We will be playing “best ball/scramble,” which means we play the best ball of the foursome and it takes a lot of the pressure off.

We will be playing 18 holes on the Sierra Lakes golf course. Cost for golf, cart, and lunch is $60. We will begin at 7:30 a.m. and end around 1:30 p.m.

Sign up online (www.lbfchurch.com) or on your K.I.T. card. Make checks payable to Life Bible Fellowship Church, put in an envelope c/o Edna Myers, and place in the offering box or bring/mail to the church office. If you have questions, please call Kathy Gutierrez @ 355-2911.

Making Moms First on the ListBy Kirsten Grubb

At one of Mom-to-Mom’s meetings in January, a speaker, Michelle Bodwell, talked about self care and how when we nurture ourselves, it benefits our whole family. When she asked our group to give examples of what prevents us from giving ourselves the self care that we need, a young mom stated, “I’m last on the list.”

Mom-to-Mom exists because mothers should not be last on the list, but when buried in the demands of babies and toddlers, that often seems to be the case. Through table groups, mentor moms, encouraging speakers, uplifting devotionals, good food, and the support of fellow mothers, Mom-to-Mom strives to create an environment in which mothers feel they are no longer at the bottom of the list.

Perhaps you are a mother of a baby or toddler and you can relate with that feeling. Please join us. Our second semester starts on February 12. For more information, contact co-coordinators Kirsten Grubb @ 920-4278 or eandkgrubb@roadrunner.com or Heather Rodgers @ 946-2003 or hmrodgers@msn.com.

Mark your calendars now for VBS: Sunday, July 13-Friday, July 18

6-8:30 p.m. each evening. More information to come!

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Life Bible Fellowship Church

As a new calendar year is unfolding, we wanted to get some important dates into the hands of parents of jr. high and high school students. The Exit 83 staff has been planning some different events that we want you to know about. Check out the following dates!

Exit 83 High School Schedule of EventsFebruary: 10........... Breakfast of Love Come join us as we do a special breakfast celebration in honor of Valentine’s Day! We’re going to have good food, good fellowship, and tons of things to do during our regular 9:30 a.m. service!

22-23 ..... 30 Hour Famine Once a year Exit 83 devotes a special weekend to raise money for World Vision to help combat a war against hunger. For 30 hours we pray, worship, serve in the community, and fast from food to do our part for this great cause.

March:7-9 ......... High School Winter Camp Exit 83 is going to Forest Home this year! It’s located 30 minutes north of Redlands and will feature amazingly fun activities like tubing (if we have snow!), a super long zip run, and a full 18-hole mini-golf course!

21........... In His Steps Walk through the events of Good Friday. This is an emotional journey as you follow Jesus from the last supper, to the trial, and crucifixion and burial of Christ.

June:16-20 ..... Mexico This is an awesome experience into another culture with many opportunities to bless others and be blessed. If camping on the beach, throwing a carnival, and blessing others in need is your kind of thing, then this is the trip for you.

July:13-18 .......Rock the Boat Summer Camp There will be boats for wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing, as well as a beach for smash ball, volleyball, and other fun activities! We’ll have an awesome worship leader and an equally awesome guest speaker to round out the week.

Please feel free to call Dan Jepson @ 981-4848, ext. 232 or Jeff Taylor @ 981-4848, ext. 227 if you have any questions about the high school events.

Exit 83 Jr. High Schedule of EventsFebruary: 10........... Ski & Snowboard Trip This trip is a night ski at Mt. High. We will leave the church at 4 p.m. and return by 10 p.m. The cost is $33 – $30 for the lift ticket and $3 for gas. We suggest you rent any necessary equipment down the mountain.

15-18 ..... Jr. High Winter Camp This year we are returning to Thousand Pines Winter Camp in the San Bernardino Mountains. The cost of the camp is $180. We have limited spaces, but can request more, so

reserve your spot today. We hope that your student can take advantage of this great opportunity!

22-23 ..... 30 Hour Famine Once a year Exit 83 devotes a special weekend to raise money for World Vision to help combat a war against hunger. For 30 hours we pray, worship, serve in the community, and fast from food to do our part for this great cause.

July: 13-18 ..... Jr. High Summer Camp This year we are not returning to Hume Lake due to cost. Instead, we are planning our very own summer surf camp. We will camp at San Elilo State Beach and are contracting surf lessons from Eli Howard’s surf school.

Please feel free to call Matt Sasso @ 981-4848, ext. 233 if you have any questions about the jr. high events.

Throughout the summer we’ll also have various beach trips and nights out. We’ll have more information as summer approaches.

We hope that your students can be involved this year. Please feel free to contact us about an event if you have any questions. The staff would love to be apart of helping your student grow in Christ.

This Year in Exit 83By Matt Sasso, Pastor of Jr. High Ministries

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Upland, CA 91786 Permit No. 167

2426 N. Euclid Ave. Upland, CA 91784

Reaching Up. Reaching Out.