Join us for our new worship series "REHAB"

9 AM - Blended Service in the Fellowship Hall

11 AM - Traditional Service in the Sanctuary  

Several of our members have found themselves in rehab lately. A bad fall, accident, illness or even planned surgery damaged their bodies, and they found themselves learning new
movements and adjusting to a new normal. They had to face the fact that they couldn’t manage on their own. They went through a period when they felt unsettled and disoriented. Then they developed trust with staff and therapists and began to heal. They learned new behaviors, and eventually they emerged strengthened and capable.

In general, the word rehabilitate means to restore to a condition of good health, and ability to work; to restore to good condition or operation; or to restore a person’s reputation. Circumstances other than broken limbs, back surgery, or illness can require rehab. Consider the opioid and heroin epidemic sweeping the nation. Addictions to alcohol, gambling, or even tobacco can damage lives. Even positive events like release from prison, returning home after a hard military tour of duty, or moving to a new community can shatter our normal. Depression and deep grief triggered by losses like job loss, divorce, or the death of a loved one send us looking for support. Physical, emotional, or relational crises can also cause spiritual brokenness. Rehab gives us a framework for restoration, reconciliation, and renewal. Do you want to be stronger, freer, and more whole?
When Jesus learned of the invalid that had been coming to the pool at Bethesda for 38 years, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” Jesus healed the man, and later when he met him again, he affirmed his new behaviors and way of life. (John 5:6)

The forty days of Lent (Sundays are not included) leading up to Easter, are a time to reflect, take stock of our spiritual health, and realign our lives. Our means of grace  including prayer, worship, reading/meditating the scriptures, fasting, and ministry with others, are like rehab exercises which strengthen our connection to God. In rehab, we learn to live differently. In Lent, we help those coming to faith for the first time, as well as those finding their way back after a period of absence or neglect, learn how to live differently. We strengthen faith and help people find their new healthy, rehabbed normal.