Daily Focus, March 27, 2020

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”  James 4:8

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 17:1-37 (“Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?”)

This Week’s Memory Verse:Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?  Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God.”  (Psalm 42:5)

Sunday’s Bulletin can be seen by clicking here.  Take time to learn the latest news and opportunities to serve from among your Central family.

Pick Up Your Communion Supplies: While we are unable to gather as a church physically, we urge you to gather with us virtually by means of the technology we’re using (more details tomorrow).  During our worship times we will observe the Lord’s Supper.  We have communion sets for you and your family to use at home.  Call the church office to arrange a time to come pick up your supplies.  If you can’t get out, please let us know and we’ll make arrangements to bring them to you.

Weekly Contributions are an item of worship that we shouldn’t neglect.  Central is involved in many good works, and expenses continue even when the building is closed.  Use the envelopes that are coming to you in the mail, or drop off your donation at the church office.  You might also see how your bank can help you send your weekly contribution.

Helping Our Medical Community: Joann’s Fabric Shops are offering free kits to make masks to help medical professionals during this time of supply shortages.  Click here to see examples of what these kits will make.  If you can sew, consider helping out in this way.  An instructional video on how to make these masks can be found hereThanks to Alison Gilliam for alerting us to this opportunity!

Is My Religion “Pure And Undefiled”?  James 1:27 teaches that “religion that is pure and undefiled” involves visiting orphans and widows in their affliction.  “Visit” is from a Greek word that means “to inspect” with the intention of helping.  We can fulfill this task by telephone, as well as in person.  Get on the phone today and “visit” with someone who may need help or encouragement.

Scroll down this page for a list of prayer requests.

Remember These In Prayer:

Brenda McKinnis is now recovering at home following her outpatient surgery on Wednesday in Nashville.  She sends her thanks to all who have kept her in their prayers.

Evadna Fruewirth remains hospitalized at Franklin Woods Hospital.  She was diagnosed on Thursday as having a virus (not COVID-19), and it is believed this is what has caused her to have such problems the last few weeks.  There is a chance she may be discharged to go home soon.  She sends her thanks to all who have been praying for her.

Glenda Kellum, mother of Danny Kellum, remains hospitalized in Little Rock Arkansas following a fall Tuesday night in which she sustained some serious injuries.  Danny reported Thursday evening that she is “stable but very uncomfortable”.  Decisions are being made about her future care and treatment.

Buzz Reynolds, husband of Brenda McKinnis’ late cousin Martha, was hospitalized earlier this week with a very high fever.  He has been tested for the COVID-19 virus, but results are not back yet.  He is under isolation at home with oxygen for now; he is the primary caregiver for 13-year-old Gabi and his mother who is in her 90s.  Brenda asks that we pray for Buzz.

Kathy Torgerson is continuing to improve at home as she takes treatments for a severe upper respiratory infection.

Alice Torgerson, mother of Dave Torgerson, continues under hospice care in California.  She has been declining for the past few days.

Todd Barnett, Principal of Science Hill Hill School, suffered a heart attack on Wednesday, and is now in Cardiac ICU in stable condition.

Vicki Underwood was hospitalized in Oklahoma on Tuesday with pneumonia, and her oxygen levels are dropping to very serious levels.  She has been tested for the COVID-19 virus, but results are not yet back.  Her brother, Kevin Marcum, has asked for prayers for Vicki.  Kevin is the husband of Josi, the daughter of Judy Von Dollen and the sister of Teresa Wolfe.

The End Of The Road?  *  “A bend in the road is not the end of the road, unless you fail to make the turn.”  (Author Unknown)  *  “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.  To Him be the glory forever and ever.”  (2 Timothy 4:18)