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

Daily Bible Reading: Ezekiel 39:1 – 40:49 (“Therefore thus says the Lord God: Now I will restore the fortunes of Jacob and have mercy on the whole house of Israel, and I will be jealous for My holy name.”)

This Week’s Memory Verse: “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”  Colossians 1:9

Scroll down this page for a list of prayer requests.

Moving Forward: Yesterday was a first step for Tennessee’s economy to get back on track.  Naturally, many are wondering when Central will open its doors again to public assemblies.  Please know that our elders are monitoring the situation closely, and want to exercise great caution in making these decisions.  Pray for God’s wisdom to guide them in their deliberations, and let’s remain patient and cooperative as we consider what is best for all our members.  They would welcome your input.

Face Masks Available: As we continue with safe practices until a vaccine is developed for the COVID-19 virus, fabric masks are recommended.  Jennifer Chisam has some high quality masks for sale; contact her for more information.  We also have information about masks for no cost if that is something you need.

Cancellation: The “Support Parade” that had been planned for this Friday for residents of Agape Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Johnson City has been canceled upon the finding that two of their residents have tested positive for COVID-19.  This is the facility where Lucy Hagerty resides.  Say a prayer for residents of assisted living and skilled nursing facilities everywhere that they will be kept safe and healthy.

Fishing Tournament: Though High Rock Bible Camp has canceled their 2020 summer camp sessions due to COVID-19, they are offering another way for anyone to have fun and to support High Rock.  Go to this site to read about the Fishing Tournament throughout the month of May.  High Rock Bible Camp does so much good for the young people of our area; let’s show our support in any ways we can.

Contentment: This piece was submitted by Glenda Haynie, and captures the essence of the idea of contentment.  See if you don’t agree.
  “My muscles are sore, but they work.
     I did not sleep well last night, but I woke up.
   My wallet is not full, but my belly is.
     I may not have all I want, but I have all I need.
   My life is not perfect, but it is good.”

Do You Need Assistance?  Please call the church office and let us know what your needs are.  We will do all we can to help.

Remember These In Prayer:

Jerry Pierce came through his surgery on Monday, and a new heart pacemaker was installed.  Doctors found that his heart is as strong as it was a few years ago when it was last tested, so the news was all good.  He is now recovering at home, and will need a few days to get back to full speed.

Jade Vance, daughter of Stephanie and Isaac Vance, remains at Niswonger Children’s Hospital.  Dean Neal, her grandmother, reported Monday night that her pain is still significant, and she is having blurred vision and headaches.  They hope that as her body has more time to assimilate the new medications these symptoms will improve.  Your continued prayers for Jade are needed.

Gene Arrowood continues at Quillen Rehab Hospital as he recovers his strength and abilities following surgery several days ago.

June Selby continues in rehab in the Skilled Nursing Unit of Cornerstone Village.  Keep her and Fred both in your prayers.

The family of Darlene Ferguson, aunt of Amber Lafon, is mourning her passing on Saturday.  Amber asks for our prayers for the family, saying that everyone was shocked by this passing.

Jerry Holsclaw, cousin to Rebekah Hunt, has just completed chemotherapy and radiation for cancer of the esophagus.  He was hospitalized last week for bleeding issues, but is now back home.  He has asked for prayers.

Colton Meade, 7-year-old son of Nate Meade, a coworker of Conor McKinnis, has been discharged from Niswonger Children’s Hospital and is continuing his recovery at home.  The family sends their thanks for our prayers for Colton.

Our nation and our world continue to deal with many problems as the quarantine measures for COVID-19 continue.  Ask God’s blessings on all health care workers, government leaders, and those who provide essential services.

Where Growth Occurs:  *  “The earth is sliced into furrows that seeds may burst with life; even thus with our wounds.”  (Henry Stanley Haskins)  *  “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”  (1 Peter 1:6,7)