Pick Up Your Mat
“I Am The Vine; You Are The Branches. Whoever Abides In Me & I In Him, He It Is That Bears Much Fruit, For Apart From Me You Can Do Nothing.” John 15:5, ESV
Sermon
Preview
A Short Message To Get You Excited For Sunday’s Worship Service.
Pick Up Your Mat
Article By: Elijah Bell
This Sunday is Great Day In May. Many people will be visiting us for the first time or coming back after a while. Some will be the people who have brought others. Some will be people who are skeptical. There will be people who are saved, and people who have yet to allow Jesus to heal them of their sin. All kinds of people come to Jesus. The question is, which one are you?
In Mark 2:1-12, Jesus heals a paralytic, telling him to “pick up your mat.” The interesting thing is that EVERY person Jesus interacts with in this passage has a “mat” to pick up. The context of this passage is the coming of God’s Kingdom. Jesus came preaching, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15). Here in chapter 2, we see the various responses to Jesus Kingdom coming, and the 3 “mats” that need to be picked up:
First, in verses 1-5, we see the friends of faith, whose “mat” to carry is that of others’ who need to be brought to Jesus Kingdom who cannot bring themselves. These are the people who have heard of Jesus Kingdom, and actively work to bring others to Jesus, helping them overcome obstacles that stand in the way, even a roof.
Second, in verses 6-9, we see the scoffers, the scribes who are accusing Jesus of blasphemy, not believing that He is the Son of God whose Kingdom is here. Their mat they need to pick up is that of humility and faith. They also were there with Jesus, but in contrast to the friends of faith, they were sitting instead of bringing. They didn’t trust Jesus to heal, but questioned His authority.
Third, in verses 10-12, we see the paralytic, unable to do anything himself, having no choice but to submit fully to the authority and healing power of Jesus. His mat is a new way of life. He couldn’t come on his own, but he trusted the friends of faith to bring him to Jesus. He then was able to stand and walk at the Word of Jesus. He then brought glory to Jesus through his transformation when he was able to obey the command “pick up your mat.”
This Sunday, we will all be one of these three. We will all have a mat to pick up. We will either be scoffers who need to believe. Friends of faith who need to help others come to Jesus, or a paralytic who needs to totally trust in Jesus’ Word to be transformed and join in His mission, bringing Him glory in His Kingdom. Which are you? Which “mat” is yours? Pick up your mat!
News
This Section Is For Any Special Announcements That Are Not Upcoming Events Or Prayer Requests.
Heroes Apply Here
We’re looking for heroes within our congregation to step up and serve in our Children’s Bible Class ministry! Whether you’re interested in teaching or simply helping out, this is a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting impact at Holly Hill.
If you feel called to be part of this important work, please speak with Mike Mayes, Scott Trent, or Robert Roach. We’d love to have you join the team!
Obituary For Bobby Presley
Robert Lee “Bobby” Presley, 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Bluegrass Care Navigators in Lexington surrounded by his loving family.
Services will be held at Harrod Brothers Funeral Home on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM with Rev. Sherman Warfield officiating. Burial will follow at Frankfort Cemetery. Visitation will be at Harrod Brothers Funeral Home from 5:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, May 8.
Mr. Presley had been battling muscle loss for the past four years. He was recently diagnosed with ALS and had been hospitalized since January 8 of this year on a Ventilator and finally surrendered to it last Tuesday.
He was born in Harrodsburg, KY on January 15, 1948, to the late Harless and Hazel Mayes Presley. His family moved to Frankfort (1956) when he was eight years old and was raised on Wilkinson Street.
He is survived by his wife, of almost 54 years, Sharon Lee Robertson Presley and three sons, Brandon Lee, Jonathan Lee, and Adam Lee (Haley); six grandchildren Austin, Aiden, Kamryn, Ian, Easton, and Caleb all from Frankfort. Additionally, he is survived by three brothers: John, Billy (Mary), and Michael Dale and 1 sister Donna White (Steve); Brother-in-Laws Mike Robertson, David Robertson (Sharon) Houston, TX, and Charlie Robertson Sr. and Sister-in-Law Mary Ann Robertson, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and five siblings: his twin brother Gene (still born), David, and Donald (Donna’s twin) and two sisters Patricia Ann Risk, and Emma Jean McIver (Louisville).
Mr. Presley was a 1966 Graduate of Frankfort High School and a Veteran of the U.S. Army. Military honors will be observed at the grave site by VFW Post 4075.
He was employed by Schenley Distillery, Topy Corporation, and GECOM. After his retirement he and his brother Billy spent over 10 years painting houses and pressure washing for many people around Frankfort, Lexington, and Lawrenceburg.
He enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends, camping, boating, taking Carnival cruises, and traveling to Texas and Florida. He loved watching Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and UK ballgames at the Office Pub and Deli. He wasn’t one to just sit around. He was always working in the yard or mowing his and his neighbors’ yards, or just sitting out back in the sun, or on the front porch, usually with a friend or neighbor.
Serving as pallbearers will be Austin Presley, Aiden Presley, Kamryn Presley, Ian Presley, Caleb Presley and Tony Presley.
Arrangements are under the direction of Harrod Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory.
To send a memorial gift to the family of Robert "Bobby" Presley please visit our Sympathy Store.
Harrod Brothers Funeral Home (312 Washington Street, Frankfort, KY 40601)
Frankfort Cemetery (215 East Main Street Frankfort, KY 40601)
May 3 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Jeff Jones
Songs: David Jones
Prayer: Ricky Drawbaugh Jr
Lord’s Supper: Robert Roach
Scripture: Sam Travis
Apr 26 | Attendance & Contribution
Bible Class Attendance: 76
Worship Attendance: 137
Contribution: $4,795.00
Prayers
Here Are Some Individuals That Especially Need Our Prayers This Week. Please Keep Them In Mind Every Time You Pray.
New Prayer Requests:
The Presley & White Family
Michael Warner
Jerry Mayes
Adam Ripperdan
Robert Widener
Charlotte Reynold
Bruce & Helen Hall
Dorothy Lyons
Ongoing Prayers For: Alyson Woodyard; Jackie Hensley; David Gaddie; Robert Roach (Father); Emmie Forrest; The Drake Family; Pat Jones; Nanette Conway; Brenda Stone; Ashli Mayes; Bob Dabney; Ezra Caldwell; Ernie & Judy Casey; Jackye Stockton; Jim & Valerie Clark; Lee Isleman; Jim Norrick; Phil & Suzanne Wilkins; Joue Manglicmot; Betty Blanton; Cora Owens; Dylan Smith; Geneva Hammons; Cathy Steele; Janis Friend; Tammy Radcliff; Jeannie LeBeau; Sonia Roach; Kim Tillett; Carl Stoner; Melissa Farmer; Robin Ibershoff; Charlene Ramsey; Inez Chatham; Jessie Tropoulos; Janice Coffelt; Polly Deaton; Janice Gregory; Penny Harland; Alyssa Deaton.
Upcoming Events
The Upcoming Events That You Need To Make Space On Your Calendar For.
May 3 | Great Day In May
We are excited to begin sharing information about our upcoming Great Day in May (GDIM26) and encourage everyone to mark their calendars and begin inviting others to join us for this special occasion.
As a congregation, we have set a financial goal of $20,000 and an attendance goal of 225 for this year’s Great Day in May. We ask for your prayers, participation, and support as we work together to reach these goals.
This year, the contribution collected on GDIM26 will be divided to support two important efforts. Half of the offering will benefit the William Joseph Crisis Nursery, which provides emergency shelter and compassionate care for children ages 0–5 during family crisis situations, including those involving domestic violence. The remaining half will be directed toward capital improvements for our church building, helping address needs such as new carpet, sealing and striping the parking lot, and pressure washing the building.
Please begin spreading the word, inviting friends and family, and prayerfully considering how you can contribute to making this Great Day in May a meaningful and impactful success.
May 10 | Guest Speaker
We’re excited to welcome Tracy Waldridge as our guest speaker on Sunday, May 10. We encourage everyone to be present and support Tracy as he shares with us!
Jun 6 | Men’s Bible Class & Breakfast
The Men's Bible Study & Breakfast takes place on the first Saturday of each month at the church building, downstairs in the fellowship hall. We’ll meet on Saturday, June 6 at 8:00 AM.
Jun 7-10 | VBS26: “Developing Faith Warriors”
Join us for an exciting week of Vacation Bible School, Sunday, June 7 - Wednesday, June 10 from 6:30–8:00 PM!
This year’s theme is “Developing Faith Warriors,” centered on the life of Moses. Our main focus is helping kids grow more confident in their faith - learning that God can use them, even when they don’t feel qualified.
Each night will highlight a powerful truth:
Night 1 - “God Chooses Me”
Through the story of the Burning Bush, kids will learn how God chose Moses - even when he felt unqualified.
Night 2 - “God Equips Me”
As we explore Pharaoh and the Ten Plagues, kids will see how God equipped Moses to carry out His plan.
Night 3 - “God Uses Me”
With the Parting of the Red Sea, kids will discover how God used Moses to bless others and lead His people to freedom.
On the final night, we will also have a free meal for everyone - so don’t miss it!
Parents must register their children in advance. Registration is available on our website.
We can’t wait for your kids to join us for this fun, meaningful, and faith-building experience!
Get Involved
There Are A Lot Of Ways You Can Get Involved & Do The Work Of God In Our Community!
Limited-Time Opportunities:
GDIM Potluck Meal
We’re expecting a great turnout this Sunday for our potluck meal! Because attendance will be higher than usual, we kindly ask that, if possible, you increase the amount and/or number of dishes you typically bring. Thank you for helping make sure there’s plenty for everyone—we’re looking forward to a wonderful time together!
Food Pantry Donations
For the month of May, the food pantry is collecting the following items:
Canned Chicken
Canned Tuna
WES Backpack Program
Holly Hill will be packing backpacks each week during the month of May. This is a great opportunity to serve and support those in need in our community. If you are able to help by donating items, your generosity is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, please contact Steve & Jenny Jones. The immediate needs are listed below.
Capri Sun or Kool-Aid Pouches
Rice Krispies Treats
Individual Cookie Packs
Vienna Sausages
Microwave Mac-n-Cheese Cups
Individual Serving/Easy Open Veggie Packs
Individual Fruit Cups
Jello Cups
Pudding Cups
Individual Applesauce Cups
Microwave Popcorn Packs
Cans of Spaghetti O’s w/ Meat
Shelf Sustainable Milk
Long-Term Opportunities:
Mission Ministry
Check out the Kingdom work being done by the congregation we support in Güines, Cuba! Follow the link below to read the Mission Report for January & February: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Cr5qsr4uvgKP7Xg4d58YTSiffCur-eEh/view?usp=drive_link
Women’s Ministry
Check out the Kingdom work being performed by the ladies of Holly Hill! Read the Q4 Report for October through December: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dGzjMXATX2ND9wKpFv7B21Jeeay5sX8D/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=117830364706998726684&rtpof=true&sd=true
Tech Team Support
The Holly Hill Tech Team is in need of additional help! We are looking for a few more volunteers who would be willing to be trained to assist with setting up livestreams and audio equipment. This is a fairly simple task, and you will receive thorough training before ever serving on your own. If you are interested in helping, please see David Jones, Brad Gregory, or Brad Proctor for more information.
Meal Train & Potluck Ministry
If you’d like to help a family in need of a meal or sign up to bring a dish to a potluck, please contact Robin Mayes.
Youth Ministry
Holly Hill is beginning a search for a Children and Youth Minister. The Evangelistic Committee (Scott Trent, David Jones, Tom Owens, Jeff Jones, or Robert Roach) need your suggestions and input. Please pray for this position and for our congregation and for the search committee that will be formed in the coming days.
Children’s Ministry
We’re looking for heroes within our congregation to step up and serve in our Children’s Bible Class ministry! Whether you’re interested in teaching or simply helping out, this is a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting impact at Holly Hill. If you feel called to be part of this important work, please speak with Mike Mayes, Scott Trent, or Robert Roach. We’d love to have you join the team!
Greeting Card Ministry
Every Sunday there are cards spread out on a table in the auditorium, right in front of the nursery window, which will be sent out to various church members and guests who need encouragement. You can help serve and encourage by making sure to sign these cards each week. If you know someone who would benefit from receiving a card from the church, please provide the name and address to Joyce Best. We will have “Get Well” cards, “Thinking of You” cards, “Praying For You” cards, and “Sympathy” cards.
Shriners Children’s Hospital
Donna White is collecting soda can tabs to donate to the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Please leave your donations in the lobby.
Subscribe To The Weekly Vine
The Weekly Vine is the newsletter of Holly Hill Church of Christ! If you would like to subscribe to The Weekly Vine, follow the link & sign up with your email address to receive the newsletter in your inbox.