Good Soil
“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.
Good Soil
By: Elijah Bell
My wife, Katie, and I had a rough time with our flowers this spring. We started the seeds in little pots inside, and then they shot up quickly. But when we moved them outside, for more sun, the weather was still too unpredictable. The nights got cold, and we had to keep bringing the pots back inside. Because the conditions weren't quite right, since there was not enough consistent warmth or deep soil, the little plants eventually withered and died. It’s a good reminder that for things to grow and flourish, the conditions have to be just right.
This is the idea that Jesus talks about in the Gospel of Luke. He uses the story of a sower planting seeds to teach about God's Kingdom and how it grows in our lives. The seed is the good news of God's reign and rule in our hearts, but whether that seed takes root and grows depends entirely on the kind of "soil" it lands in.
This Sunday, July 19, we will explore this very idea from Luke chapter 8. Jesus describes four different types of soil: the hard path, the rocky ground, the thorny patch, and the good soil. We will look at what it means to be each of these and consider which one best describes our own hearts. Are we letting Satan snatch the Word away before it can sink in? Do we receive it with joy but fall away when things get tough? Or are our lives so full of worries and the pursuit of other things that God’s Kingdom gets choked out? We will also see what Jesus says it means to be the "good soil," a heart that hears God's Word, holds on to it, and produces fruit through perseverance.
We hope you will join us for this important message. Come and be with your church family this Sunday at 10:00 AM for Bible class and 11:00 AM for worship as we learn together how to cultivate hearts where God's Kingdom can grow.
News
This Section Is For Any Special Announcements That Are Not Upcoming Events Or Prayer Requests.
Mission Moment: Rwanda
This week Holly Hill invites you to continue reflecting on Robert's recent Mission Moment presentation about the incredible work taking place in Rwanda. These photos offer just a glimpse of how God is transforming lives through faithful Christians who are serving, teaching, encouraging, & investing in future generations.
From children confidently leading chapel services to opportunities for education, vocational training, agriculture, & microloans, each picture tells the story of people living the love of Christ in practical & meaningful ways. As the accompanying "Letter to Serge" reminds us, there's a tangible sense of God's peace - Shalom - where Heaven & Earth meet through lives devoted to His service.
Please take a moment to look through these pictures & give thanks for the work God is accomplishing in Rwanda. We encourage you to continue praying for the students, teachers, church leaders, families, & mission partners serving there each day!
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16 ESV)
Children’s Books Available In The Foyer
A table containing children's books will be available in the foyer for anyone interested. Families are invited to browse the selection and take any books that their children would enjoy. We hope these resources will be a blessing and encouragement to our young readers. Please feel free to help yourself.
Jul 19 | Worship Duty Roster
C2W: Mike Mayes
Songs: Sam Travis
Prayer: Tom Roach
Lord’s Supper: Ricky Drawbaugh Sr
Scripture: Matthew Woodyard
Jul 12 | Attendance & Contribution
Bible Class Attendance: N/A
Worship Attendance: N/A
Contribution: $5,244.00
Prayers
Here Are Some Individuals That Especially Need Our Prayers This Week. Please Keep Them In Mind Every Time You Pray.
New Prayer Requests:
Larry & Mary Mundt
Addison Darnell
Verlin Dossett
Dan Volpe
Heather Strickland
Teresa Cole
Gary Wilkins
Ongoing Prayers For: The Clark & Roberts Family; Winfred Perkins; Samantha Stone; Mike & Kimberly Mundt; Susan Kennon; Jerry Mayes; Helen Hall; Michael Warner; The Sudduth & Proctor Family; Robert Widener; Teresa Presley; The White Family; Adam Ripperdan; Alyson Woodyard; Dorothy Lyons; Charlotte Reynold; 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; Geneva Hammons; Cathy Steele; Janis Friend; Tammy Radcliff; Jeannie LeBeau; Sonia Roach; Kim Tillett; Carl Stoner; 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.
Jul 17 | Ladies Who Lunch
All ladies are invited to join us for our July Ladies Who Lunch gathering on Friday, July 17, at 11:15 AM at B&N Food Market (5945 Elburg Rd, Bagdad, KY 40003).
For anyone who is unfamiliar with the location or would prefer not to drive, a carpool will depart from the church parking lot at 10:45 AM.
We hope you will make plans to join us for a wonderful time of food, fellowship, and encouragement!
Jul 19 | Church Directory (M-R)
Hello church! We are doing a new picture directory! We have had so many new people join us recently that this is needed. We will be updating all pictures and information for all those who identify with Holly Hill and making it available via hardcopy and digital formats for church members only.
We will take pictures in scheduled groups directly following worship on Sundays starting July 5. If your last name begins with M-R, your scheduled date is Sunday, July 19.
Jul 20 | Ladies Retreat Planning Mtg.
There will be a Ladies Retreat planning meeting on Monday, July 20, at 6:30 PM downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.
It is very important that everyone attend, as we will be discussing and voting on several important items, including:
The retreat theme
Theme presentations (If you submitted a theme idea, please be prepared to give a brief description of your proposal)
Whether or not to purchase retreat T-shirts
Our traditional Saturday evening meal
Sign-up sheets for breakfast at the cabin
The current retreat cost is $50.00 per person, which does not include the cost of T-shirts or food.
We also still have a few spots available for anyone who was unable to sign up at our last meeting but would still like to attend.
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing everyone there!
Jul 26 | Church Directory Photos (S-Z)
Hello church! We are doing a new picture directory! We have had so many new people join us recently that this is needed. We will be updating all pictures and information for all those who identify with Holly Hill and making it available via hardcopy and digital formats for church members only.
We will take pictures in scheduled groups directly following worship on Sundays starting July 5. If your last name begins with S-Z, your scheduled date is Sunday, July 26.
Jul 26 | Singing At Morning Pointe
Holly Hill Church of Christ will be hosting two singing services in July at Morning Pointe Senior Living in Frankfort. The first service will be held on July 12 and the second on July 26, both beginning at 2:00 PM.
Everyone is invited to join us as we encourage and uplift the residents through a time of singing and fellowship. This is a wonderful opportunity to share joy, offer encouragement, and spend time with members of our community.
We hope you will make plans to attend and help us make these special afternoons meaningful for the residents of Morning Pointe!
Aug 1 | Men's Bible Study
The Men's Bible Study & Breakfast is a monthly event, held on the 1st Saturday of each month at 8:00 AM. This Bible study takes place at the church building, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.
Aug 7 | Relay For Life
Everyone is invited to participate in this year's Relay For Life on Friday, August 7, beginning at 5:00 PM at Capital City Airport.
Relay For Life is a meaningful event that brings our community together to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and support the ongoing fight against cancer through the work of the American Cancer Society.
If you would like to participate or have any questions, please see Scott Trent for additional details. We encourage everyone to consider being a part of this special evening.
Get Involved
There Are A Lot Of Ways You Can Get Involved & Do The Work Of God In Our Community!
Limited-Time Opportunities:
Food Pantry Donations
For the month of July, the food pantry is collecting the following items:
Mac-n-Cheese
Mayonnaise
WES Backpack Program
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
Mac-n-Cheese Microwavable Cups
Easy Open Veggie Packs (Individual Serving)
Fruit Cups
Jello Cups
Pudding Cups
Applesauce Cups
Microwave Popcorn Packs
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! We’re thankful for the opportunity to partner in sharing Christ’s love and advancing His Kingdom through this ministry.
Follow the link below to read the Mission Report for March & April and see how God is working through the efforts in Güines. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for this important mission work!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O4ATUq5X5MucfrDguD-6tKTO9tg7a347/view?usp=drivesdk
Women’s Ministry
The ladies of Holly Hill have been hard at work serving others, strengthening relationships, and advancing God's Kingdom. From acts of service and outreach opportunities to encouragement and fellowship, their impact continues to make a difference both within our congregation and throughout the community.
Take a few moments to read the Ladies Ministry Q1 Report (Jan–Mar) and discover the many ways God is working through the women of Holly Hill. Read the report at https://docs.google.com/document/d/16tVwRQK_s41CokQ6dNyI6j2GmuIlcqIX/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 currently 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. Whether you have prior experience or are completely new to the process, we would love for you to consider helping with this important ministry.
If you are interested or would like more information, please see David Jones, Brad Gregory, or Brad Proctor.
Meal Train & Potluck Ministry
The Holly Hill Meal Train & Potluck Ministry is available for those who would like to assist families in need by providing meals or contributing dishes for potluck gatherings. If you are interested in participating in this ministry, please contact Robin Mayes for additional information.
Youth Ministry
Holly Hill is beginning the process of searching for a Children and Youth Minister. The Evangelistic Committee — Scott Trent, David Jones, Tom Owens, Jeff Jones, and Robert Roach — would greatly appreciate your suggestions, recommendations, and input as we begin this important work.
Please keep this position, our congregation, and the search committee that will be formed in the coming days in your prayers. We ask for God’s guidance and wisdom throughout this process as we seek the right individual to serve and help lead our children and youth ministries.
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.
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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.