West-Ark Newsletter, 11 March 2004

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Family Lines Newsletter, March 11, 2004
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"Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ." -- Galatians 6:1, 2

Those experiencing life among peoples in other nations are awed at the way they "see" American prosperity. In third world countries, the American lifestyle and home equipment is beyond comprehension--power, cooking stoves, refrigerators, air conditioners, hot water, etc. In many European nations (including Eastern Europe), people cannot comprehend the affordable food available to typical Americans. In numerous cultures only the extremely rich can afford to eat as the average American eats.

Thus a third world parent who loves his/her child dearly might beg a returning American, "Take my child to America with you!" Or, a well-to-do Eastern European recipient of "southern hospitality" here cannot respond "in kind" when the American visits.

Their common perspective: "Americans are incredibly happy because they have so many material things." Try to explain to people in unimaginable poverty or to people who never have things available we take for granted the reality of pain in America. It is impossible! They, as too many Americans, think happiness is found in possessions. They, as too many Americans, think possessions and lifestyle make unhappiness impossible. They, as too many Americans, conclude the key to happiness is material well being. They, as too many Americans, think, "If I had all I want, I would be happy." Often they, as we, want to fill empty lives with things. We know the emptiness, and we are confused because "things" do not fill it.

There is so much pain and hurt in America! What pain and hurt? The pain and hurt of failed relationships (marriages in misery; divorce; alienation between parents and children). The pain and hurt of mortality (ask any older person--aging is not a joyful experience, even if you get rid of arthritis and wear Depends!) The pain and hurt of sickness and death (being sick is no fun, and dying hurts many people beside the one who ceases to live physically). The pain and hurt of injustice (there are tons of ways to make victims). The pain and hurt of loneliness (feeling like no one cares is awful!). Lengthen the list: hopelessness, injuries, addictions, failed expectations, disappointments, etc.

Christians have a unique voice too rarely heard in our culture. We should be (must be!) the community who cares! We have a way to love and be there for each other because God teaches us how to love and be there. Want to see God's love and concern? Look at Jesus! Through Jesus, God reveals life's true focus. Being a Christian, being a part of the Christian community, does not remove all hurt and pain. It shows us how to care for those in hurt and pain. In that community, God Himself shows His people how to love and care. This is the courageous voice we must share with America--and beyond!

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**Help for Blended Families**
Brad Pistole & John Lankford recently purchased a new series by Dr. Kevin Leman entitled, "Bringing Peace and Harmony to the Blended Family."

Lessons include:
* Before All of Us Say "I Do"
* With These Kids I Thee Wed
* Blending Without Colliding
* Surviving the Birth Order Blender
* Same Language - Different Dialect
* Looking at Life Through Your Mate's Eyes

As we continue to experience an increase in the number of divorces that take place in our country and in our churches, we pray this information will help strengthen those of you who may be considering or who may be currently living in a Blended Family. You can find an audio copy of this series on the Parent's Information Table in the foyer/hallway between the main building and the elementary classrooms.

**VBS is July 19-22!**
If you want to help in VBS 2004 and missed last Sunday's meeting, please contact Dena Jenkins or Carolyn Harrell. There is plenty of work to be shared!

**Date Change for "Bridge Workers" Meeting**
The meeting of those working in the "under the bridge" ministry has been changed from Saturday to Friday, March 12. We will meet at 6:00 p.m. in the home of Jack and Glenda Lewis, 4117 N. 32nd Street in Fort Smith.

**LTC Practices**
* 1:30 Senior High Chorus
* 3:00 Junior High Chorus
Most LTC groups are observing a Spring Break. Shanna Davis' choral groups will practice Sunday, March 14th at the usual times.

**"Go and Tell" Campaign at Mulberry Church of Christ**
The Lord has been exceedingly gracious to the Mulberry congregation, and we want to share these blessings with our community (read Mark 6:19-20). March 13-19 members of the Mulberry Church of Christ, with assistance from a group of students from Harding University, will be conducting an evangelistic campaign in our community. This will be accompanied by nightly worship at the church building, March 15-19, Monday - Friday, at 7:00 p.m. We invite everyone to attend.

**New In the Library**
In keeping with the theme of the Gospel message during the month of March, you may want to check out the following excellent books.

1. What Was God Doing On the Cross?, by Michael Green.
2. The Resurrection Report, by William Proctor.
3. The Way of Salvation, by K.C. Moser.
4. The Holy Spirit Makes No Earthly Sense, by Terry Rush.
5. Improving Your Serve, by C. Swindoll. We have both book and audios of this material.

All of these are on display on the shelves in the Church Library. Use them, but don't forget to RETURN them as soon as possible. Let us know if you want to order any of these for your own library!

**"Peak of the Week"**
Wednesday, March 17
7:00 p.m. in the FLC.
"The Lord our Banner"
We will focus on God who brings victory. Read Exodus 17:15 and Psalm 4.

**Educators Needed**
Harding University is trying to identify possible adjunct teachers in this area. Educators are needed to teach a graduate class in Reading at satellite locations in Arkansas. There is a particular need for teachers in this area. Qualifications include:
1. Strong Christian commitment
2. Masters degree minimum
3. Classroom teaching experience
4. Willingness to teach college level classes for Harding University.
If you are interested, please contact Ken Stamatis at (501) 279-4239 or e-mail kstamatis@harding.edu .

**Profit & Loss YTD Comparison**
                        Feb. 4        Oct. 3 - Feb. 4
Income          $80,063.42     $401,085.28
Expenses        70,425.14      429,797.39   (Includes $35,000 given in 2003 for new vans purchased in 1/04.)__________________________________

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**In Our Prayers**
* Christy Hesslen is resting at home. Continue to pray for all the family. If you would like to send Christy a card, the address is: 3402 S. Pocola Blvd., Pocola, OK 74902.
* Sandy Berger requests prayers for her parents as her father, Russ McConnell prepares for back surgery on March 15. The McConnells lives in Maryland.
* Jo Harvey (mother of Jennifer Cohu -- see Family Update below)
* Maile McDonald and her family.
* Ryan Dockery (age 5) broke his collarbone Wednesday.

**Bereaved**
Our love and sympathy is extended to Joyce Dunavin in the recent death of her aunt, Lorene Weaver. Burial services were in Amarillo, TX.

Our love and sympathy is extended to the family and many friends of our beloved sister, Ada Ferguson, who passed from this life on Saturday, March 6th. Funeral services were Monday at Lewis Chapel. Memorial contributions may be directed to the West-Ark Youth Ministry.

Our love and sympathy is also extended to Bobby Harp in the death of his brother, Arthur Harp of Poteau. If you would like to send a card to Bobby, his address is Crawford County Rehab, 2010 Main Street, Van Buren, AR 72956.

**Prayers for Missions**
* Jerry Canfield is traveling and working in Ghana and Nigeria for 3 weeks.
* Jim & Deborah Wilson are leaving March 18th for a 2 ½ week trip to Ethiopia.

**Family Update**
Jennifer Cohu, formerly of West-Ark, has recently received news that her mother, Jo Harvey, has advanced colon cancer. Any encouragement you could offer for Jennifer or her parents (the Harveys) would be greatly appreciated! ~~Dena Jenkins

**Notes of Thanks**
Dear West-Ark Church,
We would like to express our appreciation for all the visits, cards, and prayers Robbin received while she was in the hospital. It's hard to express what a blessing everyone has been during her recovery. Thanks again for all of your love and support.
Pat & Robbin Murphy

**60+ Potluck**
Our next fellowship is Saturday, March 20th in the Annex at 6:00 p.m. Bill Brazelton will have a slide show of his trip to the South Pole.

**Bridal Shower**
A shower honoring Danyelle Lusby is planned for Sunday, March 28, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Annex. Danyelle is registered at Penneys, Dillards, and Linens and Things.

**Teachers Needed**
Please call Robin Pratt-Webber if you can fill any of these positions (783-8728). A teacher for Sunday mornings is also needed.
Wednesday Night
* teacher for age 3
* helper for age 2
* teacher for 1st grade

**Wedding Invitation**
Amanda Washburn and Daniel Edwards
Will be joined in marriage on Saturday, 13th day of March
At eleven-thirty in the morning, West-Ark Church of Christ.

The couple requests no gifts.
There will be a wishing well at the reception for any gift cards or donations you may like to give
to help the couple start their journey together as husband and wife.

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Sniff, sneeze, and rub your eyes ... ready or not, here comes Spring. It appears that most, if not all, of our area schools and colleges have chosen the same week for Spring Break this year and it's almost here.

Fort Smith and area schools will take a break from classes March 15th-20th. During that time, we will have some special events planned for our teens. I know that many of you will be traveling with your family, but if you're staying close by, we've got something just for you.

This Sunday, March 14th will be a day full of activities at West-Ark. We will begin with our Keeping the Promise class at 9:30 a.m. Come join us in the FLC as we take a look at "A Marriage That's Great for Your Kids." In my opinion, this is the best of the 8 lessons in this series. You won't want to miss it.

We will also meet at 6 p.m. for a special hour of worship in the youth room. Then we will go downstairs to the gym from 7 - 10 p.m. for food and fellowship. We will also be introducing some "new games" that will be sure to get your attention. Please bring a friend with you this Sunday and introduce them to your family here at West-Ark.

We are also making plans for a Senior High Camping Trip that will take place during the week of Spring Break. Be here Sunday to get more details. I pray that all of our families will make some special time for each other this week!

**Attendance and Contribution Count**
Sunday A. M.   690
Bible Classes 486
Sunday P.M.   294
Small Groups 13
Wednesday P.M. NC
Contribution   $16,149
Children's Home   $1247
The Way 45
Hispanic Attendance 59
Hispanic Contribution $127
Laotian Attendance 41
Laotian Contribution   $149

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