Freeman Heights Blog

The Ministry of Metro Family Pregnancy Center

larry.fhbc@gmail.com (Larry Venable) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:40:30 GMT

Weathering the Storm

Call me “PASTOR PROUD” of the ministry of our Pregnancy Center. At a time when the storm tore up the ROC they could have packed it in and given up. Instead they have adjusted moving temporarily to a location on our church campus. I am so proud of the work they do and the Spirit in which they do it. At a time when “life in the womb” is under attack they are making a distinct difference.

Across the country, there are more than 2,750 centers of hope for women and men who unexpectedly learn they have conceived a child. They are called pregnancy resource centers (PRCs) or Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs). These organizations have an approval rate higher than 97.4% from the mothers and fathers they serve. Their work saves lives and drives out fear.

How? PRCs provide unwavering support for moms and dads in need. Everyone who walks through their door is met with an open heart, a listening ear, and a plethora of resources — clothing, diapers, wipes, formula; education about pregnancy, parenting, and life skills; and medical services like pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and STD testing. Many PRCs also offer housing for mothers and their children, spiritual support, clothing, assistance for victims of abuse and human trafficking, and guidance in applying for Medicaid, SNAPS, and WIC.

In 2022, it is estimated that pregnancy resource centers donated $367,896,513 in goods and services to moms and dads in need. Some of the material needs they provided include 3,590,911 packs of diapers, 1,216,438 packs of wipes, 4,256,274 baby outfits, and 300,008 bottles of infant formula. But perhaps equally important, 409,409 clients attended parenting and prenatal programs at PRCs; 20,863 clients received after -abortion support, and 660,064 youth attended sexual risk avoidance education programs.

PRCs are places of hope — empowering moms and dads to receive the blessing of a child while feeling prepared to take on the future. That is under attack in the upcoming election. Personally, I cannot stand either candidate running for the office of president; therefore, I have to look to the platform on which they run. To me “Pro Life” is a must. I have had folks say to me, “There are other issues just as important as abortion rights – like the economy!” My response is, “You have got to be kidding! You mean the issues such as the national debt are as important as the murder of millions of babies in the wombs of misled moms and dads.

Of course, many will deny that abortion is murder, but that flies in the face of scientific evidence! Somewhere between 18 and 25 days in the womb the baby’s heart is beating. Brain waves have been recorded at 40 days. In week 5 of pregnancy the baby's neural tube forms. The neural tube becomes your baby's brain, spinal cord and backbone. In weeks 11 and 12 the baby squints, swallows and can make a fist. The baby is sensitive to heat, touch, light and noise. The baby has fingerprints and can kick, and he can suck his thumb. That doesn’t sound like a blob of tissue to me! The majority of abortions take place after the 11th or 12th w week which cannot be called anything but barbaric.

Tim Walz is the Governor of Minnesota and is the Democratic Vice President Candidate, and in that state they practice partial-birth abortion, which is killing the baby outside the womb. And you want to tell me there are other issues as important and crucial as the abortion issue. You are going to have to do better than what I have been hearing. This election coming up is hard to pick a personality, so pick one that takes a stand for life. And while you are doing that join with me in celebrating the ministry and the workers of the Metro Family Pregnancy Center!

Bro. Larry

40

larry.fhbc@gmail.com (Larry Venable) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 03:48:49 GMT

Thank You!

Forgive me for being a little sentimental this week, but 40 years ago on this Sunday

[Labor Day Weekend] I officially preached my first sermon as your Pastor. Here are a

few of the things I have learned and experienced over the fast pace 40 years:

1. Edda does not have the prophetic gift! We had been here a month or two and

she said to me, “I have a feeling we are not going to be here very long!” Both of

us are glad we have and she is really right – compared to eternity 40 years is a

drop in the bucket!

2. Leaving Fort Worth was not easy! We left some cherished friends to the west of

us! However, one of the joys of this church is not that I am pastor and you are

members, but I consider you to be my closest friends!

3. Pastor’s Kids – most of the time they act like any other kids but too many

churches hold them to a ridiculous standard of behavior. But this has been a

great church for my kids – and now grandkids. I don’t ever remember any of my

children complaining about going to church. Thank you so much for the example

and support you have given to this family!

4. And a BIG, BIG appreciation for letting me lead you to truly be a missional

church. At times I think of some of the things I have asked you to do and I am

totally amazed and grateful for you going on that journey with me! You are truly a

great church!

I don’t have time or space to share all that the past 40 years have meant to me. I have

given it my best effort to…

 …make much of Jesus!

 …have great confidence in the Gospel to change any person or situation!

 …faithfully preach the Word of God!

 …lead you to be missional and multi-ethnic!

 …to walk with you through sorrow, sickness, and difficulty!

God has yet to reveal when this ride will be over but until then know that pastoring you

has been one of the great privileges of my life! TO HIS GLORY!

larry

Dwell In Unity

mark.fhbc@gmail.com (Mark Booker) — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 00:16:39 GMT

Like Dew From Mt. Hermon

DWELL IN UNITY

Psalm 133

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!

2 It is like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the beard, even Aaron's

beard, coming down upon the edge of his robes. 3 It is like the dew of Hermon Coming

down upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing -life

forever.

Don’t overlook this! Look at this odd occurrence! Behold, how good and how pleasant it

is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" David is making the point that often we can

have so much in common, but rarely are we unified. We all were blood, body, brain and

behavior. We share together the earth, air, and all of God’s creation, rarely are we

unified! Rarely do you see people of all ethnicities, political parties, and the people of

God come together as a family without arguing or dividing up into separate camps;

choosing sides, forming cliques. In the political arena, both political parties share

together the same house, but they are divided. Even among Baptist we are not unified.

The descendant of Abraham, the Jews and the Palestinians, share the same blood,

occupy the same land at the same time, and yet, they cannot dwell together in unity. It

would be helpful if we would look at this passage. Because even though it is odd, yet

unity can occur.

David got excited when unity finally occurred in his life! David is trying to tell us in verse

2 that the occurrence is odd but yet possible. The priest was not anointed with oil every

day. Odd yet overwhelming by the way it kept running down! The precious ointment

kept running down the beard of Aaron to the skirts of his garments!

In verse 3 David is reminding us that the dew of Hermon is an ordinary occurrence on

the mountain. Every morning some type of moisture was found on the head of the

mountain. Eventually the dew made it to the valley. When we submit ourselves to God

and love like He loved us, unity is possible!The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Bro. Mark Booker

SMALL is big!

larry.fhbc@gmail.com (Larry Venable) — Mon, 15 May 2023 19:07:00 GMT

Jesus is Lord over smALL!

Over and over again I hear people say things like “THINK BIG”, or “DREAM BIG”! Phrases like that have been attached to faith in God or God’s work! The thinking is that God is a big God and He wants to do big things with us. The problem is the assumption that if you do not see or experience
“big” results in ministry, you must have “small” faith. There is no doubt God is a big God who at times does really big things. The parting of the Red Sea, the falling walls of Jericho, and fire from heaven consuming Elijah’s sacrifice come to mind. However, you cannot miss how God values small things. Jesus stood by the receptacles in the Temple and watched people putting in their impressive amounts of money. Then a widow came by and put in two copper coins worth about a penny! Not much! A small thing! No one noticed – except Jesus! He said she gave more than anyone else because she gave all she had! No one really knows what a small thing can become in the hands of a big God. I’m sure when the little boy left home that morning with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish he had no idea that Jesus would use those to feed over 5,000 people. I guess what I’m saying is don’t think big and don’t think small. Simply think faithful to God and let Him do what He is going to do. Don’t discount your gifts, talents, or anything else. Let’s just serve Him and then we can be amazed when we get to heaven and see what He did with what we offered Him – big or SMALL!

Bro. Larry

It's Seasoning Time!

mark.fhbc@gmail.com (Mark Booker) — Fri, 05 May 2023 03:08:24 GMT

You Are the Salt of the Earth

The weather is getting warmer which means it is getting close to BBQ- barbeque time! It is time to fire up the grill! What I have noticed about Freeman Heights is everyone that cooks prepares the food with the upmost care and time to ensure that the finished product is T&T (tender and tasty). Hours of preparation goes into marinating and seasoning the meat to ensure it is fit for the grill. By now I am sure some of you are asking what does this have to do with church. I am glad that you asked. The Lord is telling us that it’s seasoning time! Matthew 5:13 states, "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.”

A quick glance down memory lane with our spiritual telescope will reveal that man has increased in scientific, medical, and technological knowledge. But we see a steep decline in church attendance and immoral behavior permeates our culture. It is time for the salt to start purifying and preserving a world gone out of control.

Salt was such a valuable commodity in ancient times that it was often traded ounce for ounce like other precious commodities. Roman soldiers were paid in salt. If a Roman soldier didn’t do a good job, he would not get all of his salt. That’s where we get the phrase that so-and-so is not worth his salt.

God has paid a great price, Jesus shed His blood, died on a cross, got up from the grave so that men and women, boys and girls, could be saved. Be the salt, go tell the story. He will purify and preserve!

Bro. Mark Booker

What Should We Do After Easter?

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 18:36:13 GMT

Go and Tell... He is the Risen Savior!

Easter is always an exciting time for Christians as we celebrate the resurrection of

Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior! What can we do now that Easter is over? Peter and

John give us an example in the fourth chapter of Acts. Pentecost had come and the

people were filled with the Holy Spirit. A great revival takes place and 5,000 were

saved. Peter and John are put on trial by the rulers, elders, scribes, Annas the high

priest and Caiaphas for preaching Jesus Christ and healing a lame man.

When they were put on trial Peter speaks with confidence and the elite religious leaders

are amazed at the confidence and power Peter and John possessed. These two

ordinary men had not been enrolled in the finest schools or trained by the leading rabbis

of that time. Although they had not been formally trained-they spent time with Jesus.

God uses ordinary people.

“Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were

uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as

having been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13

Why does God use ordinary people?

He is sovereign and may use whoever He pleases
Ordinary people are used so no man could rightfully boast

B ut god has chosen the foolish things of the world to

shame the wise, and god has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the

things which are strong, and the base things of the world and the despised god

has chosen, the things that are not, so that he may nullify the things that are, so

that no man may boast before God. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29

How do ordinary people do great works?

By the power of God
By the presence of God
By the protection of God

WHAT SHOULD WE DO AFTER EASTER?

SPEND TIME WITH JESUS AND GO TELL THE WORLD HE IS THE RISEN SAVIOR!!

Bro. Mark Booker

It's Not About Dirty Feet

marty.fhbc@gmail.com (Marty Earls) — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:04:47 GMT

Slaves Are Not Greater Than Their Master

In the book of John chapter 13, prior to their final meal together, Jesus washes the feet of the twelve.

' After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. John 13:12-15 (NLT)

Jesus shocked them by going against cultural standards and norms as it relates to class and social hierarchy. Lowering himself in such a way that it would be considered scandalous at that time. This is much like the imagery we see in Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, when the father disregarded his dignity and ran to meet his estranged son returning home.

Jesus, whom the disciples now knew to be not just teacher, but Lord, gave the Master Class on humility and serving. An example that we also as Jesus' followers, should strive to do.

Then in the very next verse, verse 16 of John 13, Jesus goes on to say this:

I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. ' John 13:16 (NLT)

These words elevate his act of love and self-deprecation from a beautiful example, to an outright admonition. It's as if Jesus is saying, "When you start getting full of yourself, remember that I emptied myself. You are not above me". This begs a question that each of us must answer for ourselves. If God's own Son would debase himself to make you fit for fellowship with him, is there anything he could ask you to do that would be beneath your dignity?

We see this leadership principle, that today might be phrased in this way; "I would not ask you to do anything I would not do myself".

Jesus knew what the next 24 hours held. He knew the agony that awaited him. He would be arrested, falsely accused, beaten, mocked, and humiliated. Pilate would have him tortured and crucified. Certainly even worse was the spiritual toll that he would bear by taking on the sins of the world, so that he could quench God's wrath on our behalf. Much like the washing of the disciples' feet, let this be a reminder that when we suffer loss, humiliation, persecution or even death, for the sake of fidelity to Christ, that Jesus would not ask us to do anything that he hasn't already done. We are not greater than Jesus. This is why Peter writes:

'Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. '1 Peter 4:12-13

As we approach the celebration of His resurrection, let us first let our hearts humbly consider the the cost of His crucifixion and the cost that may be asked of the Christ-follower.

When Jesus said that the messenger is not more important than the one who sends the message, he wasn't talking about dirty feet.

Bro. Marty Earls

Freeman Heights Baptist Church invites you to join us for our Good Friday Service Friday April 7, 2023 at 7:00 pm.

Keep It Simple Saints

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 17:59:05 GMT

A Simple Invitation

IT IS THAT SIMPLE, the overwhelming number one reason people who are unchurched will go to church is because someone “ INVITES ” them. There is not even a close second. Many of you are members of this church today because someone invited you. IT IS THAT SIMPLE!

So, that raises the question: If most people will come if they are invited, and if it is that simple, why are more of us not inviting people to come worship with us? To invite someone takes no special talent or skills. You don’t have to have a theological degree or even a lot of Biblical knowledge. You don’t have to have a certain personality type and you don’t even have to say a whole lot! In most cases a couple of sentences will do or handing to the invitee a card we provide for you. IT IS THAT SIMPLE!

What better opportunity than Easter Sunday to invite someone to come and worship with us. People, as a whole are, highly receptive during this season. We are even providing the invitation through an Easter Basket with some candy, gadgets, and an invitation. Sign up with how many baskets you want in your L.I.F.E. class, at the information center, or online . Only God knows the impact one invitation can have but He will use every invitation to penetrate hearts. IT IS THAT SIMPLE!

Bro. Larry

A Track Record of Serving

marty.fhbc@gmail.com (Marty Earls) — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 22:47:39 GMT

Serving is the Pathway to Growing

I love my Freeman Heights Family. Melinda and I raised our 3 boys at FHBC and so many of our dearest friendships were built at this church. This is where I learned so much from Bro. Larry about serving God by serving others. It was when I took on responsibility to serve in lay-ministry that I truly began to grow and mature in Christ. When I became responsible for teaching children, I knew I needed to study, plan my lesson, and show up every Sunday. When I was on the praise team, I knew I truly needed to not just sing, but worship no matter how my week had gone. Taking time from work to go with the youth to camp, or go on mission trips, helped me understand that the work of serving others led to joy, and purpose in serving God. It is because I was trusted with responsibility for small things that I learned that I could do bigger things for God. The transition from attending to serving has made all of the difference in my spiritual growth.

Freeman Heights has a rich history of developing servant leaders, people who love one another and serve their community for Christ. Some have moved on to other communities where they serve God in various positions or volunteer work. Many are still here serving faithfully year after year making an impact on the lives of those they serve, and the community in which they live. Many who have served selflessly for decades have "moved on up" to receive their reward of being face to face with their sweet savior, and we await the Great Freeman Reunion as God's people gather on that great Day of the Lord. Believers around the world and throughout time are connected, as the Holy Spirit indwells and empowers them to be the Body of Christ, in a world that seems to be descending into Godlessness and hopelessness. The "church global" is needed now more than ever to "image forth" our savior and His love. The "church local" is where the work is done, and lives are transformed. In the midst of darkness and uncertainty, the light of Christ must shine through you and me. It does not matter whether you are preaching or plunging, everything we do for Jesus makes an eternal difference.

No matter how fresh or seasoned you are in Christ, no matter what your abilities are, there is a place for you to serve God at Freeman Heights Baptist Church. If you're waiting for God to call you to serve, he already has;
"For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do." ~ Hebrews 6:10 (NLT)

If you are not sure where or how you can serve, I can help. In my role at FHBC, I am keenly aware of opportunities for you to serve regardless of your situation or experience. The list is too long to share in this post, and not all opportunities are for everyone. Some opportunities like helping in children's or youth ministry, may require a background check and simple training. Other opportunities may simply require that you show up and serve, like the food pantry. No matter what the opportunity is, here is the job description:

'Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. ~ Philippians 2:3-5 (NLT)

Please direct all inquiries to marty.fhbc@gmail.com

We must battle against the consumer mentality that is rampant in church culture today. The difference between going to church, and being the church is the same as the difference in spectating from the stands, to being on the field of play. We are blessed at Freeman. We have a long list of those who work behind the scenes, not seeking attention or glory for themselves. They epitomize Philippians 2. But church growth is not seasonal, it's generational. I thank God when I see with my eyes the legacy of service, being lived out at Freeman Heights, every time we gather to worship and serve together.

For His Glory,

Bro. Marty

Who Has Authority In Your Life?

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 00:51:07 GMT

Do You Know Who I Am?

When Christian Herter was governor of Massachusetts, he was running hard for a second term in office. One day, after a busy morning chasing votes (and no lunch) he arrived at a church barbecue. It was late afternoon and Herter was famished. As Herter moved down the serving line, he held out his plate to the woman serving chicken. She put a piece on his plate and turned to the next person in line.

"Excuse me", Governor Herter said, "Do you mind if I have another piece of chicken?". "Sorry", the woman told him. "I'm supposed to give one piece of chicken to each person". "I'm starved" the governor said. "Sorry" the woman said again. "Only one to a customer.". Governor Herter was a modest and unassuming man, but he decided that this time he would throw a little weight around. "Do you know who I am?" he said. "I am the governor of this state.".

"Do you know who I am?"; the woman said. "I'm the lady in charge of the chicken. Move along, mister.".

What is authority? Authority is the right and the power to act. At some point in your life you have challenged/rebelled against the authority that was placed over you. Example: Speeding, disobeying parents, not following directions in the classroom, not obeying work rules….

Who has authority in your life?

We all grow up and live under authority. That authority could be parents, teachers, police, employer and politicians. It is my prayer that everyone would come to know that Jesus Christ has all authority over us and all of creation!

In the Matthew 21:23 the religious leaders of that day questioned Jesus’ authority. “When He entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to Him while He was teaching, and said, "By what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?".

Why did they question His authority? We are born with a desire to be selfish. We all authority, we want to be the boss of our lives.

It is apparent that Jesus has power and authority.

He healed the sick, He cast out demons, He raised people from the dead, He taught and preached with clarity and authority. Most importantly, He shed His bloold on the cross, died and was resurrected on the 3 rd day!! He paid for our sins. The Bible proclaims in 1 Corinthians 6:20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. The religious leaders of that day knew the answer, but refused to acknowledge Jesus is Lord and has all authority.

The question for each one of us:

Who has authority in your life?

Bro. Mark

It's That Time Again...

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 20:57:28 GMT

Confessions of a Former Commerciaholic

I am a “recovered” and “rehabbed” commerciaholic!

Year after year I have religiously watched Super Bowl Commercials not wanting to miss a one. They entertained me and they enticed me but I finally saw the light!

They offer things to me that I don’t need, and they make me laugh at things that are ungodly and immoral, and they glorify things that no Christ-follower should honor!

I know! I know! To many of you this makes me sound like an “old codger” or an “old fuddy duddy” but so be it! The paradox is that I don’t care if Christians think I am legalistic and narrow but I do care that non-Christians see in me a life different and more meaningful than the life they live! TRUTH: much of Christianity on display in Western Culture looks no different than a Christ-less culture and really offers nothing different! The result is no one is beating down our door asking about and wanting the life we have in Jesus – and that is tragic! And don’t pull the grace card on me! I am wondrously saved by grace and I cannot do anything to put God in my debt! I am saved by grace, sustained by grace, and I serve by grace! But grace is not a license God issues us to do anything we want to do!

Paul wrote to Titus: “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age…” Titus 2:11-12(NIV)

Here’s a couple of questions I think are worth asking: “If your non-Christian family members and friends pursued what they see you pursuing what would they be going after? If your non-Christian family members and friends had the same priority you had what would matter to them? If your non-Christian family members and friends followed who or what you followed would they be going with Jesus or away from Jesus?” For me, I want to look at the world and what it offers and not see anything I want or need!

Of course Jesus said it best: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (NASB)

Paraphrased: “Make Me the priority of your life and I will take care of everything else!”

Bro. Larry

The Value of One

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:51:51 GMT

The Starfish Story

One of my favorite stories is the “Starfish” story. It goes like this:

One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy

picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching

the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing

starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I

don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize

there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t

make a difference!” After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up

another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man,

he said…” I made a difference for that one.”

I like that story because it emphasizes the importance and the value of

“ONE”! Too many times we get caught up in the success of some event or

ministry by how many came or how many decisions were made. But that is

not Kingdom of God mathematics.

Jesus also told two stories that emphasized the importance and value of

“ONE”. A Shepherd has a hundred sheep and one strays. He leaves the

ninety-nine and goes after the one that is lost. A woman has ten coins but

one is missing. She turns the house upside down until she finds it.

The finding of the “ONE” in both stories brought rejoicing. We don’t too

excited over “ONE” but “ONE” being found sends all of heaven into a time

of rejoicing. And I am so glad I was “ONE” that was found.

You may be just one but we promise we will see the value and importance

of “YOU” and we will try our best to treat you that way! You may be just

“ONE” but we are looking for you!

Bro. Larry

Make Room for Jesus

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

5 Ways You Can Make Room for Jesus This Year

As we rapidly approach another Christmas ensure to make room for Jesus. We are busy putting up Christmas lights, buying presents, planning dinner, and looking forward to fellowship with family and friends. The aforementioned items are not bad, but we must, “Make Room for Jesus”. Luke 2:7 states, “And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Imagine turning down the opportunity of God’s son being born at your inn. But this man isn’t the only one who has missed the opportunity of Christmas, because for so many, there is still no room.

Listed below are just a few things we can do during this season to make room for Jesus.

Dedicate time to talk with family about the reason for the season
Read and discuss Luke 2 with neighbors and those that may not know Jesus
Volunteer at a shelter or other venue to serve others
Give gifts that point to Jesus
Bring a friend or neighbor to church or a church activity

Enjoy this time of year, but remember to “Make Room for Jesus”.

Mark A. Booker

Christmas Gifts

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:39:41 GMT

Let's Remember the Reason for the Season

What a privilege we have to remember what our God has given us and done for us! Last Sunday we started the Advent Season plus we celebrated New Testament Baptism. And recently we participated in the Lord’s Supper. Those are events designed to remind us of…

…the GIFT of God’s Son
…the GIFT of Forgiveness of Sin
…the GIFT of Eternal Life!

With GIFTS like that you would not think we need to be reminded to be grateful and committed to our Lord. But we do need reminding. We get too busy! We get wrapped up in our problems! We take for granted His grace and mercy and get bored with the things of God! We neglect the Spiritual disciplines that keep our relationship with Jesus fresh and vibrant!

Before long we find ourselves wandering in the wilderness of forgetfulness and ingratitude! So, I encourage you to participate in all the worship events, and service opportunities you can this season. They are designed to remind you of what a wonderful God who has you!

Bro. Larry

Christ Is King

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 00:00:10 GMT

A Framework for Hope

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” Colossians 1:15-20 (NASB)

I love celebrating Christmas and Thanksgiving, but if you are anything like me, the early onslaught of holiday cheer is already starting to grate on your nerves. Some of you may already be dreading the anxiety, loneliness and even grief that the holidays can sometimes bring. Others may be desperate for a season of cheer to help dwell on happier things. Whatever describes you, I invite you to consider the comfort and joy that the Christian traditions of Christ the King Sunday and Advent have to offer us.

Christ the King Sunday marks the end of the liturgical Church calendar and is immediately followed by the season of Advent which leads us into Christmas. On Christ the King Sunday, Christian communities gather to declare and remember that God is sovereign and Christ is our Savior King. God is in control, in Christ God is reconciling us to Himself. In the midst of all the heartache and brokenness in our immediate circumstances, He is working His purposes and establishing His kingdom in and through us by redeeming, restoring and making all things new. There is no stopping this kingdom that goes beyond our earthly political limitations. This is a kingdom of hearts and souls from every nation, tribe, and tongue. Victory over sin and death is won and God is on the move in the hearts of His people. On Christ the King Sunday we declare that God’s kingdom already IS as much as it is still to come, with a longing which lies at the heartbeat of the season of Advent. Advent is the season of waiting for Messiah. In this season, we do not ignore the broken world around us, put on a smile and pretend all is well. No, we tell the truth about our griefs and name our wrongs, acknowledging our world is broken and in need of a Savior King. Then, with joy defiant, we declare to the darkness:

“The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. You shall multiply the nation, You shall increase their gladness; they will be glad in Your presence as with the gladness of harvest… For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:2-3, 6-7 (NASB)

We both grieve that things are not what they should be AND rejoice that God has and is coming to heal it all. Holding that grief and joy together is after all what it means to HOPE.

This year Christ the King Sunday falls on November 20th where I hope, together, we can celebrate and remember Christ the King as we sing:

“God our fortress and our strength, the rock on which we can depend.

Matchless in His majesty, power and authority.

Unshaken by the schemes of man, never changing Great I Am.

Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, He is faithful through it all

Crown Him King forever! Crown Him King forever! Crown Him King forevermore!”

Peter Jones, Aaron Keyes “God the Uncreated One”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JNeGi2egsk

This Thanksgiving and through the following Advent, my prayer for you is that you may be “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:11-14 (NASB)

Angela Rector

Christians and Politics

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 23:31:26 GMT

He Reigns!

Christians and Politics

As we quickly approach a midterm election, television, radio, and social media are full of ads. Unfortunately, politics in America has truly become a battleground of hateful speech by both parties with the result of dividing in lieu of unifying the country. What should a Christian do in times like these?

God is Sovereign and In Control

As always, a Christian should be led by God and not a political party. Our rule and guide is the Bible. Psalm 103:19 states, “ The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all.” Throughout the Old and New Testament God places people in the political realm. God placed Joseph into a position of authority in Egypt (Genesis 41:38-49). He placed Ester as queen in Persia (Book of Ester). John the Baptist was used by God to call out the sin of Herod Antipas, even though it would result in the imprisonment and later death of John the Baptist. The Apostle Paul was placed in prison on multiple occasions for declaring that Jesus is King (Acts 17).

Unfortunately, it appears that our politics and government are drifting away from God. Throughout history the most powerful empires have fallen. The Egyptian, Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Greek, and Roman empires failed to recognize there is only one sovereign ruler. Regardless of how far our country strays from God- Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior will return to establish an eternal kingdom. Revelation 19:15-16, “ From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the winepress of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." As Christians we must be involved in the political process, but always remember it is about His agenda not ours.

Christian Involvement

Christians should participate in the political process by voting for the person that best represents God’s agenda. Whether it is a Democrat, Independent, or Republican the kingdom agenda should govern.

Christians should also speak, act, and interact with others in a spirit of love as stated in 1 John 4:7-8, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

Christians should pray for our elected officials that they are led by God and not political agendas.

Finally, and most important, Christians should be continuously spreading the gospel message that Jesus Christ died on the cross for all who would follow Him!

Brother Mark Booker

Just Sayin' Thanks

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 22:47:30 GMT

Tis' the Season to Give Thanks

I like the word “Thanksgiving”! It is a good word, even a fun word. You can flip-flop it [Giving Thanks] and it says and means the same thing! It is a good word because when you use it, and you give thanks, it is impossible to be cynical, hateful, or negative at the same time. So, as we enter this “Giving Thanks” season I am going to choose to have fun by choosing to give thanks to our Lord for His many and multitudinous blessings! Talk about a fun word, how about “multitudinous”?

One thing I am positively giving thanks for is you! I am convinced this is a great church and you have demonstrated that by your faithfulness. You have been faithful…

…in attending
…in giving
…in serving
…to our vision of multi-ethic and multi-cultural ministry
…to care for one another.

I am privileged to pastor a church of Godly servants! It has been a lot of “fun” for me! There is literally a “Fun” word! I appreciate you! Keep your hand to the plow and lets not look back!

Bro. Larry

Can You Smell What the ROC is Cooking?

marty.fhbc@gmail.com (Marty Earls) — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 06:20:45 GMT

The ROC is Turning 30!

If you have not been to the ROC lately, you haven't been to the ROC.

Metro Family Ministries turns 30 years old this year! Just like you and me, it has gone through a lot of changes over the years, but through every one of those years it has never stopped loving and serving the community that surrounds it. This has been possible because of the faithful work of the partners, churches, ministries, and volunteers, that over those 30 years, have served Jesus by loving the people in need, in our own backyard.

On September 30th we will be coming together for the 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Fundraiser. As we share a delicious dinner, filled with fun surprises, we will look back over what God has done the last 30 years, and look forward to what he can do through us in the coming years.

Whatever your current level of involvement is in the outreach to the Garland area, you are invited to come and celebrate with us. Please secure your seat for dinner with a donation of $25. You or your organization can also choose to sponsor an entire table for up to 8 guests by clicking on this LINK. If for any reason you are unable to attend but would like to celebrate this milestone with us, you can make a tax-deductible donation of any amount HERE

ROC 30th Anniversary Dinner & Fundraiser

Date and time:
Fri, September 30, 2022
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM CDT

Location:
First United Methodist Church, Garland
801 West Avenue B
Garland, TX 75040

In the coming weeks Pastors Points will spotlight some of the ministries and people of the ROC. Over the next three months The ROC will host it's three biggest outreach events:

Fall Carnival on October 29th 2-4 PM
Thanksgiving @ the ROC (details to come)
Christmas @ the ROC (details to come)

I ask that you would pray and consider volunteering your time, serving Jesus, by loving people at the ROC. Please like and share this post so that we can give this call to action far and wide. For more information about opportunities to serve at the ROC please contact us at mfmroc@gmail.com

For His Glory,

Bro. Marty

marty.fhbc@gmail.com

Who Does God Use?

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 22:20:46 GMT

God Uses You

I ran across this simple but decisive verse:

God uses
what you have
to fill a need which
you never could have filled.

God uses
where you are
to take you where
you never could have gone.

God uses
what you can do
to accomplish what
you never could have done.

God uses
who you are
to let you become who
you never could have been.

The truth is God CAN if you WILL! The only thing that hinders God’s work in this world is our refusal to be available to Him and His Will! No doubt it is easier to read about God, or to discuss theology, or to attend Bible Studies, than it is to let God do with us whatever He desires to do with us! Very few of us are going to go to Siberia as missionaries or lead the “Hell’s Angels” in a Bible Study. But God wants to do far more with us than we allow Him to do! Make yourself totally and completely available to God and find out how knowing and strategic He will be in using you for His Glory.

Bro. Larry

ProLife ProLove

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 15:58:02 GMT

Let's Put Our Ministry Where Our Mouth Is!

The Supreme Court overturning “Roe vs. Wade” is certainly good

news worth celebrating.

How a nation supposedly as “great” as America could ever

sanction such a barbaric practice astounds me! Evidence reveals

how the baby in the womb experiences tremendous pain

throughout the abortion.

How a people supposedly as smart as Americans could ever

hide behind terminology such as “fetus” instead of “baby” is

appalling and ridiculous! Is that just personal opinion? No sir and

No ma’am! From the moment of conception, the fetus is human.

He or she is distinguishable from all other living organisms,

possessing all forty-six human chromosomes developing into a

human being.

Nothing will be added during pregnancy except for the growth and

development of what exists

from the moment the child is conceived.

Unfortunately, the right to an abortion is always going to be a

point of shame in our culture, and taint our image as a nation. But

it is my conviction that our God can redeem any situation and I

also believe He wants His people to be a part of that redemptive

process. So, how do we do just that?

1. Be Cautious and Careful With Our Rhetoric!

I do believe we need to speak up and speak out for those

who cannot speak for themselves.

Proverbs 31:8-9 says: “Open your mouth for the mute, For

the rights of all the unfortunate.

9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, And defend the rights

of the afflicted and needy.”

But while we must speak up and speak out we must speak

truth in love and our speech must be seasoned with grace.

2. We Must Put Our Ministry Where Our Mouth Is!

Pro-life cannot just be anti-abortion. Those who go through

the trauma of an unplanned and unwanted pregnancy often

need help. We must be willing to walk with them through this

time and provide the help and encouragement they need.

Here is where our Pregnancy Center comes into play. They

counsel the expectant mother, help them through the

process, and provide for their needs in diapers, formula,

strollers, baby clothes, etc. It would be a tremendous

blessing for you to give your time and money to this ministry!

Let’s be pro-life not in a negative, worldly way but in a

positive Christ-like way!

Welcome To Our New Website

marty.fhbc@gmail.com (Marty Earls) — Wed, 25 May 2022 21:58:57 GMT

Meeting Our Community Online

Welcome to our new website!

I have been working long, and hard (meaning that it has taken a lot longer than it should have) to create an online gathering place where you can find information about who we are at Freeman Heights Baptist Church. It is a modern reality that most people looking for a church don't actually visit in person unltil they have looked around that church's website. Members on the other hand don't look at it more that a couple of times if there is no new content relative to current events and happenings. I will do my best to make freemanheights.org a place that you can find what you are looking for, especially if what you are looking for is a community of believers and seekers that want to grow in their relationship with Jesus, and serve God as a family. Just like us, this site is a work in progress, and will experience change, to best glorify God and reach our community. So let me give you a rundown.

On this site you can find all of the practical information of where to find us, a list of our worship service and bible study times, how to contact us, and what is happening now and in the near future. If not already, then very soon, you will be able to watch past sermons, sign up for events, as well as hear from our leadership about a range of topics.

The top menu is laid out to find information based on our Mission Statement of Reaching up, Reaching In, Reaching Down, and Reaching out .

So if you want to know more about our worship, and ways that we enourage expressing our love for God, or serving in our worship ministry, it will be found under the Reaching Up tab.

The Reaching In tab is where you will find information about the things Freeman Heights does to educate, strengthen and equip the people of Freeman Heights, such as LIFE Groups, training, and ministries that exist to equip believers to grow and serve.

Reaching Down will show information about ways that we meet the needs of those hurting in our community, like our Food Pantry, or Crisis Pregnancy Center.

If you are interested in what FHBC does to Reach Out to a lost world in need of Jesus with the Gospel, like prayer walking, or VBS, then look under the Reaching Out tab.

Ultimately we want you to Know, Grow, Serve, and Tell.

Know Christ as Lord and Savior, Grow in wisdom and knowledge, Serve Him by serving others, and Tell the world what Christ has done for you.

If you visit our website and don't find what you are looking for in the way of information about our church, please feel free to contact me at marty.fhbc@gmail.com and I will get back with you and update the website if that needs to happen.

For His Glory,

Bro. Marty