Mike Hoffman's blog
Sour Notes
When witnessing to a person, listening is of utmost importance. When you listen intensely, you show that you are interested and really care about that person's thoughts and ideas. If you hear a sour note, a statement that is contridictory or one that is based on feelings, question that person in a kind, respectful way to help them discover the discrepancy. - Pastor Mike
Bread
"I am the bread of life." - John 6:48. When Jesus said this he meant that we need to accept Christ into our lives and become united with him. United by believing in his sacrifice on the cross for us and his resurrection, devoting ourselves to living as he requires, depending on his teaching for guidance, and trusting in the Holy Spirit for power. - Pastor Mike
Earth
Sunday is Earth Day. As Christians, we are reminded of our responsibility to care for all of God's creation. Psalm 8:6 says, "You (God) made him (humans) ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet." We need to use our earthy resources wisely because God will hold us accountable for our stewardship. -Pastor Mike
Training
"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Tim. 4:8. Physical fitness is important, but so is spiritual fitness. While we may be susceptable to disease and injury, our faith can sustain us throught these tragedies. Get spiritually fit. Just do it! - Pastor Mike
Deacons
Last night at our Wednesday evening gathering called FISH, the deacons served the meal. Deacon means, "one who serves". This position was begun by the apostles (Acts 6: 1-6) to care for the physical needs of the congregation, especially the widows. It's refreshing to see that our deacons are continuing the grand tradition, 2,000 years later! - Pastor Mike
Donation
Our two youth groups went to Fed the Hungry on the streets of Detroit. Jonathan and I made chili, hot-dogs, and chocolate chip cookies. After we were done serving, we took the extra hotdogs, buns, and cookies to donate to the DRMM's soup kitchen. A guy inside told us, "The greatest nation in the world is a do-nation!" Too funny! - Pastor Mike
Breakfast
Yesterday I had breakfast with a close young adult friend and another young adult that I hadn't seen in a while. It was great to see the friendship begin to grow between these two. God has been directing me to be a bridge-builder between those who don't know each other well and with those who don't want to have a relationship with the other person any more. - Pastor Mike
Meeting
I met with a young adult who had been scarred by another's words. She was told that she was not a Christian, because she believed that a person could be gay and still follow Christ. Actually, they were both correct. To be a Christian, repentence must come into play. God loves us all, but we must turn 180 degrees from all sins in order to follow Christ. - Pastor Mike
Wind
The wind yesterday was unbelievable. Made me think about Pentecost. (Acts 2) - "Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting...tongues of fire came to rest on each of them...they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in tongues..." Wow! - Pastor Mike
Prayer
After Worship yesterday, Jonathan and I stayed up front to receive people for prayer. We had a few requests for healing, focus, and general well-being. Honestly, when you pray with someone you receive as much blessing as they do. It's like a triangle. Prayer raises up to the Father, back to the receipient, and then back to you. Awesome! - Pastor Mike
