Author: janicevance

Youth Invasion is where we as teens go and “invade” a restaurant each week by going together and eating with one another and we want you to be there as well.  Youth Invasions are a very significant way to minister to teens, families of the church, and the surrounding community here in Murfreesboro.  Youth Invasion provides opportunities for teens to fellowship with one another, strengthen friendships, and help everyone within the congregation grow together.  They can also encourage spiritual growth as all ages are invited to participate in youth invasions.  Youth Invasions create an atmosphere where relationships can be built across generations.  From children to primetimers, everyone can enjoy sharing a meal together.  Rather than the youth group being separated from the rest of the church, or other groups like the prime timers, half timers, etc., Youth Invasions help integrate teens and children into the church family and allow them to be seen as vital members of the congregation.

One of the greatest strengths of Youth Invasion is this intergenerational connection that is created.  Younger children are able to look up to the teenagers and see examples of Christian friendships and involvement while we all fellowship together.  Parents are encouraged when they see older teens taking leadership roles, interacting respectfully, and participating in wholesome activities with everyone in the church.  Elderly members of the congregation also benefit because they are given opportunities to spend time with younger generations in relaxed and enjoyable settings outside of regular worship services.  Many times, older members may not have regular interaction with teens, but Youth Invasions can create natural conversations and relationships that strengthen unity throughout the church.  Youth Invasions are as much for the younger and older people as for the teens.  These Youth Invasions can help break down generational barriers that we might not even know are there!  It reminds everyone that the church is one body made up of all ages working together for Christ.  It also gives teenagers valuable opportunities to learn from older Christians who have years of wisdom, experience, and faithfulness that can encourage and guide them spiritually through conversation or simple observation.

Youth Invasions can also positively impact the Murfreesboro community economically and socially.  When large groups from congregations regularly visit local restaurants and businesses, they contribute financially to those restaurants and support local workers.  Restaurants benefit from the increase of people.  This creates a connection between the church and the local businesses while also helping the local economy in a small but meaningful way.  In addition, seeing large groups of Christians gathering together in love and fellowship presents a positive image of the church within the community, and with the workers of these restaurants.  It can lead to conversations and curiosity about the congregation, with people recognizing it as “the church where everyone loves each other.”  In many ways, Youth Invasions become both an opportunity for intergenerational ministry, and a form of outreach that strengthens the church while also positively influencing the city of Murfreesboro.

by Justin Morton

A smile to a visitor, a distracted attitude during worship or a calm response during a stressful situation may seem small, but these moments often leave lasting impressions.  Every day, whether in worship or in daily life, we communicate something to the people around us.  Our words, choices, behaviors, and decisions either point people toward God or away from Him.  We know the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”  This is true not only when it comes to strangers we meet for the first time, but also in our daily relationships.

From the moment of our first encounter with someone, we form an opinion simply based on our experience.  Perhaps this is not entirely fair, but this is what happens.  And for a lot of us, we will never forget that first impression.  That one interaction can leave a lasting impact.

The question we must consider is, “What do people see when they see me?  What kind of impression am I making on others?”  People are watching what our lives communicate about God.  In worship, do they see someone engaged in the study of God’s Word or someone apathetic?  In daily living, do they see someone who takes God and His Word seriously or someone who lives as if he doesn’t really care about God?  Paul told Titus that there were people who, “Profess to know God, but they deny him by their works” (Titus 1:16).  We certainly don’t want this to be said about us.

We may be tempted to say, “I don’t care what people think when they look at my life,” but we should care.  Scripture calls us to care about what our lives lead others to conclude about God.  Jesus said we are to live in such a way that it causes others to glorify God (Matthew 5:16).  The apostle Paul told the Corinthians, “You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all” (2 Corinthians 3:1-3).  The Bible teaches us the power of impressions.

Friends, every day we have an opportunity to make impressions on the people around us.  Those impressions can be positive and godly or negative and worldly.  This week, choose one deliberate step to make your faith more visible: come to worship prepared and engaged, speak words that build others up, and make one daily decision that puts obedience to God ahead of convenience for self.  Then at the close of each day, ask yourself, “What kind of impression did I make today?”

Fear, Worry, and the Peace of God

We live in a world filled with uncertainty.  Concerns about health, finances, family, the future, and the burdens of everyday life can easily weigh heavily upon our hearts.  Even faithful Christians sometimes battle fear, anxiety, discouragement, and emotional exhaustion.  Yet God never intended for His people to carry these burdens alone.

The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”  What a comforting reminder that God invites us to bring every care, every worry, and every burden before Him in prayer.  The peace God provides does not always remove the trial immediately, but it strengthens the heart to endure faithfully.

Jesus Himself understood the troubled hearts of people.  In Matthew 11:28, He lovingly said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”  The Lord desires for His people to find comfort, strength, and hope through Him rather than carrying life’s struggles in silence.

As Christians, we must also remember the importance of encouraging one another.  The church is not simply a place we attend—it is a family.  In difficult seasons, we need each other’s prayers, kindness, and support.  Sometimes one encouraging conversation, one prayer, or one act of compassion can help lift a weary soul.

There may be times when discouragement becomes overwhelming and you feel isolated or alone.  Please remember that struggling does not mean you have failed as a Christian.  Even faithful servants of God experienced moments of fear and weakness.  What matters is continuing to turn toward God and allowing fellow Christians to walk beside you.

As elders, we deeply care about each member of this congregation and the burdens you may be carrying.  If you are struggling with worry, fear, discouragement, or personal difficulties, please know you do not have to face those challenges alone.  The elders are always willing to listen, pray with you, encourage you, and help in any way we can.

by Justin Morton

No one likes to be corrected.  Recently, I have been working with the boys on their baseball swings.  They have always been pretty good hitters, but I wanted to help them make a few small adjustments to improve even more.  We have worked on this several times a week over the past couple of months.  While I do believe some of those corrections are beginning to pay off, I will admit, it has not been easy.  There are times when the boys do not want to hear what I am saying, not because of how I say it, but because of why I say it.  Even when correction is helpful and for their benefit, it is still uncomfortable to receive.  The truth is, nobody enjoys being corrected.

For many people, correction feels like rejection or failure.  When someone points out a flaw or mistake, it is easy to assume we are being judged.  However, correction is not meant to tear us down but to build us up.  Correction is less about highlighting what is wrong and more about guiding us toward what is better.

Scripture reminds us of this truth.  The wise man said, “Better is open rebuke than hidden love.  Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy” (Proverbs 27:5-6).  In other words, it is better for someone to speak honestly to us even when it is uncomfortable, than to remain silent and allow us to continue in error.  When a friend offers correction, it may sting and be uncomfortable, but those “wounds” are valuable because they come from a heart that genuinely cares for our physical and spiritual well-being.

The Bible consistently teaches that correction is beneficial.  Yet many of us resist it.  When a friend tries to correct us for our own good, we become defensive.  Instead of listening and reflecting on the correction, we react in frustration or anger.  The danger in this response is that we may miss an opportunity for growth.  As Proverbs 15:31-32 says, “The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.  Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence” (Proverbs 15:31-32).  Accepting correction is not a sign of weakness, but instead it is a mark of wisdom.

Correction is not something to be avoided but something to embrace.  As we strive to walk closely with God, correction helps shape our character and aligns our lives with His will.  When we reject wise correction, we hinder our own growth.  Proverbs 12:1 puts it plainly: “He who hates reproof is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1).

So the next time someone offers you loving correction, resist the urge to become defensive and angry.  Instead, pause and listen carefully.  You may discover that what feels uncomfortable in the moment is actually a blessing toward continued growth and transformation.

by Justin Morton

Some moments in life are so impactful that we never forget them.  Many things may change over time, but those unforgettable moments are etched into our minds and stamped on our hearts forever.  One of those moments happened in my life just two weeks ago.

On that Sunday afternoon, while I was reviewing for my Sunday evening Bible class, my older son, Caden, came in and asked me if I would be finished soon.  When I asked why, he said, “I want to go to the building and be baptized.”  I immediately jumped up and wrapped him in a hug.

Now, when I say I jumped up and hugged him, you might picture something graceful, but that is not how it happened.  I leaped out of that chair like an uncoordinated deer learning to leap for the first time and held him tightly, like a child who just found something they thought they had lost.  His mother and I had prayed for that moment for so long, and when it finally came I was overwhelmed with a joy I can hardly describe.

I will never forget the immense feeling of elation I felt as I lowered my son down into the waters of baptism.  When he came up out of the water, he was a new person, what Paul calls a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Because of what Jesus has done, Caden’s sins were forgiven, and he was added to the family of God.  I could not have been any more proud of him than I was at that moment.  My son, whom I love deeply, was now my brother in Christ.  Even thinking about it now brings a great big smile to my face.

Since that day, I have thought about how I felt watching my son obey the Gospel.  And as full of joy as I was and still am, no one is more excited about Caden’s decision than His heavenly Father.  You see, just as I rejoiced over my son’s decision, God rejoices even more.  The Psalmist writes, “The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love” (Psalm 147:11).  One translation says the Lord “delights” in those who fear him and who “put their hope in his unfailing love.”  That is exactly what happens when one submits to Christ in baptism; he places his hope and trust in God.

God does not just love His children, He delights in them.  He takes pleasure when they choose to walk in obedience. His desire is for all people to be saved (I Timothy 2:4).  And when even one person turns to Him, He celebrates their obedience (Luke 15:10).  Is there a decision you need to make in your life right now so that your heavenly Father is well pleased with you?

by Justin Morton

Last weekend several of our adults, teens and children attended the Lads 2 Leaders convention at the Opryland Hotel. This weekend is always inspiring. I love watching so many children and young people from all over the Southeast use their talents for the glory God. If your child is not involved with L2L, let me encourage you to consider being a part of this wonderful event next year.

Thirty-five young people from Walter Hill participated in Lads this year. We are so proud of each and every one of these individuals: Josie Cooper, Will Cooper, King Davis, Nova Davis, Zaniyah Davis, Aaron DeMario, Grant DeMario, Isaac DeMario, Olivia Ellis, Colton England, Paxton England, Charlotte Foster, Ian Foster, Ryan Foster, Ellis Harrington, Jansen Harrington, Christian Hutchens, Blake Lancaster, Tyler Lancaster, Braden McNabb, Briley McNabb, Carson McNabb, Savannah McNabb, Kayla Miller, Ella Mitchell, Eli Mitchell, Bennett Morris, Caden Morton, Cameron Morton, Elijah Phillips, Reagon Shambaugh, Reid Shambaugh, Danek Smith, Anna Grace Thomas, and Courtney Wilson.

Each of these young people did an incredible job in every event they participated in, and we couldn’t be any more proud of them! Not only did they represent Walter Hill well, but they gained so much that will help them in the future as they continue to serve the Lord.

Several of our young people did so well that they were either a finalist or placed in some of the events they participated in. Here’s what we have, but if we missed anything, please let us know.

Art: Anna Grace Thomas (1^st Place)

Girl’s Songs of Praise: Kayla Miller (2^nd Place)

Girl’s Speech: Kayla Miller (1^st Place), Olivia Ellis (2^nd Place)

Girl’s Debate Teams: Olivia Ellis and Zanyiah Davis (3^rd Place)

Girl’s Individual Debate: Kayla Miller (1^st Place and highest score)

Boy’s Song Leading: Elijah Phillips (Finalist), Will Cooper (3^rd Place)

Boy’s Speech: Caden Morton (1^st Place), Blake Lancaster (2^nd Place), Will Cooper (3^rd Place), Grant DeMario (Finalist)

Boy’s Debate Teams: Grant DeMario and Blake Lancaster (2^nd Place), Will Cooper and Carson McNabb (3^rd Place)

Boy’s Individual Scores: Will Cooper (1^st place individual score), Blake Lancaster (3^rd place individual score)

Bible Bowl Teams: Grant DeMario, Isaac DeMario, Caden Morton and Cameron Morton (1^st Place in the 9^th-10^th Grade Division), Aaron DeMario, Ian Foster, Ryan Foster, Christian Hutchens (3^rd Place in the 5^th– 6^th Grade Division), Ellis Harrington, Jansen Harrington and Briley McNabb (Finalists in the 5^th-6^th Grade Division)

Bible Bowl Individual Test Top 10 Scorers: Grant DeMario (9^th Grade), Isaac DeMario (6^th Grade), Caden Morton (8^th Grade), Cameron Morton (4^th Grade)

All of our young people representing Walter Hill did a phenomenal job last weekend at Lads 2 Leaders. Thank you to our shepherds for supporting this great work each year and to all the parents, grandparents, mentors and coaches who helped out. May we continue teaching and training our children so they will be prepared to lead in the Lord’s Church for many years to come.

by Justin Morton

This weekend through the Lads 2 Leaders program, several of our young people and adults were reminded that God is worthy of our very best.  Watching so many young people from all over the Southeast give their best while using their talents to glorify God was inspiring.  I am so proud of all those from Walter Hill who participated in Lads this year and represented our congregation so well.

I love this weekend every year not only because of L2L, but also because this weekend is one in which so many people across our land celebrate the most life-changing event in the history of our world: the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  While we focus on and celebrate the resurrection of our Jesus each Lord’s Day, I am grateful that, at least for today, so many hearts and minds are directed toward this great event.

In Matthew 28, we read about how the women went to the tomb early that Sunday morning.  When they arrived, they did not find what they were expecting.  Instead of a closed tomb, they found the stone rolled away and an angel of the Lord sitting on the stone.  Then the angel spoke some of the most comforting words: “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.  He is not here, for he has risen, as he said.  Come, see the place where he lay.  Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.  See, I have told you.”  So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples (Matthew 28:5-8).

In that moment, the angel spoke eight of the most significant words that have ever been spoken: “He is not here, for he has risen.”   The women, full of great joy, quickly went to tell his disciples this exciting news.  Why were they so joyful?  Why go and tell the disciples so quickly?  Because those few words the angel spoke changed everything.  If Jesus could predict His dead and resurrection as He did, if he could actually raise from the dead, then everything else Jesus said and taught could be trusted.  All the promises He made could be taken to heart.

Today we, like so many others, celebrate because the resurrection of Jesus changes everything!  It gives us purpose, hope, and life beyond the grave.  In Matthew 28, an angel announced eight life-changing words.  Those true words must shape not only what we celebrate on Sunday, but how we live every day of our lives.  Praise God for Jesus, our Living Hope!

by Chris Elrod

I love doing youth ministry!  One of the greatest blessings of my role is seeing the way God works through and within our teenagers.  It’s amazing to see all the ways He blesses them and uses them for His glory!  Sometimes I even find myself being challenged by their faith.  Last weekend, at our Spring Retreat, was one of those times where I was both in awe of our God and challenged to be better.  I sat down to study with a small group of students.  One of which is brand new to the church but is eagerly seeking a relationship with Christ.  She was invited to Bible Class by one of our young ladies who had been praying for an opportunity to lead someone to Christ and His church.  What amazed me was the young lady who she invited had also been praying to find good friends as she started at a new school!

HOW COOL IS THAT???  Here we have two teenagers praying to God, one asking for opportunities to share His love and the other asking to be blessed with good friends!  God works in providing the opportunity for these girls to meet, and boom, both prayers are answered.  Our God is awesome and is at work to bring about the salvation of souls.  This left me in awe of our God! 

However, after I reflected more I saw an area where I needed to be better.  How often am I praying for opportunities to lead souls to Christ?  Not as often as I should.  This is my new prayer, and I hope you will make it your prayer as well!  You never know who in your life might be praying for answers, salvation, for new friends, or for a church home.  Maybe you will be God’s answer to their prayer.

Yet on the other hand, maybe there are people who don’t know what they don’t know when it comes to Christ.  Maybe there are people who don’t know what they are missing!  And maybe if we would just look up, we would see the fields are white, ready for the harvest (John 4:35).  We can’t forget, God wants to save everyone (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9).  He will provide us with opportunities, but we need to open our eyes to them!  I don’t know about you, but I needed this reminder!  I hope you will join me in praying for opportunities to share the Gospel with others!  I am thankful for our youth and their faithful example! 

The wall is coming down, more chairs will be added, the opportunity is now!