October 14, 2023

Our Weekly Update

October 14, 2023

drawing from daniel recap

“Because of this the king was angry and very furious, and commanded that all the wise men of Babylon be destroyed. So the decree went out, and the wise men were about to be killed; and they sought Daniel and his companions, to kill them. Then Daniel replied with prudence and discretion to Arioch, the captain of the king’s guard, who had gone out to kill the wise men of Babylon. He declared to Arioch, the king’s captain, “Why is the decree of the king so urgent?” Then Arioch made the matter known to Daniel. And Daniel went in and requested the king to appoint him a time, that he might show the interpretation to the king.”

— Daniel 2:12-16, ESV

Drawing from Daniel: Prudence & Discretion, Daniel 2:14

Reading this passage, what can we draw from Daniel? How did he respond? He was not a conformist, nor critical, nor haughty. He was prudent and used discretion.

Drawing from Daniel: Prudence

To act prudently is to consider with care the future well-being of those around you, not just yourself. When we are around those in desperate situations, or around those who do not know the Lord and persist in their sinful nature, we always want to act in such a way that we consider the reputation of the Lord’s name, while considering the well-being of those around us. The outcomes remain in the hands of the Lord; however, allowing His Spirit to bear fruit in those present moments with others is our responsibility as believers in Christ Jesus. If we fear the future, let’s hit our knees in prayer. Let’s ask the Lord to teach our hearts to trust Him, thereby ridding our hearts of that spirit of fear. Let’s pursue Him as our greatest affection, asking Him to transform our hearts by His power, love and self-control! He is faithful through the ages, Highland.

Drawing From Daniel: Discretion

Using discretion is to behave or speak in such a way that we avoid causing offense or reveal private information. Because Daniel’s heart was secure in his faithfulness unto the Lord, his feelings do not drive this moment, his faith does. Faithfulness is of the fruit of the Spirit. The Spirit of God, thereby, has authority in this moment, because Daniel’s yielded unto His authority. Therefore, he does not spew his emotions, resulting in not offending his assailant. Instead, he actually garners the respect of his authority, so that he becomes his spokesperson. So, what we see is the Holy Spirit takes this hopeless situation and transforms it from the inside out.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Monday nights continue to be a night to where our team carries the love of Jesus to our streets alongside our partner: M2540. All are welcome to come and serve!

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Highland, so much has unfolded in our world in the last week! Our time to seek the Lord of mercy for Israel is upon us. Please join our team each Wednesday morning, 9am, at the Firehouse.

Marriage Study this fall, Wednesdays, 6:15pm

Highland, I look forward to seeing those of you who registered for the marriage-study held at Kim & Nancy’s this Wednesday. Having the chance to share in this study with each of you has been so enriching for Carrie and me. Shoutout to Kim and Nancy for doing a great job hosting and leading.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Our team hits the streets this Saturday! Come join the opportunity to love our neighbors as ourselves. All are welcome.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Coffee & Conversation offers us the opportunity to be together, while we worship and fellowship. Come and enjoy a breakfast sandwich, along with a cup of coffee. Doors open at 9am. Also, Robert continues to lead our Men’s Study each Sunday morning, at 9am. It’s held in the educational wing of our church.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). We look forward to seeing you as we continue through our series through Daniel.

Filling the Rooms

Highland, our plan to make our house a home is called: Filling the Rooms. Now that we’ve gone over the plan, let’s carry out the plan together. Please click on the link below and sign up to be part of filling the rooms. You can also ask questions or make recommendations, too.

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

October 5, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

October 5, 2023

drawing from daniel recap

Daniel 1:17-21

Scripture states that the favor of the Holy Spirit rested upon Daniel and the other young men (1:9; 1:17). In the lives of these men, submissive to the Holy Spirit, truth prevails through fear, through doubt, producing a steadfastness that is unshakable in the most bleak of situations. We see the Spirit of God transform the situation with their steward regarding their diet.

The end of chapter one, we see that the Lord gave these men learning and skill in Babylonian studies. Plus, the Spirit of God gave Daniel understanding in all visions and dreams. Additionally, this portion of the book is summation of 3 years, where these men are being stripped by the Babylonians of all of their customs, teachings and traditions.

These men had no choice but to go through this brain-washing series that contradicted their beliefs. The purpose was to turn them into Babylonians. What I think that we should appreciate here is, not only do we not see them balk at going through this education, we see them excel in their learning, due to the Lord’s favor resting upon them.

Awareness Verses Authority

There are those in the church who think that a secular educational knowledge is not appropriate for those in the church. However, there are those who think that’s not the case. Either way, what I think we gain from this take in Daniel is that when we are submitted to the Holy Spirit of God, we are eternally secure in His sealing.

The fact that prevails throughout Scripture is that there is a difference between an awareness of knowledge and authority of knowledge. Daniel and his comrades here demonstrate that they gain an awareness of Babylonian culture, though they do not assign any authority to this knowledge. Their belief system’s authority remained secure in the Holy God of Israel.

There are certainly moments in the Scriptures when you see awareness and authority play out. In 1st Samuel 28, Saul assigns his authority to a medium that conjures up the spirit of Samuel. Saul hears from Samuel’s words and is devoid of life. This is not awareness, this is assigning authority to an enchanter and evil spirit. We should be aware of evil spirits and demons; they certainly deceive our minds and possess those who are not submissive to the Holy Spirit.

In instances, though, we see that in Scripture where there are those who are aware of relevant, cultural knowledge, yet do not hand over their authority in belief to those schools of thought. Moses is thoroughly aware of Egyptian culture, yet remains submissive to the authority of the Holy Spirit.

Paul, when he’s in Athens, makes reference to some Greek philosophers and their references that simply highlight the name of the Lord be exalted over every other name. He is aware, but does not assign authoritative belief to their notions.

Highland, this is the truth that I see Scripture really hold to – that we are to have an awareness of cultural themes of our day, but the authority of our belief system is wholeheartedly surrendered to and secure in God’s Word. We realize that real Wisdom begins and ends with the fear of the Lord.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Monday nights we join up with M2540 to care for our streets. All are welcome to come to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, 6:30pm-7:30pm.

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Come and intercede for our church, our streets, our nation! Join Patti and our team each Wednesday, 9am, at the Firehouse.

Marriage Study this fall, Wednesdays, 6:15pm

Our Marriage Study continues this upcoming Wednesday, 6:15pm. Looking forward to refining our marriage alongside each of you, as we gather at the Sheeks’. Thanks, Kim and Nancy!

We Rejoice Over these Precious Little Ones!

Gifts from the Lord

Our Highland family welcomes two, precious gifts from the Lord into our lives! Johnny and Alana welcome baby Bridger and James and Alissa rejoice over Katherine, who’s angelic. We celebrate with you both!

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Thanks to all who come and serve our streets each Saturday! This Saturday, our team will, once again, hit our streets with the love of Jesus! Volunteers are always welcome!

Sunday Mornings at 9am

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). All are welcome to come hear about the goodness of Jesus, Who, willingly, laid down His life as a sin-offering for the entire world (1st John 2:16). Come, hear, repent and walk in the newness of life, found in Jesus, the one and only Son of God! This Sunday, we will continue to walk the Book of Daniel. We are starting chapter two this Sunday, as we will further draw from Daniel how we can find our hope in the holiness of God, alone.

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

September 28, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

September 28, 2023

drawing from daniel recap

Highland, as we gathered last Sunday, we were able to get to the essence of this series. We sought the Lord’s face, asking for more of His Spirit! Highland, I long for us to be able to find a confident hope in our Lord’s presence being with us, especially when we endure what seems like hopeless situations! Let us continue to be comfortable taking a posture of prayer, together, Highland. It’s through prayer that our hearts find courage to face the future, realizing that the Lord offers us a hope that does not disappoint(Romans 5)! His hope transcends circumstances, space and time – His hope is eternal! Let’s keep our gaze upon Him! Click here to listen to our sermon from last Sunday.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Each Monday night, we have the privilege of partnering with M2540! As they take God’s love to the streets, we have the chance to care for those upon our own streets. Meet at 6:30pm–7:30pm each Monday evening at M2450. Shoutout to the team who leads us! Thank you all!

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

As Patti continues to lead our Prayer Gatherings, know you are invited to pray for our church and our streets, alongside her! Continue to be before the Lord, asking for more of His Spirit, team, as you pray. Let us have our hearts overflowing with His presence, pouring out into those in and around our lives!

Marriage Study this fall, Wednesdays, 6:15pm

How grateful we are that Kim and Nancy would open their hearts and home to us this fall! Our marriage study will continue this Wednesday, 6:15pm.

Congratulations!

She said, “Yes!”

Highland, celebrate with me the engagement of our boy, Ben, who asked Cathy to marry him and she said, “yes!” Congratulations, Ben and Cathy! We are excited for what’s to come for the both of you!

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Our team is gearing up for taking the love of Christ to our streets this Saturday, at 10am Join us as we have the chance to work together to love our neighbor in honor of our Lord. Volunteers are welcome.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Coffee & Conversation starts our Sunday mornings with fellowship and worship. All are welcome to grab a breakfast sandwich and to jump into the conversation. Jo Ellen then offers us all a very helpful devotion, allowing us to grow in how we put our faith into action!

At 9am, our Men’s Bible Study continues as well. It’s held in our education-wing of the church and Robert continues to lead us each Sunday morning. All men are welcome.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). Thank you all for being willing to traverse throughout this season, handling all of the elements like champs! Remember to dress comfortably, as there is no air conditioning.

Kids’ Sunday this Sunday

Kids’ Sunday resumes this Sunday. Please drop off your children who are 5 and up at the original sanctuary to get checked in. During the service, children will either be in the classrooms off the deck for a Bible lesson or a craft. Outdoor games will be held in the Stricklands’ backyard as well. Furthermore, if you’re interested in helping with Kids’ Sundays, please talk to Julie Jordan, Katie Sturgeon or Carol Wright. As soon as service concludes, please make arrangements to pick up your children.

Drawing From Daniel Series

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). We continue through our series walking through Daniel. It is my goal to cover the final portion of chapter one this Sunday. I look forward to seeing you all, as we gather to exalt the name of Jesus!

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

September 22, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

September 22, 2023

Highland, I heard that service went really last Sunday! Thanks to all who led, allowing us the chance to get away to the beach! We had a really great time and the weather was perfect! Even still, any good vacation ends with getting back home. We are back and look forward to gathering with you this Sunday to exalt the name of Jesus! By the way, I heard that Robert did a great job preaching last Sunday. To listen to his sermon, click here.

Drawing From Daniel Recap

Chapter 1: (8) “But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. (9) And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs…”

Daniel remained resolved to the name of His Lord, while, at the same time, remaining respectful toward his oppressors. We see this as Daniel handled the matter of food with the king’s steward in such a gentle way.

Notice in verse 9 that Scripture tells us that God’s favor and compassion rested upon Daniel in this matter. While wanting to avoid becoming unclean through his diet, he respected the steward’s position, not demanding anything – rather, he was considerate of his predicament. Given the ten-day-test is agreed upon, the outcome is evidenced in their health and the steward supports their position. In Daniel’s resolve to want to honor His Lord, while respecting even his enemies, the Lord proves faithful! In so doing, the Lord places even his enemies at peace with him (Proverbs 16:7).

In situations where we are in a secular setting, honoring the name of the Lord must remain our greatest aim, Highland. How we do this is seen so clearly revealed in Daniel’s heart and responses, but mainly in his approach with others.

As the favor of the Lord rested upon Daniel (vs 9), the Spirit of God is fortifying him for every situation he will encounter. The Holy Spirit carries authority over every evil and unclean spirit and, through submission to the Lord, Daniel brings His authority center-stage in his life.

As we, like Daniel, through a confident faith, access His power and authority, we are transformed, according to His likeness. In this instance, we see Daniel bear the fruits of God’s Holy Spirit in a way that honors the Lord’s holy name, while promoting the welfare of even his enemy, at the same time. Highland, we must draw from Daniel in how to approach these instances by being submissive to the Holy Spirit. This Sunday, I will be picking back up our series through Daniel. I look forward to continuing to work through it, together, Highland.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Our team continues to show up and love our neighbors each and every Monday at M2540. Shoutout to those who do it and stick to it! Thank you for honoring the name of our Lord by being so dedicated to caring for our streets!

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Ms. Patti continues to lead our Prayer Gatherings, 9am-10am, each Wednesday morning at the Firehouse. All are welcome to come and to pray.

Kim and Nancy Sheek have so graciously agreed to host an eight-week series this fall for us at their home. This study that’s centered on marriage will be through a book called, “Love & War”, by John and Staci Eldredge. We will meet Wednesday evenings, starting September 27th. (*please note: childcare will not be available). This time together will be so meaningful for those who are married. Kim and Nancy will be able to offer us so much to help us grow in our relationship with Christ and our spouses! I want to strongly encourage all of our married couples to make every effort to attend. If you are interested in attending, please register by clicking the button below.

We start next Wednesday

The study will run from 6:15pm–7:45pm Wednesday evenings.
Plan to eat dinner beforehand, as there will not be time to include a meal.
Reminder: childcare will not be available during this study.
Read the first two chapters of the book to be prepared for the first session. Please note: if you’ve requested a book from the church, we will order it this week. *** Books are in and will be passed along to you, thanks to Megan and Julie. Please read chapters 1 and 2 to be ready for our first session, which starts next Wednesday.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Our team’s gathering this Saturday to bring the love of Christ to our streets – join us at 10am, at the cafe. All are welcome to come and serve. Shoutout to all who serve! Especially our van-drivers this week, both for Saturdays and for Sundays! Thank you for all you do!

Sunday Mornings at 9am

The conversation continues this Saturday morning. Come and grab a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich and be part of the conversation, all are welcome. We share life together and offer songs of worship to Jesus. Jo Ellen’s devotion always closes out our time together, as she gives us the opportunity to firm up our grip on Scripture in such meaningful and practical ways.

Our Men’s Bible Study continues this Sunday, at 9am. Robert Singleton continues to lead the charge, men; know you’re invited! I also hear that he did a great job preaching last Sunday! His sermon will be posted soon.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

September 12, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

September 12, 2023

People of Prayer

Highland, thank you for all of the calls, comments and messages this week regarding our new series through Daniel! They have been so meaningful to me! During one of the calls, someone noted how on Sunday that the testimonies of Darlene, David and Gene all pointed to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit being evident! It’s exciting to highlight this because that was the essence of Sunday’s sermon – how Daniel yields his heart to receive the transforming power of God’s Spirit! We then closed our service by asking for more of God’s Spirit, which is one, not of fear, but of power, love and self-control!

Drawing From Daniel Recap

“But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs…” (Daniel 1:8—9).

It is here that we see Daniel find hope in the holiness of God. Daniel, being in a hopeless state, draws the line at defiling His Lord’s holy name. Is this where we draw our line, Highland? When facing bleak situations, do we find our hope solely in honoring the holy name of our almighty God? May we be a people marked by the holiness of God.

Highland, as we yield our hearts to honor our Lord, He will sustain us by way of His Holy Spirit – conquering that spirit of fear, establishing our hearts with power, love and self-control – all as a result of His commanding presence! To listen to the most recent sermon, click here.

This Sunday

This Sunday, our family will be out of town. We are sneaking away to the beach! We will be connecting with Carrie’s family. This trip is always so refreshing for us. Justin will be facilitating service. Billy will lead us in worship and Robert will take the pulpit. We will hit the pause button on our Daniel Series, while Robert offers us what the Lord provides him to share this Sunday.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

I rejoice over our partnership with M2540! Even more so, I am so thankful for our team who carries this partnership! Join our team each Monday, 6:30pm-7:30pm. Come and spend an hour with our neighbors.

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

What a testimony of the power of prayer last Sunday! Continue to be part of the eternal testimony of the prayer life of God’s people Wednesdays, 9am.

Living Water Network

Dear friends,

Myanmar is at the bleeding edge of global missions. While a brutal military regime and widespread economic collapse continue to create unimaginable suffering for millions of people, the kingdom of God is also on the move: brave kingdom pioneers are sacrificially serving their communities, lives are being saved, miracles are taking place, and hearts are opening to the good news of Jesus the Prince of Peace.

On Monday the 18th at 8pm Eastern / 5pm Pacific, join the leadership of the Living Water Network for a live, interactive situation update. A summary of Myanmar's national crisis will be interwoven with hopeful stories of kingdom pioneers proclaiming and demonstrating the gospel through creative initiatives in relief work, education, healthcare, peacebuilding, media, and IT. You will learn how the Living Water Network supports these leaders in their work, and how you can be a part of these cutting edge missional initiatives as well. Bring your questions! There will be ample time for questions and discussion.

Click here to register and receive a zoom link for the call.

A Few Developments

The study will run from 6:15pm–7:45pm Wednesday evenings.
Plan to eat dinner beforehand, as there will not be time to include a meal.
Reminder: childcare will not be available during this study.
Read the first two chapters of the book to be prepared for the first session. Please note: if you’ve requested a book from the church, we will order it this week.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Our team’s gathering this Saturday to bring the love of Christ to our streets – join us at 10am, at the cafe. All are welcome to come and serve.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Coffee and great conversation will be available this Sunday, 9am! Come and be part of the conversation in the firehouse, starting at 9am. Jo Ellen also continues to provide us with a grounding devotion.

Robert will be leading our Men’s Study in our educational wing. Class starts at 9am Sunday mornings. All are welcome to attend.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

September 6, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

September 6, 2023

Update on my Dad

My dad is making rapid steps toward recovery. He’s regaining mobility and getting stronger every day. He is working hard in physical therapy and making great strides! So good in fact, that one day last week, he went to the vending machine to get himself a treat. However, the dollar he was using was too flimsy to use. So, he decided to go to the kitchen and sweet-talk the cooks to give him a second helping of peach cobbler! He’s back, ladies and gentlemen! He should be coming home next week and he is ready to get back to Highland!

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Let’s stay alongside M2540 each Monday, 6:30pm-7:30pm and care for our neighbors! Shoutout to our team who holds this lane for Highland! Good work, team!

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Each Wednesday, Patti leads our Prayer Gathering, 9am, at the Firehouse! Join her, and our team, as we carry out the definitive work of the church - prayer!

A Few Developments

The study will run from 6:15pm–7:45pm Wednesday evenings.
Plan to eat dinner beforehand, as there will not be time to include a meal.
Reminder: childcare will not be available during this study.
Read the first two chapters of the book to be prepared for the first session. Please note: if you’ve requested a book from the church, we will order it this week.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Chicken & Rice will be taking the love of Christ to our streets this Saturday, 10am. All are welcome to come be part of imparting the love of Christ to those who are hungry.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

As Coffee & Conversation continues, know you’re welcome to join us! It’s a gathering of worship, fellowship and study. Jo Ellen continues to provide for us a chance to learn how to walk according to God’s Word.

Men, Robert’s study for men meets every Sunday morning, 9am, in educational-wing of our church. It’s a practical walk through God’s Word. Grab a biscuit and head on over to class. All are welcome.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Drawing From Daniel Series

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). Highland, your resolve throughout this season has been so tough! Thank you for staying the course, especially through August! It was a test of our mettle and, once again, you are found to be dedicated. I am grateful for each of you! Wow!

Last Sunday, we opened our series: “Drawing From Daniel” - Finding Hope in the Holiness of God. We walked through circumstances that set the stage for the book of Daniel, then the first seven verses of the first chapter. We also covered our goals for this series. See below:

goals for our series through daniel

To gain a better grip on the book of Daniel.
To understand that, as believers, a confident faith becomes our soul’s security, especially in hostile environments.
How God’s holiness becomes our hope in hopeless situations.
How we glorify God and promote the good of others in a secular world.

To listen to the first sermon, click here. This upcoming Sunday, we will continue to work through the book of Daniel. We will be in chapter one, starting in verse eight, together. I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

August 31, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

August 31, 2023

Update on my Dad

My dad has had the best week he’s had in a month! He’s feeling better. He is more mobile and regaining his strength! To see the Lord’s Spirit reinvigorate his hopefulness has been life-giving! Highland, thank you for caring for us and praying for us — that’s all that has gotten us through.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

As we have the privilege to serve alongside M2540, let’s take this chance to love our neighbors as ourselves, in honor of our Lord. Join our team each Monday, at 6:30-7:30.

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Our Prayer Gatherings are held at the Firehouse each Wednesday morning, at 9am. As Patti leads us, join her in praying for our church and our streets.

Kim and Nancy Sheek have so graciously agreed to host an eight-week series this fall for us at their home. This study that’s centered on marriage will be through a book called, “Love & War”, by John and Staci Eldredge. We will meet Wednesday evenings, starting September 27th, time TBD (*please note: childcare will not be available). This time together will be so meaningful for those who are married. Kim and Nancy will be able to offer us so much to help us grow in our relationship with Christ and our spouses! I want to strongly encourage all of our married couples to make every effort to attend. If you are interested in attending, please register by clicking the button below.

Pack the Pantry!

Our very own Timothy Jones has moved onto 6th Avenue, in the house that Truth Spring Trade School renovated! Let’s connect with him and care for him by grabbing a few of his favorite things to welcome him home!

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

As Chicken & Rice gears up this Saturday, know you’re welcome to come be part of imparting the love of Christ to our streets. To serve, be at our cafe’ by 10am.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Come and connect with us at 9am, Sunday mornings. You can join us at Coffee & Conversation in the Firehouse. Jo Ellen will lead us in a very real-to-life devotion toward the end of Coffee & Conversation. Last Sunday, her devotion was excellent — she helped give a Biblical definition to the word: blessing. Additionally, men, Robert’s leading a Bible study for you in our educational-wing – starts at 9am, too. I continue to hear great things about Robert’s class from those who attend. Men, jump in! Let’s rally around Robert as he works hard to help us grow in Christ!

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Kids’ Sunday this Sunday

Drawing From Daniel Series

This Sunday, we will be breaking open a new series going through the first portion of the book of Daniel. Our purpose in this series is finding our hope in God's holiness. We will see that, no matter how bleak Daniel’s circumstances were, his hope was found in God’s holiness. The same is true for us, Highland. No matter how difficult or scary our situations may be, we, too, will find reviving hope in the holiness of God – every time!

Filling the Rooms

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

August 25, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

August 25, 2023

Calling the Church to Fast & Pray

4 Strands of Stewardship

Heart, Home, Highland Community Church, North Highland

Week Four: North Highland (Colossians 3:23-24)

This Wednesday, we fasted and prayed for Highland. What an exciting time for us! As we grow, let’s continue to focus on our roots, thereby producing healthy, Gospel-flavored fruits. Let’s continue, in prayer and fasting, to ask that His magnificence be put on display, as we prepare to move into our new building! As we pray for North Highland, I would like to really hone in on praying for Truth Spring Trade School this week. Truth Spring’s Trade School really points men and women to see that, whatever is done, is to be done for the glory of Christ in our lives. May this truth resound throughout our streets, as the people of God continue to unify for the name of Jesus!

Here’s a guide that may help you as you pray, Highland.

P.R.A.Y

P - Pause to be still.

R - Rejoice and Reflect by meditating on a Psalm

A - Ask God to open your eyes to see wonderful things in His word. Ask God to open your ears, that You might hear His voice. Ask God to open Your mind to conceive what is beyond your own thinking and imagination. Ask God to open Your heart to receive His word. Ask God to open your mouth to speak His Word.

Y - Yield to His will and way in Your life

Update on my Dad

After 4 surgeries in a month, my dad’s tired and weak. He has been through so much! As of this week, he is in a wonderful Rehab Facility! We rejoice in the Lord’s goodness in providing him this terrific place to recover! However, he has been battling to get up consistently and regain his strength. I am sure that the setbacks have been difficult, more so than I could ever imagine. He continues to battle, though! This week, he has been up and on his feet for 3 days and we are so proud of him. He is sitting up more and more! Highland, the prayer-life of the church is the ONLY source of strength that we have right now. Thank you for your love, support and, most importantly, your prayers.

Food Collection For Those In Need

Highland, thank you for your devoted generosity to the needs of those who are hungry. I walked in and saw so many groceries purchased today! Thanks to all of you! The cost for these items (pictured) is about $35 per set. We could also use some of the reusable shopping bags for distributing the items. If you are interested in purchasing a set, please contact the church.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Let’s continue to serve alongside this wonderful ministry, M2540! They do so much to love our streets! Shoutout to all who have jumped in!

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Highland, let’s continue to be known as a people of prayer. Oh, let us hunger and thirst for His righteousness! Join Patti and our team each Wednesday, at the Firehouse, 9am, as we pray.

Kim and Nancy Sheek have so graciously agreed to host an eight-week series this fall for us at their home. This study that’s centered on marriage will be through a book called, “Love & War”, by John and Staci Eldredge. We will meet Wednesday evenings, starting September 27th, time TBD (*please note: childcare will not be available). This time together will be so meaningful for those who are married. Kim and Nancy will be able to offer us so much to help us grow in our relationship with Christ and our spouses! I want to strongly encourage all of our married couples to make every effort to attend. If you are interested in attending, please register by clicking the button below.

Pack the Pantry!

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Chicken & Rice will be hitting our streets this Saturday, carrying the love of Christ! Pray for this team! Shoutout to all who make this ministry possible. To serve, please be at the cafe’ by 11am, thanks!

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Come and connect with us at 9am, Sunday mornings. You can join us at Coffee & Conversation in the Firehouse. Jo Ellen will lead us in a very helpful devotion toward the end of Coffee & Conversation. Additionally, men, Robert’s leading a Bible study for you in our educational-wing – starts at 9am, too.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call services “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). Love how the Lord has provided for us every step of the way while we await the completion of our facility. Dress for warm weather - there is no air-conditioning. Shoutout to Mike for getting the fans, though! So helpful!

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” (Proverbs 24:3-4).

Last Sunday, I presented to you our plan as to how we intend to go about filling the rooms with ‘precious and pleasant riches.’ As we carefully consider how we steward all of that is to be entrusted to us, we must determine who we will put our hands to the plow.

To those of you who’ve signed up to help carry out the plan, thank you. Let us all consider how we can grab hold of our stewardship-role. To engage, click the button below and sign up.

The plan

This Sunday, we will hold a Town-Hall meeting. Our purpose is to take your questions about the building, the process or about the plan. Additionally, you may submit your question beforehand by clicking the button above and writing in your question.

I look forward to seeing you, Highland.

I am grateful for you,

Rob

Rob Strickland

August 17, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

August 17, 2023

Calling the Church to Fast & Pray

4 Strands of Stewardship

Heart, Home, Highland Community Church, North Highland

As we prepare our hearts for the next chapter, Highland, let’s seek the Lord’s face, together! Throughout this month, each Wednesday, during lunch hour, let’s fast and pray as a church. This is how we GO DEEPER; praying through these strands of stewardship that make up our lives! This Wednesday, we fasted and prayed for our homes, asking the Lord to take command of our families! Let’s continue to seek Him each Wednesday this month during our lunch hour, asking that His magnificence be put on display, as we prepare to move into our new building! Next Wednesday, we pray for Highland.

As we fast and pray this month for an overflow of God’s presence in our hearts, feel free to use this guide. These are a couple methods I have used over the years as I have learned how to pray and they have proven to be very effective for me. Of course, this is just a suggestion, so feel free to take it or leave it. — Carrie

P.R.A.Y

P - Pause to be still.

R - Rejoice and Reflect by meditating on a Psalm (If needing suggestions: a few of my faves are Psalm 65/66/67)

Y - Yield to His will and way in Your life

Update on my Dad

My dad has been saying to all that there’s a pain in the spine that is not manageable and not improving. It has prohibited him from being able to get up and start physical therapy consistently. On Monday, they took him in for x-rays and on Tuesday, they scheduled him for emergency surgery,as they found that part of corrective surgery was not intact. We are rejoicing that this issue has come to light! We are asking that this third surgery would be the last one needed, leading my dad to finally get on the road to recovery. On Tuesday evening, he was out of surgery and sounded hopeful! Please join our family in praying that we are now on the right road, headed toward recovery.

Food Collection For Those In Need

Thank you to those who’ve given to this very practical need of our church! Basic ways of helping make a big difference. The cost for these items (pictured) is about $35 per set. We could also use some of the reusable shopping bags for distributing the items. If you are interested in purchasing a set, please contact the church.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Join our team each Monday at 6:30–7:30, as we partner with M2540 in an effort to love our neighbor. Thanks to all who are part of this team for being a force for God’s glory and the good of our neighbors.

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Our Prayer Gatherings are led by Patti Clark, who declares in her heart the glory of the Lord to our streets! All are welcome to attend and join in the life-blood work of the church – prayer. Wednesday, 9am, at the Firehouse.

Kim and Nancy Sheek have so graciously agreed to host an eight-week series this fall for us at their home. This study that’s centered on marriage will be through a book called, “Love & War”, by John and Staci Eldredge. We will meet Wednesday evenings, starting September 27th, time TBD (*please note: childcare will not be available). This time together will be so meaningful for those who are married. Kim and Nancy will be able to offer us so much to help us grow in our relationship with Christ and our spouses! I want to strongly encourage all of our married couples to make every effort to attend. If you are interested in attending, please register by clicking the button below.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

Our Chicken & Rice team continues to mobilize, taking the love of Christ to our streets each Saturday, at 10am. Meet at the cafe’. All are welcome to jump in and go! Thank you, team, for all you do!

Movie Night: Free Burma Rangers, Saturday, Aug 19th

(Geared for an older audience)

On Saturday the 19th from 5:30 pm -7:30 pm, we have a chance to watch an amazing documentary film about a group of people working in Myanmar (a.k.a. Burma) to show the love of Jesus to those who are caught in the middle of a horrific war. The film is a great introduction to the country of Myanmar and to global missions in crazy places. But ultimately the film is about a bigger question: What would you do if God called you to something that feels crazy? Come see how love triumphs over evil when we have courage to respond to Jesus.

Childcare and pizza dinner (for adults and kids) will be provided, and we'd appreciate it if you could register here to help us plan food and childcare.

Viewer discretion is advised, and the youngest children are not encouraged to come, as the movie depicts war zone realities. Please watch this 4 minute introduction before deciding on the appropriateness of the content for your kids.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

If you’re looking for the chance to connect with others and enjoy a cup of coffee together, join us Sunday mornings at the Firehouse – 9am. As we sing and enjoy being together, Jo Ellen also offers us a very meaningful devotion.

Our Men’s Bible Study will continue this Sunday, at 9am! As Robert does a great job leading us, all men are invited to attend.

Additionally, the class Joseph Davis is teaching wraps up this Sunday. It will also be held at 9am, in our red-brick sanctuary. All are welcome to attend. Class begins at 9am.

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). During construction, we will continue to hold services here. I am just in awe of what the Lord’s laid out before us, Highland! So thrilled for us and so grateful.

This month, we are in the final lap of our series entitled: The Magnificent Move. In this series, we have honed in on how we are to prepare our hearts to move into the new building. This passage below has guided the thinking of our leadership:

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” (Proverbs 24:3-4).

We have taken the last two Sunday honing in on how to define the word: precious, according to the Lord’s heart. In summation, it’s defined in two ways:

As people who recognize the value of truth, thereby treasuring truth (Proverbs 23:23; Matthew 13:44).
Faithful stewardship, whether we have a lot or a little, steward with integrity, thereby resulting in His glory. (Luke 16:10-13; Matthew 25:21).
Last Sunday, the emphasis of our sermon was defining faithful stewardship. Click here to listen.
This Sunday, I will be sharing with you our plan as to how we intend to go about filling the rooms with ‘precious and pleasant riches.’ Our leadership has taken the time to develop a plan that offers us direction as we transition into the new facility soon. I will be presenting that plan this Sunday. Once we go over the plan, then you will have the opportunity to plug in and take part in prizing truth and faithfully steward what the Lord has entrusted to us.

I love you, Highland.

Looking forward to seeing you Sunday,

Rob

Rob Strickland

August 9, 2023

Our Weekly Update

Rob Strickland

August 9, 2023

Calling the Church to Fast & Pray

4 Strands of Stewardship

Heart, Home, Highland Community Church, North Highland community

Week One: Our Heart

As we prepare our hearts for the next chapter, Highland, let’s seek the Lord’s face together! Let’s seek Him, asking that His magnificence be put on display as we prepare to move in our new building! Throughout this month, each Wednesday, during lunch hour, let’s fast and pray as a church. This week, let’s pray and fast over our hearts by asking for:

More! An overflow of God’s spirit in our hearts, causing our hearts to be renewed and revived.

This prayer for “more” is not because God hasn’t already given so many good gifts, because He absolutely has. His presence, power and provision for the Highland Tribe has, at times, been astounding! He has proven Himself to be a good Father who loves to give good gifts to His children. Therefore, when we ask for more, we are not asking out of a spirit of deficiency, but rather out of a spirit of expectancy!

“Sing a new song” is a phrase that is often repeated in the book of Psalms. To sing a new song does not mean that we need to sing a song that is newly written. When God says, “Sing a new song”, He is saying, “Sing to Me a fresh song. Something that comes from an overflow of fresh waters overflowing from your soul.” This reminds me of Ezekiel’s vision in chapter 47 of the book of Ezekiel. Ezekiel is given a vision of the temple. At first, he sees just a trickle of water coming from the temple. Then the waters from the temple became ankle-deep. Then they became knee-deep. Then they became waist-deep. Till at last the waters had risen deep enough for swimming. That’s a way to look at what it means to ask for “more”. It’s a way of saying, “I want a fresh outpouring of Your Spirit, deep enough to swim in!”

Ezekiel was not the only prophet who anticipated experiencing more of God. In Isaiah 64 we read, “Look down from heaven and see from Your holy and glorious habitation; where is Your zeal and Your mighty deeds? The stirring of Your heart and Your compassion are restrained toward me — Oh, that You would rend the heavens and come down! That the mountains might quake at Your Presence…as fire kindles the brush, as fire causes water to boil - that we may tremble at Your presence among us. For from days of old they have not heard or perceived by ear, nor has the eye seen a God like You, who acts on behalf of those who wait/hope in Him!”

As we fast and pray today for an overflow of God’s presence in our hearts, feel free to use this guide. These are a couple methods I have used over the years as I have learned how to pray and they have proven to be very effective for me. Of course, this is just a suggestion, so feel free to take it or leave it.

P.R.A.Y

P - Pause to be still.

R - Rejoice and Reflect by meditating on a Psalm (If needing suggestions: a few of my faves are Psalm 65/66/67)

Y - Yield to His will and way in Your life

Here’s a song that goes with our fasting and praying for a fresh outpouring of God’s spirit upon our hearts. You can also make the words of this song a prayer from your heart - a new (fresh) song you sing to the Lord!

Update on my Dad

My dad continues to battle great bouts with pain and is struggling to get back on his feet. Pray along with us, asking the Lord for answers. We are hopeful that he will soon find the road to recovery.

Food Collection For Those In Need

Highland, let’s step in and help. At times, our neighbors are running short on groceries. We would love to keep a few items on hand to help as needed. Due to limited space, we cannot keep our usual food boxes but we could store a few bags at a time. The items pictured are an example of items needed. The cost for these items is about $35 per set. We could also use some of the reusable shopping bags for distributing the items. If you are interested in purchasing a set, please contact the church.

Also, The Food Mill offers a food give away every second and fourth Tuesday at the Fox Community Center from 2:30-6:00.

Throughout the Week

Mondays @ M2540, 6:30pm

Each Monday at 6:30–7:30, we partner with M2540 to love our neighbor. All are welcome to join our team and care for those who often have more month than money.

Prayer Gathering, Wednesdays, 9am

Patti leads our Prayer Gathering each Wednesday, at 9am. It is held at the Firehouse. Come and seek the Lord along with our team.

Throughout the Weekend

Chicken & Rice, Saturdays, 10am

This Saturday, our team continues to reach out to those on our streets and minister to them. They offer the love of Christ, while serving them a meal that has been prepared by the Chicken & Rice team. Volunteers are welcome. 10am, Saturday, in the cafe’.

Movie Night: Free Burma Rangers, Saturday, Aug 19th

(Geared for an older audience)

Childcare and pizza dinner (for adults and kids) will be provided, and we'd appreciate it if you could register here to help us plan food and childcare.

Sunday Mornings at 9am

Grab a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich and head to class this Sunday morning. Joseph’s teaching on holiness in our old sanctuary at 9am, Robert’s leading our men’s Bible Study in our educational-building and Jo Ellen holds devotion in the Firehouse. Looking forward to seeing you!

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 10AM

Our church service (we call “Firehouse Gatherings”) are held each Sunday morning in the Firehouse (3402 6th Ave). We are meeting here while construction on our facility is being completed – praise the Lord for all He is doing! He is almighty and continues to prove faithful to us. All are welcome to attend.

This month, we are in the final lap of our series entitled: The Magnificent Move. In this series, we have honed in on how we are to prepare our hearts to move into the new building. This passage below has guided the thinking of our leadership:

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” (Proverbs 24:3-4).

Precious and pleasant riches are not: ornate designs, nifty tech and sound equipment, strobe lights or dry ice, it’s people, created in His image. It’s the worship of those who delight in His righteous commands by way of a repentant heart.

So, the process here is that:

When our hearts are submitted to the wisdom of the Lord
We gain discernment and understanding of His heart and His plans
Thereby we can define what is precious in His eyes.

The word “precious” is defined in two ways:

As people who recognize the value of truth, thereby treasuring truth (Proverbs 23:23 - Buy, do not sell truth – go after it; Matthew 13:44 - Our life’s worth is found in the treasure of truth).
Faithful stewardship, whether we have a lot or a little (Luke 16:11; Matthew 25:21).

This is what we will covering this Sunday.

I love you, Highland.

Looking forward to seeing you Sunday,

Rob