The story of Jesus walking on water found in Matthew 14 shares with us a great truth: Jesus doesn’t desert us

even when we flounder or fail. Verses 30-31 clarify this for us.Matt. 14:30-31—“But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. ‘Save me, Lord!’ he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. ‘You have so little faith,’ Jesus said. ‘Why did you doubt me?’”Notice that Peter’s faith in Jesus was strong enough to get him out of the boat; it just wasn’t strong enough to stand up to the storm. His faith was strong enough to move him; it just wasn’t strong enough to sustain him. Matthew states that Peter “saw the strong wind and the waves and in that instant, the storm became bigger than his faith.Please know, it wasn’t because Peter had no faith. Jesus told him he had “little faith.” At

this point in his life, Peter’s faith was an undeveloped faith. However, these were the moments that matured his faith. These were the moments that made Peter into the leader that Christ would ultimately build His church around.Sometimes our failures are stepping stones to great growth because those very same failures can cause us to realize our great need for Jesus. Many times challenging situations put us outside our comfort zone; which, in turn, force us to grow as human beings and believers. Sometimes that is the only way we will learn to depend on Someone bigger than ourselves. Peter didn’t sink because of the storm; he sank because he began to depend on his own capacities instead of staying focused on Jesus.All of us know what that’s like, don’t we? We have all allowed setbacks, opposition and obstacles to cause us to lose focus on our faith. We begin to see ourselves and our limitations instead of the limitless capacity Jesus brings to any and every situation. In

continued on page 4

Lordship of Jesusby Rolland Daniels, Interim Senior Pastor

Another day. You check to see what appointments you must gather strength for during the day. You feel stuck in a box, separated from what life offers you. Illnesses, finances, circumstances or relationships have put you there. You’re tired of pity parties and confinements. You feel like you are just in “survival mode.” But in God’s sight, we are not destined to merely live miserable lives of sickness and disease.Linda Teeple, MPC HopeKeepers facilitator shares the power of this ministry to it’s group members.“We all need hope, and “hope-keepers”— people who help us hold on to hope during difficult times. This is especially true for those of us who live with chronic illness and pain.”Lisa Copen, suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, built her own support group by seeking others like herself online. Out of her own need, Lisa developed Rest Ministries, a

Christian online ministry for people living with chronic illness and pain (restministries.com).Linda shares her story. “I discovered Rest Ministries early in my own journey with chronic pain, and found a lifeline of hope. Connecting with other people coping with chronic illness and pain did not help me conquer my daily pain, erase the fear of how my disease process will effect my future, or resolve all my anger that I can no longer do the activities I once enjoyed. However, God provided me with sojourners and encouragers on this path of chronic illness and pain.”Within Rest Ministries, Lisa Copen developed HopeKeepers groups, which now span the globe. Linda wanted to bring this hope to her friends at home. “Out of my own need for support, I started a HopeKeepers group at church MPC. It has become a community in which we are free to express our feelings, study God’s word,

Bringing Hope to the Hurting

biweekly weavings of the community at Madison Park Church of God—April8,2015

April–JuneBeneficiary:IndiaMake a purchase at Holy Grounds and a portion of the proceeds will benefit MPC’s ongoing ministry in India.Come early or linger after the Sunday worship services to enjoy conversation and refreshments. Visit MadisonParkChurch.org to view the full menu.

Sundays,8:30am-11:30amMasterCard, Visa and Discover accepted.

Worship ServicesSUNDAY9:00am-A blend of traditional and contemporary music, prayer, and teaching from God’s Word.11:00am-Features a praise band with distinctively modern edge and teaching from God’s Word.Classesare offered for all ages at 9:00am and 10:45am. Visit Grand Central, formerly the Information Center, for a complete listing of all electives or visit MadisonParkChurch.org, Ministries page.

Abi Dawon leading worship during a Student Minstries service.

— 2 —

TheBIBLETour2015:Thursday, April 9 at 7:00pm in the Main AuditoriumLive in concert: Steven Curtis Chapman, Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath and Danny GokeyYour favorite artists bring the Bible to life through live performances of today’s biggest songs paired with epic visuals from The Bible Mini-Series. JUST IN: Event is sold out! TheBibleTour2015.com.

AnEveningwithChondaPierceSunday, April 12 at 6:00pm in the Main Auditorium Ticket costs:

• $17.00 for groups (10+)• $23.00 General ($25 At Door)• $29.00 Artist Circle (Reserved Section - closest to stage)• $50.00 VIP Experience 4:40-5:00pm (Q&A & early entry)• Children 5 & under free - except in Artist Circle & VIP sections

Tickets available in The Commons and at the Church Office. For more information visit trinitycommunications.org.

FestivalofTables Celebrating What’s InsideSaturday, May 16, 2:00- 4:00pm |The CommonsEnjoy a luncheon with stunning décor, amazing tablescapes and fabulous fellowship. New this year: A purse auction! Invite ladies who have inspired, encouraged, mentored, and walked beside you on your life journey. Come connect with other women, making new friends and re-connecting with other.Theme is “Celebrating What’s Inside” Keynote Guest Speaker: Rev. Dr. Kimberly Majeski. Kimberly will share on recognizing the power of the Divine inside all people and how we can call forth, in all women, the beauty that is Divine.• Registration is $15 per person. Registration Deadline: Tuesday, May 5, 2015.

Includes lunch (provided by The Big Easy LLC, owner Leah Green). • A portion of the proceeds will benefit Stripped Love, a ministry to women in the sex trade. • Register by calling Brenda Dillmon at the Church Office, (765) 642-2000.TableHostess’Needed Invite your friends, family and/or co-workers to join you at your decorated table! Choose a favorite theme and have fun creating a tablescape that reflects your style: classic and inspiring or adventurous and exotic…whatever you decide! Contact: Brenda Dillmon at the Church Office for details.

ChurchofGodConventionJune 22-25 | Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City, OklahomaMore than ever before, the world needs Christ. Jesus is the subject. The convention will awaken and inspire our passion for doing amazing things in His name—freeing the captives, seeking the lost, loving the brokenhearted. Together, we will take back all that Hell has stolen. BeBold.Reclaim.We’ve got something for everyone, but you’ve got to be there to experience it!Special Guests include:

• Author Francis Chan.• Recording artists Shane & Shane. • Comedienne Anita Renfroe. • Award-winning recording artists Selah, Steve Rennick, Steve Southards,

and Gillian Grannum.Registration:

• April 1 – June 14: $125• June 15 or after: $150

For more information and to register visit JesusIsTheSubject.org.

SOLD OUT!

News You Can UseMPCHikingClub: Enjoy the great doors, fellowship and better health - join a hike locally or special hiking adventures. Four hiking groups to choose from: Advanced, Intermediate, Weekday and Beginners. Upcoming MPC Hiking Trips include:• April 24-25: Knobstone in Southern

Indiana• May 12-17: Appalachian Trail

Connect on Facebook: Madison Park Hiking Group. Contact: Clint Short at (765) 208-0870.BloodPressureClinic:Wednesday, May 6 from 5:30-6:30pm in The Commons. MPC Parish Nurses conduct a free blood pressure screening for MPC-goers and community friends. Contact: Sonia Smythe at sonia.smythe@ecommunity.com.J.O.Y.(JustOlderYouth):Thursday, April 23 at Noon in Crossroads Auditorium. All adults 55 and over are invited to an enjoyable time of food and fellowship. Special speakers are Jim and LaVerne Walters. Bring a dish of food to share at the buffet table. Contact: Jackie Corn, Administrative Assistant, Spiritual Formation. ChildDedicationClass—TimeMatters:Sunday, April 19 at 9:00am in Room 181. Parents wishing to dedicate their child are invited to participate in this class. Learn more about why Time Matters and connect with other parents. Child Dedication will be held on Sunday, April 26 in the 9:00am and 11:00am worship services. To register for the class contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.CampChallenge:Church of God State camp for children and teens.Registrations:• April 1–two weeks from camp date: $225.• Late Registration: $265.Dates:• Young Explorer – June 11–13

Discounted registrations: $99, $110, $150• Senior High – June 14–19• Junior High – June 21–26• 3rd–4th Grade – June 28–July 3• 5th–6th Grade – July 5-10• 5th–6th Grade – July 12–17•Adventure Camp – July 19–23Special registrations: $299, $325, $365

Children’s MinistriesPassportToAdventure:Wednesdays from 6:30-7:45pm in the Children’s Center for elementary age children. An exciting travel adventure through many places that Jesus

visited while He was on earth. Learn the stories of the many people He helped. Get ready and earn stamps on your passports.

Student MinistriesALLYOUTHEVENTSIMPACT—JuniorHighMinistries:• TeachingFocus—Obsessing: Relationships:Sundays at 10:45am in Crossroads Auditorium; Wednesdays from 6:30-7:45pm in Room 176-178.

• BELIEVE:YouthConference:April 10-12. Cost $60.

IGNITE—SeniorHighMinistries:• TeachingFocus—THRIVE (Ephesians3:14-21). Wednesdays from 6:00-8:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium.

• BibleStudies:Sunday at 9:00am in room 180; Tuesday from 6:00-7:30pm at Williamson’s Home

• SpringRetreatatCampChallenge: April 18-19.

Opportunities to ServeParkPlaceFoodPantry:MPC is joining forces with Park Place Church of God’s Food Pantry, located in the community building behind the church on College Drive. The pantry gives food items to those who might otherwise have little to eat. It is open Monday through Friday from 6:30am-7:30pm. Volunteers are needed and appreciated to help in this ministry. Contact: Joe Womack at (765) 620-9342.PeanutButterforHaiti:Help feed children and families in Haiti by donating jars of smooth peanut butter—a good source of protein. Donation tubs are available in The Commons and the Children’s Center April 12 through April 30. Contact: Rob Fox, (765) 606-5191.BereavementTeamLeaders:Two persons are needed to head-up the MPC Bereavement Team. The team plans and implements dinners following a funeral service. This is a vital ministry of MPC, reaching out to families at their time of need. Contact: David Reames, Interim Pastoral Care Pastor.

Family News To submit a threads announcement regarding a birth or death, please contact the Pastoral Care office at (765) 642-2000.

Congratulations toBonnie and Nathan Stiers, on the birth of their son, Cody Edwin, born on March 9, weighing 6 lbs., 4 oz. and 18 1⁄2 inches long.Angela and Jose Fernandez, on the birth of their son, Joshua Tomas, born on March 14, weighing 6 lbs., 7 oz. and 19 1⁄2 inches long.

In sympathy withJoe and Candi Barcus and Gary and Peggy Barcus, on the loss of their brother, Scott Allen Barcus, on Monday, March 9.Bruce and Pam Hepfer, on the loss of his mother, Beverly Hepfer, on Friday, March 13.Phil and Debby Webber, Ashley and Rob Craig, and Corey Webber, on the loss of their mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Judith Ann Webber, on Saturday, March 14.Sarah Denniston, on the loss of her grandmother, Gloria C. Funk, on Monday, March 16.Fran Folsom, Susan, David, and Brett DeWitt, on the loss of their son-in-law, husband and father, Brent DeWitt, on Tuesday, March 17.

Ray and Ruth Ann Seal, on the loss of his sister, Arthenia “Artie” Zile, on

Friday, March 27.

Employment at MPCMPCWeddingCoordinatorPosition:The position of Wedding Coordinator for weddings scheduled at MPC sites is open.

Coordinator must have organizational and

coordinating skills and ability to relate and work

well with people. Contact: Jennifer Eviston, Administrative

Assistant to Interim Senior & Senior Associate Pastors at the Church Office.

Community and Ministry Partner NewsOpenHouseforHaitianPastor:Monday, April 13 from 5:00-8:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium. Welcome Pastor Jean Marie Louis Jean and his wife who Pastor in Haiti. Hosted by Mark and Kathy Fulton. Light refreshments will be served.

Lighthouse Café

Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and mini-salad bar in The Commons: Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 6:30pm. Cost: Adults-$7, Children and college Students with ID-$5. Family Plan: $25 for up to 7 people, $5 per each additional person. April8: Taco Salad

Kids’ Option: Walking TacoApril15: Beef and Noodles / Kids’ Option:

Beef and NoodlesApril22: Parmesan Chicken / Kids’

Option: Chicken Legs & Fries

Wednesday, April 15 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room

Explore Madison Park provides the essential information you need to know before calling Madison Park Church your church home. The class answers questions such as who we are, what we believe, and our church membership process in a relaxed, fun, and interactive format. You’ll meet others who are on the same journey as you and begin the process of getting connected. Find details or sign-up in the Hospitality Room or online at MadisonParkChurch.org. Contact: Shelly Stottlemyer, Pastor of Connection Ministries.

continued on page 4

— 3 —

Honduras MissionTrip

October 10-17, 2015An opportunity to witness firsthand what God is doing in Honduras, an area where Madison Park Church is invested with her finances and her friends on the field. For more

information contact: Jennifer Eviston, Administrative Assistant to Interim

Senior & Senior Associate Pastors and Missions.

the end this lack of focus causes us to struggle.However, the good news is this: Even in our failures, we, like Peter, can call out to Jesus.“And beginning to sink, Peter cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ And immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.”What great news for all of us today! Jesus is in the storm with us, watching over us and caring for us. His love for us is unending even when we flounder or fail. Christ is there, willing to extend you and me a hand, willing to help us regain our

footing, and willing to restore us back to the place we need to be.The simple truth is this, if we don’t trust Jesus as the absolute Lord and Leader of our lives, we will never experience nor understand the unbelievable, indescribable power that Jesus brings to us.Matt. 14:32-33—“And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. [Notice now: It wasn’t until Peter had stepped out in faith, floundered in adversity, and reached back out to Jesus that the wind finally died down.] Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’”You will never know His power until you are totally dependent on His power. You

will never know His capacity until you are totally dependent of His capacity to change your situation.That is why it is so important that we develop a clear vision of Jesus as Lord. Sometimes we can have cluttered, fragmented or even distorted images of Jesus. But, as we come to know Jesus and see who Jesus is, we come to realize that His compassion, His protection and His provision are all grounded in His authority over all there is. Unless you know Him as Lord, you will never really know how to totally trust Him.

Share your thoughts on this article; visit the blog and leave

a comment at MadisonParkChurch.org.

— 4 —

Lordship of Jesus Continued from page 1

laugh with, and encourage and pray for each other.”One HopeKeeper states that attending group, “keeps me grounded in the fact that I am not alone in my quest for healing and reminds me that God has not deserted me.”Another HopeKeeper says, “it’s uplifting to be with people who are going through similar experiences. I always leave feeling better.”I know the plans I have for you…plans to give you HOPE and a future. —Jeremiah 29:11.HopeKeepers support groups are support groups/Bible studies designed to meet the emotional and spiritual needs of a person living with chronic illness or pain. Group members have the opportunity to grow spiritually while surrounded by others who share similar circumstances, unrevealed answers, and even joys. Pain is never fun, but pain with purpose is so much easier to live with.HopeKeepers meets the first Tuesday of each month at 1:00pm at the Pendleton Library Community Room. Contact: Linda Teeple at (765) 621-4607.

Bringing Hope ... Continued from page 1

Haiti Fundraising Gala: Saturday, April 18 from 6:00-8:00pm at the Anderson Fine Arts Centre. Enjoy light hors d’oerves, an auction and special Haitian Guest Speaker, Jean Marie Louis Jean and his wife. The Haitian Pastor was raised in a family who practiced voodoo and became a Christian. Tickets: $20 pre-reserved. Contact the Anderson Fine Arts Centre at (765) 649-1248. Scott Lutterman and the Heartland Big Band: Saturday, May 2 at 7:00pm in The Commons (Doors open at 6:15pm). The Music of Cole Porter and Hoagy Carmichael - The Indiana Boys. Indiana has a rich tradition of musical composers. The two Hoosier composers featured on this concert penned some of the most memorable music under the Hoosier sky! Songs include It’s De-lovely, In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening, Anything Goes, The Nearness of You, Stardust, Georgia on My Mind, Two Sleepy People, Night and Day...the list goes on! Join us for a great evening of vocal and swing classics featuring special guest national artist Freddie Mendoza on trombone. Refreshments and light desserts provided by The Edge catering. Tickets available online at HeartlandBigBand.org.Employment Opportunities:•DoveHarbor-ResourceDevelopmentDirector:Direct fund development and public relations activities to meet the financial, volunteer and material donation needs of Dove Harbor. A 32-hour per week position. ResourceManager:Manage volunteers, material donations, physical structure and maintenance needs of the building. A 32 hours per pay period (two weeks). Female applicants only. Dove Harbor is a Christian transitional shelter for women and women with children. Submit resume to: Doug Linville, 1400 Broadway Street, Anderson, IN 46012-2535 or email to dlinville@broadwayministrycenter.org.

•AndersonUniversity -DirectorofFirstYearExperience:Help design and implement activities and programs designed to promote the academic success and retention of first year

students and improve student persistence. Master’s degree in educational leadership, doctorate or ABD preferred. Ten month assignment beginning August 1, 2015. Full-time university benefit options. - DirectoroftheCulturalResourceCenter&MulticulturalStudentServices:Serves multicultural students through building relationships, programming, academic encouragement and advocacy. Full-time university benefits. Submit an application to the Assistant Director of Human Resources, Decker Hall Room 10, Anderson University, 1100 East 5th Street, Anderson, IN 46012.

WomenofFaith—Loved:TheFarewellTour.July 31-August 1 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne Indiana. Celebrating 20 years of laughter and life-changing messages. In 2015 the Farewell Tour brings long-time friends and exciting new additions together for an event focused on the message shared from the beginning: you are seen, you are known, you are free, you are loved. Register at womenoffaith.com or call 1-888-49.faithAmazingAging/AgingAmazingly:Saturday, May 30 from 8:30am-4:30pm at MPC. Key Note Speaker and other guests include: Andrea Morehead, WTHR Indianapolis news anchor; John Pistole, Anderson University President-elect; Dr. James W. Lewis, Dean of the School of Theology; Kevin Smith, Mayor of Anderson. Eight Breakout Sessions to choose from plus an inter-generational service project - children and youth from local churches will pair up with conferees for a hands-on-service project to benefit local ministries. Sponsored by the School of Theology, in collaboration with partnering area Church of God congregations. Registration: $10 per person. Send registration to Nichele Washington, Anderson University School of Theology, 1100 East Fifth Street, Anderson, IN 46012. 1-(800-428-6414 FREE.

Community and Ministry Partner NewsContinued from page 3