Matthew 16:24-28

​Thoughts:            Jesus has told his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and “suffer many things.” 
 
He knew he would be flogged, and he knew he would be crucified.  That certainly qualifies as suffering.
 
Jesus continues to tell his disciples what they must do if they follow him.
                             1.  Deny yourself
                             2.  Take up your cross
                             3.  Follow me
                             4.  Every man would be rewarded according to his works.
 
This is direct – plain – specific.  The disciples could not say Jesus had not told them what would happen.  They knew.
 
And so do we.
 
Discussion:          What is the heaviest cross you have had to bear?
 
Activity:               Take more of the little paper figures representing the young people in our church.  Learn about them; care about them; pray for them.  Let’s have bare brick walls in our sanctuary again.  All the young people in our church should be in someone’s heart and prayer.
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Remember in prayer this week Joan Doptis, Vivian Hansard, Jim Kuszmaul, and Millie Parker.  Our Christian sympathy to the family of Martha Meyer who passed away last week and to Bonnie Kalef and her family on the death of her husband, Fred, last week. 
 
Donations to Haiti in response to Hurricane Matthew can be made to either UMCOR’s international relief fund (Advance #982450) or the U.S. Disaster (Advance #901670).
 
This Thursday the United Methodist Women have a guest speaker.   Jay Hernandez who is a member of the Troy Police Department and an avid history buff will share some interesting facts and findings from past Presidential elections.  Refreshments will be served at 9:30am and Jay will speak at 10:00am.  Bring your friends, neighbors and relatives. Men are also welcome.
 
This Saturday is ALL CHURCH TRUSTEE WORK DAY beginning at 9:00am.  Remember many hands make light work.  Some indoor jobs; some outdoor jobs.  Come dressed for the weather.
 
Next Sunday starts our Finance Campaign.  You will be hearing from various members of our congregation and be informed of the financial status of our church.
 
Next Sunday at 11:30am you may start to bring your rummage into the Christian Life Center following coffee time. 
 
November Tidings articles are due to jessieTFUMC@gmail.com by Monday, October 17th.  Don’t forget to write your Advent booklet article also.  Deadline is November 10th. Please send to Sara Matthews or Sheila Wilson.