From the Organist's Chamber

Well, I promised you’d hear more from me on this! On Tuesday June 17th, we have a must-see event with the world-renowned organist from Tabernacle Square in Utah, Richard Elliott, playing our beloved Berghaus Pipe Organ. The concert is—yes indeed—10:30am, because it’s part of a week-long organ festival being held in the Valley. I’ve gotten to know Richard over the last few weeks and he’s going to play a charming recital for us and he’s as nice as the day is long. Somewhat related, you might find it interesting to know that for my doctoral dissertation, I was influenced by the announcer for the Tabernacle’s “Music and the Spoken Word” announcer, Lloyd Newell. If you’ve never heard his elegant speaking manner, you’ve got to give it a search! I would write a paragraph, then read it out loud using his prosody and voice inflections. If it didn’t flow in a manner that seemed palatable, I rewrote it. 

Dr. Jeremy Peterman

Organist and Handbell Director

The summer rhythms of life are some of my favorites. These days are synonymous with going barefoot, sun-drenched early morning walks, and extra late dinners. With kids all grown up, I am now able to linger longer in the Word, too, which pairs nicely with bare feet! I am grateful to glean wisdom from the well-trodden paths of Jesus as He walked out His ministry (a ministry of love AND sacrifice) alongside His Father and others. The rhythm Christ modeled was one of relationship.

Jesus never walked alone.

He set an example for each of us to WALK as a loved child of God;

to Walk As Loved Kids. What does that mean exactly? It’s simple, but not easy. Loved children are supernaturally able to love others. In fact, loved people are called to love others, even to love sacrificially!

Paul writes in Ephesians: "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." 

Follow. God’s. Example. This is the mission for God’s Church, for His kids. Church programs and services don’t love people. Classes and education don’t love people. Even the best worship services and events don’t love people. People love people! God’s loved people go beyond affection to self-sacrificing service in order to love people. If you’re feeling a bit disconnected or perhaps unloved, perhaps you are choosing to walk alone. I invite you to join us in loving community on Tuesday evenings for 4 more weeks. (Sign up here for the Women's Bible study on James). It’s not too late. We have saved a seat for you!

You are so loved,

XOXOX

Paula Webb

Director of Women's Ministry

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” Mark 10:45

When we think about what it means to follow Jesus, one of the clearest pictures He gives us is through service. Jesus didn’t come looking for attention, applause, or position-He came to serve. He washed feet. He welcomed children. He gave His time, His presence, and ultimately His life, all in love.

As His followers, we’re called to that same heart of service. Not just when it’s convenient or easy, but especially when it requires us to step out of our comfort zones. Whether it’s rocking a baby in the nursery, leading a small group of kids, setting up chairs, or praying behind the scenes--every act of service makes a difference.

Jesus doesn’t need perfect volunteers. Jesus doesn’t need people who know exactly what they are doing and how it will go. He’s simply looking for willing hearts-people who say, "Here I am, send me." Because when we serve, especially in the lives of children, we’re helping to grow their faith and we're showing them what Jesus is like.

As we move closer to VBX, consider serving. Here’s the best part: no matter your gifts, personality, or experience-there’s a spot for you. God created each of us uniquely, and every strength can be used to point kids toward Jesus. Whether you're energetic or quiet, artistic or organized, outgoing or behind-the-scenes—your yes matters.

Staci Medina

Director of Children's Ministry

What Is Your Cup?

By Ryan Callahan

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus—fully God yet fully human—fell to the ground in anguish and prayed: “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from me. Yet not my will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

Even Jesus wrestled with the weight of suffering.

The 'cup' He spoke of was the road of pain, betrayal, and death that lay ahead.

His cup was unique—foretold and redemptive. We each carry a cup of our own.

Unlike Jesus, we don’t always know what it will hold. We don’t always see it coming.

But we will face it.

Each of us walks through seasons that feel like our own Good Friday—

dark, confusing, painful.

Yet just as resurrection couldn’t come without the cross,

neither can we be transformed without suffering.

Psalm 23:4 says:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”

And that word through matters.

It doesn’t say we stop in the valley.

It says we walk through it.

God never intended for us to live in the darkness—but to walk with Him through it into healing, into hope, and ultimately… into resurrection.

So I ask you:

What is your cup?

What would it look like to ask God to take it from you—

and then still say, “Not my will, but Yours be done”?

Sometimes God removes the cup.

Other times, He strengthens your hands to hold it.

Either way—

He is with you.

Ryan Callahan

Director of High School Ministry

The Good, the Bad, and the Ratios that Matter

Cholesterol is a fatty substance essential for various bodily functions, such as producing hormones and vitamin D. However, not all cholesterol is equal. Understanding cholesterol and their ratios can help you make informed decisions about your health.

There are two main types of cholesterol: Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL) is labeled as “bad” because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends LDL below 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) is considered a “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver for elimination. Higher HDL levels are linked to a lower risk of heart disease and should ideally be above 60 mg/dL.

While individual cholesterol numbers are important, the ratios between LDL and HDL provide a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk.

• Total Cholesterol to HDL Ratio: This ratio is calculated by dividing total cholesterol by HDL cholesterol. A ratio below 3.5 is considered optimal, while a ratio above 5.0 may indicate an increased risk of heart disease.
• LDL-to-HDL ratio: This measures the balance between bad and good cholesterol. A ratio of 2:1 or lower is ideal, measuring twice as much HDL as LDL.

Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood that can contribute to heart disease. High triglycerides can increase cardiovascular risk. A normal level is below 150 mg/dL.

To maintain healthy cholesterol levels:

• Eat a diet rich in fiber, healthy fats (nuts and fish) and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly to boost HDL and reduce LDL.
• Avoid trans fats and excessive sugar, which can raise LDL and triglycerides.

Understanding cholesterol helps you take steps to support heart health. Of course, there is a hereditary component. If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, be sure to discuss this with your health care professional. Healthy habits can go a long way in maintaining cholesterol and reducing heart disease risk.

Blessings...

Jean Knowling, R.N.

Parish Nurse