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This week's inclusion in our Attributes of Jesus series comes from Bridget Pavelec. Bridget has served for the past seven years as Riverwood's Kids Creek coordinator. More importantly, Bridget is married to Ed, mom to five, and a connoisseur of fine coffees. Enjoy hearing Bridget share about one of the characteristics of Jesus she most appreciates: His faithfulness.
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Faithful
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The online dictionary defines the word faithful as "remaining loyal and steadfast, true, and consistent." This definition captures the very core of who God is—unchanging and unwavering in His love and commitment to His people. And one of the clearest demonstrations of God's faithfulness is through His Son, Jesus Christ.
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From the very beginning, God had a plan to restore the broken relationship between Himself and humanity, which was broken by sin. The faithfulness of God is revealed in His commitment to this plan by sending Jesus to earth. Jesus didn’t hesitate in fulfilling the promises of the Father. His life, His teachings, and most significantly, His death on the cross, were the ultimate acts of faithfulness. And, because of Christ’s sacrifice, we can boldly claim that nothing—no sin, no failure, no circumstance—can ever separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39).
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Throughout Scripture, we find countless reminders of God's unwavering faithfulness. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is repeatedly described as faithful. Three distinct titles of Christ highlight this truth:
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- Revelation 1:5: “The faithful witness.”
- Revelation 3:14: “The faithful and true witness.”
- Revelation 19:11: “The one called faithful and true.”
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In each of these titles, we see that Jesus embodies faithfulness. He was faithful to the Father’s will, faithful to His mission, and faithful to us, even unto death. Jesus is not just a faithful person—He is the very definition of faithfulness itself.
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What’s even more incredible is that even when we are unfaithful, He remains completely faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). In Deuteronomy 7:9, we are reminded of this truth:
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“Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him and keep His commandments, to a thousand generations.”
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Our faithfulness can falter, but God’s faithfulness endures forever. His love for us does not change based on our actions. He remains committed to us, generation after generation, without fail.
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Reflection Time
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I encourage you to take a moment and reflect on your own life. Where have you witnessed God’s faithfulness in tangible ways? Write down these moments. The next time you question God’s loyalty, trustworthiness, or faithfulness, revisit these notes. Let them serve as a reminder that God is forever faithful, no matter what challenges or doubts may come your way.
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God's faithfulness is something we can experience and hold onto every day. When life is difficult, when you feel alone, or when you wonder if God is still there, let His faithfulness be your anchor. He will never leave you nor forsake you, for His faithfulness is sure. As Lamentations 3:22-23 says...
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“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
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Baby Bottle Fundraiser
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We will be partnering with Alternatives Pregnancy Center 'Baby Bottle Boomerang’ Drive during the month of August. We will have bottles available to pick up in the lobby on Sunday to take home and fill with coins, bills, or checks! All bottles need to be returned by Sunday, August 31st.
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Food Pantry Volunteering
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Looking for an opportunity to serve your community? Sign up to volunteer at the mobile food pantry at the Waverly City Hall on Aug 12th @ 4:15 (setup) & 5:15 PM (distribution). Summer numbers have typically been a little light, so any willing hands are appreciated!
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Monthly Financial Update
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Here is our financial update as of July 31st:
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Budgeted YTD Needs: $114,321.00
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Actual YTD Giving: $114,246.81
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Just for Fun
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Join us for our last Riverwood Hangout of the summer! Plan to stay after the Worship Gathering for a potluck & outdoor games on August 17th: if your last name starts with A-K, please bring a main dish; L-Z please bring a dessert and/or side to share.
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