by Pastor Patrick Cho

Dear LBC church family and friends!

I hope your week is going well and you are continuing to walk in the Lord. This past Sunday we had a chance to introduce our theme for 2014, “One Thing I Do,” from Philippians 3:13-14. While there is much that we can glean from that passage and its context, it was refreshing to see Paul simplify the Christian faith to one idea – the pursuit of Christ.

This not only serves as a helpful reminder to focus our Christian activity that we might know Christ more, but it also can be seen as a litmus test to evaluate how profitable our speech, actions, ministry, and motives are. When you seek to read through your Bible, serve on a ministry staff, meet with someone for accountability and prayer, etc., you can look back on those times and consider, “Did that help draw me closer to my Savior and Lord?”

This is especially important considering how easily our sinful tendencies can turn these spiritual activities into self-promoting industries. Rather than giving the glory to God, we are prone to directing attention to ourselves even in very subtle ways. Philippians 3 reminds us that our lives are to be lived in a relentless pursuit of Christ. This is the one thing we are committed to and it is the one thing we do. May 2014 be a year where we all strive to know Him more in His death and resurrection.

One Thing I Do,

Pastor Patrick

Here are some upcoming ministry opportunities:

1. FLOCKS! Don’t forget that this week is flocks week, which means that our regularly scheduled midweek activities will be on hold until next week. For more information about flocks, please visit the church website.
2. Super Bowl Party. If you don’t have any other place to watch the big game, we will be projecting the game in the sanctuary after church on Sunday. Whether you are cheering on the Broncos or the Seahawks, or you just want to hangout for the afternoon, come out around 3:00 PM and bring a snack or appetizer to share (feeding 8-10 people). Drinks will be provided. Please note that we will not be projecting the half time show.
3. Women’s Ministry Car Rally. Please remember that this Sunday is the last day for you ladies to signup for the women’s ministry car rally event for February 8. The car rally will begin at the church building at 9:00 AM. Be sure to bring some money for food. You can sign up with Christine Cho (christinescho@gmail.com).
4. LBC Los Angeles. LBCLA will be having their official inaugural weekend on Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16. On Saturday, February 15, at 6:00 PM, they will be hosting an equipping seminar and dinner featuring Pastor Chris Mueller. On Sunday, February 16, they will be having their inaugural service at 6:00 PM. YOU NEED TO RSVP for these events so they can adequately prepare for food. Sign up on their Facebook page or email Pastor John Kim TODAY to reserve a spot (pastorjohnkimlbc@gmail.com).
5. Care Month. Don’t forget that February is care month, so we will be having special announcements each Sunday to highlight ways to encourage and care for one another.
6. Beacon. Be sure to check out our online newsletter to find helpful articles and links for your spiritual encouragement and nourishment.
7. Local Outreach. Please take advantage of the various ways you can reach out to our community whether it’s feeding the homeless, tutoring young students, or ministering at a local convalescent home. Opportunities abound to shine the light of Christ so let’s be sure to be faithful with our testimony.