It is never fun going through seasons of struggle—feeling like the Lord is distant. You

close your eyes to pray and want so badly to feel as though He’s sitting right next to you, like you’re talking to a friend, but instead you feel like He keeps getting further and further away. You go to a worship service and hope and pray for a fresh encounter with Jesus, but instead you find yourself leaving the same as when you came in. It’s like you can’t see the sun through the clouds. I’ve been there, and in some ways, our church is in that season now. We have been without a Senior Pastor for a year and a half now, and it has been a long season full of questions, wondering and waiting. We have been pruned, bent, stretched and broken.Sometimes the Lord puts us through seasons of brokenness to teach us to listen and obey His voice. But we are creatures of habit and comfort. We like things to be a certain way

and happen at a certain time, and we organize our schedules to suit these comfortable routines. The same is true in the church. We become comfortable with certain songs, certain styles, with a choir or without, loud or not loud. But when our desire for comfort trumps our desire for Him, our hearts in turn become numb to the whispers and nudges of the Holy Spirit. And when the storms come, the waters rise, and the skies fill with clouds, we find it easier to run and hide behind the walls of what we know instead of reaching out into the unknown to grab His hand and follow. Nahum said, “His way is in the whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.” I love that! Nahum knew that the Lord doesn’t always move when the sun is shining and the waters are calm. But rather, the storms and clouds are often an indication that God is on the move, and the movement of His feet is kicking up the dust and whirling the storm around. He uses these kinds of seasons!

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The Shadow of His Handby Ben Hodge, Worship Ministry Co-Director

MPC’s 2015 Annual Business Meeting was both informational and inspirational. Consider these testimonies:

I’ve been in this church for 30 years and I don’t think I have ever seen a business meeting this positive and inspirational.Oftentimes people walk out with their heads down and feeling somewhat discouraged, but Sunday night everyone was walking out with joy on their faces and celebrating the ministries!Pastor Rolland preached Sunday morning on the “WHY” of ministry. Sunday night’s meeting illustrated

IfyouwerenotattheAnnualBusinessMeeting,didyoumisssomething?Oh yes, you sure did!Chair of the Board of Elders, Clark Simpson, called the meeting to order and led the congregation through an overview of the agenda, pointed out the highlights of our ministry in 2014 shared by our pastors’

reports, and then called for the treasurer’s report provided by Ken McCarty and Felisia O’Bold. Their report revealed a great financial finish with a $96,000 balance for 2014. In addition to the positive balance, a total of 1.89 million dollars was paid down against our total indebtedness.Members then considered the 2015 proposed budget of $3,033,000 dollar and approved it. Budgeting includes: $108,690 for local, domestic, and international missions ($62,500 in Faith Promise funds will provide additional support in missions as well), and all MPC program ministries and church operations.In addition to the budget, the congregation ratified three new resident Elders to replace Natalie Farmer, Kimmi McCardwell, and Doug Seelbach whose terms were completed. They are: H.L. Baker, Terry McCardwell, and Michelle Frazier.

Not Your Ordinary Business Meeting

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biweekly weavings of the community at Madison Park Church of God—February25,2015

January-March Beneficiary:HaitiMake a purchase at Holy Grounds and a portion of the proceeds will benefit MPC’s ongoing ministry in Haiti.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.

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EasterJam!Event Volunteer and Supply NeedsMPC will host a community, family-oriented Easter Jam! on Saturday, April 4 from 1:00-4:00pm. At least 13,000 pieces of wrapped Easter candy are needed. Please drop off candy in the container in The Commons. Volunteers are needed prior to the event to stuff eggs, bag cookies and prepare craft and activity bags. Volunteers are needed on the day of the event to set and clean up, be a roaming greeter, registration, and help with the various stations. Sign up in The Commons beginning March 1 to volunteer or contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministry Pastor or Ali Robinson, Early Childhood Coordinator.

EasteratMadisonParkSunday, April 5 at 9:00am and 11:00am in the Main AuditoriumChoose from two service options:

• Sunday at 9:00am — Inspirational music with the Voice of Praise Choir.• Sunday at 11:00am — Contemporary service with a praise band• Senior Associate Pastor Rolland Daniels will speak in both services.• During each service, children ages 2 through 5th grade will be treated to a special live

drama and music, crafts and a snack in Crossroads Auditorium.• The nursery will be open for children birth up to age 2.

BeBold.Reclaim.North American Convention of the Church of GodJune 22-25, 2015 • Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma CityMore 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.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: Now – March 31: $95, April 1 – June 14: $125, June 15 or after: $150. For more information and to register visit JesusIsTheSubject.org.

JesusSermon series, Sundays through Easter

March1—Jesus...God[John 1:1-18]March8—Jesus...Tempted[Luke 4:1-13, Hebrews 4:14-16]

March15—Jesus...Healer[Mark 1:40-45]March22—Jesus...Shepherd[John 10:1-10]

March29(PalmSunday)—Jesus...Lord [Matthew 14:22-33]April5(EasterSunday)—Jesus...Savior[Matthew 27:24-54; Isa. 53:6; Rom. 5:6-8]

News You Can UseClocksSpringForward: Sunday, March 8 at 2:00am. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour Saturday night, March 7. 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.BloodPressureClinic:Wednesday, March 4 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.HopeKeepers:First Tuesday of each Month, at 1:00pm at the Pendleton Library, Community Room, 595 E. Water Street in Pendleton. For individuals coping with chronic illness and pain. Does your condition keep you from enjoying life? Meeting with others who experience chronic pain may be just for you. Family members are also encouraged to attend. You are welcome and encouraged to join this journey of Hope. Facilitator: Linda Teeple at (765) 621-4607. LearningtoPrayLikeJesus:Wednesdays at 6:30pm in Room 179. Explore the teachings and practice of prayer in the life of Jesus and experience it in your own life. Dr. Leroy Quashie will cast a vision of the personal, powerful qualities of prayer as we learn to pray like Jesus. Contact: Jackie Corn, Administrative Assistant, Spiritual Formation.HouseholderSmallGroupInvitation:Second and fourth Monday of each month from 10:00am-Noon in the Hospitality Room. A special invitation to people of all ages is extended by the Householder Small Group to grow through study, sharing and fellowship. Contact: Liz Macklin at (765) 649-9894.J.O.Y.(JustOlderYouth):Mark your calendars! Join us Thursday, March 19 at Noon in Crossroads Auditorium. Contact: Esther Crnkovich at (765) 649-3323.CampChallenge:Church of God State camp for children and teens.Registrations:• Now–March 31: $199. • 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 19–23

Special registrations: $299, $325, $365

Children’s MinistriesSUPERSTART-PreteenEvent!:Friday and Saturday, March 6-7 at Trader’s Point Christian Church in Indianapolis. Preteens grades 4 and 5 will experience the nation’s biggest Christian Preteen Event! Registration is $80. The price includes all programming and materials, lodging, Friday night pizza, breakfast and lunch plus Sky Zone. Contact: Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.PassportToAdventure: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 MinistriesALLYOUTHEVENTS

• GameNightattheAUWellnessCenter:Wednesday, March 18

• EasterEggFundraiser:Take orders February 22-March 22. Earn money for trips and eventsIMPACT—JuniorHighMinistries:• TeachingFocus—Obsessing:Relationships:Sundays at 10:45am in Crossroads Auditorium; Wednesdays from 6:30-

7:45pm in Room 176-178.• SeniorAdultDonutsandCoffee:Sunday March 8 after

first service. Join us for this time with MPC’s Senior Adults!

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

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

•STWOfferingfor video projectors/Church of God India project, each week at Ignite!

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

• MACUNightatIgnite:Wednesday, March 11

• SpringRetreatatCampChallenge: April 18-19.

Opportunities to ServeChildren’sMinistryVolunteerOpportunity:Wednesdays from 6:30-8:00pm. Volunteers are needed for the infant, preschool and elementary classes. No preparation is required, simply come and assist the children and demonstrate Christ’s love. Contact: Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.ParkPlaceFoodPantry: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.

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

Congratulations to:Elizabeth and Josh Miller, on the birth of their daughter, Hannah Grace, on February 5.

In sympathy with:Tracy and Bruce Jones, on the loss of her aunt, Gail Elaine Hawkins on February 2.Gracie and Shelley Criswell, on the loss of their father and grandfather, David A.Criswell on February 2.Sherry and Terry Minton, on the loss of her aunt, Avanelle Hattery, on February 4.Philip and Debbi Hammel, on the loss of his mother, Verdess Hammel, on February 6.Janell and Donald Williams, on the loss of her grandmother, Margaret Givens, on February 9.The family of Noma McClure, who passed away on February 9.

Community and Ministry Partner NewsMadisonCountySheriff’sChapliancyAnnualBanquet:Friday, March 13 at 6:15pm in The Commons. Guest Speaker: Alphonso Bailey, Founder and ED of Down But Not Out, Inc. The sport of boxing coupled with his intense desire to grow emotionally and spiritually freed him from a life of crime and despair. Proceeds will benefit the chaplaincy program, reaching out to inmates with the gospel of Jesus Christ and providing encouragement and spiritual support to the employees and families of the sheriff’s Department. The cost is $20 per person. Make reservations at the table in The Commons on Sunday, March 1. Contact; Barb Collier at (765) 617-0506.TheBIBLETour2015:Live in concert: Steven Curtis Chapman, Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath and Danny Gokey, Thursday, April 9 at 7:00pm in the Main Auditorium. Your favorite artists bring the Bible to life through live performances of today’s biggest songs paired with epic visuals from The Bible

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. February25:Italian Spaghetti / Kids’ Option:

Pasta and Marinara March4: Chili and Baked Potato Bar

Kids’ Option: Hot Dogs and Chips

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TimHawkins LiveConcertwith JohnBranyan

Friday, March 27 at 7:30pm in the Main Auditorium. Tim Hawkins has

been forging the magical blend between two comedic ideals: A genuinely funny comedy show that caters to the entire

family. His stand-up material is vigorous, well-timed, and honed to perfection. His

music stands on its own. Doors will open at 6:45pm. General Admission,

Premium Seating Sections available. Tickets available at

TimHawkins.net.

Mini-Series. General Admission, VIP, Premium and a limited number of group rate tickets. Tickets available at TheBibleTour2015.com.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. Dove Harbor is a Christian transitional shelter for women and women with children. Prior fundraising and management experience preferred. Submit resume to: Doug Linville, 1400 Broadway Street, Anderson, IN 46012-2535 or email to dlinville@broadwayministrycenter.org .

•MiriamProject-Marketing/PublicRelationsCoordinator:This position exists to increase public awareness of the Miriam Project through the coordination of our marketing and public relations events, materials and social media presence. A twelve hour per week position. Miriam Project is a private, Christian Adoption Service. Prior marketing and public relations experience preferred. Submit

resume via email to Doug Linville, 1400 Broadway Street, Anderson, IN 46012-2535

•AndersonUniversity: AdministrativeAssistant:SchoolofEducation.Provide clerical and administrative support to the School Dean, Coordinator of Clinical Experiences and the Assessment, Technology and Data Manager. This is a 74% FTE position offering limited university benefits. Work schedule will be flexible over 12 months, normally ranging from 30-35 hours per week. NetworkAdministrator:InformationTechnologyServices.Provide high level technical skills and expertise in network administration. Full-time position with university benefits. ClassroomTechnologySpecialist:Provide multimedia services, technology support and training to faculty, staff, student, administrators and the university community. Full-time, 12 month position with full university benefit package.

Submit an application to the Assistant Director of Human Resources, Decker Hall Room 10, Anderson University, 1100 East 5th Street, Anderson, IN 46012, kayoung@anderson.edu. Persons with an application on file may call (765) 641-4132 to express an interest in this position.

In a similar way, Peter is called by Jesus to step out of the boat and walk on water in the midst of a storm. I know if I were in Peter’s shoes I wouldn’t be inclined to step out of a boat into (or in this case, onto) rough waters. So why did Peter? Peter knew something that we often forget. He knew that all he had to do was be close to Jesus. It didn’t matter how bad the storm was, how much the water was rising, how dark the sky was, or even that he was just asked to do what seemed to be impossible....walk on water. All he had to do was get from the boat to Jesus and he would be safe! He had spent enough time with Jesus and followed Him so closely that, regardless of the situation Peter found himself in, He knew Jesus was the solution. If given the choice like Peter, most of us would choose to just stay in the boat. Our tendency is to put our head down and focus on where we’re at, making sure we will be comfortable for the “bumpy” ride—when the whole time Jesus is standing right in front of us calling us to look up above the waves and come near to Him.Peter and Nahum were not strangers to struggle, pain or confusion. They knew all of those things were an unavoidable part of this life on earth. However, the way they responded in those moments defined their relationship with Jesus. How will we ever be able to experience the fullness of

God if we’re not willing to step out of the boat and into the unknown or uncomfortable? What if as a church, our only desire was to get as close to Jesus as possible? What if we lay down our comforts and got up and out of the boat? I believe He would awaken us to the presence of the Holy Spirit and remind us of the sound of His voice. I beli eve He would replace the stone parts of our hearts with flesh.And I believe it would ultimately change the atmosphere of our lives individually and as a church community. It would permeate throughout our families, relationships and our city. And it would begin to shift our default response in seasons of struggle from running to what is comfortable to running into the arms of JESUS! Matthew 10:27 says, “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.” My hope and prayer for myself and for the larger church in this season is that we would be so consumed with Jesus that we will do whatever it takes to be close to Him and hear His voice—even in the darkness—so that when the time comes for the storm to settle and the light to break through the clouds, we are ready to proclaim all He has told us in the shadow of His hand.

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

a comment at MadisonParkChurch.org.

Other Resident Elders are:Debbie Fox (2017)Peggy DeVerter (2017)Kent Kramer (2018)Clark Simpson (2016) ChairDave Whitmoyer (2016) Vice ChairTom Wilson (2017)

Non-Resident Elders include:Bob Marvel, Senior Pastor, Cornwall Church, Bellingham, WA (2018)Wayne Bollenbacher, Director of Finance, Budget and HR at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (2018)

Highlightingourministriesfortheeveningweretestimoniesfromthreeministryareasofthechurch.Children’s Ministry Pastor, Paula Spear, interview Adam Siglar who has three children in our ministry and is himself involved in teaching on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. His story about how it has blessed his family and serves as foundation building in their home was moving!That testimony was followed by Pastor Don Smith who interviewed our Living Link Church of God Missionaries and longtime MPC-goers, Dr. Mark and Kathy Fulton. The Fultons recently moved to Haiti to practice their medical missions full-time. In this country where 80% unemployment, political unrest, natural disasters, and extreme poverty are the norm, the Fultons demonstrate God’s love. Finally, Dove Harbor and Miriam Project director Doug Linville shared stories of two lives that have been changed through those ministries. One was the little autistic boy being adopted through the Miriam Project. by a mother who has a degree specializing in helping children with autism. The second was the Dove Harbor graduate whose life was turned around for good through that ministry. This past December she finished her battle with cancer and went on to her new home in heaven. Her story was put on video a couple years ago and played for the congregation. In it she explained how God had changed her life and had used her to impact many others.God is doing miracles through MPC. Watch for exciting details for Easter and Summer programming and be a part of this transformational ministry!

Not Your Ordinary Business Meting Continued from page 1

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The Shadow of His Hand Continued from page 1

Community and Ministry Partner News

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