A handful of individuals were asked to write about their experiences at Heritage Oaks Church. This is part #3 of a series that shares others’ perspectives of the church.
I was a single mom working two jobs, my daughter had an opportunity to go to a camp in Branson, Missouri in the Ozark Mountains. She could go free as long as I went along as a chaperone. I was exhausted and having some doubts about my life choices; going through some emotional as well as spiritual issues of my own. I, myself, had never been to church camp, so wasn’t sure what to expect. I took a chance!
It was a wonderful time spent in nature and having some quiet time with the Lord. I learned that, through serving, it made my life very full. God blessed me that summer. Not only did I laugh and have a good time with new friends, I renewed my faith in Him. God reminded me that priorities in my own life were important as a single parent raising a daughter. I learned about the “I am Third” philosophy, which certainly was biblical. 1. Put God first. 2. Put others next (including your family) and, 3. Put yourself third. In my life, I have learned when God is your first priority, everything else seems to fall in place.
How does all this relate to Heritage Oaks Nazarene (HON)? Our church aspires to put God first in all decisions and the way we do things in the church. One thing that sets HON apart is our differences are celebrated and they don’t divide us. In spite of our past or present hurts, you will be loved and uplifted just the way you are. Is God your first thought or your last? I’m still learning that when I give Him my best and not my left-overs, my life runs so much smoother. We’d love to have you come. Will you take a chance?
Our Pastor and his wife are friendly and encouraging. Our bible studies are Christ-centered and help me to question and want to learn more. I know that I have been fed spiritually since I joined HON. There are so many opportunities to get involved. There are various social events so we can get to know each other better. Ladies have a monthly Bunco on the first Monday of the month. The men are working on starting their own bible study on Thursdays.
There are activities for children, teens, young adults, and the not so young adults. There are also opportunities to serve in our community. Our church strives to be the feet and hands of Jesus. This year, our fall festival was so much fun! Even though it was very cold outside, we enjoyed warm fellowship around the fire, roasting marshmallows for s’mores. We had fun games and a hay ride too! The icing on the cake was our guest singing group, The Williamsons, who testified about Jesus through song and a wonderful testimony about their youngest son!
I saw a sign recently that reminded me of how we strive to be as a church family. It said, “Come on in, we leave the judging to Jesus!” We all have come short of the glory of Jesus, and we all need Jesus on a daily basis. At HON, I have felt warmth, love, and concern from everyone in our church. We laugh together, pray together, and cry together. Our pastor leads in such a way that everybody has a place to serve behind the scenes or in front, if you feel led. I have seen several of our members step out of their comfort zones and serve in the church. They are rocking it!
All of us are trying to figure out our lives. Even though we’re all different, we all serve the same Jesus. All of our lessons are centered around the bible and it’s as good today as it was when it was written as long as you read it and not let it be a dust collector. When we have questions, we can pray about it, go to our pastor, or any other of our knowledgeable teachers. We are encouraged to seek answers through studying God’s word. Someone told me recently there is a God and you’re not Him. Such a great reminder when we try to do things our way rather than God’s way!
Won’t you come? We will welcome you with open arms and try our best to make you feel at home. We know it can be scary to come to a new church for the first time. Just remember, we are all in this together, trying to live our best lives. Now, more than ever, it seems our differences divide us in the society we live in today, but God has the answers. He loves us in spite of our sins, our lifestyles, and our actions. He can handle it and loves us in spite of ourselves. His grace is sufficient for you and me. There is always room for you! Will you take a chance?
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