Hello friends.  It’s a hot one out there.  I hope everyone is able to stay cool.  Thank the Lord we live in a time where air conditioning is common.  Things are heating up at BBT too.  Read on to find out what’s happening.

We do have some sad news.  Most of you probably know by now that we lost a long time friend of the church in Jerry Gibson last week.  If you would like to attend the memorial service, it is on Saturday at 1:00pm in the chapel at the Heights Church in Richardson, 201 W Renner Rd.

Most recently, Jerry donated the money which is being used to renovate the church’s kitchen.  There was a slight delay in the progress of the work because the crew has been exposed to someone with Covid and must be tested before they can resume.  There should not be a problem with us meeting.

At our Homecoming service this year, we’ll officially dedicate the new kitchen, named for our own beloved Ruth Stephens, who was always there serving when she could, and in memory of Jerry.  We will do it at 2:00 again so that those attending their own churches can come.  That will be September 12.

This week we will continue our study of references to the Kingdom of Heaven with Matthew 5:10-12.  Verse 10 reads, “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Jesus elaborates on this statement in the next two verses, telling us to “rejoice and be glad” because our reward in Heaven will be great.

I have often made the point that we don’t really know persecution here compare to what is going on elsewhere in the world, though it does exist and is increasing.  This week I realized as I read these words that I should not dismiss what we might call lighter forms of persecution as unworthy of recognition.  Jesus didn’t.  He said in verse 11, “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.”

Whatever it is that you endure for the cause of Christ, you have a reward awaiting you in Heaven.  Jesus said the kingdom of Heaven belongs to you!  He told us to expect persecution.  If we never meet any opposition, it is reasonable to ask if we are truly living a life dedicated to Him.

We are extremely blessed living here in the United States.  We should be thankful, and also vigilant, doing our part to preserve the freedom we have.  Yet in so doing we should not forget that Jesus also told us to love our enemies and pray for our persecutors.  Remember that we are not fighting against flesh and blood but against the powers of darkness.  Our enemies are people who need Jesus just as we do.  They have believed the lies of Satan, and it is our highest mission to see them redeemed.

I hope you can join us as we worship and continue our study this Sunday.  It was so good to have almost everyone back together last time.  Priscilla and Kimi are finally back in action and Ruth was able to make most of the service as well.  She has good days and bad.  Remember her in your prayers and Cathy as well.

See you Sunday!

Love y’all,

Larry