A Legacy of Love: Supporting Our Family in Need

To My OCBF Kingdom Community, 

As we reflect on our recent New Year’s Eve service and the message “My Mom Told Me to Tell You,” My heart is overflowing with gratitude. I shared with you the profound wisdom my mother left me—a call to serve God’s purposes and remain steadfast in the faith. That message was not just words; it was a call to action that you answered with beautiful, Christ-like compassion. 

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Cheerful Givers 

I want to personally thank every one of you who felt the Spirit’s leading to give. Scripture tells us that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7), and I have seen that joy reflected in your response. Your generosity toward the family who suddenly lost their wife and mother on December 20th is a powerful testament to the love of Christ living within Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. 

Building a Community of Care 

In the Book of Acts, we see the early church unfolding as a community where “distribution was made unto every man according as he had need” (Acts 4:35). While this specific moment of giving from the pulpit is not our standard operational process and is not a sustainable practice for every instance of loss, it serves as a beautiful “spark” for what we believe God is doing in our midst. 

Our vision is to build a Kingdom Community where care doesn’t just happen on the stage, but in the streets—where members look upon one another with the eyes of Christ and meet needs as they arise. This act of kindness is a glimpse into the future of our church: a body of believers so connected that no one walks through the valley of the shadow of death alone. 

A Word to Those Carrying Their Own Grief 

I recognize that seeing this outpouring of support may stir questions in the hearts of those who are also walking through seasons of loss. You may wonder, “What about my journey?” 

Please hear my heart: God has not forgotten you. His eye is on the sparrow, and He is intimately acquainted with your grief. As your Pastor, I have walked in those shoes, and my heart aches with yours. While the church entity may not have the capacity to provide this specific response to every bereavement, our commitment to your care remains unshakable. We are here to provide liturgical services, prayer, and emotional support. If you are in need, please reach out to our Comfort and Care Ministry. 

Join Us on This Mission 

If the Spirit leads you, I invite you to join me in making a donation to the Newhouse family. Let us celebrate the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus during this unimaginable time. 

Thank you for being a congregation that reflects the heart of the Father. I am honored to be your pastor as we continue to build a culture of compassion together. 

 For His Kingdom, 

Pastor J