We gathered at Pastor Jeff Bucknam’s home this past Tuesday evening for our June Elder Meeting. Jeff and Jeanne, thank you for opening your home to us, for the wonderful home-cooked meal, and for your warm hospitality. We left encouraged not only by our time together but also by your example of graciously welcoming others into your life.
SHOW HOSPITALITY
The Bucknams, the Smiths, and many others across Harvest regularly use their homes as places of fellowship, encouragement, and ministry. As we enjoy these beautiful summer months, we encourage you to consider how the Lord might use your apartment, home, backyard, or patio to share the love of Christ with others. Some of the sweetest moments of ministry happen around a dinner table, a fire pit, or a simple cup of coffee.
Scripture reminds us, “Though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). As Elders, we have been deeply encouraged by the unity, love, and interconnectedness of our campuses. In many ways, we are a fivefold cord that is not quickly broken. Thank you for your love, support, and willingness to work together as we seek a new home for our Elgin Campus. We continue to pray that the Lord will provide in His perfect timing, and we ask that you join us in faithfully bringing this need before Him.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
We are also grateful for our Finance Committee, a group of faithful brothers and sisters who serve as an advisory team to our Elders. Their wisdom, insight, and stewardship have helped guide Harvest through challenging seasons, and they continue to provide valuable counsel as we navigate this exciting season of ministry and growth. We thank God for their faithful service.
We are watching the Lord’s faithful provision for the church’s financial needs through the faithful giving of His people.
BIBLICAL COMMUNITY
Last month, we invited you to prayerfully consider how God might be calling you to engage your community this summer through prayer, hospitality, kindness, and encouragement. As we move further into the season, we’d love for you to take a moment to reflect on how the Lord is working.
PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER
Who are you praying for by name, trusting God to move in their lives? As Psalm 5:3 reminds us, “In the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.” Have you noticed opportunities to show hospitality, encourage a neighbor, or demonstrate Christ’s love through simple acts of kindness? Have you considered inviting someone to one of the outreach events taking place across our campuses this summer?
Will you also join us in praying for effective ministry happening through High Five Summer Day Camp for Kids and Harvest Students Summer Camp ministries this summer?
CONNECT WITH AN ELDER
We would love to hear what God is doing. Please reach out to one of your Elders and share your stories. Nothing encourages us more than hearing how the Lord is working through His people. Let us continue seeking His guidance and grace, trusting that He is accomplishing far more than we can see. You can also reach out to us via email at [email protected].
As a reminder, our staff traditionally observes a sabbath period at the beginning of July, and the Elder Board does not meet during that time. Because of this, our next Elder Update will be in August.
READ WITH US
Beginning in August, we will start a new theology study based on 50 Most Important Theological Terms by J Brian Tucker & David B. Finkbeiner. You’re welcome to pick up a copy and read along with us. We would love to hear what you’re learning and how the Lord is using these truths to deepen your faith.
Finally, we want you to know how grateful we are for you. It is a privilege and joy to serve this church. Thank you for your prayers, your faithful service, your generosity, and your commitment to the Lord and His people.
Like Paul, we can honestly say: We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith (1 Thessalonians 1:2–3).
—The Elders of Harvest Bible Chapel