Saturday 12/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” - Matthew 6:1-4

Happy Boxing Day! (and Happy Birthday to Doug Adams!)

The Oxford [England] Dictionary is not certain about the origin of the term “Boxing” Day. For the past several hundred years throughout the British Empire, on the day after Christmas, employers / wealthy landowners would give Christmas boxes and/or money to their servants. Meanwhile, churches would open alms boxes in order to distribute the donations that had been collected for the poor. Perhaps in its rebellion against the British, America never really adopted nor continued this observance.

Perhaps Jesus’ exhortation in the Sermon on the Mount to “sound no trumpet” when you give to the needy is interpreted by some to mean that we should not have a holiday in honor of such an activity. On the other hand, maybe Jesus’ exhortation suggests the opposite: Boxing Day is a fine reminder that giving to the needy ought to be a discrete, regular activity that is about helping others and is not about the giver. Regardless, we can all benefit from the opportunity of Boxing Day to think of those around us who might need extra encouragement.

I, for one, would like to thank you all for your generous Christmas Bonus to Debbie and me. As a shepherd and servant, I am grateful to be part of this flock. Thank you for looking after our financial and emotional needs during this unusual, tumultuous year. Thank you for giving to your servant. The people of First Presbyterian are a delight to my soul. I thank my Lord for you always. I pray that God will grant us all relief in 2021.

Attached are the weekly documents: Sunday School handout, Morning Worship Bulletin, and Prayer List. I look forward to worshiping with you tomorrow.

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. - Mark 10:45

In His name, your grateful servant,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 12/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. - 2 Corinthians 4:15

This morning, we celebrated the life of Elizabeth "Bootsie" Ann Miller. Quite a few people turned out, yet we were able to maintain masks and social distancing in the Fellowship Hall. Tomorrow, the family is taking her remains to Arkansas for a graveside service there.

The graveside service for Doris Steed is to be held at Indianola City Cemetery on Monday, December 21, 2020, at 1:00 pm. There will be an opportunity for friends and family to participate in a drive-by memorial at the cemetery in the hour prior, from noon to 1:00 pm.

On Tuesday, December 22, at 10am, we will hold a graveside service at Indianola City Cemetery for Neil Clark Goff, who passed away in Georgia this morning. Mrs. Goff attended this church many decades ago.

On the pandemic front, the Newsoms are in quarantine because Eden Grace tested positive. They report that they are all doing pretty well. Similarly, the McCrory household is quarantined since Nichols tested positive. We continue to pray for one another. Thank you for your prayers for Debbie's brother Brad. He received a successful quadruple bypass operation today and is doing well in his recovery.

God has blessed First Presbyterian with a lot of loving relationships and fond memories. I am thankful for being part of this church, especially during this pandemic and especially during the Christmas season of 2020. Please let me know if I can do anything to help make your season brighter.

Attached is the bulletin for Sunday morning worship, as well as the weekly Prayer List and the handout for Sunday School.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 12/16/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

This evening we are having breakfast! For Wednesday Night Live, we are serving eggs, french toast casserole, and donuts. Come join us. Attached is the handout for our discussion on Suffering.

Please be aware of the upcoming funeral services:

• for Elizabeth “Bootsie” Ann Miller - Family and friends will gather in celebration of her life at the First Presbyterian Church, 311 Catchings Avenue, Indianola, MS on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 10:30 am. Masks will be required. Graveside services will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in Clarendon, Arkansas on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at 2:00 pm.

• for Doris Tabor Hudson Steed - Graveside service is to be held at Indianola City Cemetery on Monday, December 21, 2020, at 1:00 pm. There will be an opportunity for friends and family to participate in a drive-by memorial at the cemetery in the hour prior, from noon to 1:00 pm.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 12/12/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And He who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also He said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” - Revelation 21:5

It is my solemn duty and it is with tears that I inform you of the death of another dear church member.

This morning, Bootsie Miller went to be with our Lord and Savior.

Bootsie’s recent diagnosis had helped to prepare family and friends, but God designs us for life and we are not really ever prepared adequately for death. Bootsie was strong and full of life, making it hard to imagine that her body would truly give out soon. She expressed deep faith and a love of her Savior. Her encouraging spirit blessed her church and family. I will miss her laugh.

The family is putting together plans for a service at the church, likely at the end of coming week. For those who are able to attend in-person, we will arrange seating to ensure social distancing. I will let you know once plans have been finalized.

In the meantime, a damp, chilly day in December is a good time to contemplate the glorious renewal that God brings for His children. At the resurrection, He will make all things new. Please rejoice with me in Bootsie’s life. Please pray for comfort for Jimmy and the rest of the family. Our entire church family has suffered great loss. We also have great hope in the return of Jesus Christ. He will return and restore all things. These words are trustworthy and true. They have been written down so that all of us may know the person and work of Bootsie’s Savior. She would want Him to be your Savior, as well.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 12/11/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. - Revelation 21:4

It is my solemn duty and with deep sorrow that I inform you of the death of a dear church member. Yesterday, just after 4pm, Doris Steed was received into the arms of our Lord and Savior. Doris served the Kingdom with fervency and joy. She will be missed by her family and friends. I spoke to Kaye Martin and the family is planning a graveside service in about a week or so. This will likely also include an opportunity for you to participate in a drive-by memorial, as well. I will keep you informed on the plans. (Kaye and other family members are currently sick with COVID, but seem to be recovering.)

We look forward to the day when Jesus fulfills what He promised at the end of the book of Revelation: He will wipe away every tear and death shall be no more. Until Jesus’ return, we will experience growth and suffering, along with joy and sorrow. Until then, on some days, not even excellent theology -- knowing that God is in control and will use everything for His glory -- is enough to prevent tears. We know this because Jesus had perfect theology and yet He wept when Mary & Martha lost their brother Lazarus (John 11:35).

The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin (Romans 5:12). As sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 5:21). For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace (Romans 6:14). The free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23).

In this world, we face sin and death and tears. Yet, in this world, we can encounter the redeeming love of Jesus Christ. His grace sets us free, and death shall be no more. We look forward to the resurrection. In the meantime, we can have tears of godly sorrow and offer words of deep encouragement. Let us worship and rejoice together in the coming of our Lord Jesus.

I have attached the bulletin for this Lord’s Day morning worship service. I have also included the weekly Prayer List.

Miss Doris served for years as the secretary here at First Presbyterian. Rev. Lee Bloodworth told me that back then Miss Doris loved The Lion King and said that she wanted “Hakuna Matata” sung at her funeral. Rev. Bloodworth wasn’t 100% certain that Miss Doris was serious, but we can all be certain that she meant what the song stands for: “Hakuna Matata” means “no worries” in Swahili. I would not be surprised if she is singing it now. I miss her already. No worries, but some tears.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 12/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it. - 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

I hope that you are enjoying this Advent season. Perhaps you have been able to savor the daily devotional by John Piper that Debbie and I shared with you. Today, I read the above Bible passage in the entry for December 2nd from another daily devotional (New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp). The author makes this point: “Your Redeemer is zealous for one goal -- the final renewal of all things.”

“He will continue to unleash His power to accomplish redemption and He will not be satisfied until the last enemy is under His feet and the final Kingdom has come.”

As we contemplate Advent, today is a good day to reflect upon the significance of Jesus’ coming to unleash His power. Jesus came to redeem the elect and to destroy sin in your life. Sometimes, we have become so used to our sin -- so friendly with our bad habits and selfish desires -- that we pull back even as Jesus comes forward. Today is a good day to see our self-reliance exposed -- and to see our dependence upon God exposed. What can you do to take a closer look at these things?

Here is something to consider: He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.

Let us each trust in His promises. Let us collectively remind each other of His promises. We are the church whom He has commissioned. We are His bride for whom He is going to return. He will surely do it through us.

Attached is the handout for this evening's discussion on Suffering (chapter 12, at 6:30pm). I hope that you can join us as Jesus works through us, even in times of suffering.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 11/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” - Luke 1:26-28

Tomorrow begins what is commonly called “Advent Season”. Advent derives from the Latin word for “coming” -- it represents the coming of the Lord Jesus in His incarnation. During this time leading up to Christmas, the church is encouraged to recall the joyful anticipation that Mary experienced when she learned that she would give birth to Jesus. Advent therefore also encourages us to recognize the joyful anticipation that we have today regarding Jesus's second Advent, His Second Coming.

Some people highlight that it is extremely unlikely that Jesus was born in December. This is a valid point. We do not know with certainty the date of His birth. But, we do know with certainty that He was born. And that He will return. Celebrating Christ’s incarnation and looking forward to His return provide opportunities for us to revel in the magnificent truth that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. Our celebration and anticipation provide opportunities to tell others about the miracle of God’s coming in the flesh to redeem a fallen world.

Debbie and I have prepared a small gift bag for you that contains a booklet called Joy to the World, Daily Readings for Advent by John Piper. (If you have not yet received this, please let me know and I will get it to you.) If you like, you can use this booklet for your daily devotions beginning Tuesday, December 1st. I pray that God's Word blesses you as you celebrate Jesus’ incarnation and anticipate His Return. This Christmas, we have much to be thankful for: first and foremost for our Savior, and also including His gift of the relationships of this church. Let us lift up each other in prayer this Advent season. And let us pray to reinforce and expand the relationships of His church. May God use us to bring Joy to the World.

For tomorrow, attached is the bulletin for Morning Worship and the handout for our Sunday School discussion. Also attached is the weekly Prayer List and the Church Calendar for December 2020.

I look forward to worshiping with you in spirit and in truth. After all, when we are filled to worship by God’s Holy Spirit, then the Lord is with you!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 11/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! - Psalm 139:23-24

In Psalm 139, David sings a song of great joy and deep fellowship with His Creator. He finishes this song by asking God to really search him out -- to really get to know him, deep down. Why does David want God’s exploration of him? So that God may reveal to David the sin that is lurking in the recesses of his heart. David wants to be made aware of the things that might acts as a wedge to separate him from his loving God. Things that might divert him from his commitment to God.

David asks God to lead him in the way everlasting. What is this way? Jesus told us in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus is the way everlasting and King David wanted to be kept on this path, led by God in this way of life. It is an everlasting way. All other paths are futile and short-lived. And David knows that in order to stick to this path, he needs to be made aware of his sin and be led by God’s righteousness.

As we prepare for Thanksgiving week, this is a good time to pray the same prayer as David does in Psalm 139:

• “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” We can praise God and thank Him for creating us in His image.

• “How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!” We can thank God for communicating His thoughts to us in His holy Word. We can know Him through His Son, His Spirit, and His Word.

• And, as we thank Him for who He is, we can ask Him to search us and know us, so that we can be led in the way everlasting. And, we can ask Him to know our friends and family so that they, too, may know Jesus, the Way.

This is my prayer for you this week: That God will search and know the people around you, and that they will be led in the Way everlasting.

Attached is the bulletin for Sunday Morning Worship, as well as the handout for Sunday School, and the weekly Prayer List.

Please join us on Sunday evening at 5pm as we broadcast livestream (and via conference call) the Community Thanksgiving Service. This event is designed to be virtual only, so only the presenters will be gathering in person. I am scheduled to preach the sermon at this annual ecumenical event. You may join First Presbyterian in our Fellowship Hall at 5pm to watch and worship together. The link to the livestream is located here: https://www.facebook.com/indianolachurches

I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord’s Day, in spirit and in truth.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 11/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And at mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come here and eat some bread and dip your morsel in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed to her roasted grain. And she ate until she was satisfied, and she had some left over....And she took it up and went into the city. Her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She also brought out and gave her what food she had left over after being satisfied. - Ruth 2:14,18

The Book of Ruth is a wonderful love story that explains the circumstances leading up to the birth of King David’s grandfather. It is also affirms a wonderful biblical concept: the joy of eating leftovers. Ruth and Naomi had lost the rest of their family and they did not have much. So Ruth was grateful to be able to glean behind the workers on Boaz's land during the harvest. In addition to letting Ruth pick up what they left behind, Boaz also allowed her to eat with the field hands and then actually keep the leftovers to take to her mother-in-law.

I have always loved leftovers. There is something especially satisfying to me about knowing that I am able to make good use of what might had otherwise been discarded. I feel like I am being a responsible steward of God’s provision. I feel like I am redeeming the lost.

When Debbie and I were dating many decades ago, we would often return from the movie theater to find a warm pot of leftovers that her father had left sitting on their stove's back burner. Our friends used to joke that I dated Debbie for her father's cooking. Maybe, but if so, it is very biblical.

And when they had eaten their fill, he told His disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” - John 6:12

We are not planning on meeting next Wednesday, since it is the week of Thanksgiving. What do Americans eat after Thanksgiving? Leftover Turkey! To get us all into the spirit of the season, Debbie has preempted the holiday by preparing her father’s traditional use of the leftovers: Turkey Tetrazzini. Hmm, turkey leftovers before the Thanksgiving feast?! This inverted approach is also very biblical: So the last shall be first, and the first last - Matthew 20:16. Tonight, join us for "So Turkey Leftovers Shall Be First".

Attached is the handout for tonight’s discussion on Suffering. (You might notice that it is essentially the same handout as last week’s (with date changes, etc.). Last week we introduced chapter 11 but, since it the discussion overlapped with November’s WIC Night Circle, we only discussed the chapter at a high level. This evening we will use the handout to explore the chapter in depth.)

Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set His seal - John 6:27

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 11/13/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He [Moses] supposed that his brothers would understand that God was giving them salvation by his hand, but they did not understand. And on the following day he appeared to them as they were quarreling and tried to reconcile them, saying, ‘Men, you are brothers. Why do you wrong each other?’ But the man who was wronging his neighbor thrust him aside, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge over us? - Acts 7:25-27

Isn't it curious when people get upset at you for trying to mend a relationship? It is as if they enjoy discord. Most people can share stories of how the persistence of a fractured relationship has brought years of pain and layers of cost. For many, the price of reconciliation -- mostly in terms of lost pride -- is just too high. They prefer discord. Or perhaps their ability to weigh the options is clouded. Maybe they are unfamiliar with the sweet taste of reconciliation. Whatever the reason, many people seem to settle for discord. They resist the reconciling work of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 7:51).

This Sunday, as we look at Stephen's teaching to the Jewish leaders in in Acts 7, we will seek to understand how perhaps we, too, might choose discord over reconciliation. I hope that you can join us.

I pray that you are having a blessed week. God delights in blessing His children. He also delights and is glorified as He lavishes Common Grace on the entire world. This is the topic of our current Sunday School series.

Attached is the bulletin for Sunday Morning Worship, the weekly Prayer List, and the handout for the Sunday School study on The Problem of Good (please let me know if you need a copy of the book that we are using).

I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord's Day.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 11/11/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And the angel of the LORD appeared to him and said to him, “The LORD is with you, O mighty man of valor.” - Judges 6:12

I am truly grateful for the men and women of our country who have served with valor to protect our freedoms and the freedoms of the world. Veterans' Day is a great reminder to thank those who have served. Truly, though, we should thank them a lot more frequently than once a year.

Today is not only Veterans' Day, but it is Wednesday, which means Wednesday Night Live at the church!

We are having Impossible Cheeseburger Pie (For nothing will be impossible with God. - Luke 1:37).

I have attached the handout for our discussion at 6:30pm (662-262-5152) on chapter 11 of Suffering.

I look forward to celebrating God's presence and sovereignty with you.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 11/6/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. - Matthew 5:45b

Have you ever been bothered by seeing someone disrespect God and seem to get away with it? Have you witnessed someone repeatedly reject God and elude punishment and have wonderful success in life, relationships, or business? Have you ever avoided reading or listening to or just putting up with someone because that person was clearly not a Christian? Perhaps you have seen loved ones fall away from church and faith because they fall in love with the people and benefits of the secular world?

Issues like these arise when we encounter the concept known as Common Grace, or the problem of good. This is not new. The prophets of old encountered this concept, as well.

Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all who are treacherous thrive? - Jeremiah 12:1b

Beginning this Sunday, we will be studying a compilation of essays on the biblical topic of Common Grace in the book The Problem of Good, edited by D. Marion Clark. I hope that you can join us for Sunday School at 9:30am (662-262-5152). I have attached the handout for the first discussion. Please let me know if you would like a copy of the book.

I have also attached the bulletin for Sunday Morning Worship, as well as the weekly Prayer List. I look forward to celebrating our risen Lord Jesus alongside you this week.

Given all the talk about 'progressives' during this election cycle, when I read this quote from C. S. Lewis, I felt that I just had to share it with you: “We all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive.”

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 11/4/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” - Isaiah 52:7

After a long, never-ending, Election Night, I bring you good news about who will rule this country next year! Wonderfully good news of happiness: Your God reigns! In fact, your God is sovereign and has always reigned, and always will reign, and is reigning right now. So we need not fear or fret about who is designated to hold the office of president, this term or the next. God is in control and works all things for His glory. What others intend for evil, God will use for good.

God’s sovereignty does not mean that we ought not do anything in particular, thus leaving it to Him. No, quite the opposite! Precisely because God is sovereign, we are called to yearn to understand His will, to yearn to identify how to obey His voice, and to enjoy living in obedience of His grace, mercy, and love. When our motivations and actions are out of accord with God's commands, then WE are the ones who have intended something for evil and yet it will be used by God for good.

Imagine teaching others that right and wrong don’t matter. That murder, adultery, robbery, and lying are okay. And, then, those who listened to you heed your instruction and carry out heinous acts that end up hurting others and themselves. When you realized how you had participated in pain and suffering, you could be under a burden of grief and guilt for a long time.

Your loving God relieves your regrets and burden in amazing ways:

• God commands you in His Word not to do or teach evil things, thus giving you knowledge and proactive protection from foolish temptation!

• God equips you with the power of His Holy Spirit to understand His compassionate law and to overcome foolish temptation!

• God equips others with power and wisdom from His Holy Spirit so that they might avoid being influenced or hurt by your sin!

• God organizes and upholds His church to intercede for you and for others so that sin be thwarted and its consequences ameliorated!

• God reigns as God, so what you meant for evil directly and/or ignored indirectly through foolishness, God uses for good! (Gen 15:20)

• God forgives us of our sins and cleanses us from all righteousness, through the blood of Jesus Christ, for those who believe in Him and repent! (1 John 1:9)

You see, God provides complete and comprehensive coverage such that you need not live with guilt. This means that it does matter what you do: The objective of living rightly and avoiding sin is not to avoid your own guilt but to enjoy living in the delight and glory of a loving God. Obedience is delightful -- delightfully obeying a God so loving that He forgives your folly. A God so loving that He gave His only Son. A God so loving that He revealed Himself to everyone, including all the rebelling nations, so that they might not suffer. No matter what you have done, your God reigns today, this is good news! His rule is comforting and delightful for those who know Him.

Today, join us for a Hot Dog Bar at Wednesday Night Live at 5:45pm. We will begin our prayer time and our study of Suffering at 6:30pm (662-262-5152 -- I have attached the handout). Join us to see the salvation of our God that redeems those who have made big mistakes. He will be glorified; all shall see.

The Lord has bared His holy arm before the eyes of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God. - Isaiah 52:10

Kings shall shut their mouths because of Him, for that which has not been told them they see, and that which they have not heard they understand. - Isaiah 52:15b

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 10/30/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when He was betrayed took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.” - 1 Corinthians 11:23-24

What are some unforgettable moments in your life? Some events seem so amazing that -- at the time and for some time to come -- we say, ‘I can never forget this!’ As we age, some things -- no matter how wonderful they are at the time and in our remembering -- are just not as easy to recall.

I can still recall some specific moments with great clarity. Some delightful; some not so pleasant. I recall happy moments vacationing with my family. I recall a few foolish mistakes. God grants us the ability to hold memories, and He gives us methods and technologies for recalling things that might not be as easy to bring to mind. It can be both fun and tear-jerking to watch family videos or flip through old photographs.

God’s people are called to remember Christ's sacrifice. We don’t have videos or photos of the event. But, God has preserved clarity about how His Son gave Himself for His people. Scripture gives us this clarity so that we may remember it. Just as importantly, God preserves this memory through His church. God's people are called to gather for the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. We are to do this in remembrance of our Lord's loving gift. As we each remember our Savior’s atoning sacrifice, we remind each other.

Jesus took bread. He broke it. He said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” This Sunday morning, First Presbyterian intends to gather to worship and to remember. During the coronavirus pandemic, not everyone can safely participate in receiving the elements, but we can all safely, joyfully, tearfully, confidently, and spiritually participate in remembering together. Every Sunday, regardless of location, we unite with God’s church in worshiping Him.

We need each other to be memory aids. Would you join with us in worship this Sunday? I have attached the bulletin for those who choose to worship from home. I have attached the Sunday School handout, as well. And, I have included the Weekly Prayer List. Please be praying especially for the family of Bobby Williamson as they grieve his passing and celebrate his memory today. Sometimes remembering is both painful and joyful.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 10/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything. - Genesis 9:3

Last Sunday evening, Tommy prepared delicious beef to accompany the wide variety of covered dishes that we all enjoyed together in the Fellowship Hall. Don't worry...If you missed out, we bring you more food opportunities...

This morning, Frank and his able assistants prepared fluffy pancakes and savory quiche for the men’s prayer breakfast. Real men do eat quiche.

This evening, Debbie is preparing roast pork, rice, and black beans for Wednesday Night Live. For those who eat too much from the dessert table, we will be continuing our study on Suffering. Please dial in (662-262-5152) at 6:30pm or join us in person for the discussion. I have attached the handout for you. I have also attached the Church Calendar for November. (Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour this weekend!)

This Thursday (tomorrow), no one will be preparing snacks for the Women’s Bible Study at 1:00pm. (As shocking as it may seem, not all Presbyterian events involve food!)

I hope that you can join us, especially as we lift up our community and nation in prayer. Be sure to join us Thursday at 6:30pm for our Weekly Prayer Conference Call.

Lastly, be sure to pray for Paul Townsend as he recovers from extensive elbow surgery today.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 10/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

Tomorrow, God's people gather as one body -- with one spirit -- to worship the Creator of the universe. Please join us at 10:45am by livestream, conference call (662-262-5152), or in-person, as you are able.

I have attached the bulletin for morning worship. I have also included the handout for Sunday School (9:30am), as well as the weekly Prayer List.

Tomorrow is also what is commonly referred to as “Reformation Sunday”. About 503 years ago, on October 31, 1517, Martin Luther boldly nailed 95 issues that he believed indicated how the church had fallen away from biblical teaching. His action initiated the Protestant Reformation. Each year, with various activities on the last Sunday in October, churches celebrate this return to the Bible as the sole authority for faith and practice.

Tomorrow, we plan to host a Reformation Sunday Covered Dish Meal and evening worship in the Fellowship Hall at 5pm. We will have a main course of meat on hand and you are welcome to join us by bringing the covered dish of your choosing.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 10/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Ham and homegrown turnip greens! That is what Debbie is serving in the Fellowship Hall this evening. If you are able, please join us at 5:45pm for Wednesday Night live activities.

At 6:30pm, we will be continuing our study of Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense. We are in chapter 8, the last chapter on six traps of suffering. Next week we will begin looking at six comforts. I have attached the handout for this evening's discussion. You may join in-person or by conference call (662-262-5152).

“Love is an industrious affection; it must be active.” Thomas Watson (1620-1686) was a puritan preacher who knew a thing or two about suffering. As a non-conformist, he was locked up in prison for a time and later was ejected by the Church of England during the Great Ejection. Even in the face of this religious persecution, he stood up for preaching the Gospel faithfully. In the midst of threats and violent persecution, Thomas Watson understood that love must be active. Otherwise, love ain't love.

May you find ways to love your neighbor during these trying and threatening times. Love is patient, and kind. Love endures. Love is industrious.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 10/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. - Acts 4:34-35

Last week, we looked at the end of the fourth chapter of Acts and heard about how the church shared God's provisions and blessings. Church members still owned their own property, but no one was saying that things were their own. They didn't have to emphasize and insist because they all were committed to caring for one another. At the end of chapter, we saw and example of this loving care by Barnabas, the son of encouragement. This Sunday, we will encounter the opposite character on display: an example of those who cared more about themselves.

Attached is the Worship Bulletin for Sunday morning and the weekly Prayer List. I look forward to worshiping with you as we each encourage one another during these difficult times.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 10/7/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. - Hebrews 4:15-16

What does it mean that Jesus can sympathize with our suffering? Join us for this evening's Wednesday Night Live discussion of Suffering at 6:30pm (in-person or by dialing 662-262-5152). I have attached the handout for the discussion. After learning about suffering, maybe you will be better prepared to watch the Vice Presidential debate tonight!

We are serving meatloaf and mashed potatoes at 5:45pm in the Fellowship Hall.

Hope to see / hear you.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 10/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. - Matthew 7:12

On the coronavirus front, this has been an interesting week. On Thursday, the governor's Executive Orders relating to social distancing and face mask restrictions expired, making Mississippi the first state to remove such restrictions. The governor said that this was done in consideration of lower numbers of cases and deaths. That said, the city of Indianola has decided to keep their restrictions in place for at least a little while longer. Today, it was announced that President and First Lady Trump had tested positive for the virus. Reportedly, their symptoms are mild and the White House is predicting a rapid recovery. Even so, it behooves us to continue praying for protection and recovery for our community, our nation, and the world.

Perhaps you watched at least some of the presidential debate earlier this week. I don't expect politics to be a good teacher of biblical principles, but I did think that Tuesday's debate helped to remind us of a facet of the golden rule: interrupt others as you would have them interrupt you. The ESV translation of Matthew 7:12 might not be as elegant as more classic phrasings, but when Jesus said, "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets," He surely intended for us to think about this when debating with others.

I have heard a number of people lament that things are not like the good old days: "We used to be able to disagree with others respectfully." Perhaps this reminder from Jesus could help us return to a more reasonable environment. We could begin by listening to others in the manner that we would wish that they would listen to us. However, let's be careful: without the Gospel, we cannot expect a more reasonable environment. So, let us begin by praying for the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. As we pray for others, we will be loving our neighbors as ourselves. And, as we interact, let's remember Jesus' instruction for us to do that which we wish. God's Word tells us -- and His Holy Spirit reveals to us -- what we ought to wish for. Let's begin with listening. (James 1:19 - "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.")

Attached are: the handout for Sunday school, bulletin for Sunday morning worship, and the weekly Prayer List.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 9/30/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. - Acts 2:46-47

The men enjoyed a time of food and fellowship at the prayer breakfast this morning. At 5:45pm, we re-gather for Wednesday Night Live -- again for food and fellowship. As you know, this is a biblical theme for the church throughout the ages. As I mentioned, this Sunday, after morning worship and a celebration of the Lord's Supper, we plan to have a casual Soup & Salad Fellowship meal. I hope that you can join us.

In the meantime, attached is the handout for our discussion of Suffering at 6:30pm this evening. (In-person or dial-in at 662-262-5152.)

I have also attached the church calendar for the month of October.

Have a wonderful rest of the week worshiping our Lord and Savior!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 9/29/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? - 1 Corinthians 1:20

Even with six months of experience with pandemics, we can still have a difficult time trying to decide what to do with our time. This evening, you get to decide if you want to watch the debaters of this age. On the one hand, presidential debates attract a lot of attention. On the other hand, Pew Research indicates that a relatively few people make voting decisions based primarily on the debates. “In 2016, for example, only 10% of voters said they had definitively made up their minds ‘during or just after’ the presidential debates.” Still, the debates offer deeper understanding of the candidates' views on hot topics and their operating demeanor.

It might be interesting if prevailing social norms included more debates. For example, what would it look like if job candidates had to debate with each other as part of the employment process? Or maybe we would enjoy watching debates among candidates for marriage? We could have school teachers debate with each other about who is more qualified to teach your children. Sure, we have already seen some of this... I am thinking here of Muhammad Ali offering spirited debates about why he was going to beat Joe Fraser. It was quite entertaining, but (to mix metaphors slightly) the proof of the pudding is in the boxing.

Speaking of professional sports champions... last night, the Tampa Bay Lightning won the National Hockey League championship for the Stanley Cup. Debbie and I lived in Tampa for 17 years and we were happy to see “our” team prevail. Ten years ago, our youngest daughter was enamoured of one of the players in particular. It was heart-warming to see him, now as the captain of the team, hoist the 34-pound silver cup over his head and take a victory skate around the ice. No amount of debating can settle such issues. The proof of the championship is in the goal scoring. 

Given the excitement, entertainment, and edification that comes from debates, we might find ourselves tempted to use debate as a key tool for evangelism. After all, there are so many people who are unaware of who Jesus is and/or have incorrect ideas about Him, right? And, we can think of choice examples of Jesus making counter-arguments to His foes, such as the Pharisees. But, entertaining as it may be, let us not forget that the proof of salvation is not in the debating. We cannot argue people into heaven.

What is the proof in? God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. The proof is in the giving. The proof is in the sacrifice. The proof is in the blood of Christ. The proof is in the love of God. The proof is in the loving. If you like, watch the debate tonight. Enjoy it and be edified by it. But, please remember that when it comes to sharing the love of Christ, the proof is in the loving.

Speaking of loving... I love Mexican food! Join us for delicious enchiladas during Wednesday Night Live tomorrow at 5:45pm. The enchiladas will be delicious! Don't just take my word for it; the proof will be in the eating.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 9/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts - Acts 2:44-46

The members of the first century church spent a lot of time together. They encouraged each other as they studied together, as they worshiped together, and as they ate meals together. It was a very encouraging time -- during a time of intense persecution and suffering.

During the current pandemic, there is opportunity for discouragement. Which means that we ought to be finding ways to encourage each other even more than usual.

This coming Sunday morning, we plan to celebrate the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. For those who are able to attend worship in person, we will also be offering a casual "Soup & Salad Fellowship" after the service. Please consider inviting others to join us, as well.

I hope that this sounds like a good plan, since, as we discovered during the sermon yesterday, "God’s plan gathers His people together as they rely completely on Christ and speak boldly to the rebellious of the world." We pray that our plan to gather aligns with God's plan to bless His gathered church.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 9/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So Noah went out, and his sons and his wife and his sons’ wives with him. Every beast, every creeping thing, and every bird, everything that moves on the earth, went out by families from the ark. Then Noah built an altar to the Lord and took some of every clean animal and some of every clean bird and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done. While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” - Genesis 8:18-22

After Noah and his family survived the flood and waited patiently for the waters to subside, they all exited the Ark and set foot on dry land. Immediately, Noah worshiped God. One can only imagine how Noah must have felt, seeing firsthand the power of God to destroy and the power to preserve in the midst of destruction. Noah's worship on that day must have been intense.

...Then Noah built an altar to the Lord...

Have you seen God's hand in preserving in the midst of destruction? Do you know firsthand of God's love and grace and mercy? Tomorrow, we have an opportunity to worship God intensely. Please join us in calling out to our Lord and Savior. Join us in celebrating His power. Let us offer up our prayers of joy and our requests for God's intervention. You may join us electronically (via livestream or by telephone: 662-262-5152) or in-person at 10:45am. Our discussions in Sunday School beginning at 9:30am are a great way to get our minds into focusing on God's Word so that we may worship Him even more intensely. This time also strengthens our relationships with one another, encouraging our worship further. Please join us then, as well.

...everything that moves on the earth, went out by families from the ark...

I look forward to worshiping with you in spirit and in truth.

...And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man...

Attached is the Worship Bulletin for tomorrow morning as well as the weekly Prayer List.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 9/22/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. - Psalm 1:1-2

Debbie and I had a relaxing vacation. Thank you for your prayers, support, and encouragement. We are excited to return refreshed and ready for action.

First on the list for us is Wednesday Night Live. Join us at 5:45pm for a delicious meal prepared by Caroline Newsom. Join us at 6:30pm (live or by dialing in: 662-262-5152) as we pray and return to our study of Suffering. I will send out the handout tomorrow.

God has graciously given us His law to meditate on. The more that we meditate on His Word, the more we get to know Him. Our savior Jesus Christ lived in perfect harmony with God's Word. As we study Scripture, the Holy Spirit enlivens our heart and mind so that we will know how to glorify and enjoy God.

for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. - Psalm 1:6

We see in this verse that God's knowledge of His will for His people is loving and good. He knows our path to be the way of Christ. This path is through the life that Christ purchased for us, that He gave us, that He lived for us, and that leads to eternal life in Him. Today, as you meditate on His Word, you, too, can know the way of the righteous. Pray for someone in your path to also know this way of life. The Lord knows this way, because it is the way of the righteous. Know the righteous love of God. Know His law. Walk in His way today. You will be blessed as you delight in His law and love.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 9/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. And God said, “Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.” And God made the expanse and separated the waters that were under the expanse from the waters that were above the expanse. And it was so. And God called the expanse Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day. And God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.” And it was so. God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good. And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. - Genesis 1:1-11

Debbie and I have been enjoying some relaxing time away in the middle of Arkansas. God's creation reflects His glory and we have been able to appreciate beautiful examples of this. Lots of vegetation and beautiful lakes! Thank you for your prayerful support as we enjoy God's goodness.

Attached is the bulletin for worship this Sunday morning, as well as the weekly Prayer List. We will miss seeing you on Sunday, but I am confident that you will be blessed as Carl Brannan brings you God's Word.

Please let me know if you have any prayer updates or personal needs. May God richly bless you with His goodness and mercy. I look forward to seeing you soon.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 9/10/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

The apostles returned to Jesus and told Him all that they had done and taught. And He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. - Mark 6:30-32

The Bible does not say much directly about taking vacations. (Vacations are clearly dependent on the type of industry, local climate, and on societal norms, so one would not expect much specific guidance from ancient Israel.) However, the Bible not only affirms the need for a change in gears, it commands it: “Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation. You shall do no work. It is a Sabbath to the Lord in all your dwelling places.” (Leviticus 23:3). Resting makes sense once a week, as well as seasonally, hence the various Biblical festivals.

Scripture makes it clear that God has granted us time to rest, “And He said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.’” (Mark 2:27). Therefore, as you would expect, Jesus patterned such behavior: “But He would withdraw to desolate places and pray”(Luke 5:16).

In keeping with this biblical model of working and resting, Debbie and I will be taking a vacation over the next two weeks. Carl Brannan has graciously agreed to fill the pulpit the two Sundays that we will be gone. We are heading out to “desolate places” in Arkansas. We will be praying for you while we are away. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to call (813-240-3106). After all, we intend to relax, not hibernate. So, for example, we plan to be on the Weekly Prayer Conference Call on Thursdays at 6:30pm (662-262-5152), including today.

While we are out of town, please be aware that there will not be coverage in the church office during our regular daily hours. If something time-sensitive comes up, please contact one of the other Elders or Deacons. We look forward to seeing you when we return. Thank you for your loving support.

Attached is the bulletin for morning worship this Sunday, September 13th, as well as the weekly Prayer List.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 9/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

and distributed among all the people, the whole multitude of Israel, both men and women, a cake of bread, a portion of meat, and a cake of raisins to each one. Then all the people departed, each to his house. - 2 Samuel 6:19

Martin Luther, the great Reformer, probably would have loved sherry chicken over rice. It certainly is more delightful than a Diet of Worms. John Calvin, also, would have loved sherry chicken, followed up by some delicious pineapple upside-down cake. After all, Calvin had said, "But such are the fruits of the disobedience and sin of our first father Adam: it has resulted in all things being turned upside down.”

There is no record that these two Reformers ever met face-to-face. Much like today, they used technology, not in-person meetings, to exchange their ideas and give encouragement. Still, they would have enjoyed a nice, well-balanced, hearty meal together.

Why am I going on about how the great theologians might have hungered for sherry chicken and pineapple-upside down cake? Because that is exactly what we are having for our fellowship meal at 5:45pm today! Join us for Wednesday Night Live. I don't think that Luther and Calvin can make it tonight, but there will be other faithful followers of Jesus Christ there to encourage you -- and to be encouraged by you.

Attached is the handout for our discussion about Suffering, using the Paul David Tripp book. Our prayer time and discussion begins at 6:30pm (662-262-5152 to join via conference call).

The WIC Night Circle is also meeting this evening.
Ladies: feel free to join us for the aforementioned fellowship meal prior to your WIC gathering. We won’t mind if you eat and run... “then all the ladies could depart, each to Lynn’s house.” Very biblical.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 9/8/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Behold, the cry of the daughter of my people from the length and breadth of the land: “Is the Lord not in Zion? Is her King not in her?” “Why have they provoked me to anger with their carved images and with their foreign idols?” “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” - Jeremiah 8:19-20

I hope that you had a delightful and encouraging Labor Day! Many people regard the first Monday in September as the unofficial end of summer. Others recognize that summer technically ends with the Autumnal Equinox (on September 22nd this year). However, it does not seem that the Delta sun ever got a memo regarding either of these. We likely have plenty of hot weather left in our "summer" here.

In Jeremiah, the Lord chastises His people through His prophet, reminding them of their foolish personal pursuits: “I have paid attention and listened, but they have not spoken rightly; no man relents of his evil, saying, ‘What have I done?’ Everyone turns to his own course, like a horse plunging headlong into battle” (Jer 8:6-7). God is warning them that those who do not repent will someday say, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.”

Regardless of when the hot summer unofficially ends, or when it technically ends, the end of the harvest will be when God ordains it. Then it will have officially ended. The good news -- the great news -- is that the harvest is still going on. We can rejoice that God has kept us in summer here in the Delta. He intends to continue the growing cycle and the harvest cycle until all of the elect have been justified, as the Westminster Confession of Faith puts it:

• “God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect, and Christ did, in the fulness of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their justification: nevertheless, they are not justified, until the Holy Spirit doth, in due time, actually apply Christ unto them.” (WCF 11.4)

Here is what Jesus said in His “Olivet Discourse” to His disciples on the Mount of Olives (in Matthew 24):

• And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. (24:6)

• And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. (24:14)

• But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. (24:36)

• From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. (24:32)

• Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (24:44)

In Matthew 28, Jesus commissions His disciples -- the church -- with these words: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (19-20). Yes, the Delta sun is hot! The summer is not yet over! Let us share the Gospel and call others to repent and believe before harvest time ends.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 9/5/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I am the Lord your God - Deuteronomy 5:6a

Attached is the handout for tomorrow's 9:30am Sunday School class. The dial-in number is 662-262-5152.

Today, I was reading a devotional by Thomas Watson (1620-1686). He asked, and answered, “What is implied in God being our God? It is comprehensive of all good things. He is our strong tower, our fountain of living water, and our salvation.”

Today is a wonderful day to celebrate who God is. He is the Lord our God! “He is our Father who tenderly cares for us, and never dies.”

As Watson says, “He gives us peace in trouble, and when there is a storm without, He will make music within. The world gives trouble in peace, but God gives peace in trouble.” Today is a good day to meditate on this biblical truth.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 9/4/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin.” - John 19:11

Are some sins worse than others? Jesus makes it clear that the one who delivered Him over (Judas) had committed a greater sin.

In question 150, the Westminster Larger Catechism says it this way: Are all transgressions of the law of God equally heinous in themselves, and in the sight of God? A. All transgressions of the law of God are not equally heinous; but some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more heinous in the sight of God than others.

Q.151. What are those aggravations that make some sins more heinous than others?
A. Sins receive their aggravations,

1. From the persons offending: if they be of riper age, greater experience or grace, eminent for profession, gifts, place, office, guides to others, and whose example is likely to be followed by others.

2. From the parties offended: if immediately against God, His attributes, and worship; against Christ, and His grace; the Holy Spirit, His witness, and workings; against superiors, men of eminency, and such as we stand especially related and engaged unto; against any of the saints, particularly weak brethren, the souls of them, or any other, and the common good of all or many.

3. From the nature and quality of the offense: if it be against the express letter of the law, break many commandments, contain in it many sins: if not only conceived in the heart, but breaks forth in words and actions, scandalize others, and admit of no reparation: if against means, mercies, judgments, light of nature, conviction of conscience, public or private admonition, censures of the church, civil punishments; and our prayers, purposes, promises, vows, covenants, and engagements to God or men: if done deliberately, willfully, presumptuously, impudently, boastingly, maliciously, frequently, obstinately, with delight, continuance, or relapsing after repentance.

4. From circumstances of time and place: if on the Lord’s Day, or other times of divine worship; or immediately before or after these, or other helps to prevent or remedy such miscarriages: if in public, or in the presence of others, who are thereby likely to be provoked or defiled.

This biblical truth serves as a reminder that, on the one hand, all sins are the same in terms of all being acts of rebellion against God, and on the other hand, sins can vary in terms of their offensiveness. Sins by those who should know better are particularly offensive. Or, as Richard Sibbes (1577-1635) put it, “They, therefore that know God’s will most of all others, must look for most stripes if they do it not.”

What should you do if you have rebelled against God? As we heard from the Apostle Peter in the sermon on Sunday, “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus” (Acts 3:19-20). Jesus gives the faith to restore sinners by the power of His name, and the faithful act on it. Regardless of how heinous or small your sin is, today is a great day to repent! This is a wonderful message to share with others so that they, too, may come before the presence of the Lord.

I look forward to celebrating the Lord’s Supper with you this Sunday. I have attached the bulletin for Sunday Morning, as well as the weekly Prayer List.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 9/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you. - Isaiah 43:2-3

Fear is a legitimate reaction to a sovereign being, unless you know that God is good and God is in control. However, as Ken Sande points out, “The fact that God is good does not mean that He will insulate us from all suffering. Rather, it means that He will be with us in our suffering and accomplish good through it.” In Sande's book The Peacemaker, he offers 10 benefits that God grants through our suffering as He glorifies Himself, benefits others, and helps us grow. Specifically, God uses suffering:

• To bring glory to Himself by displaying His goodness, power and faithfulness

• In order that we may glorify Him by our patience under suffering

• In order that He may display the riches of His grace and call forth new praises from us as He constantly upholds and delivers us

• To teach us how to minister to others when they are suffering

• So we can set an example that will encourage others to depend on God and remain faithful to His commands

• To teach us to rely more on Him

• To show us our need for repentance

• To require that we practice the character qualities that will make us like our Lord (who suffered)

• So we can rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope

• To trust that every time that He gives us a challenge, He also gives us guidance, strength, and abilities needed to deal with it

Sande wraps up this part of his book by observing, “We need to turn our attention to the promises and instructions that God has revealed to us through Scripture. The Bible tells us that God is both sovereign and good, so we can be sure that whatever He has brought into our lives can be used to glorify Him, to benefit others, and to help us grow.” Join us this evening as we explore Paul Tripp’s book on the same subject.

I have attached our church calendar for the month of September.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 9/1/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Then they said to Jeremiah, “May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us if we do not act according to all the word with which the LORD your God sends you to us.” - Jeremiah 42:5

Did your parents ever tell you to do something and you replied, “Of course, don't worry, consider it done”? And then, later, it became apparent that it was not, in fact, done?

Maybe you always did what you said that you would do, but I recall awkward moments of trying to explain why the trash can did not make it to the curb before the truck arrived, why the dog did not get walked in time to prevent domestic regrets, and why the fuel gauge on the car read empty. Distractions are a powerful force in the life of a teenager. Distractions don't seem to vanish after high school.

I recall vividly the Christmas that the grades from my first semester at college had arrived in the mail to my father's house before I got there. My father had asked me on a number of occasions how the school year was going, and I replied something like, “Don't worry, I'm studying and doing my homework, things are going well.” I recall vividly how my father opened the envelope with my grades in front of the family that holiday, including in front of my girlfriend. Debbie recalls it, too. My father seemed almost smug as he unsealed and read aloud the grades. It was a feeling of embarrassment that I doubt that I can ever forget.

That day, my father was a true and faithful witness against me, since I did not act according to the words that I had said. I might not have completely learned my lesson that day -- maybe my embarrassment blocked some of my judgment -- but I began to appreciate that I can know what needs to be done and still not act on it.

The sermon on Sunday morning presented the following main proposition:

• Jesus gives the faith to restore sinners by the power of His name, and the faithful act on it.

Our Lord and Savior loves to restore sinners. He gives faith to restore them. He gives power through His holy name. And, through the power of His Spirit, the truth of His Word, and the encouragement of His church, He grants the faithful the ability to act on it. And the faithful act on it. During this difficult time, let us not be distracted from our mission: to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that Jesus has commanded you. And behold, He is with you always, to the end of the age. He is faithful.

Attached is the handout for our discussion on Suffering tomorrow during Wednesday Night Live.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 8/31/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. - Psalm 1:1-3

The Men's Small Group is meeting today at 6:30pm. The Men’s Prayer Breakfast is scheduled for 6:30am on Wednesday.

As men of the church meet to pray and study God’s Word, they are like trees planted by streams of water. In your prayer time today, please lift up the spiritual development and biblical discernment of the men of First Presbyterian. As you pray, you might want to consider how John addresses men in his first epistle (we will be exploring this passage on Sunday evening). Using 1 John 2:12-14, you could read a line and then say a prayer for the men of this church based on the text:

• I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.

• I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.

• I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.

• I write to you, children, because you know the Father.

• I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.

• I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

And, I am writing to you, men and women of FPC, because you know the power of prayer. I am writing to you, God’s children, because we are together His family. I am writing to you, brothers and sisters, because Christ Jesus is our Lord and Savior.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 8/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” - Matthew 16:15-16

I have attached the weekly Prayer List and the bulletin for worship this Sunday morning. If you believe that you can manage the health risks, you are welcome to join us in person for Sunday School and worship. (Please exercise consideration for others in terms of personal protective equipment and social distancing.) Alternatively, you are welcome to join us live via video streaming (http://indianolapca.org/livestream) or conference call (662-262-5152).

Maybe you are already planning a big celebration for tomorrow? After all, August 29, 2020 will be the three hundred and seventy-third anniversary of the adoption of the Westminster Confession of Faith by the Church of Scotland! This is a big event! One of our statements of faith!

Meeting first in 1643, the Westminster Assembly had been commissioned by the British Parliament to help unify the nation by crafting documents that articulated the teaching of Scripture and represented agreement of the national churches. This effort was in part the result of a military alliance agreement between England and Scotland in which the English Church was called upon to conform more the Scottish Church. The Westminster Standards were developed over several years and approved for adoption successively by Parliament and the Churches of England and Scotland (Wales was represented by the Church of England).

Their first step was to replace the controversial Book of Common Prayer with a Directory of Public Worship in 1645. They then spent two years crafting a Confession of Faith to replace the incomplete and easily-misapplied Thirty-Nine Articles. After the Confession was approved by Parliament, the Westminster Assembly turned to the task of creating the Larger and Shorter Catechisms. Parliament had appointed 121 ministers and 30 non-voting members to the assembly. In addition, Parliament invited 11 Scottish churchmen as commissioners. The Scots actively participated but remained independent as non-voting members. Within the first six years, 22 members had died, 19 of whom were replaced. The assembly ceased meeting after nine years, at about the time that Oliver Cromwell dissolved Parliament.

In 1647, the British Parliament approved the Westminster Confession of Faith and on August 29th of that year, the Church of Scotland approved these clear statements of biblical truth. The Presbyterian church in America was born out of the church of Scotland and we have kept this 373 year-old document largely unchanged. (More than a century ago, there were a few subsequent edits and tweaks, but none of these affect the theology being confessed. The most notable edit was the removal of a reference to the Roman Catholic Pope as the antichrist, since this was regarded as unnecessarily indelicate, given that the current version preserved the language that the pope of Rome cannot in any sense be the head of the church.)

Our denomination upholds the truth of the WCF by asking our Elders to affirm upon their ordination: “Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Confession of Faith and the Catechisms of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine taught in the Holy Scriptures?” As a member of this church, you can be confident that you know what your church Elders affirm and seek to live out. Just read what the Church of Scotland adopted 373 years ago tomorrow. And return thanks to God for His compassion and to the British Parliament for funding a decade of diligent work.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 8/27/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

By this we may know that we are in Him: whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked. - 1 John 2:5b-6

Have you noticed that there are a lot of sinful knuckleheads in the news? It seems that each day, we hear about people who are disrupting order by breaking the law outright. They are hurling rocks, molotov cocktails, and insults at others. They are openly rebelling against clear and useful laws. After all, laws are intended to not only guide specific behavior but also to more generally protect society by preserving order. And yet, there seem to be a lot of sinful knuckleheads in the news. So, order seems particularly challenged.

Does their disruption of order offend you? If so -- if you are offended by lawbreakers -- then today might be a good day to review what you have in common with them. Have you attempted to disrupt God's order by breaking His law? Have you lied, cheated, stolen, grumbled, coveted? Sure, God is in control of everything, so you could not actually thwart His plans. But, as a sinner -- even one saved by grace -- you are still apt to break His law. You rebel against His order. Today is a good day to repent.

In fact, every day is a good day to repent of lawlessness. This Sunday, from Acts 3, we will hear Peter preach before the people in Jerusalem. He will say, “Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this? ... you denied the Holy and Righteous One ... Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.” Each Sunday, we read from the revelation of God's will regarding our lawlessness. And each Sunday, we privately confess our sins in silence and then publicly confess our sins alongside each other. In preparation for confessing our sins together, here is the prayer that we will pray out loud in unison this Sunday:

• Almighty and Holy God, we confess before You that we are poor sinners. We were born into corruption and are prone to evil, unable of ourselves to do any good. We, by reason of our depravity, transgress without end Your holy Commandments. Therefore, we have drawn upon ourselves Your just sentence of condemnation and death. But, O Lord! With true sorrow we repent and deplore our offenses. With true repentance we plead for grace in our time of distress. Have mercy on us, Father of mercies. Have mercy on us because of Christ's work. Remove our guilt and grant us the daily increase of the Holy Spirit. We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Lord. Amen

Between now and Sunday, be praying that everyone throughout our country would be willing to pray this prayer for forgiveness. Everyone on the face of the planet -- professing faith in Jesus Christ or not -- is called to follow God's law. Those who know Jesus ought to walk in His righteousness. And when they don't, they ought to confess their sins. We should be offended by our own rebellion. By this we may know that we are in Him: whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked. Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.

If you have time, be sure to join us on the Weekly Prayer Conference call today at 6:30pm (662-262-5152).

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 8/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed. – 1 Peter 4:12-13

How can you look differently at suffering?

During Wednesday Night Live this evening, we will discuss Chapter 2 of Paul Tripp’s book on Suffering. Last week, we talked about Tripp’s personal sufferings. Here is a summary of his rationale for beginning the book with his own story of suffering:

• God Understands: Suffering is never abstract, theoretical, or impersonal. Suffering is real, tangible, personal, and specific. The Bible never presents suffering as an idea or concept but puts it before us in the blood-and-guts drama of real human experiences.

• God Cares: Scripture never looks down on the sufferer. It never mocks the sufferer’s pain, it never turns a deaf ear to his cries, and it never condemns him for his struggle. The Bible presents to the sufferer a God who understands, who cares, who invites us to come to Him for help, and who promises one day to end all suffering of any kind once and forever.

• The Rubber Meets the Road: This book will place the gorgeous, honest, and hopeful theology of suffering – which is a core theme of the redemptive story – into the context of an actual sufferer’s story.

• Receive Comfort: Paul Tripp invites us to take this journey with him. His hope is that he will help you to find words for your struggle and rest in the midst of pain.

• Give Comfort: Tripp writes to help you understand the experience of others, to know what it is to love them, to walk with them, and to help them bear their burden.

• Courage and Hope: As Christians we do not have to run from this topic. We can engage it with courage knowing that there is no valley of suffering so deep that God’s grace in Jesus isn’t deeper.

As we explore what it means to suffer, here are some biblical truths to consider:

• All of your suffering ends one day (1 Peter 1:6, 4:12-13, 5:6; Rom 8:16-18; Rev 21:4; Heb 12:2; Phil 2:8)

• God is not only able to guard you, but He also cares for you (1 Peter 5:6-7; Matt 6:26)

• Our suffering reminds us that we are at war (1 Peter 5:8)

• However lonely your suffering feels, you are not alone (1 Peter 5:7,9; Gal 6:2)

• God will not only take away your suffering but He will heal every wound and restore everything good forever (1 Peter 5:10; Psalm 16:11)

When you pray that your hope would be “rooted in the fact that your Lord is in you, He is with you, and He is for you right here, right now”, how can you look differently at suffering? This is what we will discuss in our study. I pray that you can join us at 5:45pm in-person for the fellowship meal, or 6:30pm for the discussion at 662-262-5152.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 8/25/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. - Galatians 6:10
They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share. - 1 Timothy 6:18

Over the years, I have had great and memorable bosses. Each one had his or her own style and idiosyncrasies. Some of them professed their faith explicitly, others made you wonder. There is no such thing as a bad boss: you can learn from all of them; sometimes you learn what to do; sometimes you learn what not to do. Much of what my bosses taught me has stuck with me for decades. Here are some things that I heard working in restaurants and management consulting well over twenty-five years ago:

• “If guests see paper towels on the bathroom floor, they will think that there are roaches in the food.” - Paul Grace

• “No, it's not ready! Cooking takes time! Go round around, come back again!” - Chef Vittoria Testa

• “Do not mistake my objective for an instruction.” - Ann B. Hopkins

• “There is no right way to do a wrong thing.” - Dr. Fred L. Laughlin

• “Do good.” - Dr. Paul R. Lawrence

That last saying was from the man we referred to as “the Good Doctor.” Two years ago, President Trump appointed him to be the Under Secretary for Benefits at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Paul's common exhortation for us to ‘do good’ might seem glib -- and it certainly seemed that way to some of the younger consultants back in the day -- but he meant every [both] word(s). He didn't have to say much. His razor-sharp mind cut through the nonsense and lay bare exactly what we needed to focus on. Paul didn't waste time. Speaking of which, another common phrase of his was, “8:30, not 8:31.” We knew not to be late. Paul began the day on time, addressed the issues, and left on time to be with his family. He was a great boss.

Of course, sometimes we know that we are supposed to do good, but we choose to do otherwise, creating room for regret. Another great Paul acknowledged having this problem: For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. - Romans 7:19

As sinful people, we are all prone to putting ourselves first -- trying foolishly to do a wrong thing a right way. But, as children of the living God, we know that there is a right thing and a right way. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the way of forgiveness, the way of knowledge, holiness, and righteousness. As we said in the sermon three weeks ago, we grow through individual covenant faithfulness and community membership as we respond to the powerful call of the Holy Spirit. These two are intertwined: we need the community of the church to encourage our covenant faithfulness,  and we strengthen the community through our personal growth. We do good as we share together.

The officers of the church pray diligently for growth. Please pray for the elders of the church as we conduct our Session meeting this evening. And invite others to the Men's Prayer Breakfast and Wednesday Night Live tomorrow. And today, let us remember what Paul said so long ago, “Do good.” This is an objective, as well as an instruction. And it takes time, so you might need to go round around and come back again.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 8/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. - Acts 2:46-3:1

Yesterday in the morning sermon, we talked about the daily routines of the early church in Jerusalem. We noted that the main proposition of this passage was "Jesus reaches out through the visible church to those suffering so that the world will behold His miraculous power." And I offered a question for you and a potential application of God' s teaching in these verses: "Are those observing your daily routine seeing Jesus Christ being reflected by you? We are in a pandemic. Take stock of your daily activities and prioritize them in the name of Jesus Christ."

Here are some upcoming events within the church's daily routine and opportunities for you to lift up prayers for the Bride of Christ this week:

• Monday Evening - Tonight at 6:30 pm, the men's small group that has met on Monday nights at the church is starting up again for another six-week study (from 33 The Series). All men are welcome. Please pray that this group study brings to these men an even deeper understanding of the person and work of Jesus Christ. 

• Tuesday Evening - The Session meets tomorrow night. Please pray for the officers of your church, that they may have greater discernment in how to minister to you and to your community.

• Wednesday Morning - The Men's Prayer Breakfast at 6:30 am is one of the best ways to start your day. Frank Covington makes the best pancakes in Sunflower County -- if you find this hard to believe, come test my claim.

• Wednesday Evening - At 5:45 pm, Wednesday Night Live kicks off with a Mexican Chicken dish, prepared by Janet Covington. Be sure to join our study on Suffering at 6:30 pm (in-person or via conference call (662-262-5152). 

• Thursday Afternoon - The Women's Bible Study is scheduled to meet in the Church Library on Thursday at 1:00 pm (live or via conference call). We are exploring chapter 17 of the book of Joshua.

• Thursday Evening - Our weekly Prayer Conference Call starts at 6:30 pm. If you want to have the call automatically dial your telephone at that time, please let me know.

I also asked, "Do you pray regularly for your own spiritual development as well as for that of others?" The above activities are excellent items to add to your prayer list to lift up the spiritual development of yourself and others.

Another question that I asked during the sermon was, "Do you look for beggars suffering at the gate and call out to them to look at you?" Be sure to look around you for people who are suffering and invite them to participate in the daily routines of the church. Jesus reaches out through the visible church to those suffering so that the world will behold His miraculous power. There are a lot of people suffering today. Like Peter and John, let us go up together to pray.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 8/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 18:3

Are you communing with God today? He makes Himself available to you -- at all times -- in His Word. Memorizing Scripture gives you immediate access to God’s truth and to communion with Him. It can be helpful to memorize summaries of His Word, as well, like little children do...

During Wednesday Night Live, the young children of the church have been memorizing answers to the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Last week, we had a review and it was a real blessing to hear them recite these words from 1645:

• Q.3. What do the Scriptures principally teach?

• A. The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.

The current edition of Modern Reformation magazine focuses on Sacred Scripture and answers more questions, such as “Is our Bible too small?” Here are two quotes from this publication’s helpful articles:

• “Scripture does not intend to outline every truth but to reveal the truths we cannot know without God telling us. It therefore maintains the sole authority to describe who God is, what He has done for us, and how we are to commune with Him.”

• “Since there is nowhere else that we might turn to find the words of eternal life, we must exclusively return over and over again to what Christ says so that we might have communion with the true God.”

Here is a verse that you could memorize from the upcoming sermon on Sunday: “But Peter said, ‘I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!’” - Acts 3:6

What do the Scriptures principally teach? What man is to believe concerning God -- such as He powerfully and miraculously heals the lame -- and what duty God requires of man -- such as to hear His call and to arise and walk. Do you recall watching a toddler walk for the first time? You coaxed and cajoled, “Okay, now take a step!” And amazingly, eventually, the child walked! Let us encourage others to walk in the paths of Christ righteousness. You don't need silver and gold. You just need God's holy Word. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!

Attached is the bulletin for Sunday morning worship, as well as the weekly Prayer List. May you glorify and enjoy God in your walk today.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 8/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil. - Matthew 5:33-37

I had a British boss who used to say, “My father used to say, ‘my word is my bond’.” I am not 100% certain why he emphasized that it was his father who said this -- since plenty of people have said it over the ages. Perhaps he was highlighting that this statement was a cornerstone of his family’s integrity, and therefore he wanted others to know that he was genetically faithful. Perhaps he was highlighting that it has stood the test of time as traditional and respectable, appropriate for use by a fine British gentleman. In fact, this phrase has been the motto of the London Stock Exchange since 1801 (so, I’m sure that it was not originally coined by my boss’s father).

Traditionally, transactions at the London Stock Exchange were made without signing pieces of paper -- people’s word was their bond, so they did exactly what they said that they would. They kept their promises. Still today, transactions at the London Stock Exchange occur without paper contracts, so their motto remains in place. This might seem obvious with the advent of computers, but they maintain that regardless of the technology in use, their word is still their bond.

In the Presbyterian Church in America, we require those who are joining as members to affirm their faith by answering five questions. If you are a member of First Presbyterian, you likely answered these questions a while back. If it has been a while, perhaps it is useful to recall what you had pledged:

• Do you acknowledge yourselves to be sinners in the sight of God, justly deserving His displeasure, and without hope save [except] in His sovereign mercy?

• Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and Savior of sinners, and do you receive and rest upon Him alone for salvation as He is offered in the Gospel?

• Do you now resolve and promise, in humble reliance upon the grace of the Holy Spirit, that you will endeavor to live as becomes the followers of Christ?

• Do you promise to support the church in its worship and work to the best of your ability?

• Do you submit yourselves to the government and discipline of the church, and promise to study its purity and peace?

If your word is your bond -- and the Bible declares that it is -- then your affirmations of commitment to these principles serve as your promises to uphold your faith through faithful church service. Today is a good day to meditate on your response to these questions. Then, simply let your ‘yes’ be yes, and your ‘no’ be no. 

If you have time, be sure to join us for the Weekly Prayer Conference Call today at 6:30pm (662-262-5152).

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 8/19/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort. - 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

Today is Wednesday, so get ready for some comfort food: lasagna! (The men already had Frank's comforting pancakes for breakfast this morning, but we don't mind a second meal at church in one day.)

We plan to gather at 5:45pm for our Wednesday Night Live. We will have our prayer time and continue our study of Suffering at 6:30pm. If you are not able to join us in person, be sure to dial into the conference call number at 6:30 (662-262-5152).

We will be discussing chapter 1, "The Day My Life Changed". I have attached the handout for the discussion.

Be sure to pray for the Lessmanns as they make the long trek to Pennsylvania to take Martin to college. (Well, most of them are traveling there. Meanwhile, Lucy, Peter, and Richard might not mind if you stopped by with comfort food while they mind the house and pets!)

We hope to talk to you this evening. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 8/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. - Acts 2:42-43

On Sunday, we looked at the essential elements of the church and their effect on members and others.

Here is what one writer said about the ordinary means of grace (Word, fellowship, sacraments, and prayer) in this passage:

• "I believe one thing the Holy Spirit wants us us to understand from this is that these 'ordinary' things are not less miraculous than what preceded them [the miracle of speaking in tongues] -- in fact, they may be more so. The disciplines of discipleship, fellowship, community, and prayer are the signs that tell us the kingdom of Christ is here. That means that for Christians, the most crucial moments in our walk with Jesus Christ don't happen in the thrill of 'spiritual highs.' They happen in the common hum of everyday life in quiet, faithful obedience to Christ."

Wednesdays are exciting days of signs and wonders at First Presbyterian:

• Tomorrow morning at 6:30am, our Men's Prayer Breakfast will feature fellowship, breaking bread, and prayers. Please consider joining us to see these miraculous signs that the kingdom of Christ is here!

• Tomorrow evening at 5:45pm, our Wednesday Night Live will feature fellowship, breaking bread, and prayers. Invite a friend to join us as we revel in God's glory and blessings through His faithful servants. Our discussion topic is Suffering.

Please continue praying for relief from the novel coronavirus pandemic. Our community, nation, and world need your prayers. Also pray for the Lessmanns as they head East to take Martin to college beginning tomorrow. Let us devote ourselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And may awe come upon every soul.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 8/17/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king’s food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” - Daniel 1:11-13

On Sunday morning, we had some technical problems getting the livestream going for a few minutes at the beginning of the worship service. If you attempted to view at 10:45am, you would not have seen the service. However, Casey was able to resolve the issue, so some people were able to view most of the worship service. The video recording is now on the church website. I have attached the handout from Sunday evening worship (the video for that is also on the website).

This week, Wednesday Night Live will feature lasagna (both meat & vegetable). We hope that you can join us. We will be discussing Chapter 1 of Paul David's book: Suffering.

Speaking of vegetable lasagna, do you know which vegetables the Bible mentions? Perhaps children in the church would be pleased to know that there are no verses instructing us to eat broccoli, asparagus, or brussels sprouts. Even though Daniel and his buddies had a diet of only vegetables, pretty much the only ones specifically mentioned in Scripture are:

• Beans (2 Samuel 17:28; Ezekiel 4:9)

• Cucumbers (Numbers 11:5)

• Gourds (2 Kings 4:39)

• Leeks (Numbers 11:5)

• Lentils (Genesis 25:34; 2 Samuel 17:28; Ezekiel 4:9)

• Onions (Numbers 11:5)

The Bible does name more than 16 different herbs and spices (including anise, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, and garlic). On the other hand, Scripture is silent about corn, tomatoes, and potatoes. Debbie and I enjoy a cup of coffee as we read our morning devotional, but, alas, coffee is not mentioned in the Bible, either.

It should not be surprising that the Bible doesn't require us to adhere to specific menu items. Foods tend to be regional and the Bible -- thought written in Middle East -- was written for all mankind, throughout the world. We have a lot of liberty in choosing what to grow and eat. The Israelites were given restrictions about what was ceremonially unclean and therefore should avoided. The New Testament removed these restrictions, since the specific restrictions had been given to distinguish God's people before Christ came as the Savior for all mankind. As you enjoy your meal this evening, you can rejoice in God's granting you the ability to enjoy whatever it is that delights your palate! Bon appetit!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 8/14/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20

The root word for discipleship is “disciple,” from which we get the common word, discipline. To be a disciple means to be a student with the view to becoming like the teacher. Jesus is the Teacher and those who are His followers are also to be His students.

In what is commonly called the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28:18-20), our Lord instructs His disciples to disciple the nations. Several things are noteworthy. First, Jesus claims all authority. He is the Teacher and source of both truth and power. Second, Jesus has commanded, or commissioned the church to teach all kinds of people everywhere. Jesus teaches by means of His church. And third, the church is to teach everything that Jesus commands in His Word, the Bible.

We take Jesus’s commissioning seriously and therefore we seek to fulfill the Great Commission by cultivating:

• Exploration that Renews Our Minds

• Instruction that Secures Our Hearts

• Development that Expands Our Horizons

In the midst of a pandemic, the church faces a real challenge in carrying out its mission to disciple. Please join us -- in-person for Sunday School, Bible Studies, and Wednesday Nights; by conference call for all of these; and in prayer, including Thursday evenings -- so that we may unite in discipling the nations. This is our mission and it begins right here in Indianola.

I have attached here the bulletin for Sunday morning worship as well as this week's prayer list.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 8/13/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

Rev. David Dickson was a Scottish minister who served as a moderator for the Westminster Assembly in the 1640s. He, along with his colleague Rev. James Durham, wrote “The Sum of Saving Knowledge.” This important summary of the Gospel was produced at the same time as the Westminster Confession of Faith & Catechisms, but it was never voted on as an official document of the assembly. Still, many of the Westminster fathers shared this useful summary with their congregations and it is often published along with the official declarations of the Westminster Assembly. I recommend familiarizing yourself with this biblical teaching on the core elements of saving faith, so here is a brief excerpt from this nearly 400-year old booklet...

     The Sum of Saving Knowledge is this:

1. The woeful condition which all men are in by nature, through breaking of the covenant of works.
   “O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself.” - Hosea 13:9

2. The remedy provided for the elect in Jesus Christ by the covenant of grace.
   “O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help.” - Hosea 13:9

3. The means appointed to make them partakers of this covenant.
   “Many are called.” - Matthew 22:14

4. The blessings which are effectually conveyed to the elect by these means.
   “Many are called, but few are chosen.” - Matthew 12:14.

"The outward means and ordinances, for making men partakers of the covenant of grace, are so wisely dispensed, as that the elect shall be infallibly converted and saved by them; and the reprobate, among whom they are, not to be justly damned: The means are especially these four:"

• The Word of God

• The Ordinances (Sacraments: Baptism & the Lord's Supper)

• Church

• Prayer

"In the Word of God preached by sent messengers, the Lord makes offer of grace to all sinners, upon condition of faith in Jesus Christ; and whoever does confess their sin, accept Christ’s offering, and submit themselves to his ordinances, he will have them received into the honour and privileges of the covenant of grace. By the ordinances, God will have the covenant sealed for confirming the bargain on the foresaid condition. By the Church, he will have them hedged in, and helped forward to the keeping of the covenant. And by prayer, he will have his own glorious grace, promised in the covenant, to be daily drawn forth, acknowledged, and employed. All these means are followed either really, or in profession only, according to the quality of the covenanters, as they are true or counterfeit believers."

Perhaps their best summary of the Gospel is this: "He reconciles them, and makes them friends to God, who were before enemies of God."

It is interesting that these great theologians included the Church itself as a means of grace (we often quote the ordinary means as "the Word, Sacraments, and Prayer"). They understood the clear biblical teaching that we depend upon each: God extends His grace through His people. In fact, this is part of what it means to be His people: to receive and share God's love.

We have opportunities to receive and share grace today: the Women's Bible Study is meeting at 1pm in the church library (or join via the conference call number) and our Weekly Prayer Conference Call is at 6:30pm this evening. I pray that you are enjoying the fellowship of the saints today.

In His name,
Rev., Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 8/12/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12

There is a lot going on in the life of the church today:

• Richard Lessmann is celebrating his 15th birthday!

• Q and Fran Davis are celebrating their 51st wedding anniversary!

• The Men's Prayer Breakfast met this morning.

• The WIC Night Circle is meeting this evening.

• We are having a Baked Potato Bar for our Wednesday Night Live fellowship meal.

Be sure to celebrate alongside us, either in person or virtually.

Amidst all this excitement, we will have a modified program for Wednesday Night Live. After our meal this evening, the catechism kids will join with the rest of the group for prayer, a joint review of questions & answers, and a fun activity, before they break off for a treasure hunt.

Be sure to invite others to join our fellowship times. Tomorrow, we will have our weekly Thursday prayer conference call at 6:30pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to share prayer needs and come before our risen Lord in unified prayer. This Sunday, we will be exploring Acts 2:42-47, which describes to us the identity of the New Testament church: 'All in.'

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:4-5

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 8/10/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. - 2 Corinthians 8:13-14

I want to again thank the entire congregation for the wonderful teamwork and all-around great effort in putting on our somewhat restricted version of Vacation Bible School last week! Special thanks to Caroline Newsom for leading us and keeping us all on track.

Please continue to pray for the Covington family, as they have been exposed to the novel coronavirus. Janet is experiencing minor symptoms of COVID-19 and is awaiting test results. As she said, "All in all, I really do not feel sick. If I hadn't been exposed to the virus, I would not have gone to the clinic." Please pray that the entire household continues to do well. We are grateful that Doris Steed came through a two-week quarantine without symptoms.

You might have seen on the national news today that there was a gas explosion in Baltimore that leveled several homes this morning. This devastation took place just a few blocks from where I went to middle school. One woman is dead and six people are in critical condition. It serves as a reminder that beyond the pandemic, riots, and other glaringly obvious challenges that we face as a nation, there are thousands, if not millions, of instances of daily suffering in other communities. This is also true throughout the world -- consider the recent explosion in Beirut, Lebanon that has killed more than 200 people, injured thousands, and left 300,000 people homeless. Indianola is a special town and as we enjoy the relative solace and security of this great place, we ought to recognize God's gift of allowing us to pray for others. God has blessed us so that we may support missionaries with our funds and our prayers. Today is a good day to lift up the work of missionaries around the world.

We each have needs. Part of God's plan is to provide for our needs through acts of love by others. As we discovered in the sermon yesterday, "We grow through individual covenant faithfulness and community membership as we respond to the powerful call of the Holy Spirit." Oftentimes, the powerful call of the Holy Spirit drives us to pray for one another, care for one another, and just spend time with one another. Sometimes, He drives us to reach out to others who might be in even greater need than we are. May the Spirit of Christ drive your desires today.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 8/7/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings. - Matthew 23:37

Attached is the bulletin for Sunday Morning Worship, as well as the weekly Prayer List. Please let us know if you have any prayer updates for friends and loved ones. For Sunday School, we will be discussing Zechariah 1:18-21 (chapter 4 in the book Longing for God in an Age of Discouragement -- please let us know if you need a copy).

For whatever reason, I thought that I might cover a curious topic today...God's Gender. I had written a paper on this topic several years ago. Here is an extract from that paper (this topic is controversial, so you might appreciate this biblical viewpoint -- let me know if you would like to read the entire paper, which includes extensive Bible references):

How Practical is a Christian View of God’s Masculinity and Maleness? Even though God’s gender was not a major theological topic in previous centuries, an orthodox understanding has significant import. Recognizing God’s maleness and masculine gender informs our understanding of His other characteristics:

• God is personal and His personhood includes aspects that we regard as necessary, such as living and having a gender that is associated with living beings (as opposed to being an “it” of impersonal “stuff”). God’s gender differentiates Him from being like the impersonal Star Wars “force.”

• God is eternal and unchangeable, so gender fluidity or ambiguity for Him is untenable. He is primarily masculine and yet, like other masculine beings, has feminine aspects. His character is represented and understood through the analogies of our characteristics. Moreover, He does not call us to be Christ-like through some fabricated existence in which we must deny our personhood and gender in order to emulate an amorphous being – His specific gender affirms the states in which He created us, male and female, and gives each of us confidence to live for Him within our own gender.

• God is true, so His emphasis of exuding maleness / masculinity cannot be a deceptive ploy. While it is true that our understanding of Him is relegated to metaphors from our own existence, it is also true that His revealed Word depicts Him as masculine. He calls us to a dominion mandate and uses sex / gender as a foundational reality for this command. His masculine gender sets the stage for our emulating His example in realistic terms that are grounded in who He is and who each of us are – aspiring to reflect Him within our world and gender.

• God is merciful, so His masculine, tender loving kindness sets an example for all people. To the extent that a society regards women as more gentle and tender, this example from God is even more significant in the call to males to emulate Him. His nurturing compassion affirms societal understandings of femininity and sets a standard for all.

• God is righteous and just, so His declarations of distinctions (such as who is to go into battle, who is to lead the church) are pure, even if we do not grasp His rationale for gender distinctions.

• God is gracious, so we can recognize how He has accommodated the representation of Himself to be something that we can grasp on our terms, through historical and societal lenses, and with confidence that He has bent down to speak to us using simple words so that we as small children can comprehend. The gender-simplicity of the God of Scripture is a gift to us. 

• God is holy, so what He distinguishes and sets apart must be honored (and the pattern of distinguishing according to His distinctions is a pattern that will serve us well in life). Throughout Scripture, God declares things to be clean and unclean, holy and unholy, male and female, right and wrong. These dichotomies are part of His revealed natural order. We must attend to the truth of His revealed gender. We must worship Him in Spirit and in truth.

In the midst of the recent wave of challenges to traditional gender roles, it might be tempting to go with the flow and regard God as not possessing gender. However, Scripture affirms that God has a specific gender, consistent with His personhood. God is not gender-fluid. Beyond this, God establishes a pattern for male headship that is grounded in His headship. God also establishes a pattern for sensitivity, caring, and compassion that is for all who bear His image, and not to be limited to females: A masculine God calls men to be loving like He is. Societies and cultures may seek to balance gender roles to promote recognition of how all of mankind is equally fallen. In these efforts, we must not lose sight of God’s created order that is based on His character and Fatherhood.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 8/6/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. - Revelation 21:3

God lives! God saves! I trust and obey! God lives with His people!

We had a wonderful week of Vacation Bible School! The children of First Presbyterian got to discover exciting heroes of the faith. These heroes were helpful, brave, loyal, and loving. They learned key principles, and, we all had some fun in the process, too!

We are very grateful for all of the hard work as we pieced together a safe and rewarding program in the midst of the pandemic. A special thanks goes out to the key organizers: Caroline Newsom and Callie Davis. We are grateful to everyone who chipped in and made this a memorable event for ALL of the children, young and old. Thank you to the WIC for keeping us well fed. We will be praying that next year we will be able to have a larger, full-scale event. But, we should all be pleased with how we balanced the priorities and persevered despite many challenges this year. 2020 has earned the reputation of being one of the strangest years yet.

Here is one of the Bible readings from VBS:

• I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for His name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one. - 1 John 2:12-14

We didn't spend much time with the kids on that passage (it will be the subject of an upcoming Sunday evening sermon, as we explore 1 John), but notice that God's Word is for ALL people, old, young, and little. VBS certainly showed us this, as we saw and heard little children reciting truth from God's Word to us! It was evident that they were learning to know Jesus more and more.

Please pray that the seeds of God's Word that were planted this week will continue to grow and flourish in our church and therefore in our community. Please pray for wisdom for each of us as we seek to reach our community with the Word of God.

Feel free to join us for our weekly prayer conference call today at 6:30pm (662-262-5152).

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 8/5/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. - John 19:26-27

How much do you know about John, the disciple whom Jesus loved?

He and James were the sons of Zebedee and Salome. Their family ran a successful fishing business in Galilee, complete with hired servants. James and John traveled as two of the twelve disciples, studying under Jesus during His earthly ministry.

John was right next to Jesus during the last supper, witnessing firsthand the interaction with Judas. And, at the crucifixion, as our Lord hung on the cross, Jesus entrusted the ongoing care of His mother Mary to John, the disciple whom Jesus loved.

Tonight, during the finale of VBS, we will hear testimony from John, as the children of First Presbyterian discover this hero of the faith. Recall, John wrote five books of the Bible and said something pretty important things:

• God is love (1 John 4:8)

• We should love one another (1 John 3:11)

• For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16)

If we consider both the writings and life of John, we can clearly see this: Jesus called upon the disciple whom He loved to love others. In particular, Jesus called upon him to take care of the mother whom He loved. I hope that our children and the rest of the church recognize the beautiful calling for us, as disciples whom Jesus loves, to care for the women whom He loves, just as Paul had said to Timothy, “care for those who are truly widows.”

The church is a family. Let us all recognize, as John said and did, that we are given the privilege of loving one another. This is a wonderful privilege, indeed. Feel free to join us for the final evening of VBS. Our meal is scheduled for 5:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 8/4/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. - Joshua 1:6-7

Last night the children of the church got to meet the very brave leader who came after Moses: Joshua! He visited with us after we had pizza in the Fellowship Hall for Vacation Bible School. He told us all about how he had obeyed the Word of God and marched around Jericho for seven days, faithfully trusting that God would save His people. We then watched a video about this exciting event in history. (Richard Lessmann gave a wonderfully convincing portrayal of this hero of the faith.) (Thanks also go to the WIC for providing the delicious pizza -- and especially to Anne McKee for the brownies!)

The night before, Moses himself had paid a visit to the children in the Fellowship Hall. (It is a shame that Tom Humbarger was not in the room at the time, since I think that Helms really enjoyed getting to know Moses -- at least he and Georgia laughed a lot. Tom probably would have found it very enlightening and entertaining, as we all did.) We learned about how Moses was a very helpful hero of the faith. He discovered that God lives.

Tonight, we will be hearing the story of Esther. This is an interesting book of the Bible, since it never directly mentions "God." And yet, Esther clearly is a loyal hero of the faith who discovers how important it is to trust and obey God. Feel free to join us at 5:30pm and see which Bible character comes to visit us this evening. (And you can discover which church member will be inconveniently absent from the room as we meet this hero of the faith.)

You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. - Matthew 7:5

Perhaps it is unfortunate that the word "hypocrite" carries such ugly baggage. Jesus spoke of those who inconsistently condemned others while ignoring their own sins as "actors" (hypocrite literally means "actor" in Greek). During the week of VBS, we actually value and cherish actors (hypocrites). There is a significant difference between play acting and acting out of deceit. Moreover, the talents of the actors in our congregation serve to remind us just how deeply and convincingly we can deceive ourselves through hypocrisy. So, acting is a helpful method to teach us (and small children) about the deception of sin. Let the acting continue, tonight!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 7/31/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” - 1 Corinthians 11:23-24

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul describes the institution of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. We plan to celebrate communion this Sunday, so I wanted to offer you a few thoughts on this important event in the life of the church. Here are a few excerpts from our Inquirers' Class booklet that describe key aspects of the church's life and ministry, including observance of the sacraments:

• Ministry is Living the Ordinary Means of Grace. Scripture teaches that the ordinary means of grace are the Word, sacraments, and prayer. Therefore, the church must proclaim, administer, and pray. The primary role of a Teaching Elder (Pastor) is to use Scripture to guide the church in how to do these. The primary role of a Ruling Elder is to ensure that these are being done. The combined role of the Session is to collaborate so that the ordinary means are held in priority. The Word is their only rule of faith and practice and the Spirit upholds their labors. Members are called to receive and apply these means of grace. Deacons are called to address areas of need that might otherwise hinder receiving and applying these means. Let us encourage one another. Through these ordinary means of grace, we fulfill the church’s mission to call the elect to faith in Christ, out of the unbelieving world, by the work of the Spirit.

• Ministry is Living the Word. From a practical perspective, our church is committed to proclaiming the truth through Reformed expository preaching and sound Biblical teaching. Therefore, primacy is given to attendance in corporate worship that features authentic reverence for God’s Word and sermons that apply His Word to the lives of the people. Elders create and deliver additional channels, such as Sunday school instruction, to equip people with the knowledge and skills to read, understand, and apply God’s Word in their daily lives. Good stewardship of God’s Word also includes personal attention and accountability, such as through congregational visitations. We are committed to preaching, teaching, and fellowshipping. Outreach is an important mode of bringing God’s Word to the community. The church collaborates to make this responsibility a reality.

• Ministry is Living the Sacraments. Baptism is a once-in-a-lifetime act and the Lord’s Supper follows a frequency deemed to be appropriate. However, it would be a mistake to think that the sacraments are only applied at their stated intervals. The very purpose of baptism includes signifying participation in the covenant community and this reality of corporate fellowship is emphasized in people’s lives. So, for example, congregational visitations highlight corporate community and the covenantal benefits that ensue. Likewise, communion with God and His people is a feature of supping together and we are called to enjoy the benefits of the covenant of grace that are applied across our lives. Our teaching and equipping should remind congregants of the benefits of redemption and spiritual nourishment. Living the sacraments brings real comfort and covenant guidance.

Please consider meditating on 1 Corinthians 11 and these principles of church ministry as you prepare to worship this Sunday. I have attached the bulletin for Morning Worship, as well as our weekly Prayer List. I look forward to worshiping with you in spirit and in truth.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 7/30/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 19:14

Happy Birthday today to Dorothy Baker! (Attached is the church calendar for August. )

One of the most exciting and rewarding events in the life of the church is Vacation Bible School. This is a time when young children gather to learn more about Jesus Christ. VBS promotes worship by our youngest worshipers. VBS encourages outreach as we invite neighbors and family. VBS builds relationships -- with each other and with God. VBS promotes early discipleship in spiritual disciplines. The entire church lends a hand in each of these important areas of ministry, especially as we pray for these young ones.

Because VBS is so important, each year Satan loves to attack the church during VBS week. This year is especially challenging, due to the novel coronavirus. Therefore, please be praying for our VBS program. We have had to scale back considerably and we do not expect to have many visitors from outside the church. (We have cleared out the entire Fellowship Hall to prepare for social distancing.) Still, we are committed to delivering Bible lessons, fun, and fellowship to the young members of First Presbyterian.

We plan to kick off the program this Sunday, August 2nd, at 5:30pm in the Fellowship Hall. We will continue each evening at 5:30pm, through Wednesday. (This means that our Wednesday Night Live program on August 5th will be focused on the VBS Finale!) If you want more information on how you can help (including what to pray for) please contact Caroline Newsom.

Our theme for VBS this year is: Discovering Heroes of the Faith. We will be looking at the lives of several exciting heroes from the Bible:

• Moses, who discovered what it means that God Lives.

• Joshua, who discovered what it means that God Saves.

• Esther, who discovered what it means that I Trust and Obey.

• John, who discovered what it means that God Lives With Us.

Please join us in guiding our children as they discover God's truth.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 7/29/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. – Hebrews 10:24-25

This evening, we resume Wednesday Night Live with a new series using the book Suffering by Paul David Tripp. If you believe that you are able to manage the health risks and safety precautions during the pandemic, please join us in-person at 5:45pm for a fellowship meal. We will begin the prayer time and lesson at 6:30pm using the conference call number (662-262-5152). I have attached the handout for the discussion. Please let me know if you need a book.

Here is an excerpt from our Inquirers Class booklet...

We have identified four areas of ministry that God calls out in His Word for the church to address:

• Worship – Gospel-driven and Christ-centered

• Outreach – Ministering to Others by Outgrowth and Inreach

• Relationships – Loving One Another while Co-laboring

• Discipleship – Equipping the Saints for Ministry

You can remember these ministry areas easily through the acronym “WORD.” We will explore the significance and objectives. We also want to highlight a common theme across these areas: attending to the needs of others is not carried out by professional pastors alone, but by God’s people collaborating together. By focusing on these four areas of ministry, we can equip everyone to be involved in God’s work through applying His Word.

God has called the church into existence for the purpose of honoring God through our worship of Him, outreach to others, building up the children of God through strong, meaningful interpersonal relationships, and through discipleship – equipping men, women, and children to become everything that God intends for them to be.

Wednesday Night Live is a great example of where all of these areas of ministry come together: we worship God during our prayer time together, we invite friends and family to join us as outreach, we spend time in fellowship getting to know one another better in our relationships, and we learn as we study God's Word together in collaborative discipleship. Vacation Bible School is another place where all of these come together -- and I will tell you more about that tomorrow.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 7/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. - James 5:16

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, 54,299 people in our state have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. This has been a difficult and sorrow-filled four months. We continue to pray for relief for our community, our state, the nation, and the world. Since the pandemic began, 1,501 people in the state have died from COVID-19. We continue to pray for the families who have lost loved ones.

It is extremely sad that close to half of the deaths (693) have been in Long-Term Care Facilities (46.1%). This news is especially frustrating since the number of outbreaks in these facilities has more than doubled in the past month (from 82 on June 22nd to 192 yesterday) -- this dramatic increase has been during a period of time when the governor and other officials have sounded the alarm about the need to mitigate risks. In fact, during the month of July, 6 people per day have died in such facilities (as compared to 10 per day in the general population). These numbers are staggering when you consider that residents of facilities represent less than 1% of the population of the state and yet account for half of the COVID-19 deaths.

Since the use of face masks and social distancing has little direct bearing on the safety of the residents of these facilities, we are reminded that those regarded as high risk really do need the prayers of the church. The caregivers and administrators of Long-Term Care Facilities really do need your prayers.

We can be encouraged that for those who are under 40 and do not have underlying health problems, the risk of death has proven to be less than 1 in 10,000 for those who test positive. (Regardless of age, the death rate in our state for those without complicating factors has been less than 1 in 6,800 for those who test positive.) We are very grateful that no child under the age of 18 has died in Mississippi from COVID-19. However, such encouragement does not negate our sadness for those who have been afflicted and those who have succumbed to this dreadful disease.

Tomorrow evening, we resume our Wednesday Night Live with a study of Paul Tripp's book, Suffering. I believe that this study provides timely, biblical guidance for our church and community. Invite a friend. Please let me know if you need a copy of the book (it is also available on Kindle from Amazon). We will be meeting at 5:45pm for a fellowship meal and will start the conference call at 6:30pm for prayer and discussion.

Please join me in praying for the Long-Term Care Facilities (the residents, caregivers, administrators, as well as their families -- who are not able to visit and comfort the aging and infirmed). God answers the prayers of the righteous. I know this because Scripture tells me. I have also witnessed His grace firsthand. Let us pray that He will answer our prayers and show mercy to all. Let us pray that the Gospel continues to go forth during these difficult times. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the only hope for salvation. Let us pray. 

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 7/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. – John 4:23-24

This morning, Debbie and I are driving to Georgia with Debbie's mother and then will continue on towards Mississippi.

In preparation for worship on Sunday morning, I have attached the bulletin and the weekly prayer list.

Also in preparation for corporate Lord's Day worship, here is a thought for the day:

• Worship is Covenant Renewal (Equipping the Saints). Covenant involves a binding relationship instituted by God for His people. Worship involves a two-way movement within this relationship. God promises to be our God and that we will be His people (Exodus 6:7; Jeremiah 30:22; 2 Corinthians 6:16-18; 1 Peter 2:9, to name just a few). God moves towards His people and His people move toward Him in faith. Consider the structure and flow of our worship service as found in your bulletin. (Call, Praise, Affirmation of Faith, Confession of Sin, Declaration of Pardon, Offering, Preparation, Preaching of the Word of God, Response, Benediction.) The flow and structure help to remind and conform us to the image and will of God.

• “Worship is the workshop where we are transformed into His image. When we are thus transformed into His image, we reflect His glory. Through the ministry of praise and prayer, the ministry of Word and sacrament, we are transformed to offer that spiritual worship the apostle Paul tells us is acceptable to God (Romans 12:1-2). This is what we mean when we say that worship is the work of the Holy Spirit in the body of Christ to the glory of the Father.” – Hughes Oliphant Old

• Through the dialogue that takes place in our worship, God renews, restores, transforms, assures, and strengthens us to live for Him. Worship is Covenant Renewal and glorifies the Triune God as it equips the saints for ministry.

I look forward to joining with you in dialogue with God this Sunday as we each participate in covenant renewal.

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. – Romans 12:1

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 7/22/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God – Ephesians 2:19.

Since I am on a family vacation this week, I thought that I might update you with some thoughts on church and family. The following is an excerpt from the booklet used in our Inquirers Class:

• Church is family. God adopts His people as His children to be brothers and sisters, co-heirs with Christ. We are the members of His household, members of His family. (He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will – Ephesians 1:5. And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him – Romans 8:17.)

• God expects us to live as members of the family. A child is taken home from the hospital or brought home when adopted. But a child must also choose to live as part of the family – if he runs away from the chosen home, he is living as a runaway or an orphan, not as an heir. (…heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him… – Romans 8:17.)

• A Christian without a church family is a contradiction. As members of the family, we belong in God’s household! Consider an athlete who wanted to play football but didn’t want to be on a team. God’s Word gives specific instructions for the church to follow. How can the church obey this guidance if there are no members to carry it out? With God as our Father, church members are called to maintain a family relationship with Him and with each other.

We are a family who wants to bring others into God’s family. You live as a member of Christ’s body, the church, by committing yourself to a local group of Christians and their leaders. Even more importantly, God lovingly preserves and cares for His family as the Holy Spirit fills Gods people with power so that they overflow with truth -- and love. (The main proposition of our sermon a week ago.) Today would be a great day to overflow to others in the family!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 7/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing. - Zephaniah 3:17

Maybe nobody likes moving.

As I help sift through boxes of family pictures, package up heirlooms, and stir up memories, I feel a weird sort of nervous sensation. I feel the awkwardness of trying to decide whether there is value in preserving a child's crayon masterpiece -- perhaps continuing to keep it hidden in box along with hundreds or more likely thousands of other sheets of paper that collectively aspire to summarize life. But, despite these very real twinges of nervousness, I know better.

I know that life is made up of a lot more than fading images on yellowing paper. I know that life is primarily beheld in the eyes of the Lord. He sees everything and He remembers everything. He doesn't require a photograph from 1978 to recall the broad smiles and overflowing joy that two people brought to one another. And whether we hang onto the scribbled notes on the back of church bulletins or not, He continues to rejoice over how our hearts were touched by His Word. He delights in the life given to us through the work of His Holy Spirit -- whether we keep the photographs or not.

Still, in the midst of unpacking and re-packing boxes, I do feel this nervous sensation. Maybe some of it stems from wondering what life looks like in the future. The past can conjure up plans for the next phase. But, again, I know better. I know that God sees the future and He delights as we encounter the gradual unfolding of His plan for us. The past and the future ought to help us to live in the moment. Maybe some of the apparent nervousness is really excitement about His provision. God really does bless each and every one of us each and every day. Sometimes, we tend to focus on our plans, and this can make us nervous. I pray that you will rest in His grace and mercy -- and delight as He delights in revealing to us new and different blessings.

My vote: hang onto the old photographs. They can bring smiles and occasional tears. Then, you know that you are really alive. And they remind us that our heavenly Father sees every moment of our lives in vibrant colors -- with movement and sounds -- in His unlimited memory chest. Let's rejoice in how God rejoices over the lives of His children. And, through His Spirit, let us live for Him -- today and tomorrow and the next day. God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son...for our eternal, never-ending, life, to dwell with Him. Smile for His camera.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 7/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man. I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One. Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son’s name? Surely you know! - Proverbs 30:2-4

Debbie and I are enjoying our family visit in Georgia and the Carolinas. We were able to worship with our two sons yesterday at Second Presbyterian in Greenville, SC. Debbie's mother is doing well and is on track to relocate to Debbie's brother's house this Thursday. We plan to drive back towards Mississippi beginning Friday.

You might have heard that the theologian J.I. Packer passed away this weekend. He had once said, “Readiness to die is the first step in learning to live.” Packer was born in 1926 and is perhaps best known for writing the classic book Knowing God. If you have not ever read this book (or if you read it closer to when it was published 47 years ago), I recommend that you take advantage of some pandemic downtime to immerse yourself in this great work. As was the prayer of Dr. Packer, I pray that you truly know God.

In honor of his service to the Kingdom, and to whet your appetite for more of his writings, here are some classic quotes from J.I. Packer:

• “Knowing God is a relationship calculated to thrill a man’s heart.”

• “There is no peace like the peace of those whose minds are possessed with full assurance that they have known God, and God has known them, and that this relationship guarantees God’s favor to them in life, through death and on for ever.”

• “Adoption is the highest privilege of the Gospel. The traitor is forgiven, brought in for supper, and given the family name. To be right with God the Judge is a great thing, but to be loved and cared for by God the Father is greater.”

• “Were I asked to focus the New Testament message in three words, my proposal would be adoption through propitiation, and I do not expect ever to meet a richer or more pregnant summary of the Gospel than that.”

• “To know that nothing happens in God’s world apart from God’s will may frighten the godless, but it stabilizes the saints.”

• “People treat God’s sovereignty as a matter of controversy, but in Scripture it is a matter of worship.”

• “Your faith will not fail while God sustains it; you are not strong enough to fall away while God is resolved to hold you.”

• “I believe that prayer is the measure of the man, spiritually, in a way that nothing else is.” 

• “The Christian’s motto should not be ‘Let go and let God’ but ‘Trust God and get going.’”

I look forward to worshiping with you this weekend. Until then, may your week be filled with knowing God.

Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. - 2 Peter 3:18

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 7/16/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

The Lord will keep you from all evil; He will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore. - Psalm 121:7-8

Debbie and I are heading out this afternoon to drive to visit family "back east." We will be traveling to four different states and are curious how others are responding to the pandemic. We don't really plan to interact directly with too many people other than our family members -- most of whom have been diligently sheltering in place. Please pray that we remain protected from the virus. We plan to be back in Indianola on Saturday, July 25th.

In preparation for this Lord's Day, I have attached the bulletin and weekly prayer list. I had emailed a document with the first two chapters of the Sunday School book on Zechariah, so you ought to have that for this week, but please let me know if you need me to send it again.

Keep in mind, we will not be gathering at church for Evening Worship this Sunday. Because of our vacation, there will not be Women's Bible Study on Monday nor Wednesday Night Live activities, either. The governor's executive order is scheduled to be lifted on Monday, so if all goes well, we will be back to our normal schedule soon after. In the interim, please join us for the [now] weekly prayer conference call on Thursdays (this evening and next week at 6:30pm).

A major objective for our visit is to help Debbie's mother, Nelda Ragan, to relocate fro South Carolina to the Atlanta area. Please pray that we are able to accomplish all that she needs taking care of.

Pat Adams shared that her nephew Dusty Grant had hit a deer on his motorcycle and is being treated in Memphis for a broken collarbone and severe skin abrasions. God is very gracious and merciful and we are grateful that He spared Dusty's life. Please pray for Dusty, his wife, and children as they deal with the difficult recovery.

Jonathan McGuire will be bringing God's Word to you this Sunday from 2 Timothy 4. We look forward to worshiping together with you when we return.

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. - Psalm 23:3

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 7/15/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. - Colossians 3:12-13

In case you hadn't heard or been reminded enough: Today is the Federal government’s extended deadline for filing 2019 taxes!

In case you hadn't heard or been reminded enough: The recent spike in COVID-19 cases has precipitated stricter requirements within Sunflower County for social distancing and personal protection / masks. The state has seen an increase in hospitalizations and use of ICUs, so please continue to pray for relief here and abroad.

In case you hadn't heard or been reminded enough: Some of our church activities have been adjusted this week in response to the governor's order and Duncan's vacation plans. (Debbie and I are going to South Carolina tomorrow to visit family and to help her mother, Nelda, relocate to Georgia. We plan to return at the end of next week.) So, for example, we will not be having our Wednesday Night Live activities this evening. This will resume on July 29th when we begin our study of the book Suffering, by Paul David Tripp. Please let us know if you need a copy of the book and we'd be happy to drop one by.

In case you hadn't heard or been reminded enough: Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for your sins. This means that without faith and repentance, you are condemned in your transgressions. It also means that through the gracious work of the Holy Spirit, hearts of stone are brought to life and you can receive the benefits of salvation in this life and the one to come. As the Westminster Confession of Faith says, the benefits in this life include: assurance of God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end. The benefits at death include the souls of believers being made perfect in holiness immediately passing into glory -- and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection. This is fantastic news! (Even if it is not new news to you today.)

In case you hadn't heard or been reminded enough: The Holy Spirit has entrusted the Church -- the Bride of Christ -- with letting others know about this fantastically good news. As we said in the sermon on Sunday: The Holy Spirit fills God’s people with power so that they overflow with truth, even while being mocked. So, despite the pandemic's lockdowns and despite the loud voices rebelling against authority, we all have a mission together. And we might get mocked. So, we need to stay extra close and keep encouraging one another.

For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. - 2 Corinthians 5:14-15

We will have our weekday prayer conference call today and tomorrow. Then, we will start having our pray conference call weekly on Thursdays at 6:30pm (and on Wednesdays, along with our regular activities beginning on July 29th). We hope that you can join us!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 7/13/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:9-11

Yesterday, during the announcements, I shared the modified schedule for this week's activities. We had made some adjustments in consideration of the governor's executive order that is in effect from today through next Monday, the 20th. The state's executive order for 13 counties (including Sunflower) does not apply directly to churches, but the governor indicated that he was hopeful that churches would comply, nonetheless. In short, the order calls for face masks both indoors and out (where adequate social distancing cannot be achieved) and for indoor gatherings to be limited to 10 or fewer people. During the pandemic, some of our regular events, such as the Men's Prayer Breakfast, have had fewer than 10 people, anyway.

Debbie and I were going to be on vacation later this week through next, so some events already had modified schedules. Here is a list of the church activities for the coming week or so:

• July 13th, Monday Women’s Bible Study - met today at 1:00pm (some in person, some on the phone).

• July 14th, Tuesday Diaconate meeting - will meet at 6:00pm (in-person and by phone). 

• July 15th, Wednesday Men's Prayer Breakfast - will meet at 6:30am. 

• July 15th, WIC Summer Salad Supper - will not be meeting. Being rescheduled and we will let you know of the new date.

• July 15th, Wednesday Night Live - will not be meeting. Plan to resume on July 29th when we will begin our study of Suffering (in person and via conference call). Please let me know if you need a copy of Paul David Tripp's book. 

• July 19th, Sunday School - will meet in the Fellowship Hall and by conference call at 9:30am to continue our study of Zechariah, chapter 1. Please let me know if you want a copy of Bryan Gregory's book. You may attend in person, but since face masks can make it more difficult for participants to hear one another, feel free to attend via the dial-in number.

• July 19th, Sunday Morning Worship - will be meeting at 10:45 (in-person and via livestream, and via conference call). I will be out of town and Jonathan McGuire will be preaching. You are encouraged to wear face masks and practice social distancing. 

• July 19th, Sunday Evening Worship - will not be meeting on the 19th since I will be out of town. Resume on the 26th when we will begin our 1 John sermon series. Households are encouraged to conduct their own family worship, and/or get together with other church members for a time of fellowship, study, and prayer.

• July 20th, Monday Women’s Bible Study - will not be meeting, since Debbie and I will be out of town. Plan to resume Joshua chapter 12 on the 27th.

• July 22nd, Wednesday Night Live - will not be meeting. Plan to resume on July 29th when we will begin our study of Suffering. 

As you consider the impact of government decisions that can affect the church, let me offer some thoughts on our collective responsibilities:

• The Government Has Power. Citizens ought to obey government mandates, unless they contradict Scripture (cf. Romans 13). Theshutdowns from the pandemic have occasionally come close to denying churches their ability to worship together (such as the enforcement against a church's drive-in service in Greenville two months ago). Still, we are called to benefit from the leaders whom God has put in place. Ultimately, we are called to obey God (considering His Word and those in authority over us). This was the main proposition of the sermon three weeks ago: "The future promise of God's strategy is fulfilled by present obedience through the power of the Holy Spirit."

• The Church Has Responsibility. The church (and its Session) is responsible to God, to the members, and to the community to bring the Gospel message. Therefore, we are sometimes expected to push back a bit. This is not to say that we are to be feisty or recalcitrant, but we must listen, compare with Scripture, discuss, discern, and make sober judgments, not simply react when we are given outside guidance. In fact, this was the main proposition of the sermon two weeks ago: "The church discerns together how to move forward by uniting in prayer and submitting to God's Word." The current state of affairs deserves collaborative discernment. We continue to pray about these decisions.

• Our Members Have Needs. Our congregation is aging and has numerous ailments and risk factors. More than half of the COVID-19 deaths in Mississippi have been in Long-Term Care Facilities and therefore represent risks for the elderly and infirmed. More than 99% of the people who have died were over 40 years old; 84% were over 60. Our members have good reason to be concerned about their families, their friends, and themselves. Our members also need spiritual care and nourishment. Despite the pandemic, we all must remain active in the mission of the church. God has given us resources to be active and connected. In fact, this was essentially the message of yesterday's sermon: "The Holy Spirit fills God's people with power so that they overflow with truth, even while being mocked [or discouraged from meeting in-person]".

• The Community Needs Gospel Witness. The church is called to be witnesses to the world -- including Sunflower County. In fact, this was the main proposition of our sermon four weeks ago: "The Holy Spirit acts to open our minds to receive Jesus' teaching, to witness Jesus' resurrection, and to wait for Jesus' promise." We are to be witnesses in both senses: to see and to testify. It is imperative that the surrounding community knows that the church is alive, active, and witnessing. There are people who are dying around us who do not know Jesus Christ. We must continue our active witness. Shutting our doors would contradict this biblical mandate. Creativity and collaboration might be required to sort this out. Yes, we await the promise -- as we faithfully obey.

Please join with me to meet these shared responsibilities of the church. It is relatively good news that the state reported only one COVID-19 death yesterday, but we must continue ministering to the community. Let's collaborate in prayer and discern together how to move forward. The Spirit has empowered us to glorify the name of Jesus Christ!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 7/10/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. - Acts 2:1-13

This Sunday, we will be looking at a very exciting moment in church history: the Holy Spirit coming to the disciples at Pentecost. The Westminster Shorter Catechism reminds us in Question 36:

• What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification?

• A. The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end.

These benefits are bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit as He applies justification, adoption, and sanctification to us. The church's first Pentecost represents His active work among us and our need to be filled by Him. We delight in God, we glorify and enjoy Him, as we receive assurance, peace, joy, grace, and perseverance through His Spirit. Said the other way around, when we are not recognizing these benefits, our prayers should be for God to grant us the ministry of His Holy Spirit. Let us pray for the Spirit's work in Indianola today.

I have attached the following:

• First two chapters in the book that we will be making use of in Sunday School

• Bulletin for this Lord's Day Morning Worship

• This week's Prayer List

You might have heard that Governor Reeves is putting an order into effect for next week in 13 counties, including Sunflower. This order will require face masks in public. This announcement appears at least in part related to a recent spike in positive tests. The good news is that even though there has been an increase in cases in the state over the past several weeks, the number of deaths remains fairly flat. Mississippi had been averaging about 11 deaths per day for three months, and this remains largely unchanged -- 11 statewide were reported yesterday.

This disease is difficult and deadly and we need to be careful. Still, God is in control and we need to trust in Him. We will let you know how the governor's order affects our church activities. We are still planning to meet for Sunday School and Morning & Evening Worship this Sunday. If you believe that you can manage the risks, you are welcome to join us in person. Otherwise, please make us of our livestream and/or conference call.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 7/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. - Deuteronomy 6:4-6

Wednesday Night Live. Yesterday, during Wednesday Night Live, the Team Newsom edged out Team Davis in several rounds of Bible trivia, “Drop a Hint”, and “Who Am I?” Everyone on each team did a great job and, if nothing else, I had a lot of fun. Caroline made an amazing last minute guess to seal the victory for her team. We will begin our study series on “Suffering” next Wednesday. Please let me know if you would like a copy of the book by Paul Tripp that we will be using.

Sunday School. We have begun a series on the minor prophet Zechariah. We will be using a commentary by Bryan Gregory. We received several copies of the book and then the distributor notified us that the remained are back-ordered. This is fine since 1) I have attached a file that has the first chapter for you and 2) the book is useful but not necessary for our study. I also ordered from another distributor, so I will distribute on Sunday and as I receive more. If you intend to attend Sunday School remotely, please let me know if you would like a copy and I'll be happy to get one to you. 

Sunday Morning Worship. This Sunday, we will be exploring the events that take place during Pentecost in Acts 2:1-13. I hope that you have been able to incorporate the main proposition from this past Sunday's sermon: "The church discerns together how to move forward by uniting in prayer and submitting to God's Word." Consider joining us today at 6:30pm to pray with and for each other as we discern how to operate in the midst of a pandemic.

Sunday Evening Worship. This past Sunday, we wrapped up our “Songs in the Key of Life” series. In two weeks, we will be starting a series on 1 John. Luther said, “The main substance of this first epistle relates to love” and we will explore how John weaves love into the fabric of the Christian walk and Christian community. In the meantime, this Sunday at 5:00pm, we will take one sermon to explore “What is love?”

Let us continue to join our hearts together.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 7/7/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? - Micah 6:8

Congratulations to Adrienne & Jeremy on the birth of Thomas Lee Buckley! We are certain that grandad Thomas Lee McCaskill is very proud!

Thank you to the WIC for hosting a "Meet & Greet" today with my daughter Victoria (“Tori”) and her son Winston Spencer Churchill Acton. You all are gradually getting to know my children ... 60% of them have visited Indianola to date.

I’m sure that Frank Covington is planning a delicious breakfast for you men tomorrow morning. Please be sure to join us for the Men’s Prayer Breakfast at 6:30am.

Debbie is preparing Taco Salad for Wednesday Night Live. If you are not attending the WIC Night Circle tomorrow, please come by for fellowship & food.

I have been reading the horrible reports of shootings over the past several weekends in major cities across the United States. A number of small children have been killed in these senseless acts of violence. As society cries out for justice and peace, it is important to remind ourselves of the only true source of justice and peace:

• Romans 12:19 - Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

• Isaiah 30:18 - Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.

• Isaiah 61:8 - For I the Lord love justice; I hate robbery and wrong; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.

• Proverbs 28:5 - Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely.

• Zechariah 7:9 - Thus says the Lord of hosts, Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another

• Psalm 33:5 - He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.

• Psalm 89:14 - Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.

• John 16:33 - I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

• 2 Thessalonians 3:16 - Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.

• Colossians 3:15 - And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

We would all do well to meditate on Micah 6:8. Maybe read it backwards so that it really sinks in... He requires us to walk humbly; He requires us to love kindness; He requires us to do justice; You know what is Good: He has told you. Please pray for our nation and the church.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 7/6/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. - Romans 13:8-10

Prayers for our congregation:

• I spoke to Bootsie Miller who is currently in the hospital. She sounded good and is doing better. Please pray that her health improves further and that she will be released soon.

• The Lessmanns are visiting relatives in Alabama. Please pray that they have an enjoyable visit and that they return to us safely next week.

• The Mississippi State Department of Health reports that the number of deaths from COVID-19 the past three days were 4, 5, and 3, for a total of 12. This is a significant improvement since the state average for the past couple of months has been nearly 11 per day. However, their numbers include another death in Sunflower County (for a total of 8 to date). Please continue to pray that our community is spared from this deadly disease.

On Sunday, I quoted the 7th commandment and gave Jesus' exposition of it as recorded in Matthew's Gospel. Here is a bit more from John Calvin's exposition of “Thou shalt not commit adultery” in his review of the Moral Law:

• The purpose of this commandment is: because God loves modesty and purity, all uncleanness must be far from us. To sum up, then: we should not become defiled with any filth or lustful intemperance of the flesh. To this corresponds the affirmative commandment that we chastely and continently regulate all parts of our life. But he expressly forbids fornication, to which all lust tends, in order through the foulness of fornication, which is grosser and more palpable, in so far as it brands the body also with its mark, to lead us to abominate all lust. Man has been created in this condition that he may not lead a solitary life, but may enjoy a helper joined to himself [cf. Genesis 2:18]; then by the curse of sin he has been still more subjected to this necessity. Therefore, the Lord sufficiently provided for us in this matter when he established marriage, the fellowship of which, begun on his authority, he also sanctified by his blessing. From this it is clear that any other union apart from marriage is accursed in his sight; and that the companionship of marriage has been ordained as a necessary remedy to keep us from plunging into unbridled lust. Let us not delude ourselves, then, when we hear that outside marriage man cannot cohabit with a woman without God’s curse.

• Finally, let us consider who the Lawgiver is who here condemns fornication. It is he who, since he ought to possess us completely in his own right, requires integrity of soul, spirit, and body. Therefore, while he forbids us to commit fornication, at the same time he does not permit us to seduce the modesty of another with wanton dress and obscene gestures and foul speech. There is a good point in Archelaus’ statement to a youth wearing excessively wanton and dainty clothing that it does not matter in what member he is unchaste; f298 for we look to God, who loathes all uncleanness, in whatever part of our soul or body it may appear. And lest there be any doubt, remember that God is here commending modesty. If the Lord requires modesty of us, he condemns whatever opposes it. Consequently, if you aspire to obedience, let neither your heart burn with wicked lust within, nor your eyes wantonly run into corrupt desires, nor your body be decked with bawdy ornaments, nor your tongue seduce your mind to like thoughts with filthy words, nor your appetite inflame it with intemperance. For all vices of this sort are like blemishes, which besmirch the purity of chastity.

The Ten Commandments -- The Moral Law -- are given to us for God's glory and our benefit. Let us enjoy His blessings by aspiring to keep His law and to encourage others to do likewise.

In His name,
Rev.. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 7/3/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

In the eighth month, in the second year of Darius, the word of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, son of Iddo, saying, “The Lord was very angry with your fathers. Therefore say to them, Thus declares the Lord of hosts: Return to me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. - Zechariah 1:1-3

Given that today is something of a national holiday (observance of July 4th weekend), I’ll try to keep my update concise.

I have attached the bulletin for Sunday morning worship, in case you will be joining remotely via livestream or telephone. For those who feel comfortable managing the health risks and plan to attend in person, we are planning to celebrate the Lord's Supper. Whether you are going to attend virtually or in-person, please prepare your hearts to commune with our Lord and the body of Christ. I have also attached the weekly prayer list and the church calendar for July.

In Sunday School, we will be beginning a study of the book of Zechariah. Zechariah was a contemporary of Haggai and this book continues our exploration of the Minor Prophets. In preparation for our study, I recommend that you read the first chapter of Zechariah. On Sunday, we will discuss background on this interesting book that is full of curious visions. In the accounts of Jesus during of Passion Week, the Gospels quote from Zechariah more than any other Old Testament book.

As He did with Jonah and the Ninevites, God uses Zechariah to call people to repentance. During these difficult times, the message of faith and repentance can bring healing to our land. I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord's Day.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 7/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. - Galatians 5:13

We had a wonderful Wednesday Night Live yesterday. Doug and Pat entertained, educated, and rewarded us with Fourth of July Trivia. Here is one question that I had hoped that they would ask (see bottom of email for answer):

• When the colonies first announced their independence, what name did England's King George III and other highly placed Britons use to refer to the Revolutionary War?

Here is an excerpt from “Reflections on Independence Day”:

• “Most American Christians are unaware of the fact that the American Revolution, as well as the new American state, was greatly shaped by Presbyterians and the Calvinism that was at its root. Some modern-day Presbyterians have moved light years away from the convictions of these early colonists.”

• “An estimated three million people lived in the colonies at the time of the Revolutionary War. Of that number, ‘900,000 were of Scotch or Scotch-Irish origin, 600,000 were Puritan English, while over 400,000 were of Dutch, German Reformed and Huguenot descent. That is to say, two-thirds of our Revolutionary forefathers were trained in the school of Calvin.’”

• “As one historian puts it, ‘When Cornwallis was driven back to ultimate retreat and surrender at Yorktown, all of the colonels of the Colonial Army but one were Presbyterian Elders. It is estimated that more than one half of all the soldiers and officers of the American Army during the Revolution were Presbyterian.’”

• “To the man, Presbyterian clergy joined the Colonialist cause. It was said that many of them led the Revolution from the pulpit. In doing so, they paid a heavy price for their support for independence. Many lost family members or their own lives. Some had their churches burned to the ground.”

Answer to the trivia question: King George and others referred to the conflict as the “Presbyterian Rebellion” or the “Presbyterian War.” We have been know to be feisty. We plan to always defend basic freedoms such as freedom to worship God according to His Word. God bless America.

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.- Galatians 5:1

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 7/1/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer! - Psalm 4:1

I hope that you are able to make it to our Wednesday Night Live activities this evening, starting at 5:45pm.

• We have outstanding 4th of July decorations throughout the Fellowship Hall -- thanks to Pat & Doug Adams!

  • Be sure to brush up ahead of time on your knowledge of 4th of July trivia!

• We will have all-american hamburgers and hot dogs straight off the grill -- thanks to the Deacons!

  • They have loaded up a cooler with ice-cold sodas and will be slicing open juicy watermelons!

Be sure to invite your friends and family for a fun pre-Independence Day celebration this evening! BTW - I have attached the church calendar for July and we have printed copies available at the church. 

I am excited to announce that Adrienne McCaskill Buckley gave birth to a healthy baby boy! He is just over 6 pounds and baby and mother are doing well.

During this difficult pandemic, it would be reassuring if we could hear that:

• a) many people have developed immunity to the disease (through vaccine or surviving the infection)

• b) fewer people are needing hospitalization

• c) fewer people in the ICU or on ventilators

News like that would be good news. Well, the good news is that this is mostly what the Mississippi State Department of Health is showing in its data today. Although there are more hospitalizations than there had been ('b' above), the number of people in ICUs and on ventilators ('c') have not gone up and appears to be trending down. As of yesterday, the state has the fewest number of people on ventilators in over a month. Moreover, the recent increase in the number of infected patients has not corresponded to an increase is critical cases, which in fact seem to be declining. Most importantly, there has been a clear downward trend in the number of deaths per day over the past month. So, the up-tick in cases seems to be increasing the state's overall immunity ('a') without incurring the casualties that had been expected. This is very good news.

In response to this good news, we can pray:

• Thanksgiving for God's continued provision of grace and mercy.

• Joy for the opportunity to trust the Lord.

• Supplication for God's people and His Word to comfort the sick, the families of the afflicted & departed, and those suffering through economic and emotional hardship.

• Continued protection for everyone.

God calls His people to cry out to Him. Let us cry out together in faithful reliance upon our Creator. Let us also pray that our witness in times of distress will be a blessing to many others.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 6/30/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And Moses summoned all Israel and said to them, “Hear, O Israel, the statutes and the rules that I speak in your hearing today, and you shall learn them and be careful to do them." - Deuteronomy 5:1

The Fourth of July reminds us each year that our nation came together in unity to fiercely defend the basic rights for citizens on this planet. We know from the Bible that each and every one of us have forsaken our rights by sinning against our Creator. We have broken God's covenant. And yet, God has graciously shown mercy to all of us. He has stayed His hand and not immediately punished us for our sins. He has shared His love with us and called us to faith and repentance. For this we are very grateful.

And as we enjoy God's mercy and grace -- directly extended through His mercy and grace -- we recognize that we have certain inalienable rights. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are at the core of our nation's values. We value these as rights to be mutually respected and defended. Our forefathers declared their independence based on these inalienable rights, for all men. This is what July 4th is all about.

Our forefathers created our Constitution to further uphold and protect these rights, and to promote accountability, equity, and freedom. Consider this movie quote (spoken by Tom Hanks in Bridge of Spies):

• "My name's Donovan. Irish, both sides. Mother and father. I'm Irish and you're German. But what makes us both Americans? Just one thing. One. Only one. The rule book. We call it the Constitution, and we agree to the rules, and that's what makes us Americans. That's all that makes us Americans. So don't tell me there's no rule book."

Like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, this quote reminds us that our nation was founded on law, written in words, and communicated for all to be aware -- and for all to freely agree to. The blessings on this nation are grounded in law, written in words, for all to respect and enjoy as we agree to them. 

Moses lifted the law of God -- the Ten Commandments -- before the people. The nation of Israel was grounded in God's law, written in words, for all to respect and enjoy. Moses reminded the people of God, "You shall walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess" (Deut 5:33). As we prepare for the Fourth of July, let us be reminded to love God's law, which was written in words for you to know, and is there for all people of this nation and this earth to respect and enjoy as we agree to them.

Please join us tomorrow evening starting at 5:45pm for a pre-4th of July celebration as part of our Wednesday Night Live at the church. The Deacons will be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, and we will have sodas, watermelon, and all the classic picnic components. We have much to celebrate! We have God's love and His law!

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 6/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? - Micah 6:8

In the past few weeks, there has been a lot of discussion in the media and throughout society about justice and injustice. I would like to share a few thoughts from a recent edition of Modern Reformation (a bi-monthly theology magazine):

• "While it may sound overly simplistic, the first defining ingredient in justice is the law. We question what is just, it is the law that defines this in Scripture. On second glance, this only creates more problems for us today. What about unjust laws? We can all point to modern legislation that would not pass the justice smell test. Moreover, laws are in flux from country to country, from past to present; even within the Bible specific laws change."

• "Scripture is clear that justice is defined by God’s law and that the core of this law is the Lord’s unchanging moral law, which is summarily comprehended in the two laws of love: love God and love your neighbor. The love-laws form the stable foundation of justice."

• "To uphold the law is not only to affirm the Triune God as Creator, but to testify to that righteousness – ultimate justice – that He fulfilled by His mercy in His Son.We will not agree on every policy issue (either personal or public ethics), but as Christians we may never dispense with the responsibility to look up to God in faith and out to our neighbors in love."

I pray that the topic of justice will prompt people throughout our nation to look up to God in faith and out to our neighbors in love. This happens as the Holy Spirit works through the sharing of the Gospel. The church has been commissioned to bring the Gospel to all people, everywhere, including here in Indianola. On Sunday, we will look at the work of the Holy Spirit in more detail.

I have attached the bulletin for Sunday morning worship, the weekly prayer list, and the handout for Sunday school. As we have been saying, if you believe that you can manage the health risks, feel free to join us in person. Otherwise, please join via livestream or conference call (662-262-5152). Either way, I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord's Day.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 6/25/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

We are very grateful to our Deacons and WIC for their diligent, loving service to care for family and friends during Bill Humbarger's funeral yesterday. During the difficult trials of this world, we look to each other for encouragement.

There has been much talk lately of increased risk in our community due to the persistence of the novel coronavirus. Please continue to pray for relief and protection.

As we prepare for Lord's Day worship, I want to encourage you to meditate on God's blessings through His Word. We have begun our sermon series on Acts, so you might want to read and re-read all of chapter one. in addition, please keep in mind what the Bible says about God's Word. For example, consider this passage from 1 Timothy 4:11-16:

• Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

As you see, Paul expects the Word of God to make a real difference in the life of a believer. The Word is to be part of your life. Paul highlights several real-world activities for you, today:

• Teach - We incorporate the Word when we live it, love it, and share it. This means talking about it in our work and our relationships.

• Model - By setting an example, we bring God's Word into everyday activities.

• Learn - The church demonstrates faithfulness and encourages others by hearing the Word regularly.

• Value - As you use your gifts, you create and reflect the value of knowing who God is and what He has spoken.

• Practice - God expects us to use what we learn and to refine our knowledge as we attempt to live by His law.

• Grow - Our progress is to be a visible, tangible reality. This means that God's Word WILL sanctify us and benefit others.

• Guard - It will take real effort to remain faithful. The Holy Spirit acts in our lives in the context of obeying God's Word.

• Commit - Diligence begins with putting faith in the promises of God and truly trusting in His provision. 

Are any of the above responsibilities particularly difficult for you today? Please consider picking one of them as a focus in the coming days. At the end of each day, reflect on what you did and/or could have done to be obedient to His Word. God is calling you to set an example for other believers. Set a goal for the next day and ask the Lord to give you strength and wisdom to meet the goal. I would love to hear how He is using His Word in your life and in the lives of those around you. The church needs you.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 6/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. - Revelation 21:1-4

Today, in the life of the church, many of us gathered with a purpose: To catch a glimpse of what God does on the earth. Family by family. Generation by generation. The Father working through His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus working through His Spirit. The Holy Spirit working through the church family. We celebrated how God blessed the life of Bill Humbarger and how God has blessed others through Bill's life.

With Bill's family and friends gathered together, I caught a glimpse of heaven that Bill saw here on earth. And those in attendance caught a glimpse of what Bill sees now in heaven. Family. Loving Family with God’s name written all over it.

Here is a prayer that Bill had prayed at his father's funeral in 1982:

• “Lord, Death is hard for us to understand. When you take a loved one, we cry out – why didn’t you give us more time? But we must realize that you have given us far more than we deserve. There is victory at death with your Son Jesus Christ. We ask Lord that those here today that are not going to experience that victory that you open their hearts to your message. We ask, Lord, that those here today that are going to have that victory at death that you give them the courage to tell others of their victory. In Your name we pray.”

Let us thank God for His manifold blessings. Jesus Christ is building God’s house through His Holy Spirit. Every family. From generation to generation. Praise God!

I hope that you are able to join the church family this evening for our Wednesday Night Live fellowship meal, prayer, and lesson.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 6/22/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please Him. - 2 Corinthians 5:8-9

As you are likely already aware, Bill Humbarger passed away Sunday morning. We rejoice in the life God gave him and we rejoice in Bill's eternal life with his Lord and Savior. We are very grateful for Bill's past, current, and enduring influence on our church and community. We also mourn his passing and join with Georgia and the rest of the family in missing his presence among us. He is away from the body and at home with the Lord.

On Wednesday, June 24th, the following services are scheduled:

• 9:30am - Visitation in the Fellowship Hall, First Presbyterian Church

• 10:30am - Funeral service in the Sanctuary, First Presbyterian Church

• Burial to follow at Indianola City Cemetery

Here is a link to Bill's obituary:

https://www.burtonfuneralhome.net/obituary/william-humbarger

Please be aware that the ecumenical worship service for Unity in the Gospel, originally scheduled for this coming Sunday is being rescheduled to a later date. We will keep you informed of the plans. This postponement of the joint service means that we will have our regularly scheduled evening worship in the Fellowship Hall at 5:00pm.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 6/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good. - Psalm 122:9 (final verse)

As we prepare for Lord's Day worship, please prayerfully consider how to honor the Lord during this persistent pandemic.

In the first and last verses of Psalm 122, David highlights two facets of worshiping God:
1) joyfully attending the assembly and 2) seeking God's good -- for the sake of the church -- while doing so.

From a practical perspective during a pandemic, this Psalm implies:

• Being joyful that we are called to worship together and responding appropriately. We are to repeat this joyful calling to others, but if someone is considered high-risk and is seeking to avoid increased risk, perhaps that person ought to remain at home to worship in spirit remotely (electronically).

• Placing God's call to worship at such a high priority that we seek HIS good and HIS glory in the manner that HE instructs us. Because we seek God's good in worship, we ought to be diligent and thoughtful in HOW we worship. Thus, we ought to prayerfully consider wearing face masks to glorify God by attempting to not spread this virus to other worshipers.

To be clear, we believe that you should worship as God commands in His Word and as your conscience leads you. Therefore, we are not requiring face masks. However, the governor has recommended wearing face masks in public, so we want to encourage you to consider this type of mitigation as part of your in-person worship. At a minimum, face masks represent an effort to consider and protect the good of others. Therefore, feel free to wear them if you join us in-person tomorrow. Either way, we respect your decisions in these difficult matters.

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 6/19/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper - Hebrews 9:9

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. - Hebrews 10:22

On Wednesday nights, we have been exploring your conscience. Do you have a clear conscience? Here is what Kevin DeYoung says about clearing the conscience:

·       Our consciences must constantly be probed and changed by the Holy Spirit working through the Word of God. The importance of pursuing a clear conscience is so common in the New Testament we may have overlooked this critical theme.

·       But how do we get there? What are the steps we must take to have a clean conscience? Fundamentally, there are only two steps take.

·       1. Turn from sin. The first step to the blessing of a clear conscience is to turn from sin when our conscience informs us that what we are doing (or are about to do, or have done) is wrong.

·       I fear many of us have gotten adept at shoving aside the conscience. What about the movies we watch? With the shows we been John? With the hours wasted on the Internet? With the way we spend on money? Where the way we treat our parents? With the language we use? Or the things we laugh at? We pay much attention to the conscience anymore?

·       I think if Christians from an earlier time could come and visit our churches, there would be two things that surprise them most. First, they would be absolutely amazed by our phenomenal prosperity. Second, I think they would be amazed by how comfortable we have become with sensuality.

·       Don’t ignore your conscience. Sometimes we see so clearly into someone else’s life but not into our own. When conscience accuses us of wrong, let us turn from the sin with all haste.

·       2. Turn to Christ. Don’t stop at turning from sin. Turn from sin, and turn to Christ. As Christians, we are meant to experience a clean conscience. In Christ, it is possible to live with a clean conscience. Hebrews 9:9 speaks of the gifts and sacrifices offered under the Old Testament regulations -- offerings that could not perfect the conscience of the worshiper. By contrast 10:22 declares that through the blood of Jesus Christ our hearts can be sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. This is why you must turn from sin to Christ.

I pray that you are experiencing the joys of a clear conscience. This weekend, pray that the Holy Spirit would help you to turn from sin and to turn to Christ.

I have attached the Sunday School handout for our study of Jonah. He is a good example of someone who heard God’s Word and pushed back on his conscience. He ignored his conscience when he got on the boat and headed in the opposite direction of Nineveh. He then, again, ignored his conscience when he pouted under a plant outside of Nineveh. We can all learn from his experience of a weak conscience.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 6/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. - Psalm 145:3

Samuel Langhorne Clemens is regarded as one of the greatest American authors. Of course, you know him by his pseudonym, "Mark Twain." Clemens claims to have taken his name from a riverboat pilot. In Life on the Mississippi, Clemens explains that Captain Isaiah Sellers was not much of a writer but he would jot down practical navigation information and sign his work with "Mark Twain."

Back in the day, "twain" meant "two" (as in "never the twain shall meet"). They didn't have fancy depth-sounders. To plumb the depth of the river, sailors would lower into the water a rope with a weight on it. The rope had knots every six feet (a "fathom" is six feet, so at each fathom). (This is the source of the verb "fathom," as in "I can't fathom it" -- for measuring depth.) When only two knots on the rope were showing, they would yell "mark twain" to indicate that there was only 12 feet of water below them. This particular pilot signed his work as "Mark Twain," perhaps to indicate that his writings gave accurate & useful information, such as warnings of shallow water.

Samuel Clemens says that he adopted this as his own pen name:

• "I was a fresh new journalist, and needed a nom de guerre; so I confiscated the ancient mariner's discarded one, and have done my best to make it remain what it was in his hands—a sign and symbol and warrant that whatever is found in its company may be gambled on as being the petrified truth; how I have succeeded, it would not be modest in me to say."

Other people have suggested that Clemens was not being totally up-front. It is said that he frequented a bar and he usually called out "mark twain" to signal the bartender to give him two shots of whiskey and therefore to make two chalk marks on the blackboard to record the charges to his customer account (an early form of holding a tab open). Regardless of which version is a more accurate representation of Clemens' reason for selecting the name, the term mark twain represents an attempt to search, measure, and report findings.

As we know from Scripture, man is finite and God is infinite. As we try to find out just how vast God's love, mercy, and grace is, we can plumb the depth but we will never be able to let out enough rope to actually determine His vastness. It is for this reason that Psalm 145 says that "His greatness is unsearchable." We can search it, but we cannot actually fathom it.

I pray that this week you are searching God's greatness and finding it unfathomable. As you read about man's depravity, I hope that you are encouraged by God's goodness. God makes Himself known to you through His Word and His Holy Spirit. On Sunday morning, we will be starting a new sermon series on the book of Acts. I believe that you will impressed with the acts of the Holy Spirit in the early church. We will search His Word together to hear of His greatness and His blessings on His people. The Holy Spirit continues to uphold the promises of God for His people. On Sunday evening, we will be looking at Psalm 145. I have attached the bulletin for Sunday morning worship, as well as our weekly Prayer List. You can prepare for worship by praying for blessings for those on our list.

Have a wonderful day in the Lord.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 6/17/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. - 1 Timothy 6:8

For our devotions, Debbie and I really enjoy using a book of 365 passages by Puritan pastors and theologians. Even though these authors lived about 400 years ago, their biblical insights resonate with us today. (The book is Voices from the Past: Puritan Devotional Readings, edited by Richard Rushing.)

Just over a week ago, the excerpt for the day dealt with the verse above from 1 Timothy. Since we just completed our sermon series on 1 Timothy, I thought that you might enjoy this passage. Moreover, the author invokes the concept of conscience, which is the theme of our current Wednesday Night Live series ("Exploring Your Conscience") as we resume it this evening. I hope that you can join us. Callie is preparing Beef Stroganoff for our fellowship meal at 5:45pm. We also have Apple Cinnamon Enchiladas on the menu.

Here are thoughts from Thomas Manton (1620-1677):

• "Let us be content with the portion God has given us of earthly things. God stands upon His sovereignty, and we must be content with God’s allowance, though He gives others more. The good man pleaded: 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong. You do not agree with me for a denarius?… Do you begrudge my generosity?' (Matthew 20:13-15). If others have a better income and are more amply provided for, God is sovereign, and will give according to His pleasure. Nothing is deserved and therefore everything should be kindly taken with contentment. If a man is provided for by another’s expense, we take it very ill if he murmurs and dislikes his diet. Certainly we are all maintained at free cost and should be content with what is put in our hands. God in wisdom knows what proportion is best for us. The shepherd and not the sheep chooses the pasture. Leave it to God to give what is suitable to your condition of life. God gives a portion as you are able to bear. Contentment itself is a gift of God and a great blessing. When our minds are suited to our condition, our earthly lessons are sweeter and more comfortable. Our happiness does not lie in abundance, but in contentment (Luke 12:15). All spiritual miseries may be attributed to either a war between a man and his conscience, or a war between his affections and his condition. There may be just as much love in a lesser portion as integrator. There is the same affection to a younger child, though he does not have as large an allowance as his elder brother. The father loves him just as well. So a child of God may say, 'God loves me, though He has given another more than me.' Be content with what falls to your share in the gracious providence of God."

Manton's words also seem to be an appropriate reminder for those who are expressing dissatisfaction with our country. However, I doubt that many protestors or rioters would enjoy pondering these biblical exhortations from a Puritan pastor. That said, one of the reasons that the church has a variety of people, each with a different style and network of relationships, is so that we may translate biblical teaching into what we say and show to others. I am praying that you can integrate this 1 Timothy call to contentment into your lives and relationships. Join us this evening to talk about how.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 6/16/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. - Matthew 24:6

Many people recognize and quote this Bible verse: there will be "wars and rumors of wars," in an effort to highlight that the end times will brings lots of tumult. And some point out that perhaps our current situation looks like such a time. However, many people seem to gloss over the very next words from Jesus: "See that you do not be alarmed." Moreover, Jesus points out that with these wars and rumors, "the end is not yet." Therefore to regard wars and rumors of such as an indication that the end is near is to somewhat miss the point:

• Don't Be Alarmed -- As Christians, one of our responsibilities is to not be surprised when humans carry out evil and/or involve themselves in violence. The biblical doctrine of Total Depravity helps us to expect sinfulness from all people. Our Reformed theology prepares us to expect wars. However, many other religious groups argue against Scripture and assert that "man is basically good." Not surprisingly, unsound doctrine (the sort that Paul was warning Timothy against) drives confusion and uncertainty. Jesus reminds us to not be alarmed but to expect violence, bloodshed, and suffering in this fallen world. Saint Augustine highlighted for us that there are 'just wars' that need to be fought, so we should not assume that the fighting of all wars is sinful -- it can be morally right to defend against unjust oppressors. However, we can be confident that all wars result from sin (be it jealousy, pride, covetousness, etc. on the part of someone).

• Expect Strife Well Ahead of the End -- Because people are sinful and because there has been brokenness ever since the Fall, the impending end of the world as we know it is not primarily visible through ugly events. Like Florence Nightingale on the battlefield, Christians are called to carry a lamp and minister to victims of sin, oppression, and disease. ("You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. - Matthew 5:14-16) Expecting strife means more than just nodding your head in confirmation when you see what you had predicted. It means preparing to serve those in need. Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan. The priest and the Levite each passed by the wounded Samaritan in the gutter. You can imagine that they might have been thinking something like, "Yep, there is another victim of the wars of the last days." And yet, Jesus commands us to a different reaction: "'Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?' He said, 'The one who showed him mercy.' And Jesus said to him, 'You go, and do likewise.'" (Luke 10:36-37) Because we expect strife, we are to look for opportunities to show mercy.

Above all, Jesus is telling us not to be afraid: “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on" - Matthew 6:25. In other words, calmly place the oxygen mask on yourself so that you can then place it on the person in need next to you. Take a breath, say a prayer, and show mercy.

Sure, we might hear rumors about suffering and disease. I have heard a few people suggest that "the pandemic is here." And it might be. But, let us follow the instruction of our Lord: "See that you are not alarmed." And if you are alarmed, let the fellowship of the church bring you comfort and truth.

The Westminster Shorter Catechism #36 reminds us: "The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end." May the Holy Spirit grant you peace, joy, and perseverance today.

Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. - Matthew 6:34

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 6/15/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught. - Luke 1:1-4

And so begins the Gospel of Luke. This account of the life of Jesus was written so that at least one person -- Theophilus -- might have greater certainty about what he had already learned about the Lord Jesus Christ. We can see, therefore, that Theophilus knew about Jesus -- and perhaps already knew Jesus as his Savior -- but he would benefit from hearing more details. This could indicate that the Gospel account might help bring Theophilus to saving faith or that it might strengthen his existing faith. We don't know which was intended by Luke. At a minimum, Theophilus know something about Christianity, since he had already been taught some things (end of verse 4). Given our uncertainty about the context, it seems likely that Luke wrote his Gospel account to help others improve in their knowledge -- to establish their faith and/or to strengthen their beliefs.

In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach - Acts 1:1

Luke's second volume to Theophilus is generally referred to as 'The Acts of Apostles,' or simply 'Acts.' Theologians have suggested that a better title would be 'The Acts of the Holy Spirit.' Again, we cannot be certain about the existence or maturity of Theophilus' faith. But, it would seem that by the time that Theophilus got around to reading the second volume, he might have had a fairly well-established understanding of the claims of the Christian faith. I might even take the view that when Luke wrote Acts, he was indifferent to what Theophilus believed. Much more importantly, he wanted Theophilus to become aware of the person and work of the Holy Spirit, just as he had laid out the person and work of Jesus ("all that Jesus began to do and teach") in 'Luke.' In this manner, the book of Acts builds on foundational and historical knowledge about faith to bring the reader into a certainty about God's ongoing work on earth. I say this in part because even though Acts is considered history, Luke paints a picture of the ongoing life of the church today -- as the Holy Spirit ministers to us in the present.

What should you read this week? This coming Sunday, the 21st, we will begin a sermon series on The Book of Acts. In preparation, let me encourage you to read portions of Luke's Gospel this week. You need not read all of it. But, just as Luke intended to build on what he had told Theophilus in his first book, I believe that you would benefit from refreshing your familiarity with the first couple chapters of Luke. This will help to get you into Luke's style, pace, and themes.

The Wikipedia article on Acts makes the following silly assertion: "Luke–Acts is an attempt to answer a theological problem, namely how the Messiah of the Jews came to have an overwhelmingly non-Jewish church." I say that this assertion is 'silly' in part because this objective is not stated anywhere in Scripture, and in part because I doubt that Theophilous had said to Luke the doctor, "Hey, can you write me a couple of volumes explaining why the church of the Messiah of the Jews has so many non-Jews in it?" If this question had been asked, I would have thought that Luke might have responded with something like, "I don't need to write any books on the subject, the Book of Genesis already exists and explains this quite well, such as in chapter 12 when God gives the purpose of establishing what would become the Jewish people: 'I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.'" Acts is not an attempt to answer this alleged theological problem, but it certainly explains how God blessed the nations of the earth through the work of His Spirit.

I am very much looking forward to exploring Acts with you. As for Wikipedia: "Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called 'knowledge,' for by professing it some have swerved from the faith." Grace be with you.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 6/12/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. - Proverbs 27:17

Isn't Proverbs 27:17 a wonderful Bible verse? It represents the special value that God's people experience from collaborating in close proximity to one another. As we get to know each other, we help each other to grow. We encourage. We take time to listen. We lend an ear to hear each other out and we share our responses. Through dialogue, our ideas are sharpened. And beyond this, our spiritual strength is bolstered and our ability to draw upon God's Word is sharpened.

Is iron an attractive and smooth metal? Think about your big old cast iron pan as compared to your shiny new Revere ware. If you rubbed a couple of stainless steel pans against one another, I doubt that much would happen. They would just slide back and forth and you would get tired and bored. On the other hand, if you rubbed two cast iron skillets against one another, you would certainly get tired, but you might succeed in rubbing off some of their rough spots. You might change some of the hard edges. You might even create some sparks. This is because iron sharpens iron. One man sharpens another, especially when BOTH of them have rough spots. Our imperfections are an important part of God's plan to use us for His glory. Other people benefit from getting to know us, warts and all. In fact, the other person might not hear you until he sees you as similarly imperfect.

The spiritual sharpening that results from Christian fellowship reminds us of Hebrews 4:12: "For the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God graciously gives us His Word and each other to make us sharp.

The image of iron sharpening iron might not be pleasant and sweet, but it is the Bible's beautiful depiction of how we need each other in order to grow. I hope that you will meditate on the image of this verse.

Proverbs 27:17 (iron sharpens iron) is quite memorable (you have probably used the phrase from memory, even if you hadn't memorized the Scripture reference). Maybe you have used the verse to encourage others around you. If you are looking for additional verses of encouragement, here are the three verses immediately before it, to consider, Proverbs 27:13-16:

• "Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing."

• "A continual dripping on a rainy day and a quarrelsome wife are alike; to restrain her is to restrain the wind or to grasp oil in one’s right hand."

As your pastor, let me encourage you to use these verses cautiously. Reckless use might lead to a discussion of frying pans.

May God sharpen you today through the loving words of another child of God. For this to happen, we must spend time together.

I have attached the handout for this week's adult Sunday school class.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 6/11/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious. For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. - Acts 17:22-25

We had a wonderful time of fellowship yesterday during our Wednesday Night Live! Thank you, again, to Caroline for preparing delicious spaghetti! We had a friendly competition in which people shared their life verses, used construction paper to create things that represented themselves (Q constructed a beautiful tent!), and answered questions about themselves and Scripture. The two teams were neck and neck until the final round. Team #1 edged out a very talented Team #2 in order to become the internationally recognized champions. (We will consider a re-match next month when we again take a break from our Bible study on the night of the WIC Night Circle.) You won't want to miss the next opportunity to glorify God through your talents!

Today, I listened in on a Zoom session hosted by the PCA Mission to North America: "Racial Brokenness in America and Our Gospel Response." If you would like more information about it, I would be happy to share my views on the material that was shared. It is wonderful that our denomination takes time to share on this topic that has gained a lot of attention recently.

I also met today with Herron Wilson and several other local pastors to organize plans for an ecumenical worship service to promote greater unity in Indianola. Please mark your calendars: Sunday, June 28th, at 6:00pm on the Courthouse steps. Herron will be preaching and other pastors will be leading worship (I will give the pastoral prayer). Like Paul standing in Areopagus, we want to reveal to the people of Indianola the God whom they might not know. Moreover, we want to unite in our worship of the known God.

Please invite others to join us. We are hoping that by highlighting unity in Jesus Christ we can bring the Gospel as the focus of our response to concerns about the pandemic and social unrest that have been expressed in recent weeks. In fact, the Gospel message should always be our focus.

In preparation for worship this Sunday, I have attached the morning worship bulletin and he weekly prayer list. I look forward to worshiping with you this weekend. Please be praying as our Diaconate meets this evening at 7:00pm.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 6/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to Him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received Him joyfully. - Luke 19:5-6

Zacchaeus was a wee little man. He was also a rich tax collector. In the first century, tax collectors were not as well-liked as they are today (!). He was rich, but he was likely did not hang-out with many church-folk. Jesus looked at the faith of Zacchaeus and invited Himself to little Zack's house. As a church, we celebrate the love and assertive hospitality of Jesus Christ in our midst. We really ought to invite ourselves to each other's houses more -- especially as the pandemic restrictions are lifted.

Let me invite you to our big day tomorrow, celebrating hospitality:

• 6:30am - Wednesday morning Men's Prayer Breakfast in the Fellowship Hall. I look forward each week to a hearty breakfast cooked by Frank and friends. The fellowship time fuels my day as much as the bacon. It is joyful to join in prayer with men (of all ages).

• 5:45pm - Mealtime for Wednesday Night Live in the Fellowship Hall. This week, Caroline is our master chef.

• 6:20pm - Children's Catechism in the Cat Kids room.

• 6:30pm - Season of Prayer in the Fellowship Hall.

• 6:30pm - WIC Night Circle at Fran Davis's.

• 6:45pm - Typically a lesson; this week a focus on fun (as a pause in our study for weeks that WIC events overlap with Wednesday Night Live).

• 7:30pm - Head home.

Feel free to join in-person, if you are comfortable managing the risks. We will have the dial-in number live for the 6:30pm weekday prayer time.

"Hospitality" is often defined as "the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers." PCA Pastor Tim Keller says that hospitality is "what we do with our bodies and gifts." Christian blogger Tim Challies says, "Hospitality is a tangible, outward display of godly character." Duncan Hoopes says, "Hospitality is Wednesday at First Presbyterian." I hope to see you, your family, and friends.

But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just. - Luke 14:13-14

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 6/8/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” - Luke 8:25

I was delighted with our morning worship service yesterday! Our "grand-reopening" was made possible by contributions from across our congregation -- special thanks to Ed & Lynn for preparing the communion trays, Casey & Caroline for deep-cleaning the pews and other surfaces, and Martin for adding his guitar playing to the mix. We are truly a unified body. It was great to see Rebecca's parents. We had about 34 people in attendance. It encouraged my spirit to be able to preach before a live crowd! Please continue to participate in person or remotely, as you see fit.

The stormy weather today reminds me that even air and water can be dangerous when moved by unseen forces. The unseen virus has threatened our world for several months. In stealth of darkness, rioters are terrorizing many cities. Still, nothing is outside the control of our loving, just, and merciful God.

I read a curious quote today: "If Jesus, Buddha, and Confucius were all alive and gathered in the same place, would they argue over who was right? Or would they respect and admire one another's teachings? Religious conflict can often be blamed not on the founders of religions but on their fanatical followers." The expressed viewpoint is quite sad: Jesus is seen by some as the founder of a religion. Jesus did not establish a religious tradition. He called people to worship the one, true, living God.

In fact, when Jesus was gathered with the teachers of other religions, He did in fact present arguments about who was right. Here is one such gathering:

• Now when the Pharisees gathered to Him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem... And He said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” And He said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!" - Mark 7:1,6-9

So, yes, founders of the religions of men might find it distasteful to argue about who is right, since this leaves them open to criticism for their hypocrisy. Buddha, Confucius, Joseph Smith, Pharisees, Joel Osteen, and others might admire Jesus as a good teacher, but they are selective in what they admire about Him. Jesus in no way admires their teaching. James, the brother of Jesus said this:

• Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. - James 3:1

Ultimately, Jesus will not argue. He will judge. Though, I don't suspect that the author of the silly quote meant this about Jesus' not arguing.

The false teachers are not able to command winds and water and have them obey. As Jesus said in Matthew 28:18-19 when He commissioned the church, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations." We, the church, have been called to teach the truth with the authority of the Lord of lords Himself, not to propagate a false religion. And our primary mission is to demonstrate true worship. Let us continue to worship Him in Spirit and truth, as we did together yesterday. And let us do as Paul instructed Timothy: pray for all people, especially those in positions of authority. Pray especially for leaders of false religions and leaders of mobs of people seeking something other than the one, true God. Take hold of that which is truly life (1 Timothy 6:19).

The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit. - John 3:8

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 6/5/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord... O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called “knowledge,” for by professing it some have swerved from the faith. Grace be with you. - 1 Timothy 1:1-2, 6:20-21

These are the opening and closing verses of Paul's first letter to Timothy. We began exploring 1 Timothy back in October. As we complete this sermon series in the next two weeks, it is useful to consider some of the over-arching practical themes for our lives. Yesterday, I received an email from 9Marks (an organization dedicated to helping pastors maintain church health). The author shared an article with pastors on "5 Reasons You Should Preach through 1 Timothy". Which of these reasons might be applicable to us? Here are highlights from Phil Newton's posting:

1. It urges pastors to be humble yet bold. Paul’s humility sets the tone for pastoral warmth in the letter. You’re not worthy to pastor this congregation but Christ found pleasure in entrusting the flock to you. So be conscious of false teaching and false teachers that trouble the church. Stay focused in your labors, keeping the Gospel at the forefront of everything that you do.

2. It covers the vital details of church life and order. The condition of the worship, polity, and leadership in some churches can tempt a pastor to quit. He laid out priorities for praying, public worship, preaching, caring for members, roles of men and women, and correcting erring members. Showing the centrality of each through an expositional series in 1 Timothy enables the congregation to see biblical priorities for the church’s health.

3. It offers a window into the value the early church placed on good theology. Paul’s greeting has theological richness. He sets forth the right use of the Law, a perennial theological issue. His doxologies in 1:17 and 6:14–16 spur robust worship. His explanation of prayer is anchored in the mediatorial work of the Incarnate Christ. His description of the church expands our grasp of healthy ecclesiology. His confessional statement motivates the church to mission. His theology of divine judgment brings caution to the process of setting apart elders. His charge to “fight the good fight of faith” is grounded in Christological thought.

4. It provides wise counsel for pastors’ spiritual lives and ministries. Our congregations need to feel the intensity that we sense in pastoral ministry, especially as we bare our hearts in the pulpit. Paul continued by calling for disciplining himself for the purpose of godliness, not neglecting his spiritual gift, immersing himself in faithful ministry, and paying close attention to himself and his teaching. The passion of his closing exhortation, “O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you,” breathes the air of intensity and attentiveness.

5. It shows how the Gospel is central to our existence and purpose as a church. Mounce points out that the health of the Gospel appeared to be at stake in this letter. So Paul’s instructions didn’t come as merely practical advice from an experienced minister but so that Timothy might stand upon the Gospel with this congregation. The confidence in Christ Jesus as our hope, warnings about substitutions and distortions of the Gospel, and specifically detailed Gospel passages reiterate that our churches ought to be all about the Gospel—in both preaching and practice.

One of Newton's statements echoed my own primary reason for selecting 1 Timothy as my first sermon series to preach for you:

• "As you [Duncan] preach to yourself and your fellow elders in the public gathering, you’re exhorting your church to pray for, encourage, and hold you [Duncan] and fellow elders to the standard Paul gave Timothy. In a day when too many ministers fall by the wayside, we need this kind of public accountability."

So, as we wrap up this series, please continue to hold me accountable to what Paul has charged this pastor in Ephesus two thousand years ago. In addition to the many ways to think of the church (body, bride, family, community, vine, temple / house), we are a TEAM. Let us collaborate together. I treasure your encouragement and accountability. Thank you for exploring God's Word with me.

I have attached the handout on Jonah for the adult Sunday School class this week. 

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 6/4/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. - John 6:35

This Sunday, we are planning to serve the Lord's Supper for the first time in months. You are welcome to join in person. If you would prefer to manage the health risks by worshiping from home, I have attached the bulletin for the morning worship. I have also included this week's prayer list.

Earlier this week, I shared a little bit about differing historical views regarding the elements used in communion. There is an additional item that I believe is worth sharing on this topic: the use of leavened vs. unleavened bread.

Three of the Gospels describe the account of the Last Supper (Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 17-26; Luke 22:14:22). Furthermore, Paul covers the institution of the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-34). None of these accounts tells us directly whether the bread that they ate was leavened or unleavened. It is true that they were having a Passover feast and therefore they had unleavened bread at the table. However, they likely would have had regular, leavened bread, as well. In fact, some have suggested that it seems probable that the disciples would have switched to regular bread later in the meal. The Western / Roman Catholic tradition uses unleavened bread and the Eastern Orthodox tradition only uses leavened. As such, there is no one historical answer to the question. Protestants have generally allowed for either.

As I mentioned regarding the wine, the sacraments are designed to use ordinary, common elements (simply water for baptism, household bread and wine for the Lord's Supper). Therefore, it makes sense to make use of ordinary bread. For most homes in America, this would have suggested leavened bread. One of the benefits of using unleavened bread is that is does helpfully emphasize the connection to Passover. Still, we are free to select either.

I like thinking about Jesus as the Lamb who fulfills the Passover, so I enjoy the use of unleavened bread. But truly, the Passover is no longer an annual feast for God's people, so I almost prefer changing to pattern such that we variously emphasize the ordinary sometimes -- God makes use of ordinary people, ordinary means, and ordinary elements -- and the Passover imagery other times. The bottom line is that because Scripture doesn't tell us what Jesus served His disciples, we should not regard this detail as important and we can recognize either as appropriate. The sign and seal is in the bread, not contained in the type of bread.

These technical issues aside, I hope that you are meditating on the significance of the Lord's Supper and are looking forward to communing together as one body this Sunday.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 6/3/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. - Acts 2:42-44

Wednesday night is live! Happy belated St. Patrick’s Day!

• Fellowship Meal - At 5:45pm in the Fellowship Hall, we will be serving corned beef and cabbage.

• Events for Kids & Adults - At about 6:30pm, we will start our children’s catechism class and our season of prayer,
  followed by the second installment in our discussion of “Exploring Your Conscience” (I have attached the first handout for the discussion).

• Attend In-Person or by Phone - If you believe that you are able to manage the health risks, please join us in person. On the other hand, if you remain concerned about safety, you may join us via conference call at 6:30pm.

Why do we gather on Wednesday nights?

I can think of numerous reasons, but here are a few from others:

• A healthy church should be characterized by fellowship between all types of people looking to encourage one another with the gospel. - Mark Dever (author of Nine Marks of A Healthy Church)

• The church that is to be one in the Spirit, united to Jesus Christ, and one in the faith, holding to the purity of the apostolic gospel, must also be God’s holy people on earth, growing in likeness to Christ, and transcending worldly divisions as the beginning of a new humanity in Christ. - Edmund Clowney (author of many books on ecclesiology -- the church)

• I believe in . . . the holy catholic church. - The Apostle's Creed

• The church is called “catholic,” or “universal,” because there could not be two or three churches unless Christ be torn asunder— which cannot happen! But all the elect are so united in Christ that as they are dependent on one Head, they also grow together into one body, being joined and knit together as are the limbs of a body. — John Calvin

• The prayer-meeting is an institution which ought to be very precious to us, and to be cherished by us as a Church, for to it we owe everything. . . . It is in the spirit of prayer that our strength lies; and if we lose this, the hair will be cut off from Samson’s head, and God’s Holy Church will become weak as water and though we, as Samson did, go and try to shake ourselves as at other times, we shall hear the cry, ‘The Philistines are upon you,’ and our eyes will be put out, and our glory will depart, unless we continue mightily and earnestly in prayer. - Charles H. Spurgeon

• But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. - Galatians 2:11-12

• You can only backslide so far in three days. - Dr. Richard D. Phillips

• I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. - Ephesians 4:1-6

I look forward to spending time with you this evening.

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 6/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there. Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also conversed with him. And some said, “What does this babbler wish to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a preacher of foreign divinities”—because he was preaching Jesus and the resurrection. And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? For you bring some strange things to our ears. We wish to know therefore what these things mean.” Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new. - Acts 17:17-21

How much should pastors weigh in on politics and social issues? After all, the bible has a lot to say about war, oppression, and death.

Maybe you have asked yourself this question. It seems likely that at some point in your life you felt like either the preacher was either spending way too much time addressing political views or that he was avoiding important issues of the day. Presbyterians believe in the spirituality of the church, which means that the church responds to spiritual needs, not social change. Over the past few months, I have attempted to keep you informed with daily updates about the state of the church in the midst of one of the largest declared pandemics in centuries.

Even if your view is that the coronavirus pandemic has been largely exaggerated, please note that the reaction to it has caused direct impacts internationally, nationally, and locally, affecting most people throughout the world. Still, we have to be careful in calling it the worst pandemic, because not every person on the face of the planet has been infected by the offending virus. Instead, the most extensive epidemic of all time is the one that infects all people everywhere, except one. I am of course referring to the massive infection of sin. Except for the Lord Jesus Christ, every person has succumbed to this disease. It is imperative that preachers everywhere speak out about the effects of sin on politics, society, physical and financial health, as well as personal corruption. In this sense, pastors ARE expected to address these issues as having their root in sin.

Even if I talked about it all day long, I don't think that I could exaggerate the impact of sin on your life. You have experienced heartache from unjust treatment by others. You have seen other people suffer. You have inflicted pain on others. You have rebelled against God through a focus on yourself and a disregard for Him.

At the same time, even if I talked about it all day long, I could not exaggerate the grace of God. He blesses the world through His glorious life-giving providence. He shows mercy to all by staying His hand and withholding punishment. He grants peace and encouragement through His living Word, His loving Holy Spirit, and His caring church. The Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ, deserves honor and eternal dominion forever. I cannot talk about this enough.

So, how do I balance these truths? How much should I weigh in on politics and social issues? The sort answer is that I ought to convey Jesus' hatred of sin and death and His encouragement to love such that you are reminded to repent and believe, every day -- and throughout the day. I am to equip you to see the hand of God, and the fallenness of man, as you encounter news stories. How do I do this? By pointing you to the Word of God as your source for real knowledge.

As you hear about loss of life, liberty, and property -- from the coronavirus, or from irresponsible cops, or from violent rioters, or corrupt politicians-- I pray that you will place these injustices in the context of God's Word. He will come to judge the quick and the dead. This is guaranteed. No injustice will go unpunished by our loving God. For those who place their faith in Jesus, God has exacted punishment on His sin-less Son. For those who reject God, punishment will come through eternal damnation. Every sinful act gets dealt with. Our calling is to share this truth will all people. We must pray for all people, everywhere (1 Timothy 2:1). I cannot emphasize this enough. Until Christ returns, we must get the word out. I cannot emphasize this enough. 

Our emotions are quite useful. They notify us of issues. When you are upset by the news of heinous crimes, your irritation is designed to bring you to your knees in prayer. Prayer for the corrupt hearts of the perpetrators. Prayer for forgiveness of your own sins. In addition to promoting prayer, evil acts ought to drive us to taking action. I suppose that sometimes this could mean organizing protests -- and some choose this course. Peaceful protests by American citizens are protected by our Bill of Rights. This doesn't mean that protests are always wise (like why would it be wise to take to the streets in protest at night?), but we ought not imagine that everyone is always thinking clearly enough to make wise decisions. (Perhaps you have made unwise judgements in the face of difficulties not of your own making?) Many people do not regard sitting back and waiting (or 'just praying') as a sufficient action. Loving our neighbors requires us to listen and try to understand their frustrations. We should be interested in helping to establish safe forums for rational discourse so that we can hear them. Loving our neighbors means letting them know that we care enough to listen.

The context of listening to each other promotes our own ability to share the good news of the Gospel. The people of God's church ought to want to listen. The pastors of God's church ought to promote the desire to hear and understand each other. Think about a time that you felt that someone else refused to hear you out. True social justice (not the imagined gospel of Social Justice Warriors) involves upholding the right to speak without the fear of oppression for doing so.

God uses speech to communicate His Gospel. He tells us who He is through words. My personal view is that the recent protests and riots have spun out of control because free speech is no longer regarded as free. People don't perceive that they are being heard. To be clear, I believe that many have taken advantage of the situation (including the angst from the coronavirus and the perception of a lack of justice) to foist sinful attacks on others. There is one and only remedy: the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

We are blessed to live in a town that does not actively deny free speech. But, defense of this freedom is not the same as listening. There might be some who still perceive that they are not being heard. They might perceive that no one cares to hear.

Let us prayerfully consider how we can promote speaking freely so that others can hear the Gospel. This likely begins by letting others know that we are interested in hearing what they have to say. Christians are not to blame for the current unrest. But, we have a responsibility to listen and understand. This does not mean condoning malfeasance. But, it does mean asking God to use us in making a difference. We want open dialogue. How can God use you? Let us pray.

After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent a message to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, say it.” - Acts 13:15

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 6/1/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” - Mark 14:22-25

This is an exciting week in the life of the church!

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we have not celebrated the Lord's Supper in months. Effective today, the governor of Mississippi has relaxed restrictions, so we are moving confidently ahead with our plans to celebrate communion this Sunday, the 7th. If you believe that you are able to manage the health risks, please join us in-person for worship Sunday morning. On the other hand, if you remain concerned about safety, please continue to worship with us electronically.

I would like to encourage you to prepare for receiving the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. You might wonder, “How ought I to prepare for taking communion?" The Westminster divines anticipated such a question and answered in question 171 of the Larger Catechism:

• Q.171: How are they that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s supper to prepare themselves before they come unto it?

• A: They that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s supper are, before they come, to prepare themselves thereunto, by examining themselves of their being in Christ, of their sins and wants; of the truth and measure of their knowledge, faith, repentance; love to God and the brethren, charity to all men, forgiving those that have done them wrong; of their desires after Christ, and of their new obedience; and by renewing the exercise of these graces, by serious meditation, and fervent prayer.

The above are a lot of words to study, but let me highlight the final two facets of preparation: meditation and prayer. This week, please find time to pursue God's blessing through serious meditation and fervent prayer. Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper with you in mind. He was thinking of you alongside your fellow church members when He said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." This is why Paul said, "For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes." (1 Corinthians 11:25-26) Jesus wants your observance of this holy event to be full of wonder at His sacrificing His life for you. He loves you that much! Your meditation and prayer will help you to focus on Him -- on His body and His blood.

Several aspects of the Lord's Supper have generated controversy and deserve focused consideration. For instance, some people have interpreted Jesus' words to indicate that the bread and wine actually transform into Christ's body and blood (this is the Roman Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation). You are probably at least generally familiar with this controversial teaching. You can rest assured that the Bible does not teach this change in the elements. (Notice, for example, that Jesus was right there in front of the disciples and His body remained intact as they partook.) You can confidently receive them as 'sensible signs' (representations that can be experienced through your senses) that seal the new covenant.

Another point of debate arose just over 100 years ago. Prior to 1870, communion cups were always filled with wine. However, there was a growing concern about the use of alcohol. Thomas Welch was a Methodist who developed pasteurized grape juice for the express purpose of serving unfermented wine for communion. (Welch's Grape Juice was initially sold as communion wine.) After 1,800+ years of using wine in Christian churches, the commercial availability of grape juice drove a shift in some churches and denominations to replace wine with juice. (The early church had used wine exclusively and was unable to serve grape juice because it would ferment in a matter of days after squeezing, making its use impractical.) In other words, Biblical teaching and church tradition were re-assessed through emerging social preferences. (For example, the United Methodist Church explains that they moved away from wine just over a century ago to accommodate the temperance movement.) Using juice appears to be a violation of the Reformed doctrine of the Regulative Principle of Worship, especially given that the deviation from Scripture's use of 'wine' was explicitly driven by man not God.

For years, churches such as First Presbyterian in Indianola have served grape juice, not wine, probably at least in part because they were conforming to the biblical mandate that the bread and wine be common, ordinary household elements -- if juice is common and wine is not, then it would seem reasonable to use juice. (Some might believe that the biblical term “fruit of the vine” is ambiguous, but this phrase was used consistently by Jews to refer to wine fermented from grapes.) 

Personally, I believe that Scripture is clear that wine, not juice, is the proper drink for observing the Lord’s Supper. That said, this issue is really a decision related to one's views of what the Bible stipulates. Therefore, beginning this Sunday, your Session has decided to offer both wine and juice and to let each participant choose whichever seems appropriate. We will prepare the communion trays with juice along the outer rings and wine in the inner rings. (To help you to distinguish further, the juice will be in clear cups and the wine will be in purple-tinted cups.) As Paul outlines in Romans 14, we do not wish to cause a brother to stumble, so we offer each and hope that you will let your conscience guide you.

The sacraments (baptism and the Lord's Supper) deserve special attention – and they carry some mystery, hence “sacraments" (holy mysteries). The PCA church in which I was a Ruling Elder served wine only, another PCA church of which I was a member used juice exclusively, and another PCA church I was in previously served both (outer ring / inner ring). Our denomination allows for any of the above. The Session has acknowledged these various approaches and has decided to adopt the latter. We encourage you to consider Biblical guidance to make an informed decision. Make this a matter of study, meditation, and prayer. We do not wish to confuse or offend, so if you have questions, please let us know.

I look forward to communing with you this Sunday.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 5/29/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? - Matthew 16:26

People are pretty interesting. Elon Musk has an unusual and memorable name. He is also the CEO of Tesla, a major producer of electric vehicles. And, he is the CEO of SpaceX, which is seeking to provide affordable space travel. If the SpaceX launch goes as planned tomorrow, it will be the first time in history that a commercial (non-government) organization has sent humans into space.

This month, Mr. Musk's girlfriend Grimes (popular singer who has no last name) gave birth to a boy. They initially named him "X Æ A-12" (they are calling him "X", as opposed to "Ash" -- the pronunciation of his middle name, Æ). They quickly modified the name slightly to use Roman numerals: X Æ A-Xii, apparently facing difficulty with the numerals when filing the legal documents. As I say, people are pretty interesting. Some people seem intent on being interesting in order to gain your interest -- in the interest, perhaps, of capturing your soul.

I read today that Grimes has put together an art show. As with most gallery exhibits, she intends to sell her artwork. In the available pieces for sale, Grimes has included a legal document such that the highest bidder can buy her soul. That's right, she is literally selling her soul. What is it worth? Grimes told reporters that she had initially thought to sell her soul for $10 million. Then, she decided to just auction to the highest offer. She is probably thinking that she can afford to let her soul go, since she likely doesn't see much practical use in it.

You are already aware that many people deny the existence of God. We call them 'atheists.' But, let this one sink in: many people deny the existence of their own souls. You see, evolving from a single-celled amoeba implies no soul. Ending lives of innocent humans implies a denial of souls -- or at least of the value of souls. So, paradoxically, Elon's girlfriend seems to think that her soul could fetch $10 million because either a) it has no value or b) it does not exist. She might argue that she thinks that she has a valuable soul but that no legal document could actually purchase it away. The problem with this argument is that she is therefore about to commit fraud: selling legal title to something without intending to deliver the property.

And that is what we might expect from a lot of interesting people: fraud. Well, to be fair, every person is interesting. But, we are talking about the people who paint themselves as especially interesting. It is sad that, all too often, these same people who bill themselves as interesting deny their own souls.

Jesus knew that each individual has a soul. And He knew that each soul was worth a lot more than $10 million -- in fact, much more than $10 trillion. This is why he said that there is no profit -- it is a lousy, losing transaction -- to sell your soul and only receive the entire world in return. You see, this world is passing away (1 John 2:17). Human souls will survive this world (Revelation 20:13). If you traded your soul for everything in the world, it would be like using your life savings to buy a 1973 Ford Pinto with 233,000 miles on it. Eventually -- and I mean in a very short period of time -- you would be stranded on the side of the road. You and your obsolete clunker. You would still want to go somewhere, but you would be out of a transportation budget.

Here is the point: You do have a soul. Everyone does. And everyone knows it. But some people attempt to live in denial of this undeniable truth. And they fret about this and that and pretend that if they come up with the perfect name for a child, then they will have satisfied all of the needs of their existence. And then they move on to the next attempt to find joy. And the next. Jesus is making a very clear point: Tell them. Remind them. Plead with them about their soul. Because, as He says in the next verse, "For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of His Father, and then He will repay each person according to what he has done." (Matt 16:27) To live as if one doesn't have a soul is costly indeed. Jesus gave His life -- which has infinite worth -- to redeem the souls of sinners. He is the highest bidder. Tell Grimes and everyone else you know.

Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. - 1 Peter 2:11

I have attached the handout for the adult Sunday School class. Let us prepare to worship our Lord and Savior.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 5/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith - 2 Timothy 1:3-5

Yesterday, Governor Reeves announced that this Monday, June 1st, the "Safer At Home" executive order would be replaced by a new "Safe Return" order. The new order is scheduled to last two weeks and focuses on allowing all businesses and non-profits to reopen, though some restrictions are maintained and employees are still encouraged to work from home. Like the previous order, Safe Return does not specifically mention churches, but the state had already acknowledged that religious freedom is a fundamental right and had given helpful guidance for reducing risk without placing strict requirements on church gatherings. As such, we remain confident in our plan to conduct public worship including observing the Lord's Supper on June 7th.

Here are a few highlights from the Safe Return order regarding residents:

• All those in the vulnerable population are instructed to continue sheltering in place to protect their health.

  • This includes all elderly individuals (age 65 or older per CDC guidelines) and individuals with serious underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and those whose immune systems are compromised as such by chemotherapy for cancer or any other condition requiring such therapy.

• For large group gatherings when social distancing is not possible, groups are limited to 20 people or less indoors and 50 people or less outdoors.

• For large groups gatherings when social distancing is possible, groups are limited to 50 people or less indoors and 100 people or less outdoors.

• All travel may resume, while minimizing non-essential business travel when possible.

Notice that First Presbyterian is operating within these guidelines, having had about 20 people attending our Wednesday Night Live activities last night. Please feel free to join us -- or continue to participate electronically, if you are considered especially vulnerable.

Our short Wednesday night study series is "Exploring Your Conscience" and is looking at biblical teaching on our personal moral judgments. This topic seems relevant in the midst of the pandemic since it is allowing us to consider "right" and "wrong" regarding our own decisions, as well as the decisions of others, in response to guidance from the government and the Bible. Our giveaway drawing next Wednesday will be the book "Discovering the Joy of a Clear Conscience".

This Sunday morning, we will be exploring 1 Timothy 6:14-16. I have attached the Worship Bulletin and this week's Prayer List. As always, please let me know of any updates regarding people on the list and/or if there is anyone whom we ought to add or remove from the list. We are very excited that Bill Humbarger is scheduled to return home tomorrow. Please pray that Georgia and others are able to manage the logistics without difficulty. Some of you may feel like you have been in "Corona Jail" for too long. I am certain that Bill is glad to be set free after many months. Let us rejoice together and find ways to encourage one another as we seek to transition to more openness.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 5/27/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, “When you come into the land of Canaan, which I give you for a possession, and I put a case of leprous disease in a house in the land of your possession, then he who owns the house shall come and tell the priest, ‘There seems to me to be some case of disease in my house.’ Then the priest shall command that they empty the house before the priest goes to examine the disease, lest all that is in the house be declared unclean. And afterward the priest shall go in to see the house. And he shall examine the disease. And if the disease is in the walls of the house with greenish or reddish spots, and if it appears to be deeper than the surface, then the priest shall go out of the house to the door of the house and shut up the house seven days...But if the priest comes and looks, and if the disease has not spread in the house after the house was plastered, then the priest shall pronounce the house clean, for the disease is healed. - Leviticus 14:33-38,48

The Bible has some strange and uncomfortable passages dealing with mold and diseases. A lot of people prefer to skip over the priestly laws and regulations in Leviticus. With the pandemic, it might be tempting to look back over these sections to glean wisdom. However, the Bible shows us that while the Moral Law (as summarized in the 10 commandments) is still in force, the Ceremonial Law was fulfilled in Christ and therefore the rules for priests relating to uncleanness are not applicable to us. As such, we need to apply biblical principles and godly discernment -- not regulations from the Levitical priesthood -- to determine how to manage in the context of the coronavirus pandemic.

As the economy, society, and churches start to open up more, here are some thoughts regarding managing the risk of exposure at First Presbyterian:

• Underlying Health Conditions. Individuals in high-risk health groups (such as the elderly and infirmed) are encouraged to continue participating in church activities through livestreaming and/or conference calls. The Mississippi State Department of Health reports that half of the COVID-19 deaths have been in Long-Term Care facilities and all but 2 of the 670 people who died had at least one (or mostly many) underlying comorbidities.

• Small Children. We are staffing the nursery for worship and Wednesday nights, but parents are encouraged to exercise their own judgment in bringing young children.

• Sanitizing Surfaces. The CDC had indicated that surfaces ought to be cleaned frequently to reduce transmission. Recently, the CDC indicated that surfaces are no longer considered a major mode of transmission. Even more recently, the CDC sought to clarify their statement by saying that the virus can be transmitted via surfaces, but that transmission in this manner appears to be less common. We have been cleaning the surfaces of the church and will continue to do so, but we will not attempt to sanitize every surface repeatedly throughout a church event.

• Personal Protective Equipment. Feel free to wear a face mask. Be aware that others might not be wearing masks. We have some hand sanitizer on hand, but feel free to bring your own and use as frequently as you deem appropriate.

• Social Distancing. Each person is expected to maintain whatever distance he regards as adequate. In anticipation that others might have more restrictive needs and preferences, please avoid getting closer than six feet for extended lengths of time. Avoid standing in aisles and doorways. Refrain from personal contact (such as handshaking and hugging). Where possible, households ought to sit together in every other pew and with adequate spacing from side to side.

• Passing Plates. We have not yet resumed the practice of passing the offering plate. Please continue to worship through your tithes and offerings by mail or by placing in the plate up front before or after the worship service. We intend to celebrate the Lord's Supper on June 7th and might adjust the administration of the elements to avoid handing items to one another. We are investigating alternative approaches.

• Expressing Concerns. These are awkward and unprecedented times, so please expect that different people might have different interpretations of how best to proceed. We welcome your perspective and ideas. Please consider being willing to both give and receive feedback about how we can serve the Lord while managing risk. Please also prepare for adjustments on the fly. We are open-minded and want to be aware of your concerns.

Praise the Lord that we have found ways to meet together -- electronically or in person. We will continue to seek the Lord's guidance as we consult Scripture and pray for discernment.

If you are comfortable managing the risks, please join us for a fellowship meal at 5:45pm as we resume Wednesday Night Live.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 5/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. - Psalm 103:1-5

Today, we celebrated God's work in the life of Alice Britt Varner. Carl Brannan shared from Psalm 91 and 1 Corinthians 15. A special thanks goes to the Deacons for ushering, the WIC for feeding the family, and Casey Newsom for ensuring that Alice's out-of-town children could view a video of the service. The entire church family joins with the Varners and Britts in bidding farewell to a Godly woman and in looking forward to worshiping again with Alice in the next life. Our hearts and prayers go out during this bittersweet time.

Yesterday, we celebrated the work of God in the lives of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the freedoms of this country – especially our freedom to worship our Lord and Creator. Every Memorial Day, I am reminded of my grandfather's older brother, Captain John R. Burkett of Company C, 359th Infantry of the U.S. Army. The following was the official message sent to his family 102 years ago:

• “On Nov. 1st [1918], near Bautherville in the Meuse-Argonne sector Capt. Burkett had led his men over the top and they had reached their objective. He had his Co. properly lined up for any counter attack the enemy might throw over and was sitting in a shell hole smoking a cigar when an enemy machine gun bullet hit him just over the left eye killing him instantly.” – Corporal Glenn E. O’Brien, Co. C., 309th Infantry

Capt. Burkett, who had worked as an attorney in Houston, was 27 at the time of his death – just ten days before the WWI armistice. He is buried in Riverside Cemetery, Jackson, Tennessee. His mother, Callie Robbins Burkett, was later buried beside him. Many others deserve tribute for their sacrificial efforts, as well.

We can rejoice, knowing that God continues to work in the lives of His children to bring the Gospel to the world. This week, during the difficult times of a global epidemic, I would like to encourage you to praise God for His great blessings through the saints who have gone before us. God has blessed us through their efforts to preserve His Word and to ensure that we can worship Him each day. I count it a glorious blessing to worship with you, the family of First Presbyterian Church.

Please consider joining us tomorrow evening at 5:45pm as we resume our Wednesday Night Live activities.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 5/22/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. - 1 Timothy 4:6

Command and teach these things. - 1 Timothy 4:11

Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. - 1 Timothy 4:15-16

In the fourth chapter of the letter that we have been exploring on Sunday mornings, Paul emphasized that Timothy, as pastor to the church in Ephesus, must preach, teach, and practice "these things." What things was Paul talking about?

In short, Paul is telling Timothy to teach who Jesus Christ is. In other words, the pastor must preach: a) sound doctrine to combat the false teaching surrounding Christ's church and b) godliness, which is knowing, living, and sharing God's viewpoint, as Jesus did. You saw these points coming together a few weeks ago in 1 Timothy 6:2-4, "Teach and urge these things. If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing."

As one who has heard these words, you ought to ask yourself two questions:

1. Is my pastor teaching me what Paul told Timothy to preach? and

2. Am I taking to heart these biblical messages of doctrine and godliness?

To aid you in considering these questions, it might be helpful to review the main propositions from the sermons of the past few months. As you read these over, you might want to also read chapters 5 and 6 of 1 Timothy. I pray that God will bless you as you seek to integrate His Word into your life.

• God’s family encourages and corrects godliness through love and respect. (5:1-2)

• Godly care for the truly interdependent members of our church family brings honor to God. (5:3-8)

• Church members are to serve and receive support based on their proven, potential, and active works. (5:19-16)

• The elders who labor to lead and feed the church family ought to be honored with respect and remuneration. (5:17-18)

• Do unto elders as you would have them do unto you. (5:19-21)

• Leaders protect purity by contemplating the viewpoints of others in order to make informed, godly decisions. (5:22-23)

• Spiritual fitness for service reveals itself to those who look carefully, diligently, and patiently. (5:24-25)

• Your reputation as a faithful servant promotes the knowledge of Jesus and protects the health of the church. (6:1-2)

• False teaching is symptomatic of the unhealthy character of those who can bring harm to relationships in the church. (6:3-5)

• The delight in gaining God's perspective and serving Christ's Bride rewards with spiritual health and worldwide salvation, while it discards the insatiable desire to accumulate more because Christ alone fulfills all of our needs. (6:6-8)

• Selfish desires and love for material possessions cause us to fall into ruin and wander from faith in Christ, who is the true desire of a loving heart. (6:9-10)

• Jesus Christ reverses our course as we escape deadly temptation and engage in life-giving godliness. (6:11)

This Sunday, we will be exploring the "Life Testimonials" in 1 Timothy 6:12-14.

I have attached the handout for the adult Sunday School lesson on Jonah.

I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord's Day.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 5/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Then the little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. And the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there. - Matthew 19:13-15

What a joy it is when the church recognizes the value of discipling children! As you know, on Wednesday nights -- starting up again on May 27th -- we have a catechism class for young children. As you also know, we had a great Vacation Bible School last summer. With the coronavirus pandemic, you might have been wondering, "What are we going to do about VBS this year?" In fact, you might have noticed that First Presbyterian's VBS had been scheduled for the first week of June, which is only a few weeks away.

We are excited to announce that some ladies in the church have been working hard to map out what we can do this summer.

• The Session has approved their proposal to host VBS the first week of August:
  Sunday, August 2nd through Wednesday the 5th.

• In addition, we are planning a VBS Grand Finale on Sunday, August 9th.

So, please mark your calendars! The team, led by Caroline Newsom, will likely be asking you directly to assist in one of the many areas of this ministry (food, skits, crafts, singing, set-up, clean-up). In the meantime, please be praying about how to can be involved in VBS. We hope to honor Jesus by letting the little children come to Him.

In preparation for this Lord's Day, I have attached the bulletin for the morning worship service, as well as this week's prayer list. As always, if you are aware of updates for anyone on the prayer list (or anyone who ought to be), please let me know.

I am praying for you -- that you have taken to heart the message from this past Sunday's sermon on 1 Timothy 6:11:

Jesus Christ reverses our course as we escape deadly temptation and engage in life-giving godliness.

Helping the church in its various activities, like VBS and Wednesday Night Live, is a wonderful way to engage in life-giving godliness -- sharing God's perspective with others.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 5/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Then Noah built an altar to the Lord and took some of every clean animal and some of every clean bird and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done. While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” - Genesis 8:20-22

We are not having our Wednesday prayer conference call tonight nor our Bible study. We will be starting our Wednesday Night Live back up next week, May 27th, with spiral-cut ham and other delights for our fellowship meal. Mark your calendar to join us at 5:45pm. (This is intended, of course, for those who feel comfortable gathering despite the pandemic.) We will also be starting a new study series. The prayer time and lesson will be available via our conference call number.

The passage above describes Noah's first actions after exiting the ark. He and his family were so amazed by God's covenantal protections for them that they rejoiced and worshiped Him. In this time of isolation and health risks, it is good to remember that God continues to protect according to His covenant. He intends to be our God and for us to be His people. He plans to dwell with His people forever. This would be a good time to plan how to celebrate His faithfulness. It is a good time to invite others to join our Lord's Day worship -- either in person or electronically via livestream / conference call.

What can you do this week to honor God and rejoice in His provision? Here is a Bible passage verse to consider memorizing:

• Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. - Revelation 21:1-3

Having memorized these three verses, even when times are difficult you can remind yourself that God's dwelling place is with His people. As with Joshua, He will never leave us or forsake us. He intends to comfort us with His presence. Through His Holy Spirit, he indwells the faithful believers. Whom do you know that needs to hear this today? When the pandemic is over, you can rest assured that God's church will be here for you. We are His dwelling place. He loves to live with His bride. Rejoice and worship your loving Lord!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 5/19/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures. - James 1:17-18

God graciously blesses His children and gives them as gifts to the world. Today, the churches of our Presbytery met on-line via Zoom. Ligon Duncan preached on Ephesians 4 and reminded us that the elders of the church are presented by God as gifts to the church. God's people -- adults and children alike -- are given to the world as gifts for edification, help, and encouragement. God gives them as gifts in part because we all need help and encouragement. He gives us gifts according to our needs. He gives us each other because we need each other. As James reminds us above, every good gift comes from above. Therefore, let us praise God today for every person whom He has put into our lives -- especially those whom He has put into our church.

What is funny is that I am reminding you of this truth -- that God gives people as gifts to others -- on my birthday! Hey, God brought me into this world for His own glory. He brought you into the world for the same reason: for His good pleasure. He brought me to Indianola to encourage you and for you to encourage me. God really knows what He is doing because I have been greatly encouraged by all of you. His plan is working!

A few birthday thoughts:

• Thank you very much to the WIC for providing a joint birthday cake to Debbie and me on Sunday. The 18 or so people in attendance really enjoyed having cake after the worship service as a glorious mid-day meal! The cake was also quite delicious during evening worship and, as a team, we nearly finished it off before the day was over. Sarah and Ellie appreciated the task of consuming the remnants the next day. Birthday cakes make for wonderful fellowship!

• Thank you also to Anne and Natalie for the handsome and delicious burnt caramel cake. It gave us a true Breakfast of Champions this morning! Burnt caramel can be tricky to get just right and this icing was perfect! God has clearly blessed His people with valuable skills of encouragement!

• And thank you for the cards, especially the one with signatures across numerous families. It was very encouraging to picture someone going door-to-door to collect autographs during this nasty pandemic. Debbie and I are truly blessed to be part of your family here. Thank you for welcoming us so warmly.

A few thoughts on the pandemic:

• MSDH reports that yesterday 27 people died from COVID-19. This represents the largest number of deaths reported in one day. The previous day had been seven, so maybe this is an aberration and not a trend (hospitalizations have not been trending upward). Regardless, please keep the families of all of these victims in prayer.

• Out of the 554 COVID-19 deaths in Mississippi, only about 3 did not have a known underlying medical condition. Therefore, please keep in prayer members of our population with health risks.

• We plan to have our weekday prayer conference call today at 6:30pm. (Although Debbie and I might be running an errand out of town, so I will have someone else lead the call.) This would be a good time to join us in prayer for those who are suffering and have experienced loss. Many people are experiencing a sense of loss during this pandemic and lockdowns.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 5/15/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. - Acts 15:39-40

"Let's just agree to disagree..." I don't know about you, but I've never really liked this phrase. It seems to me too much like "let's ignore what you have said and what you think and just move on; let's stop talking." The funny thing about the phrase is that if you think about it carefully, it can mean exactly the opposite of what is intended: "let's agree to debate." After all, if two people are disagreeing, then they are verbally challenging one another. The dictionary tells us that to disagree is to express a different opinion, and offers this usage: "no one was willing to disagree with him." In such a context, it would seem that agreeing to disagree is actually agreeing to argue the opposite, not just to step aside.

If two people agree to disagree, there would seem to be the risk that they have yet to really understand what the other person is thinking. "I think that we should take the car in to be looked at" might be something that two people would express different opinions about: "no, honey, there is no need for that." Hmm, "let's just agree to disagree." But sometimes, it is the underlying assumptions that are actually where the differences exist. "I am qualified to diagnose it myself, and it sounds like you don't respect my ability." "I know that you are capable, but you don't have time to work on it yourself." Maybe what is heard is, "I disagree that it is important to you, since it is not important to me." Instead, perhaps, the two parties agree on A LOT: ensuring reliability of the car is important, someone in the house has useful skills, mechanics are expensive, money is tight, time is precious. Perhaps we sometimes take the easy way out from understanding one another and resort to, "let's just agree to disagree," resulting in a failure to appreciate that we actually do agree on many things.

One of the earliest records of the popularizing of this phrase was written by John Wesley about George Whitefield in the 1700s. Wesley, the founder of Methodism, was quoting Whitefield, a Reformed preacher of the Great Awakening, as having used the phrase "agree to disagree" in the context of agreeing on the essentials of the faith with Wesley even while disagreeing on some less-important particulars. That Wesley recalled Whitefield as being willing to end the debate on minor issues is interesting, since Whitefield famously criticized Wesley on a number of theological points, several of which might have been considered fairly essential by one of them. In response to Wesley's view that someone could achieve perfection in this life, Whitefield said publicly, "I am yet persuaded, you greatly err." Furthermore, Whitefield wrote to Wesley repeatedly arguing against the Arminianism of the Methodists. Perhaps Whitefield's persistence is what prompted Wesley to recall fondly the instances in which he heard the phrase "agree to disagree."

In Acts 15:36-41, Paul and Barnabas found themselves in a similar situation. These two apostles had worked very closely together, teaching and preaching. They were planning some follow-up visits to churches that they had previously spent time encouraging together. (The name Barnabas means "son of encouragement.") Barnabas wanted to bring Mark with them. However, Paul had some concerns about Mark's faithfulness. Paul and Barnabas sharply disagreed and decided to separate. Barnabas went one way and took Mark; Paul went another, taking Silas. Apparently, they had agreed to disagree. This passage of Scripture is interesting because it reminds us that godly men can disagree and still carry out their callings. Notice, however, that they were not disagreeing on theological principles, but only on their concerns about how to structure the missions team. It is important for the church to agree on principles. We expect there to be disagreement on practices. Paul and Barnabas debated their views and then eventually agreed to move forward separately. Scripture affirms respectful debate.

Even a casual glance at the news indicates that there is much disagreement about when and how society ought to re-open in the midst of the pandemic. What is not evident is that there is open dialogue, respectful debate. We cannot be certain whether the disagreements are over principles or practices. Moreover, it is not clear how the two sides would be able to agree to disagree -- to part ways like Paul and Barnabas seems impractical since the nature of the issue is that society either reopens or it does not. In this context, we commend you to prayerfully consider your own situation. We can agree on key principles: life is precious, society needs to function, we cannot remain isolated forever. We can have diverse viewpoints on various practices. But, in the midst of the confusion, we can also rely upon God's Word, His Spirit, and His church for guidance. Please pray for wisdom, respectfully share your perspective, listen to others, and follow your conscience. Feel free to join us for worship this Sunday, as you discern what is most appropriate. May God be glorified in your efforts to resolve this conflict. May we be able to do more than just agree to disagree -- let us love one another, as Christ loved the church.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 5/14/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. - Romans 8:26

One of the greatest pieces of art ever created has hung on your refrigerator. Maybe it is there right now, or maybe it has long since been removed. But, you are quite aware that beautiful works of art have been created on kitchen and dining room tables -- or maybe in the middle of the living room floor. What made these creations so lovely and special? The creator: Your little artist!

Each of us has been given gifts and talents by our Creator. We are precious in His sight and He delights to look upon His children. In fact, we have been created in His image with some degree of creativity like our Father in heaven. Unlike God, we cannot create something from nothing, but like Him we can fashion works that reflect His glory and thereby delight ourselves and others.

What makes us and our creativity so special? Our Creator! He grants spiritual blessings and physical talents that reverberate with His creation. Our prayers are a form of creative expression: As we speak to God, we reflect His grace and our words are fashioned by the Holy Spirit into magnificent works that delight our Creator. Even when we don’t know what to say, God's Spirit takes our crayon scribbles and turns them into the Mona Lisa. He intercedes for us. Today, in the midst of this pandemic, we might not know what to pray for as we ought, but let us join together with the Spirit in groanings that are too deep for words.

Here are some prayer items for today: Peyton Andrews, Dorothy's granddaughter, is doing well after having pins and a cast to reset a broken arm in Jackson yesterday. Bill Humbarger remains in isolation with C Diff; please continue to pray for his recovery.

I have attached the bulletin for the Sunday morning worship service, as well as the prayer list for this week. Please let us know if there are any updates for people on the prayer list.

We look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday! Feel free to join us in-person, if you believe that the risks are manageable. On June 7th, we plan to return to our pattern of celebrating the Lord's Supper on the first Sunday of the month. Stay tuned for additional announcements regarding fellowship meals, VBS, and other activities.

Consider joining our prayer time at 6:30pm today (662-262-5152). It is good to suffer together and rejoice in God’s glory together.

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. - Romans 8:16-17

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 5/13/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. - Philippians 1:8-11

Tonight, feel free to join us at 6:30pm for our weekday prayer time, followed by the last Real People study in our Wednesday Night Live series. We will be meeting in-person in the Fellowship Hall or you may participate through the conference call number: 662-262-5152. We plan to practice appropriate social distancing. I have attached the handout for the discussion.

We will keep you updated on social gathering guidance from the state and local officials. In the meantime, please assume that you are welcome to attend church events in person, especially since we are not expecting many more than 10 people for any gathering. (Today, at the Men's Prayer Breakfast, there were 8 of us. Frank's pancakes were especially tasty -- perhaps in part because it has been so many weeks since he cooked for us. We rejoiced with the food, fellowship, and prayer.)

The Mississippi State Department of Health reported that just over 100,000 people have been tested for the novel coronavirus. There have been 10,090 cases of COVID-19 infection (so, about 10% of those tested). So far, 6,268 of those who have contracted the virus are presumed to have recovered from the illness. The state reports that only a handful of those who have died from the disease did not have an underlying medical condition. The risk factors present for those who died include: hypertension (57%), cardiovascular disease (53%), diabetes (43%), obesity (29%), lung disease (26%), and neurologic conditions (26%). The details imply that the majority of those who died had more than one underlying condition. About 45% of those who passed away were in long-term care facilities. About 95% of the deaths have been people over 50 years old. Please keep in mind that each of these deaths represents a family that has lost a loved one.

Our hearts go out to all who are suffering. How I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 5/12/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. - Proverbs 27:17
And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. - Acts 2:42
For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. - Matthew 18:20

It is another beautiful day in the Delta!

We are pleased to announce that we are resuming our Wednesday morning Men's Prayer Breakfast tomorrow at 6:30am. Frank will be cooking eggs and pancakes and such. Iron will be sharpening iron. Those who would like to be part of the fellowship are welcome to attend. Please consider the risks associated with the pandemic and if you feel that it is important for you to remain at home, please follow your conscience.

The Deacons are scheduled to meet today at 6pm. (As with most of our events now, some people might attend in person, and some by telephone.) Please keep this meeting in prayer as they bring leadership to serve the needs of the congregation.

Our weekday prayer conference call is still scheduled today for 6:30pm (662-262-5152). Since a few of the regular prayer warriors will be in the Deacon's meeting, this might be a good day for others to join the prayer call.

Tomorrow will be the final lesson in our Wednesday Night Live Real People series. Please consider joining in prayer at 6:30pm, followed by the Bible study until 7:30pm. We will have a one-week break (so, no Wednesday night prayer call or lesson on May 20th) and then resume Wednesday Night Live on May 27th. In fact, we plan to be LIVE on that date, including an in-person dinner at 5:45pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please join us if you feel that you are able. We will also have the conference call open for you to join the prayer and lesson via telephone starting at 6:30pm.

As you can see, not even a global epidemic can stop the church. There is a lot going on -- virtually and in-person. Consider joining us to help sharpen iron, fellowship, and delight in the presence of our Lord.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 5/11/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, and the women, and the little ones, and the sojourners who lived among them. - Joshua 8:35

This verse makes it apparent that the full counsel of Scripture is to be given to all people. The Moral Law -- as represented in the 10 commandments -- is not just for those who have mature faith in Jesus Christ. (Some religions teach that only the enlightened and/or educated are equipped to handle Holy Scripture.) Rather, we are to share the blessings and wisdom of God's Word with all people, young and old.

One of the reasons that we have sermon series running through an entire book of the Bible is to ensure that we read, consider, and understand every verse, not picking and choosing based on our own preferences and whims. You have probably noticed that we are currently looking at a New Testament letter (1 Timothy) on Sunday morning, an entire Psalm each Sunday evening, a minor prophet (Jonah) in Sunday School, and an Old Testament narrative (Joshua) in the Ladies' Bible Study on Monday afternoons. This span of study helps us to encounter the full counsel of Scripture. On Wednesday evenings, in our Real People study, we have been looking at just over a dozen lesser-known characters from the Bible with a wide variety of backgrounds (men, women, OT, NT). Our last Real People lesson is this Wednesday evening. We will then take a week off and begin a new series on May 27th. Stay tuned for details, but you can be certain that we will aim for material to broaden your access to the full counsel of God.

The weather was beautiful for a Sit & Chat today. I exchanged waves with many people who drove by. I will miss these days once the Delta summer arrives. I plan to take advantage of the good weather whenever I can as long as social distancing remains at the top of people's minds.

The Mississippi State Department of Health reported only five COVID-19 deaths in the past two days. The average had been more like 11 each day, so this is a noticeable decrease. Our prayers go out to the families who have lost loved ones over the past two months (now 435 in Mississippi). The MSDH indicates that only about 10 of those who have died did not have some sort of underlying condition (such as diabetes and heart disease). In fact, the numbers suggest that a significant percentage of those who have succumbed to the disease had more than one health problem. On the one hand, this implies that the majority of the population can survive exposure to this deadly virus. On the other hand, those who are considered high-risk ought to continue sheltering in place. (Furthermore, the data seems to imply that the overall risks might be mitigated through those who are low-risk encountering greater exposure now -- thus accelerating herd immunity and therefore preparing a safer community for those who are higher-risk. Still, we look to the local health authorities for guidance.)

It is with the above in mind that we remain optimistic that we will be able to celebrate the Lord's Supper on the first Sunday of June. In the interim, our church activities are open to those who choose to attend. (We have not yet exceeded gatherings of more than 10 people. We practice safe distancing.) Please attend or stay at home, as you deem appropriate.

Please keep the officers of the church in prayer, as the Deacons meet tomorrow evening, the Session meets next Monday, and Covenant Presbytery meets [virtually] on Tuesday, May 19th. Don't forget that we have our weekday prayer conference call today at 6:30pm.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 5/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

I look forward to worshiping with you tomorrow! Let us go to the house of the Lord, together -- even if we do so electronically.

Feel free to attend the worship service in person. The governor is beginning to ease up restrictions (e.g., allowing salons to open partially on Monday). With our relatively small congregation, many of whom are considered high-risk, it seems unlikely that we will exceed state guidelines for attendance. So, feel free to join us.

Regardless of whether you worship with us in-person or electronically, I would like to encourage you to put on your Sunday-best and prepare as you would normally for a Sunday gathering in the house of the Lord. With the pandemic, it can be hard to distinguish among the days of the week -- or even the days of the month, or the month itself, for that matter. In the fourth commandment, God instructs us to work six days and then observe a Sabbath rest. Let me encourage you to take His instruction seriously and prepare to worship Him and then to rest in His blessings as you join us. God loves to comfort His people. Let us rest in His comfort, setting the day apart for rest.

I have attached the handout for the adult Sunday School lesson in Jonah. In yesterday's email, I gave you the Sunday morning bulletin and prayer list.

You might recall that a-week-and-a-half ago, testing for the coronavirus was made available in the Dollar General parking lot. It has been reported that of the 688 tests, 12 people were found positive with the virus (1.7% positive for those tested). These tests should not be considered to be statistically representative of the general population. (For example, maybe people decided to get the test because they were experiencing symptoms, and therefore the percentage is higher than it would be otherwise. Alternatively, maybe people who are sick stayed home, thus reducing the number of positives.) Regardless, the test results make one thing absolutely apparent: After 6+ weeks of sheltering, there are still some people in the Indianola area who are carrying the virus. Therefore, we need to continue praying for relief and protection.

Please join with us tomorrow. I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the Lord!"

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 5/8/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

All the nations You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. - Psalm 86:9

One concept that the coronavirus pandemic brings into view is the unity of the entire world: we are ALL in this together. "Pan" in Greek means "all" (we have seen Paul's frequent use of this term in his letter to Timothy). A pandemic is an epidemic affecting all nations. The Bible talks about all the nations quite a bit: there are at least 154 verses that mention something about "all the nations." One of the most memorable examples is a beautiful promise from God in Genesis 18:18, "Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and through him all the nations of the earth will be blessed." Another important instance is God's promise to bring glory through global turmoil described in Haggai 2:7, "And I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts." You see, God will be glorified, as He blesses all nations and even as He shakes all nations. In fact, He is glorified because He can and does shake every nation. They are all in His plan, together.

What do these verses about all nations say about you, personally? They describe your purpose in life. They remind you and emphasize to you that each and every nation -- individually and collectively -- is to glorify God and to be blessed by Him. This means that each and every person -- individually and collectively -- is also to glorify God. What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him for ever. We are all in this together: you are part of God's pan-national purpose to glorify and enjoy Him, in the midst of this pandemic and beyond.

Today would be a great day to recognize how united we all are. The "united nations" is a term that has specific meaning in a political context, but it represents a very biblical theme. Consider the uniting of the nations for the purpose of glorifying God in Revelation 15:4, "Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship you, for your righteous acts have been revealed." You see, we know God's will for the united nations and every individual: Christ has been exalted "so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11)

As we prepare to join with churches throughout all nations in worship this Sunday, let me encourage you to tell others about God's call for unity. Inform friends and family members that God desires all nations to unite in glorifying Him -- not just in eternity, but THIS SUNDAY. Invite your neighbor to join us in united worship this Sunday. God promises to bless all nations; He plans to carry out this global plan through His people: you. I have attached the bulletin for Sunday morning and this week's prayer list. Why not share these with others as you invite them to worship our Lord Jesus Christ? We are all in this together. We are designed to be together in everything:

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. - 1 Corinthians 10:31

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 5/7/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, that I may take pleasure in it and that I may be glorified, says the Lord. You looked for much, and behold, it came to little. And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? declares the Lord of hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house. - Haggai 1:7-9

Some passages of Scripture don't feel very pleasant. This passage from Haggai the prophet was given to a particular people at a specific time. Specifically, it was spoken on August 29, 520 BC -- 2,540 years ago. (We don't know the exact date of every event in the Bible, but we know this one.) The message from the Lord was being given to the people 16 years after they had returned to Jerusalem from exile. God's people had laid the foundation for the temple, but that was about it. They had ceased construction on God's house and had focused on their own homes, building not just walls and a roof but adding paneling to their walls. God was not pleased with their prioritization -- going beyond their own needs and attending to their own comfort above His. They were consumed with personal issues and pleasures. As we discussed in last week's sermon, nourishment and shelter are true needs. Luxuries are not. Focusing on luxuries gets us into trouble.

Being cooped up in our homes is a great way to lose track of godly priorities. In our homes, we can lose sight of God's house. Perhaps you have made good use of the pandemic by organizing your home. Maybe you cleaned out some closets and addressed some much-needed projects. Haggai reminds us that during this time we ought not neglect the needs of God's house.

God builds His house with living stones: "you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 2:5) Today is a good day to reach out to those who have not been part of His house. In your home, what spiritual sacrifices can you offer to God? Could you sacrifice time to bring God's Word to others? Could you discover God's perspective by exploring His Word? This exploration might shed light on His priorities for your life -- His priorities for building His house.

The book of Haggai is very short -- only two chapters. It includes challenges: “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways." (Haggai 1:4-5) In it, the people responded to these challenges by obeying the Lord. The Spirit stirred them up (1:14) and set them in motion. "And the people feared the Lord." (1:12) God comforted them with His commitment to them: "“I am with you, declares the Lord.” (1:13) Consider reading Haggai today to receive guidance, encouragement, and an example covenant faithfulness.

My prayer for you today as you sit in your home is that you would delight in God's presence. During this pandemic, there are many people in our town and around the world who do not know the comfort of God's Spirit. Knowing and obeying God would bring much-needed comfort. Let us all pray for revival. When we prioritize God's ways in Christ, this leads to spiritual renewal. Even though the passages might not be pleasant, the spiritual house needs building. God has equipped you for this important construction work.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 5/6/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. - 1 Timothy 6:10a

This Sunday, our exploration of Paul's first letter to his friend and student Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus, brings us to this familiar verse about loving money and cultivating evil. I look forward to sharing some thoughts on this passage (verses 9 & 10) during the sermon on Sunday morning.

In the meantime, I want to share a few thoughts about covetousness -- loving and desiring something that is not yours. Calvin summarized it this way: "no thought should steal upon us to move our hearts to a harmful covetousness that tends to our neighbor’s loss." It is one thing to admire something that your neighbor has, it is quite another to criticize God's decision to provide it for him instead of for you. Covetousness, at its heart, is being dissatisfied with God's graciousness. Are you more gracious than He is? Are you a better giver? Said differently, the tenth commandment highlights that a truly loving heart delights in God and has no need to look elsewhere for delight. Covetousness is thinking that we need more than God; it is a lack of gratefulness to the One who provides all that we need. He already provides all that we need to have joy. If He didn't, He would not be a loving God. Today, love God, for the love of God is a root of all kinds of righteousness. Today, help your neighbor to love God.

According to the Enterprise-Tocsin, the governor has amended the Safer at Home order such that beginning on Thursday Mississippi restaurants will be able to open their doors to dine-in customers. We look forward to more community events and we are still planning on celebrating the Lord's Supper on Sunday, May 17th. We are hoping to have our Wednesday Night Live fellowship meal on May 20th. In the meantime, we will monitor the guidance from local officials. (BTW - Our May Presbytery meeting is back to being an on-line only meeting.)

The department of health announced 27 new deaths in Mississippi yesterday, which represents close to an 8% increase in the state's total pandemic deaths in one day (this is two and a half times the typical daily rate of the past several weeks). Nearly half of the state's 374 deaths have been in long-term care facilities. Please consider joining us for our weekday prayer at 6:30pm (662-262-5152).

Our weekday prayer will be followed by our Real People study. I have attached the handout for your convenience.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 5/5/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” - Revelation 1:8

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet (and, along with the second letter, Beta, is where we get the word "AlphaBet", ABCs.) Omega is the last letter. Jesus is truly the First and the Last. It's kind of funny, but there is a sense in which when you are speaking, writing, or just spelling words in a given language, it doesn't really matter in what order the letters appear in the alphabet. After all, if "R" came before "J" in the alphabet, would anything change about the meaning of the word "Jar" or the sentence "The door is ajar"? (or in the riddle, "Q: When is a door not a door? A: When it is ajar!"?)

But the reality is that the order of the letters in an alphabet really does matter. This is in part because if the order varied, it would ruin the song, "A B C D E F G ... now I've said my ABCs, next time..." You see, in order to educate someone, young or old, in how to speak, read, and write, we have to teach the foundational elements, so we MUST train them in the order of a language's letters in order to help them to recall them all. So, we teach little kids to sing the alphabet song. Every culture has a similar approach, and the Greek speakers were no different. Also, without a clear order, how would we manage a usable dictionary of a language's words?

During New Testament times, Greek -- very much like English today -- was the common, international language. As an IBM employee, when I traveled to dozens of foreign countries, I could communicate directly with every single fellow employee and nearly every client in English. (Even in Ukraine, where Russia was the common business language -- much to the chagrin of the locals, who despised the neighboring Russians -- we used a translator, but they tried to speak their broken English with me.) I could understand a few words in Russian, but I regretted not knowing the Cyrillic alphabet.

And so, when the Bible tells us that Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, this profound truth makes it obvious that He is the First and the Last. He was there before the beginning and He will return at the last. He truly is, was, and will be, forever. Yahweh is the tetragrammaton ("YHWH"): "I am who I am." God really IS, was, and will be. Jesus really is the Alpha and the Omega. Everyone needs to understand this -- and this universal truth reinforces it.

Have you meditated on this truth this week? When you pray, are you remembering that Jesus always IS? Always WAS? Always WILL BE? When you pray in His name, you are highlighting your acknowledgment that His NAME is the beginning and end of your prayers. His name is important because He is a person and His name represents the character and reality of His personhood. Unlike the false god in false religions, He is not just a force or a concept. He is a living, existing person who can be known and is known by His people. When He speaks, His people recognize His voice. He has a voice because He is a person. He speaks. Do you recognize the voice of the Alpha and Omega? When He returns, will you recognize Him? Knowing Him now will ensure that you know Him for eternity.

God gives you His Word, in the person of Christ, and in all of the books from Genesis to Revelation, so that you may KNOW Him. He preserves His Word in a language that you can understand. He gives you His Spirit so that you will recognize, hear, and obey all that He has taught you. Today, study and familiarize yourself with His WORD. His Spirit equips you.

Today, Frank Covington had some difficult oral surgery. Please pray for a full and quick recovery. Pray for Pat Adams to quickly recover from her surgery last week. Pray for the families in Mississippi who lost seven loved ones to COVID-19 yesterday. Pray especially that they will know the Alpha and Omega. Without Jesus Christ, they will be lost forever. Without Jesus Christ, this pandemic will continue to inflict suffering. With Him, nothing can hurt us. He is coming, KNOW the one who is and was and is to come. When He returns, He will wipe away every tear and death shall be no more (Revelation 21:4). Death will end, but Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, will not. Praise the Lord!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 5/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update - Preparation for Sabbath Worship

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD. - Psalm 118:26

Tomorrow we have the privilege of being called into the house of the Lord to worship the Creator of all things. As you know, the Holy Spirit indwells God's people, so where they are is the house of the Lord!

In preparation for this awesome responsibility of corporate worship, I have attached the bulletin for our 10:45am worship service and the prayer list for this week (I had sent each of these in yesterday's update, but I wanted to make sure that you had easy access to them).

I have also attached the handout for the 9:30am adult Sunday School study on the book of Jonah (accessible at 662-262-5152).

I look forward to joining with you in worship, even if via livestream (http://indianolapca.org/livestream) or conference call (662-262-5152).

I would also like to encourage you to observe the day as a regular day of worship: get dressed for church! put away distractions, join in real-time, and stay focused on glorifying God with holy reverence. We don't intend to let the pandemic get in the way of worship! In fact, the isolation makes this day of worshiping Him together even more sweet.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 5/1/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him. From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will perform before those who fear him. The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord! May your hearts live forever! - Psalm 22:24-26

I am not very picky when it comes to food. I will eat just about anything. I appreciate a thick ribeye steak accompanied by a side of asparagus with Hollandaise sauce. I enjoy hot dogs of all sorts -- all beef franks or whatever mysterious combination of meat and meat-by-products they throw together. Oh, I wish I were an Oscar Meyer Weiner, that is what I'd truly like to be. 'Cause if...

Hold on a minute. As you read that sentence, did you find yourself lilting into the melody of that classic jingle? How about if I said, "Everything is beautiful, in it's own way?" Would your mind start to imagine hearing the lyrics and music of a familiar old song? Likewise, can you read "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound" without thinking of the tune to this classic hymn? Could you read aloud all of the lyrics to Amazing Grace without breaking out into song?

Psalm 22 begins with "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?" As we have been talking about on Sunday evenings, the Psalms are songs. They were set to music and sung in worship. In Mark 15 and Matthew 27, we read that, on the cross, "Jesus cried with a loud voice, 'Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?' which means, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'" He was crying out the opening lyrics to a well-known song, Psalm 22. It seems almost guaranteed that Jesus was not just saying these words, but was likely singing as He hung there on the cross. Singing would have both reflected His devotion as well as comforted His mind. Though only the opening verse is recited, it seems evident that Jesus was thinking of the entire Psalm. He knew and was reminding others that God has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted. God has not hidden His face from the afflicted. God has heard when He cries out to Him. (Psalm 22:24)

Jesus knows that even though afflicted, He shall eat and be satisfied. Those who seek Him shall praise the Lord. (Psalm 22:26) This brings great comfort and contentment to God's people.

In the difficult times of the coronavirus pandemic, we need songs like Psalm 22. we need to remind and be reminded of God's faithful comforting of the afflicted. This is a good day to share with others how God has comforted you in times of affliction. God gives us the praise to sing in the great congregation. He gives His people perseverance through His Word and Spirit. He comforts through His people singing together. Let us prepare to sing praises to Him as we worship together this Lord's Day.

I have attached the bulletin for Sunday morning worship. I have also attached this week's prayer list. The prayer list includes a short devotional about prayer. Even as you pray at home this week, know that your family at First Presbyterian is singing along with you. Rejoice together, even in the midst of affliction. God is good. May your hearts live forever!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 4/30/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Pray without ceasing - 1 Thessalonians 5:17

On 3/16/20, I started emailing you daily updates on what is happening at First Presbyterian during the coronavirus pandemic. Yesterday, I sent you several 3:16 verses that are worth memorizing (and are easier to memorize than most Scripture passages, since you already know the chapter and verse numbers). Today is 4/30/20, which means that we have been facing pandemic challenges for more than a month and half. The governor's most recent order to be Safer At Home ends on 5/11/20. We are hopeful that we will be able to celebrate the Lord's Supper on 5/17/20. Please keep this date in prayer. We understand that not everyone will be ready to attend a corporate worship service in-person as soon as then. We want you to join us if you feel comfortable. In the meantime, please continue to worship with us in real-time via livestream and/or conference call. We plan to offer you these alternatives for months to come.

We are called to encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. Yesterday, "Apostle Herb" Bettis visited our Sit & Chat and shared with me a thick binder of his spiritual writings. He says that the Holy Spirit has placed a burden on him regarding Sabbath observance. I look forward to discussing biblical truths with him further. Nona also came by and it was great to share family memories. It was especially encouraging to have Pat on our prayer call, only a few hours after her surgery. We pray for her continued recovery and are grateful that Elizabeth can be in town with her.

This afternoon, the weather was beautiful and Debbie and I hosted the Sit & Chat on the church lawn. We were delighted to be visited by Ellie and Sarah (who graciously brought Callie along with them to enjoy play time under the banner). Sally, Sterrett, and Blossom (the newest Lessmann puppy) joined us, as well. Georgia and Tom stopped by with updates on Bill, who is doing well. Please continue praying for his physical therapy. We rejoice that Bill is able to receive attentive care and dialysis during the lockdown. It was very refreshing to catch up with Tom -- life and work go on despite the pandemic. Spending time sitting & chatting makes me long for a more full restoration of interaction with the entire church family. As we await the lifting of restrictions, if the sun is shining, feel free to swing by and Sit & Chat.

We are called to pray without ceasing. This does not mean that we lock ourselves in a prayer closet all day long. Rather, as we go about our lives and business, we are to take opportunities to lift up prayers of praise, thanksgiving, and requests to meet our needs. God is our only hope and we can rely upon Him. God is constantly -- unceasingly -- with His people. Speak to Him of your joys and concerns. He listens and encourages. Prayers help you to focus on His faithfulness. I hope that you can join us in our weekday prayer time (6:30 -- 662-262-5152). Regardless, know that we are praying for you, our family.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 4/29/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

• Attached is the handout for this evening's Real People study. I hope that you can join us at 6:30pm for prayer and study (662-262-5152). Tonight, we will be discussing what living faith looks like - living the Good News of the Gospel.

I am confident that you know the above verse by heart. If someone asks about what you know of God's love, or about why God would allow His Son to suffer, you probably know John 3:16 so well that you think about including this verse in your response. In fact, I am guessing that if someone happens to say just 'three-sixteen', or has '3:16' written in grease on his face, the words of this verse cross your mind.

That said, there are other 3:16s in God's Word that are worth knowing. When Adam and Eve sinned against God, He made a pronouncement first against the serpent and then to Adam. This statement in Genesis 3:15 is considered the "Proto-Evangelium" (the first announcement of the Gospel / Good News). The very next verse was the pronouncement made to Eve regarding effects of sin on the world:

• To the woman he said, “I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be contrary to your husband, but he shall rule over you.” - Genesis 3:16

Eve and her children would need a Savior to be redeemed from Sin and its effects. John the Baptist was like a second Elijah, announcing the coming of this Savior to fulfill the Good News of the Gospel:

• John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. - Luke 3:16

That Jesus is this Savior who is the Good News of the Gospel was confirmed by the testimony of the Holy Spirit at His baptism:

• And when Jesus was baptized, immediately He went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on Him. - Matthew 3:16

The Good News of the Gospel is the magnificent truth of Jesus's incarnation, redeeming work, and glory, which demonstrates the mystery of godliness, as we have been studying in our sermon series:

• Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory. - 1 Timothy 3:16

God reveals the truth of this mystery to us through His inspired, inerrant, and infallible Word that has been preserved by His Spirit and revealed to you through the Spirit so that you may benefit directly from His truth, especially to share the Good News of the Gospel with others:

• All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. - 2 Timothy 3:16

And if you have received faith in the Good News of the Gospel, then Holy Spirit testifies to you and dwells in you:

• Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? - 1 Corinthians 3:16

Just as the thick veil from floor to ceiling in the Temple had kept the unholy and unrighteous from entering into God's presence, a spiritual veil separates the rebellious from God. Jesus torn open this veil for all who would believe:

• But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. - 2 Corinthians 3:16

With the removal of the spiritual veil, God grants you the dwelling of His Spirit to give you power to overcome temptation and to carry out His will:

• That according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being. - Ephesians 3:16

We can truly know Jesus and therefore know love through the faith that allows us to understand the Good News of the Gospel - a faith that cultivates and nourishes our love for God and others:

• By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. - 1 John 3:16

And so, we are called to love one another by encouraging each other through the Good News of the Gospel:

• Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. - Colossians 3:16

Let us then do so - Let the Word of Christ, the mystery of godliness, the magnificent Good News of the Gospel, dwell in you richly.

• Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 4/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise. - Jeremiah 17:14

God is good, all the time. We praise God today for carrying Pat Adams through her gall bladder surgery. She is doing well and is expected to be home this evening. It is wonderful how God has granted the medical community with technology and procedures that can cure our ailments. Please pray for Pat's quick and complete recovery. We rejoice that Elizabeth can be with her mother at this time and pray that Kenny will return to New Orleans safely tomorrow and get past his two-week quarantine after traveling. I am certain that Pat and many others look forward to getting back to work soon. This pandemic has been a challenge for us all and we look to God for relief.

Today, Debbie and I dropped off materials (the upcoming worship bulletin, the prayer list, and email updates from previous weeks) to those in our congregation who do not have access to email. Miss Doris looked well and is looking forward to being able to receive visitors. Jimmy and Bootise were in good spirits, even as Bootsie awaits the result of her coronavirus test. Miss Carol was happily mowing her lawn and has been looking after some of her great-grandchildren. Please continue praying for Natalie's knee. God is good, all the time.

The rain thwarted our efforts to Sit & Chat today, but we look forward to sitting out tomorrow.

Our Presbytery held a called meeting today (with six Elders in attendance) and voted to approve rules allowing us to conduct video meetings during government-mandated lockdowns in times of crisis. Please pray for the first of these, our May 19th Presbytery meeting.

I hope that you are making the best of these times. As I have mentioned in previous updates, this is a good time to read Scripture, memorize Bible verses, and take advantage of our on-line and telephone-enabled prayer times and studies. Also, be sure to let us know of any prayer needs so that we can keep the church members updated. We might be socially distant in physical terms, but we remain spiritually close to one another during this pandemic.

Mississippi reported 10 more deaths today, indicating that COVID-19 remains a difficult health problem, but also indicating that the epidemic remains flat in its overall impact. Please continue to pray for those affected, especially the families, medical professionals, and the current 429 people who are hospitalized for COVID-19 within our state. We trust that God is glorified in this -- and that His name will be lifted up by His people. Be sure to join us at 6:30pm (662-262-5152) as we pray each weekday for continued relief. God is good, all the time. He is our praise.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 4/27/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. - 2 Timothy 1:3-4

It has been nearly a month since the governor announced a shelter-in-place order for our state. The safer-at-home order is in place until May 11th. For the first time in weeks, the number of reported COVID-19 deaths in Mississippi in one day has dropped to 2. We mourn with the families who have lost loved ones and we pray for relief.

Yesterday, a few people reported some choppiness in the video of our livestreamed worship services, but it sounded like for the most part people were able to participate. Casey has been working on improving the video quality and reliability. We are grateful that so many people have made use of the video and conference call access. We look forward to being able to gather in-person again soon. We remain hopeful that we will be able to celebrate the Lord's Supper on May 17th. Rest assured that we will continue our streaming and dial-in services for the foreseeable future for those who need to protect themselves by staying at home.

Today, we had an encouraging Ladies' Bible Study on Joshua 8. Please consider joining us next Monday at 1pm for this weekly time of study and encouragement.

Tomorrow, Pat Adams is scheduled for gall bladder surgery. Please keep her in your prayers.

This week, virus testing is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday in the Dollar General parking lot (as announced in the Enterprise-Tocsin):

• Delta Health Center, which has provided hundreds of tests throughout the Delta in recent weeks, will be setting up a drive-thru testing site at the former Walmart location, which is now the shopping center that houses Dollar Tree and Hibbett Sports.

• Located at 510 Hwy. 82 W., testing will be available this coming Wednesday and Thursday (April 29-30).

• The hours for testing will be 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesday and 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday.

• If a patient wishes to be tested and has insurance, they are encouraged to bring their insurance card.

• All are asked to bring a valid ID.

• https://www.enterprise-tocsin.com/front-page-slideshow-news/covid-19-test-site-coming-indianola#sthash.CE31EHtb.dpbs

Every day, I thank God whom I serve. I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 4/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him - Luke 2:25

The account of Simeon in Luke's Gospel tells us that he had been waiting patiently for the Messiah for many years. During Wednesday night's Real People study, we discussed how God had granted this great patience to Simeon. It seems that we, too, are called to great patience. The governor of Mississippi announced today that many of the Shelter-In-Place measures that had been set to expire on Monday will continue under a new Safer-At-Home order at least until May 11th. In particular, the order continues the ban on all non-essential gatherings of 10 or more. As a church, we intend to honor this guidance and therefore we will continue operating as we have been for the past several weeks. Some key points:

• We will continue using livestream and dial-in conference call audio to conduct our worship services, Bible studies, and prayer times.

• If you would like to attend any of these events in person, please let us know ahead of time so that we can ensure that no more than 10 people are present.

• We intend to celebrate the Lord's Supper as soon as the isolation orders are lifted. If the Safer-At-Home order ends on May 11th, our tentative plan is to have communion on May 17th. We are keeping the sanctuary wiped down and will have social distancing measures in place.

• Even after these orders are lifted, we intend to continue offering livestream and conference call audio for church activities. This will support those those who need to remain isolated at home longer. 

In preparation for this Lord's Day, I have attached four documents:

• The bulletin for Sunday morning worship, including lyrics to the hymns.

• The handout for this Sunday's adult Sunday school class (Jonah).

• This week's prayer list, including the sermon outline. (Again, please let me know of any prayer updates / additions / deletions.)

• The handout for "young worshippers" to use for taking notes during the sermon.

I look forward to worshiping with you.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 4/23/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. - Philippians 4:21-22

Happy St. George's Day! This is my greeting to you, today. 'What," you might ask, "is St. George's Day, and why would anyone recognize it?"

The first Hoopes came to America in 1683. This forefather of mine, Daniel, lived in Yorkshire, England and was a Quaker. He left town when his house was burned down. The locals were not very tolerant of his unorthodox religion, so he sought freedom in the Quaker community of the Pennsylvania Colony which had been established two years earlier. He came across on the 13th and final ship of William Penn's fleet and settled in Bucks County. The house that his son Joshua built, "Brooznoll," is still standing in Chester County, PA. Eventually, some of the Hoopeses would join another unorthodox (and false) religion, Mormonism, and escaped persecution by heading to Utah. Hubert Humphrey and a former head of the Latter Day Saints were also descendants of Daniel Hoopes.

The first ancestor of my mother to come to the New World was a Scottish Loyalist. Because he had been loyal to the British crown, this Abernathy was given a one-way ticket, all-expense paid trip to the colonies by Oliver Cromwell in 1651. I suppose that it is hard for a Scotsman to reject a free ocean cruise. My Scottish Presbyterian ancestors settled in North Carolina. One of their homes is still standing as a museum. Eventually, their descendants settled in northern Mississippi near Holly Springs. I have relatives buried in the cemetery of the Presbyterian church there.

My great-great grandfather, William Meschack Abernathy served in the War of Northern Aggression and personally carried Longstreet's last message of surrender to General Lee. Abernathy was present at Appomattox. When he returned to Mississippi, he found that the family's plantation had been burned. Many of them relocated to Texas. It is amazing that some of the houses of my ancestors have been preserved to this day since so many of them seem to have consistently inspired other people to set fire to their homes.

St. George is believed to have died on April 23, 303. He is regarded as the patron saint of England. Richard the Lionheart allegedly saw George in a vision while heading to fight the crusades. My brother John, who has a PhD in archaeology, has traced our lineage to Richard's opposing brother, Prince John. Given the political and religious beliefs of my ancestors, I doubt that many of them would have placed much stock in St. George. Beyond this, in the 1960s, the Roman Catholics removed St. George's Day from the official calendar of feast days. For me, recognizing St. George is humorous satire.

Debbie's maiden name is Ragan and her ancestors hailed from Ireland. When we got married, I told her that I would be willing to observe St. Patrick's Day if and only if we also observed St. George's Day. (I love corned beef and cabbage, so I enjoy St. Patrick's Day, regardless.) My tongue-in-cheek request was grounded in my biblical view that there is merit in remembering the trials and travails of our forefathers. For many years, we would wear blue on April 23rd and invite church families over to eat beef, put on skits, sing songs, and honor heroes. These observances were in no way religious in nature and, if anything, highlighted that many of our ancestors had curious, unorthodox practices. I come from a rebellious stock. My earliest forefather, Adam, set the rebellious standard for all his descendants of ordinary generation (WSC #16).

In Scripture, the term "saints" refers to the "holy ones" who are set apart by the Holy Spirit. It does not refer to a special class of believers (so it is not those "canonized" by the church), but are simply all those who have faith in Jesus Christ. If you have faith in Christ, you are a believer -- you are a saint. If George who died in the fourth century had faith, then he is a saint. A vision by the King of England does not make him so. It is not believable that St. George is the "patron saint" of any particular country -- though at least four countries regard him as such. The Bible does not indicate that any of the elect who have died serve in such capacity, and moreover the Bible teaches against such superstition.

Would you consider joining with me today to honor the saints of the past? I am not asking you to "celebrate" them. Rather, I am encouraging you to deny such man-instituted holidays and instead to co-opt the celebrations by recognizing that God has done marvelous things through all the saints (believers) who have gone before us. For me, today is a fun day to thank God for His provision and acknowledge that even though many of our ancestors did silly things, God used them to bring us to where we are today. In particular, God prepared the generations that gave you life and preserved His Word through the saints of ages past. You probably are aware of someone with faith who helped to share his faith with you.

We celebrate each other's birthdays as a way of thanking God for His gift of life. You, too, can thank God today and every day for what He does and continues to do through you and all the saints of First Presbyterian. Pray for -- not to -- the saints of today. Pray that the nation's leaders would be saints by having faith in Jesus Christ. Every country needs need living patron saints. The memory of St. George reminds us of this great need. Even though the pandemic prevents us from inviting families to our house on St. George's Day this year, we can still recognize our gratitude for the real saints who have gone before us. And our gratitude for you, the holy ones set apart for Christ.

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 4/22/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. - Revelation 7:16-17

Someone once calculated that the Bible records 7,487 promises from God to man. I don't know how accurate this number is, but the magnitude seems about right. God promises a lot and He will keep all that He promises. There are 31,102 verses in the Bible. It isn't surprising that, on average, one in four verses contains a promise. The above two verses contain 7 promises.

A promise commonly given by God is that He will dwell with His people. This Immanuel ("God is with us") Principle occurs so many times in a variety of ways (such as, 1 Corinthians 6:16: “I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people") that it is hard to count. This promise also appears indirectly, such as in Matthew 1:23: "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us)".

Another great promise of God is that He will wipe away every tear. He promises this directly (such as in Isaiah 25:8 and Revelation 21:4), as well as indirectly (such as in John 1:29, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"). That the removal of the pain, punishment, and presence of sin wipes away every tear is reflected in 1 Corinthians 15:54-55, “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” Paul continues, "The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor 15:56-57). You see, when sin is vanquished, every tear is wiped away.

Johnson's Baby Shampoo was marketed as "No More Tears," the idea being that it didn't burn ones eyes, so it caused no tears. God's promise to wipe away every tear is very different. Sin and death cause tears, including historic tears. Christ wipes away these tears with His sacrificial love. God promises that all tears will be wiped away AND death will be no more. God's dwelling with His people for eternity promises this. In the meantime, we can stand of the promises of God. During this pandemic, let us help others to know and rest on these promises. There are many people experiencing tears now. Let us help wipe away the tears with knowledge of these promises of Christ's return.

Promises look forward. We are also called to remember Christ's work on the cross and to celebrate His current work at the Father's right hand. We are tentatively planning to celebrate the Lord's Supper during morning worship in a few weeks. Please mark your calendars and consider joining us in-person. We intend to implement safe social distancing. Please pray that God will enable the circumstances to allow this on Sunday, May 10th.

Attached is the handout for today's weekly Real People study, which will commence immediately following the weekday prayer conference call at 6:30pm. I pray that you will be able to join us.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. - 1 Corinthians 15:58

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 4/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. - James 5:13-16

Today, I sat out in the glorious sunshine and waved to people driving on Catchings as I read Scripture and jotted down notes for an upcoming sermon. It is clear that some people love the opportunity to exchange even a momentary interaction -- some gleefully smiling and fervently waving back. Debbie came by at about 12:30 and we ate lunch in our comfortable lawn chairs. We got even more waves. God blesses this community with lots of sunshine and cheerful people. As James said, is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise! I praise God for His gracious provision to His church and this land.

At the same time, there are plenty of people -- here in the Delta and elsewhere -- who are suffering. As James said, if someone is suffering, let him pray. I pray that God will relieve the suffering in short order. He has a plan, and He will do it in His wise timing, but He calls me to pray for quick relief, just the same. AND, He answers prayers. We were encouraged to hear that Val's mother, Mamie Trussell, who had been suffering from pneumonia, has been released from the hospital. Praise God for quick relief! We have all been praying for Bill Humbarger to receive healing, and we are also very grateful that during this pandemic he has the opportunity to be in a very safe environment as he recuperates and transitions back to Indianola. God has been very good to him.

James says that if anyone among you is sick, let him call for the elders to pray over him. God's Word promises that he will be raised up. Your Session of elders is meeting today at 6pm. Please share with us your prayer needs. We will be delighted to pray over you. We know that God will fulfill His promises. Please also pray for the righteousness of your church officers. James tells us that the prayer of a righteous person has great power. The righteous prayers of the church for the righteousness of her officers brings great power as it is working.

Our church is a family of sinners. I know that this is true because Scripture tells us that none is righteous, no not one (Romans 3:10) and all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). So, you might ask, 'Well if none is righteous, then who can pray a righteous prayer?' We are made righteous through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. "But now the righteousness of God has been manifested ... the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22). And so, when you pray, know that the power comes from the work of Christ and His righteousness imputed to you through faith.

We have power in our prayers! The Holy Spirit grants us this power. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. Today, may you exercise this power. This great power! May our community and land be healed through your powerful prayers, and the power of the prayers of your elders, as they pray over you. The prayer of faith will save the one who is sick. Many are sick. Let us pray for salvation. Pray that God will continue giving us all opportunities to Sit & Chat.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 4/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For he delivers the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy. - Psalm 72:12-13

During this pandemic, there are many who are needy. Psalm 72 includes a prayer for the coming king who will "defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the children of the needy" (verse 4). Today is a good day to bring to mind those people who were already struggling to make ends meet and have no become even less hopeful about managing during these difficult economic times. Our prayers include the needy receiving help for their physical needs, help for their spiritual needs, and wisdom for those in authority with power to help. Please pray especially for the church to be able to minister to those in need.

Yesterday, we had quite a few people who accessed our Lord's Day worship via livesteam and dial-in. Several people indicated that the services came through clearly and were very worshipful.

First Presbyterian is a praying church. We lift up prayers daily for others. Attached is a prayer list for this week. Please let us know of any updates to specific prayer items. For example, if you know of someone whose status ought to be updated, or if you can think of someone who ought to be on the list, please send me an email. We will update and send the list out regularly.

I pray that you are able to join us for our weekday prayer time at 6:30pm: 662-262-5152.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 4/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!” - Psalm 122:1

Tomorrow, we plan to livestream the First Presbyterian Church morning and evening worship services. In the morning, we intend to include live music for our hymns! You may participate in worship by either connecting to the livestream feed via your computer / ipad / smartphone, or by listening in on the telephone conference call:

• Adult Sunday School (the Book of Jonah, week 2, Jonah 1:1-5) at 9:30am:

  • Video: https://www.uberconference.com/firstpresindianola

  • Conference Call Audio: 662-262-5152

• Morning Worship at 10:45am:

  • Livestream Video: http://IndianolaPCA.org/Livestream

  • Conference Call Audio: 662-262-5152

• Evening Worship at 5:00pm:

  • Livestream Video: http://IndianolaPCA.org/Livestream

  • Conference Call Audio: 662-262-5152

I have attached the handout for Sunday School and the bulletin for morning worship. Please let me know if you have any questions.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 4/17/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Dear Diary,

Today, I sheltered in place. I also read two devotionals by the puritan John Flavel. He talked about how man naturally loves sin so much that even though one knows about eternal punishment, one might rebel against God by continuing to wallow in sin. I also read from John Calvin's Institute's of Christian Religion about the moral law (the 10 commandments).  I prayed for the church and for my family.

Yesterday, I mentioned that the governor's isolation order creates an opportunity for God's people to memorize Scripture verses. Having to shelter-in-place also creates an opportunity to practice the age-old spiritual discipline of journaling. By writing in a journal -- a diary -- you can capture your thoughts about ways that you have exercised the ordinary means of grace. Maybe you want to find a blank book and jot done ideas as you meditate on God's Word. You could type these into your computer. You can write down a verse that you are seeking to memorize. You can maintain a list of things that you brought before the Lord in prayer. You can also capture questions that you think of that deserve future exploration.

By journaling, you can:

1. Refine your focus on spiritual matters. If you believe something, you ought to be able to write it down, and having written it down, you can evaluate the degree to which you actually believe it. This spiritual discipline helps you to understand your beliefs better.

2. Reinforce your commitment. As you understand concepts better, you can strengthen your appreciation of God's revealed truth.

3. Resolve to take action. Strengthened faith can prompt meditation on what to do about how to handle certain situations.

4. Review what you have pondered. Over the course of days, you can grasp what issues and prayer items have received your attention.

5. Recall previous thoughts. A diary of activities can spawn deeper thoughts on these matters.

6. Restructure your priorities. Documented thoughts become the subject of personal plans.

7. Resist temptation to be distracted from your calling. By writing down your ideas, you give yourself an ability to revisit them throughout the day.

8. Reconsider important concepts. Even when thoughts are fleeting, an opportunity to capture them on paper or electronically can allow you to evaluate and implement these thoughts.

9. Reach for more. Oftentimes, we return to the same prayers and topics. Remembering your ideas can elicit a desire to expand your focus to include new items.

10. Recite your blessings. Especially during difficult times, we need the reassurance of knowing that God is at work.

I'm sure that you can think of even more ways that journaling can enhance your knowledge of God and your awareness of sin. This activity improves your recognition of your dependence upon God. Memorizing Bible verses gives you immediate access to God's truth. Writing down your thoughts gives you direct access to how His truth is working in your life. These are great habits for learning how to glorify and enjoy God in exciting ways. Why not try it today?

Consider these verses in the context of daily journaling:

• I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. - Psalm 119:11

• If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9

• For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. - Romans 8:5

• Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. - Psalm 19:14

• But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. - Psalm 1:2

Preparing to worship God this Lord's Day:

• Attached is the worship bulletin for Sunday morning. I look forward to worshiping with you in spirit and truth.

Thanks for listening, Diary.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 4/16/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

What is one of the best things that you can do during the order to shelter-in-place? Memorize Scripture verses!

Here are several verses from the Letter to the Romans that would bring ongoing blessings to you and others:

• For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23

• For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23

• But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8

• Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. - Romans 5:1

• There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. - Romans 8:1

• For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39

• For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified. - Romans 8:29-30

• And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. - Romans 8:28

A few of the above verses are part of what is referred to as "the Romans Road," which is an evangelism tool used to help people understand some principles of faith. In 1998, when Debbie and I led our church's involvement in a Billy Graham Crusade, our 6-week training included memorizing many of these.

The last verse above is especially valuable to know by heart so that you can comfort others. All things really do work together for good. This is because God really is in control of all things. God is good and ensures that all things work for His glory and therefore all is for good. During difficult times, it is easy for our emotions to try to convince us that all is not good. Emotions are quite valuable. Emotions alert us to things. It is like when we feel the burning sensation on the tip of our finger when we touch a hot oven. The slight pain alerts us to pull our hand away quickly and therefore to escape a more serious burn. When our emotions tell us that things feel bad, we are alerted to quickly turn to God and ask for His comfort and reassurance. Please be aware that people around you might not know what to do with their emotions. God has put you where you are to help those who are afraid. The above verses are excellent biblical truths that you can memorize and share when you hear someone fretting. They are also useful to give yourself comfort. By memorizing them, you can recite comforting words from God to yourself in the dark in the middle of the night.

Why not pick a verse and spend time each day committing it to memory? Paste it to your bathroom mirror and refrigerator. Leave a card next to your remote control. Recite it when you answer your telephone and/or as you hang up. Teach it to your children.

The weather today was glorious! I sat out on the church parking lot and enjoyed chats with several people. It was especially delightful to talk with Leet and John. Please join our weekday prayer call at 6:30pm today (662-262-5152).

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 4/15/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity. Honor widows who are truly widows. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. She who is truly a widow, left all alone, has set her hope on God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day, but she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives. Command these things as well, so that they may be without reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. - 1 Timothy 5:1-8

I had preached on the above verses about a month ago, so I hope that they do not seem too jarring out of context. I do believe that Paul wants us to encounter some jarring when it comes to taking seriously our calling to care for others.

The Mississippi State Department of Health has been reporting confirmed COVID-19 cases, associated deaths, and outbreaks in long-term care facilities (LTCs). They reported that the number of LTCs with COVID-19 outbreaks increased yesterday from 60 to 66. Today, please be praying for the people in these facilities, their families, and the care providers who look after them. Feel free to join us on our 6:30pm prayer call today (662-262-5152) to lift up our community, nation, and world in prayer. After our weekday prayer time, we will look at our weekly Real People Bible lesson. I hope that you can join us. I have attached the handout for this evening's lesson.

Please feel free to stop by our Sit & Chat and enjoy the crisp weather with me.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 4/14/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. - Titus 3:1-7

The above passage makes me think about all of the people in society today who are sheltering-in-place and perhaps therefore facing the sort of stress that challenges relationships. It is with these thoughts in mind that I believe that the church must increase our efforts to bring the Gospel to everyone.

Today, I set up for the Sit & Chat on the church lawn. After a brief time, I had to abandon the effort today due to the wind gusts -- I was concerned that the banner might get damaged. I plan to be out there again tomorrow.

The 48th General Assembly (GA) of the PCA had been scheduled for June in Birmingham. We had been planning for Q and me to attend. Yesterday, the denomination announced that this national, annual meeting of Ruling and Teaching Elders would be postponed until next year. Through the General Assembly, the denomination deals with a variety of issues, including important requests ('overtures') submitted from individual Presbyteries. (Our denomination is composed of about 89 Presbyteries, each of which has on average more than 20 congregations.)

By postponing GA until June of 2021, it is not yet obvious how we will address any particularly pressing topics. (For example, the Stated Clerk of the denomination is slated to retire this year, so there will probably be an appointment of a provisional coordinator, perhaps Dr. Bryan Chapell, to serve until we can vote next year.) We will keep you informed as we learn more. Keep in mind that our Presbytery is facing similar challenges on how to meet (approximately quarterly) during this pandemic. Our Presbytery is working on meeting and voting in a virtual format (which will be difficult enough for a hundred people at the Presbytery level; it is downright infeasible for nearly 1,500 people at the GA level).

Please pray for our congregation, our Presbytery, our denomination, and the entire church worldwide, that we may minister to people's needs. And pray for all of the medical professionals and first responders as they face increased challenges during this time.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 4/13/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Who is God?

This is an important question, and it is no less important during the coronavirus pandemic.

In the past 24 hours, it appears that more people in Mississippi died from tornadoes than from COVID-19. There is a sense in which this is good news: we need to be aware that there are threats to our lives that go beyond the pandemic. A partial answer to my introductory question is that God is the one who gives life and who takes life away. Everyone in the world, including your friends, neighbors, and family, needs to know this. A slight expanded answer is that God is who He reveals Himself to be. He reveals Himself in His Word and He reveals Himself in nature.

Thus, everyone is called to study who God is by looking for Him in the world and in Scripture.

As the giver of life, God is gracious and kind. As the one who takes life away, God is just and powerful. In a world that has been corrupted by sin, we are to expect death. This is because the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). But, the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). God has chosen to give life -- eternal life -- through His Son. He gives this life to all who believe (John 3:16). Our prayers ought to be that God will send His Holy Spirit to grant faith to those who are suffering. Do you know anyone who is suffering? Then pray for God's Spirit to work in their hearts to grant them faith. The pandemic gives us a very active, tangible reminder to be on our knees.

Yesterday, we were able to worship God by gathering by livestream and telephone to lift up His name, to pray together, and to hear the Word of God preached. Some people reported some choppiness in the livestream, so we are looking into how to improve the connection. The evening worship service seemed to go better, so maybe one of the challenges is that so many churches are livestreaming at the same time, so the system is challenged. This is a good problem! Praise God and please be patient.

We had our weekly ladies Bible study today via conference call. Please consider joining next week as we continue looking at Joshua 7. Our prayer time this evening was encouraging. Please consider joining us each weekday at 6:30pm. Stay safe!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 4/10/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Today was a beautiful day in Indianola! I put up the “Socially Distant / Spiritually Close / Sit & Chat” banner on the church lawn and sat in a lawn chair for over four hours. It was very encouraging to exchange waves and nods with the hundreds of cars and pedestrians. I got friendly waves and honks from law enforcement and other essential workers. It is obvious that, despite disappointment associated with the pandemic and the lockdown, we live in a town of cheerful neighbors. I also got to chat at length with several people from our church. God continues to bless our church and community. With this lovely weather, we will continue reaching out by making ourselves available. Please pray that we can connect and encourage many people through this sidewalk ministry.

Here are a couple of prayer items:

• Val Townsend's mother, Mamie Trussell, was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. Her test for COVID-19 cam back negative and she is improving. Praise God for His mercy and grace and pray for her continued improvement.

• Callie Davis's Uncle Gary is showing signs of improvement. His white count has lowered and he is getting closer to receiving chemotherapy for his leukemia. Please pray for continued progress.

Some of you might recall that I worked in management consulting for 27 years with IBM / PriceWaterhouseCoopers. About of decade of my time was spent in the field of cybersecurity -- basically helping organizations to fight the OTHER sort of viruses: computer viruses and cyber-attacks. I mention this because it is important to be aware that hackers love to take advantage of people in the times of crises. You can imagine that the risks are increased because during this pandemic, not only are 1) the criminals more active than ever, but 2) you are probably using the internet more than ever. Therefore, please be extremely careful.

Another reason that I mention this increased risk is that I heard today that an extended family member of mine was deceived by an on-line hacker who then gained access to his computer. So, again, please exercise caution and diligence to avoid falling into deception by those who seek to work evil in the world. We actually heard about this topic in the sermon this past week: “Do not be hasty ... keep yourself pure” (1 Timothy 5:22). In fact, we had said that Paul’s main proposition in verses 22 and 23 was “Leaders protect purity by contemplating the viewpoints of others in order to make informed, godly decisions.” So, again, I say, in these difficult times, when it comes to computer security, be sure to contemplate the viewpoints of others (like others who are computer-savvy) in order to make informed, godly decisions.

This Sunday, we will consider the following couple of verses, including: “The sins of some people are conspicuous” (1 Timothy 5:24). And, here, again, I note that there is conspicuous sinning going on. Please be careful and discerning.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 4/9/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

In the refuge of His shadow, we are never alone.

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and buckler. - Psalm 91:1,4

Today, I sat outside for a few hours, reading and enjoying the gentle breezes. I had placed two zero-gravity lawn chairs on the church parking lot and sat beside the sign below, inviting others to Sit & Chat to break the monotony of cabin fever. (The other side of the banner says "Spiritually Close, Sit & Chat.") It seemed that there was a lot of traffic, so I counted how many vehicles drove past during a five-minute interval: 49. (Makes you wonder what the traffic density on Catchings Avenue is when residents are NOT confined to their homes!).

I was encouraged that numerous people waved or honked. Several people stopped by to chat briefly. (Some stayed in their cars and rolled down the window, others sat in the chair more than six feet away from me, some stood.)

The weather is supposed to be nice tomorrow, so I plan to sit out there again. If you drive by, be sure to wave or honk! Feel free to come by and chat. If you know of anyone who wants to have an in-person conversation, I am available. I plan to have extra face masks on hand. Please pray for this part of our church outreach.

(BTW - I am confident that we are in compliance with health guidance from the state. Pastoral activities need to continue during this pandemic. Our "gathering" for individual Sit & Chat's is well within the recommended limit of 10 people. Moreover, I am happy to talk on the phone, but there may be some people who prefer -- and need -- in-person interaction. If someone is driving past the church, then he has already determined that he has a good reason to be out of his house. We are just providing the safest venue possible: outdoors and more than six feet away from each other. I plan to be in front of the church frequently during this lockdown -- precisely because the lockdown creates stress by its very nature. A relaxing conversation can help alleviate stress. God designed us to be in relationships with others.)

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9

In the refuge of His shadow, we are never alone. Have a great day basking in the light of God, yet covered by His shadow!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 4/8/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

All the men and women, the people of Israel, whose heart moved them to bring anything for the work that the Lord had commanded by Moses to be done brought it as a freewill offering to the Lord. - Exodus 35:29

This time of isolation is a wonderful time to meditate on how God has prepared you to serve in His Kingdom. Has He called you to share the Gospel? This is a great time to study how to share it. Has He given you skill to learn new things? Maybe this is a great time to study a foreign language? How has He equipped you? You could use this time to organize and plan for putting to use what He has provided to you and taught you.

Tonight, after our weekday prayer conference call at 6:30pm, we will be continuing our Bible study on Real People. Tonight we will learn of people will real talent. They were blessed with gifts from God so that they could return blessing through a freewill offering of their talents and skills. I have attached a document with this lesson (that you could use for your daily devotional).

Be sure to join us at 6:30pm by dialing 662-262-5152.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 4/7/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

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 and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-4

I was reading a book on household worship and came across this paragraph:

• The most important part of a local church's life is corporate worship. It is here that we hear the Word read and preached, join our voices in song, offer united prayer, confess our corporate sin, partake of the Lord's table, and administer baptism. The summit of the church's life on earth consists of this weekly gathering, because in this weekly worship, the Lord meets with His people by Word and spirit. He ministers to us by these ordinary means of grace (Word, sacraments, and prayer). We must never forget that God chooses to work by means -- these ordinary means. Churches and parents can chase after the next creative means by which to impact their children, but nothing holds the promise of that which God Himself clearly ordained. These ordinary means of grace prove effectual. When our children attend corporate worship, they dwell in the midst of these effectual means of grace. The more that we place in them in the way of the means of grace, the better the opportunity for their souls to encounter the God of grace. We recognize the benefit of steering our children clear of harmful things -- disobedient friends, busy streets, uncovered electrical outlets, [the coronavirus], and R-rated movies. Why wouldn't we equally desire to steer our children toward beneficial things -- the read and preached Word, corporate prayer, and the sacraments? Steering them away form the means of death is good, steering them towards the means of life is even better.

Please be praying that many people and families and children will be participating in corporate worship this Easter Sunday. God has provided us with the technology to make corporate worship accessible. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to join us this Lord's day. Please consider joining us tomorrow evening for prayer at 6:30pm and for our Wednesday Night Live Bible lesson on Real People. Praise God for His grace and mercy!

We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 4/6/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

With the stay-at-home mandate in place, I hope that you are glorifying and enjoying God in new and special ways. The weather has been beautiful: perfect for spending time in prayer and reading the Bible on your porch or patio.

• Worship Services and Other Events remain available by telephone and on-line. We seemed to have smoothed out most of the challenges in livestreaming our worship services yesterday. If you missed either the morning or evening service, you can watch the videos on-line at the church's website (http://indianolapca.org/livestream). I was told by several people that they were able to listen to the sermons on the conference call number (662-262-5152). We conducted the weekly Ladies' Bible Study today also using the dial-in number. The lockdown is making things a bit more difficult, but we are committed to continuing the ministry of the church. (The regular team was at the church today and we were able to operate as normal.)

• Face Masks are now recommended by the state. The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has updated its guidance on the wearing of face masks in public. Specifically, MSDH now "recommends that all Mississippi residents wear locally produced (non-medical grade masks) or homemade cloth masks when leaving the home to perform essential functions such as grocery shopping or filling prescriptions. This DOES NOT include manufactured (surgical) or N95 masks, which should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. This additional safety measure is especially important in areas where proper social distancing is difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores or other areas where essential supplies are obtained." The primary objective of these masks is to prevent residents from transmitting the virus to others. In other words, since it is difficult to know if you are infected, wearing a mask will reduce the possibility of unkowingly spreading germs to someone else.

• Social Distancing is still the order of the day. MSDH continues to emphasize, "The best protection is staying home when possible and limiting travel outside the home. Obtain essential services as infrequently as possible, and when doing so always maintain a distance of at least six feet."

• If you need something, we are here to help. While the lockdown discourages unnecessary trips from home, it does allow for truly essential activities. The church IS essential, so if you need something, please just let us know. Again, though, the next two weeks have been targeted as a crucial stage to stay as isolated as possible. Please pray for our effort to make ourselves available to anyone in the community who desires to sit and chat during these difficult times.

• This is Easter week! Every single Sunday is a holy Sabbath and therefore holy to the Lord. Even so, Easter Sunday represents a special celebration of the resurrection of our Savior. (Still, there is nothing stopping you from celebrating His resurrection every day of the year!) Given the stay-at-home order, we will celebrate Easter by worshiping on-line / by telephone together. If you would like to attend in person, please contact me ahead of time so that we can ensure that we meet both the letter and spirit of the guidance from the health officials.

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. - Colossians 1:9-14

We are continuing our daily prayer conference call at 6:30pm each weekday. Feel free to join us in thanksgiving and supplication for God's mercy. Be sure to let us know of any prayer needs from your family so that we may be specific in our requests.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 4/3/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Saul was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty two years over Israel. - 1 Samuel 13:1

Happy April 3rd. This is a big day for me. On April 3, 1978, I served as an usher at a fundraiser for Campus Life ministries in Maryland. Joni Eareckson (not yet Tada) was the guest speaker. She had a fascinating story to tell about how God had worked in her life after she had been paralyzed by diving into shallow water in the Chesapeake Bay. She could no longer move her arms or legs but Joni learned to paint beautiful pictures by holding the brush in her teeth. She wrote a bestselling book about her walk with the Lord. I am certain that she gave a very moving speech for the hundreds of people at the fundraiser. I never heard it.

While I was ushering people to their dinner tables, I met another high school student. Instead of listening to Joni Eareckson, this young lady and I sat in the lobby talking and getting to know each other. Her name, of course, was Debbie. And that is the rest of the story.

So, Debbie and I have known each other exactly forty-two years ago -- the same length of time that Saul was King of Israel. (BTW - Many years later at a Ligonier Conference, we had the privilege of meeting Joni and apologized to her for missing her speech. She forgave us.)

The shelter-in-place order for the state of Mississippi has begun. Please let us know if you need anything. We are continuing our weekday prayer conference calls at 6:30pm at 662-262-5152. Feel free to join us or to pray whenever is convenient for you. Know that we are here to help.

I had a great conversation outside with one of my neighbors yesterday. Some people from the church and community stopped by to chat today. I will continue finding ways to keep lines of communication open during this difficult time.

One of the beautiful phrases in Scripture is "And it came to pass" (e.g., Ezekiel 20:1, 29:17, 32:1; Zechariah 7:1; Jeremiah 36:1; Mark 1:9). It is very reassuring to know that this, too, shall pass. Even in the midst of a crisis, we can rest knowing that all is for God's glory. Whether it is very soon or it takes forty-two years or more, may God help us to recognize that this too shall pass and that one day His Son will return to bring about a new heaven and new earth. Lord, come quickly. And until you return, let us be the Gospel witness that you have called us to be.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” - Revelation 20:1-4

I look forward to worshiping with you this Lord's day. Please make use of our livestream or conference call for our worship service in real-time.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 4/2/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. - Colossians 2:6-7

As you have likely heard, the governor of Mississippi has declared a "shelter-in-place" order for the entire state from tomorrow at 5pm until April 20th at 8pm. Basically, this translates into not leaving your home except for essential activities, such as for grocery shopping and necessary employment. You might be wondering, how does this affect the operations of the church?

Clearly, the mission of the church is an essential activity. Therefore, we will continue doing what we have been doing in this virtual environment. For example, we will continue our conducting daily prayer conference calls and livestreaming our worship services on Sundays. In this sense, nothing changes from the current activities. If anything, we need to double-down on maintaining our interconnectedness through technology. Let me encourage you to stay in touch with each other via telephone. In fact, be sure to call each other even more during these challenging times. As a church, we will seek to find even more opportunities to connect.

Therefore, please be sure to continue supporting the mission of the church by worshiping God through your tithes and offerings. Your offerings to the church and its missionaries are even more important than ever.

• Recognize the value of supporting God's Kingdom through your prayers and financial support so that the workers can continue bringing God's Word to His people.

• Rejoice in whatever you can do to share God's gracious provisions of time and money. For example, this would be a good time to send a note of encouragement to a missionary.

• Know that we are committed to meeting the needs of the church's direct and indirect workers. We intend to continue paying the employees of the church (such as nursery workers, housekeeper, and office staff) even as we face uncertain times. This pandemic will affect us all economically, so we need to deal with these hardships as a supportive family. So far, even though our in-person meetings have been affected, our workload has actually increased as we seek to carry out the calling of the church.

• Send your tithes, offerings, and encouragement to those in need.

• Pray that we can meet the spiritual, physical, intellectual, and emotional needs of the congregation and the community.

Last night, we had several people join in-person our Wednesday Night Live prayer time and Real People Bible study in the Fellowship Hall. We don't expect or even encourage you to attend in-person, but even under the statewide lock-down we intend to continue these church activities. Please know that we are here to help and would love to be made aware of any critical needs.

I want to thank you for praying for relief from gout in my right ankle. I have learned this week just how painful gout can be! Dr. Lessmann gave me quick and helpful medical care and I am now able to get around on foot with only minor aggravation. I intend to continue our plans to make myself available for a "Sit & Chat" on the lawn of the church beginning next week. Feel free to stop by for personal conversations. The lovely weather that we have been having give me hope that we will be able to offer ministerial services in the great outdoors without risk of infection. We hope that others will appreciate that our church remains an active part of the community, despite significant limitations on being able to meet in large groups.

As we have been saying, this is a great time to take advantage of Household Worship. Praying in our homes is a privilege that we ought not neglect. Reading and discussing Scripture with loved ones remains an important work of God's people. I would be delighted and honored to join you remotely for individual Bible studies, so let me know if you would like to include me in your efforts to worship at home. I would also love to offer specific recommendations and/or critiques of materials to consider using for your personal studies.

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. - Colossians 3:1-2

Please consider joining us for our prayer conference call at 6:30pm today by dialing 662-262-5152.

Have a blessed day in the Lord.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Wednesday 4/1/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ ... For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. - Colossians 2:1-2,5

As our country increases its focus on social distancing, the church needs to increase its focus on creativity to remain interconnected and to reach out to the lost.

• Five of our men met in the Fellowship Hall this morning for coffee, doughnuts, and prayer, while maintaining appropriate distances. It was joyous and encouraging after more than a month to see Q again face-to-face. We rejoice that he and Fran safely returned from Down Under and are virus-free. Frank managed to locate some of Mississippi's finest, sugar-and-grease-laden treats. My eyes were significantly larger than my stomach, which is saying something. Dr. Erik helped me to sort out my apparent gout and the pain has already dwindled dramatically. Praise God! What a delight it is to hear John pray at breakfast! We are so grateful that he is part of our fellowship.

• Pat called some members of the church family and played them hymns over the telephone. Surely, these were some of the most joyful noises heard in the Delta this week!

• Taking advantage of being home-and-kitchen-bound, Leet baked bread and then cheerfully delivered a loaf to encourage us. She must have been reading Numbers 15:20 recently.

These are just a few examples of love at work among the saints of First Presbyterian. Except, the great thing about love is that it doesn't feel like work.

Today at 6:30pm, we will have our daily prayer conference call. Feel free to join by dialing 662-262-5152. Since it is Wednesday, we will include our Bible lesson on Real People after the season of prayer. I have attached the handout that we will use for the discussion (but you can participate even if you do not have the handout). We plan to wrap-up the call at 7:30pm. If you wish to join us in-person for the call in the Fellowship Hall, please let me know ahead of time.

On the topic of Household Worship, here are a few organizing thoughts to keep in mind (where, when, how):

• The Home as a Sanctuary. The sanctuary in our church building is holy because it has been 'set apart' (set apart is what 'holy' and 'sanctified' mean). The homes of Christian families are truly holy because God has set His people apart. We are not set apart to be apart from others, but rather we are sanctified so that we can be God's holy presence WITH others. As such, our homes are to be holy places where God dwells with His people. Just like we are to w invite others to the holy sanctuary of our church building, we want to invite others to be part of our holy family. Thus, we must sanctify our homes by worshiping regularly in them -- in spirit and in truth. When we or our children head out into the world, we bring with us our purity -- as tarnished by sin as it may be. Household Worship prepares us and cleanses us so that we may move from the sanctuary to the lost world without fear. In this time of a pandemic, the cleansing power of worshiping God in our homes is as significant as ever. Consider your home as a sanctuary -- a holy place to invite others to join in your worship of the Sovereign Lord.

• Morning and Evening as Signposts. One of the major purposes of a home is to have a place to sleep. We can say that, regardless of how diverse the activities of each household might be, sleeping is common across homes. We seek rest in our homes. Thus, it is natural for households to devote a time of worship when transitioning from sleeping. This is a long way of answering the question, "When is a good time to conduct Household Worship"? Since everyone has to sleep, the optimal times for daily Household Worship are in the morning and evening. In other words, if you are trying to establish a regular worship time, use the morning and evening as signposts. As the sun is rising, sit down to pray, read, write, meet, discuss, and do. As the sun sets, take time to worship. In a busy household, pick one of these and at the appointed time make an effort to practice worship each day. Most people find that if they begin early in the day with worship, they have MORE time to do other things. Try it.

• The Church Bulletin as a Sample. You probably have an old church bulletin lying around your home somewhere. By using the structure of the liturgy contained in the bulletin, you can walk through a worship service each morning. Read the Call to Worship. Pray an Invocation to thank God for the gathering and ask Him to bless your worship. Confess your sins. Offer up thanks. Read from the Old Testament. Pray for others. Read from the New Testament. Sing the Doxology. It is just a sample. Feel free to leave out the hymns, etc. Transform the bulletin into being the order of worship that is appropriate for your household. You can even adjust to meet your daily activities by varying it for different days of the week. The structure is for you to manage.

The key to Household Worship is discovering joy in devoting time with God. It is not that you 'have to' meet with God. It is that you 'get to' spend time alone with Him. I say 'alone,' because even if you have a large household, the time that a family spends in Household Worship is uniquely special. You enter into a time of personal interaction with the Creator of the universe. You speak to him in prayer. He speaks to you through His Word. To God alone be the glory! May you receive grace through worshiping Him this week.

And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. - Joshua 24:15

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 3/31/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” - Psalm 122:1

We had a glorious day of worship on Sunday! Numerous people were able to join the Sunday evening worship service. We even had a handful of in-person worshipers -- separated by distance -- both in the sanctuary in the morning and in the Fellowship Hall in the evening (which was still well below the recommended limit of 10).

Unfortunately, we had technical problems with the streaming service at the beginning of the morning broadcast. The good news is that some people could hear via the dial-in conference call number. Also, we were able to record the video along with the audio for the sermon and that is posted to the church website so that you can watch it at your leisure. Still, we are committed to ensuring that we are able to livestream each worship service to you in real-time so that we can be worshiping as a congregation together at the same time. Please be patient and keep trying to log in with us!

As I mentioned previously, it is helpful if you are dialing in to mute the microphone on your phone. We will also ensure in future broadcasts that microphones other than the speaker's are muted, but some of this might not always be in our direct control. God is gracious and has given us technology to make this possible. Still, technology takes some getting used to, so please be patient.

A great deal of thanks is due to Casey Newsom for his diligence in getting everything working. Feel free to share your feedback, ideas, and gratitude for him.

Using the conference call number, we held a Ladies' Bible Study on Monday at 1pm. This seemed to go well and we will also make tweaks in future events to make these as edifying as possible as we learn to adjust. Our weekday prayer time at 6:30pm has been very encouraging and I invite you to join each day, as it is convenient. The dial-in number is the same for all events. Be sure to set time aside in particular for our Wednesday prayer time at 6:30pm which will include a Bible lesson until 7:30pm in our Real People series. If a few people want to join us in the Fellowship Hall at 6:00pm for a lite meal, we will be glad to accommodate, just let me know ahead of time. (Obviously, only if you believe that you have been appropriately isolated and are not at high risk.)

I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul. -- Psalm 31:7

I had said that I would be sharing some thoughts on household worship so that you could pursue enhancing your at-home daily family worship. Each day this week, I will share some thoughts. Today, let me comment on Preparation.

The late Archie Parrish served for years promoting prayer on the Ligonier Ministries team. He wrote several books on the subject of Kingdom prayer -- in the church, home, and personal devotions. In his book on the family (Intercede for and with Your Family), he noted six learning activities:

• Praying will make you a focused person.

• Reading will make you an informed person.

• Writing will make you an exact person.

• Meeting will make you a bonded person.

• Discussing will make you an insightful person.

• Doing will make you a growing person.

Today would be a good day to prepare in each of this ways. Consider dedicating at least 15 minutes today in prayer to help you gain focus. Read some biblical materials (even just this email, and perhaps Joshua 5 and Psalm 122) to gain information about how to honor God through dedicated worship. Perhaps read these passages out loud with your household and/or on the phone with a friend. Write some of your prayers down so that tomorrow you can refer to your notes in order to guide your worship. Meet with at least one other member of the congregation (by phone or in person) to develop a sense of family. Discuss a passage of Scripture with others to refine your view and to grasp the viewpoints of others. Do all of these things as an act of dedicated worship.

In fact, you can follow the above structure just after a meal to establish a practice of household worship:

• Pray - lift up God's holy name and offer a few general and a few specific supplications up to your Lord. (spend just a few minutes here and then pray for illumination as you move on to reading).

• Read - using a selected passage of Scripture, read aloud (even if you are by yourself). Let anyone else with you take turns reading some verses of the Word, as well. (Select a paragraph or two, but no more than a chapter so that the number of concepts is not overwhelming.)

• Write - take note of ideas or issues that deserve future meditation, research, or prayer. A good way to do this is to write these down as questions. (Later, you can take time to write down the answers to your questions and share these with others.)

• Meet - the above are intended to be part of a 'meeting', so you should at this time open up the discussion by asking one question that can be discussed.

• Discuss - allocate a little time now to exploring what each person thinks about certain portion of what has been read and asked.

• Do - agree on a time to meet again, perhaps the next day or next meal, to follow-up with more discussion and/or to again enter into united worship. Moreover, set a goal to do this for several days, perhaps the remainder of this week in order to begin a habit.

• Pray & Praise - close with a brief prayer. Debbie and I like to do this by "praying" with a song. We sing the Doxology ("Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.")

Let me encourage you to practice the above as an act of household worship. 

Updates:

• The WIC Council will not meet Wednesday of this week.

• The Day and Night Circles have canceled their meetings for next week.

• The WIC Flower Arranging Workshop has also been postponed indefinitely.

• These will be re-scheduled in keeping with distancing guidance in consideration of the epidemic.

On a personal note, I woke up with severe pain in one of my ankles. I don't recall injuring it yesterday, so perhaps it is some sort of physiological issue (gout? -- which I have not previously experienced). (I did have some tasty homemade liver pate!) Please pray for relief from the pain. Even so, the pain is reminding me to pray for those who are suffering from COVID-19 and the associated struggles. A major prayer of mine is that the epidemic does not get us too used to being physically separated. Let us continue to find ways to encourage others, despite the social distancing.

Have a glorious week of worshiping the Creator!

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Sunday 3/29/20 Sunday School

Sunday 3/29/20 Morning Bulletin

Sunday 3/29/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

We encourage you to participate using your computer (or smartphone, ipad, etc.). Please let us know if you have ANY trouble connecting. Last week we heard that some people were able to livestream without any significant issues, while others experienced some delays. The service provider had notified us of technical problems on their end. We are actively evaluating the available technology, and we want to make these events as high-quality and seamless as possible, so your feedback (positive or negative) is valued. 

To attend these FPC events, you may: 

• InterConnect for Adult Sunday School.

  • Class time is 9:30am to discuss the Book of Habakkuk.

  • We are in chapter 3 (the hand-out is helpful but not necessary to participate).

  • Anyone with a computer can be with us live on Sunday morning.
    The link is http://uberconference.com/FirstPresIndianola

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen and participate live.
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

• InterConnect in Corporate Worship on Sundays.

  • Anyone with a computer can watch our worship services live on-line on Sundays at 10:45pm and 5:00pm.
    The link is http://indianolapca.org/livestream

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen into our Sunday worship services live.
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • In the morning, we are resuming our 1 Timothy sermon series with verses 5:19-21.

  • In the evening, we will be looking at Psalm 40.

Saturday 3/28/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,though the sheep are cut off from the fold and no cattle are in the stalls, yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation! - Habakkuk 3:17-18

When you think about it, the behavior of many people in this world is somewhat astounding. Everyone knows, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that there must some some reason that everything around us exists. After all, it really makes no sense that beautiful flowers, tasty catfish, and elegant gazelles would exist as a result of stuff having evolved randomly out of nothing. Maybe a chimpanzee typing furiously on a typewriter eventually -- after millions of years -- would accidentally compose Romeo and Juliet, but who would have created the chimpanzee, his typewriter, and fed him an unlimited feast of bananas as he typed furiously? I ask, 'Wherefore art thou, Chimpanzee?' (Recall, 'wherefore art' = 'why are'; Romeo is asking why Juliet is a feuding Capulet, not where she is.)

So, again, I ask, why are there chimpanzees? and giraffes? and humans? and feuding Montagues and Caputlets? Without a Creator, it makes no sense. Everyone knows that there is a reason. After all, science has taught us that stuff exists in logical, interconnected relationships to other stuff. There is order to these relationships. The world and universe are not filled with independent atoms or rogue molecules that just happen to be organized sometimes and look occasionally like people and animals and trees. 

No, everyone knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that there must be a reason for everything around us. Even those who deny a specific reason are not prepared to explain away that there is some reason. Philosophers explore the possible meaning of life, but they don't deny that there is order and logic and governing principles, without which the very question of the meaning of life would be absurd on its own. And so, the behavior of many people is somewhat astounding. They walk and talk and act and dance and sing and otherwise conduct themselves like there is no magnificent Creator who grants life and provides sustenance. They are like foolish teenagers who are fed, clothed, and given shelter and yet pretend that their parents are unnecessary parts of their existence. This is sad and difficult to explain. Well, difficult to explain, unless you acknowledge the doctrine of sin. 

It should be obvious that the aforementioned foolish teenagers ought to at least occasionally thank mom and dad. They ought to at least acknowledge the existence of their parents and show honor to what has been done to care and provide for them. Truly, they ought to honor their mother and father, but, alas, they do not. This is sad and somewhat astounding. It is a violation of good, common sense. It is also a violation of God's law. But, such is the nature of sin -- it violates what some call natural law and it certainly violates God's law.  Sin always does this. In a sinful world, people do astounding things. 

It is in this context that we ought to note that it is somewhat astounding that Christians do not always place a high priority on honoring God. Those who acknowledge the Creator ought to also acknowledge Him in worship. However, in a sinful world, worship is given low priority. Even though many Christians gather weekly in corporate worship, many ignore the opportunity to thank God daily. It is for this reason that, as a church, we ought to promote daily, household worship. There is much more to say about this topic, but today, let me emphasize just the simple point that God calls us to worship Him daily. 

God calls us to set aside one day in seven to rest in Him. The church reinforces this command by calling you to participate in corporate worship services. But God's Word and everything around us makes it clear that we are to worship Him each day, throughout the day. My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. - Psalm 71:8. 

It is my intention to offer you helpful guidance on how to conduct daily, household worship. I will provide this guidance in future updates. In the meantime, as you prepare for Lord's Day worship, would you pray for the Holy Spirit to give you the personal conviction to honor your Father in heaven every day? Would you ask for a heart to worship Him with household worship each day? Without the personal desire, any guidance will fall on deaf ears. Pray for ears to hear. I'll be praying for you, as well. Let our corporate worship tomorrow prepare your heart. Begin today with a simple 'thank you' to your Lord and Savior, the one who died so that you may live. Thank your Creator. To do otherwise would be somewhat astounding. Let your sin do what it needs to do: astound you in its foolishness. 

For worship tomorrow, please join with the Body of Christ as we life up His holy name:

• InterConnect in Corporate Worship on Sundays. 
  

  • Anyone with a computer can watch our worship services live on-line on Sundays at 10:45pm and 5:00pm. 
    The link is http://indianolapca.org/livestream

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen into our Sunday worship services live. 
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • In the morning, we are resuming our 1 Timothy sermon series with verses 5:19-21.

  • In the evening, we will be looking at Psalm 40.

I look forward to worshiping with you. Let us worship together and let us learn to worship in our homes. 

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them - Acts 16:25

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 3/27/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,though the sheep are cut off from the fold and no cattle are in the stalls, yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation! - Habakkuk 3:17-18

When you think about it, the behavior of many people in this world is somewhat astounding. Everyone knows, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that there must some some reason that everything around us exists. After all, it really makes no sense that beautiful flowers, tasty catfish, and elegant gazelles would exist as a result of stuff having evolved randomly out of nothing. Maybe a chimpanzee typing furiously on a typewriter eventually -- after millions of years -- would accidentally compose Romeo and Juliet, but who would have created the chimpanzee, his typewriter, and fed him an unlimited feast of bananas as he typed furiously? I ask, 'Wherefore art thou, Chimpanzee?' (Recall, 'wherefore art' = 'why are'; Romeo is asking why Juliet is a feuding Capulet, not where she is.)

So, again, I ask, why are there chimpanzees? and giraffes? and humans? and feuding Montagues and Capulets? Without a Creator, it makes no sense. Everyone knows that there is a reason. After all, science has taught us that stuff exists in logical, interconnected relationships to other stuff. There is order to these relationships. The world and universe are not filled with independent atoms or rogue molecules that just happen to be organized sometimes and look occasionally like people and animals and trees.

No, everyone knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that there must be a reason for everything around us. Even those who deny a specific reason are not prepared to explain away that there is some reason. Philosophers explore the possible meaning of life, but they don't deny that there is order and logic and governing principles, without which the very question of the meaning of life would be absurd on its own. And so, the behavior of many people is somewhat astounding. They walk and talk and act and dance and sing and otherwise conduct themselves like there is no magnificent Creator who grants life and provides sustenance. They are like foolish teenagers who are fed, clothed, and given shelter and yet pretend that their parents are unnecessary parts of their existence. This is sad and difficult to explain. Well, difficult to explain, unless you acknowledge the doctrine of sin.

It should be obvious that the aforementioned foolish teenagers ought to at least occasionally thank mom and dad. They ought to at least acknowledge the existence of their parents and show honor to what has been done to care and provide for them. Truly, they ought to honor their mother and father, but, alas, they do not. This is sad and somewhat astounding. It is a violation of good, common sense. It is also a violation of God's law. But, such is the nature of sin -- it violates what some call natural law and it certainly violates God's law. Sin always does this. In a sinful world, people do astounding things.

It is in this context that we ought to note that it is somewhat astounding that Christians do not always place a high priority on honoring God. Those who acknowledge the Creator ought to also acknowledge Him in worship. However, in a sinful world, worship is given low priority. Even though many Christians gather weekly in corporate worship, many ignore the opportunity to thank God daily. It is for this reason that, as a church, we ought to promote daily, household worship. There is much more to say about this topic, but today, let me emphasize just the simple point that God calls us to worship Him daily.

God calls us to set aside one day in seven to rest in Him. The church reinforces this command by calling you to participate in corporate worship services. But God's Word and everything around us makes it clear that we are to worship Him each day, throughout the day. My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. - Psalm 71:8.

It is my intention to offer you helpful guidance on how to conduct daily, household worship. I will provide this guidance in future updates. In the meantime, as you prepare for Lord's Day worship, would you pray for the Holy Spirit to give you the personal conviction to honor your Father in heaven every day? Would you ask for a heart to worship Him with household worship each day? Without the personal desire, any guidance will fall on deaf ears. Pray for ears to hear. I'll be praying for you, as well. Let our corporate worship tomorrow prepare your heart. Begin today with a simple 'thank you' to your Lord and Savior, the one who died so that you may live. Thank your Creator. To do otherwise would be somewhat astounding. Let your sin do what it needs to do: astound you in its foolishness.

For worship tomorrow, please join with the Body of Christ as we lift up His holy name:

• InterConnect for Adult Sunday School.

  • We will conduct a Sunday School class at 9:30am to discuss the Book of Habakkuk.

  • Anyone with a computer can be with us live on Sunday morning.
    The link is http://uberconference.com/FirstPresIndianola

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen and participate live.
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • We are in chapter 3. I will send a hand-out before class (but the hand-out is not necessary to participate).

  • Please let me know if you would like a copy of the commentary that we have been using (we have three spare copies).

• InterConnect in Corporate Worship on Sundays.

  • Anyone with a computer can watch our worship services live on-line on Sundays at 10:45pm and 5:00pm.
    The link is http://indianolapca.org/livestream

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen into our Sunday worship services live.
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • In the morning, we are resuming our 1 Timothy sermon series with verses 5:19-21.

  • In the evening, we will be looking at Psalm 40.

I look forward to worshiping with you. Let us worship together and let us learn to worship in our homes.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them - Acts 16:25

In His name,
Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Friday 3/27/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. - Psalm 127:1

Please be praying for the Lord to watch over our city. It is through His protection that we can remain secure. In the midst of concerns about the novel coronavirus, I am encouraged by the trends indicated in some of the news reports. There are numerous efforts underway to accelerate developing a vaccine and medications to address the virus. In states such as Washington that were the first to report the coronavirus well over a month ago, the number of deaths from COVID-19 has not reached epic proportions. (For example, Washington state reports that 89 people have died from the flu this season and another 147 from COVID-19, suggesting that, while deadly and without a vaccine, the novel coronavirus is being managed through safe practices.) These news reports imply several actions for us:

• Pray diligently for those who are suffering from the virus -- that they be both physically and spiritually healed. Pray for families of those who have lost loved ones. Pray for protection from infection, especially for the medical community who is seeking to care for the entire population and for those who are considered high-risk. Do not fret, but rather trust in God's loving grace and mercy.

• Practice good discipline, such as hand-hygiene, safe social distances, and personal development. Wash your hands often. Avoid unnecessary visits to public places. Stay at least six feet away from others. Spend time in Scripture, in meditation on God's Word, and in prayer. Eat healthy meals and exercise responsibly.

• Interconnect with your community. Your family, friends, and neighbors want and need to hear from you. Call them on the telephone. Send messages of encouragement. Make your prayers and petitions known. Let them know of your blessings, your redemption, and your availability.

All that I am suggesting during this pandemic is what the Bible calls you to at all times:

• Pray diligently. Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. - Colossians 4:2-4; Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His presence continually! - 1 Chronicles 16:11.

• Practice good discipline. For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age - Titus 2:11-12; But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. - 1 Corinthians 9:27; For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. - Hebrews 12:11.

• Interconnect with your community. Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him." - Genesis 2:18; And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. - Genesis 12:2; Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2.

As you pray, practice, and interconnect, please know that the church is here to help. If you have time, please join us on our daily conference call at 6:30pm. By simply dialing 662-262-5152, you can participate in hearing the prayers of other members of the church body, and you can share your praises and requests. God has placed us each here to interconnect with one another. Jesus taught us to pray. His Holy Spirit disciplines us with His good graces. The Father hears His children. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. - Philippians 4:4.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Thursday 3/26/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. - 1 Timothy 4:7b-8

Interconnecting for Prayer via Conference Call
We had a wonderful prayer conference call yesterday at 6:30pm. Nine of us joined in to praise God and to life up prayers for our church, community, nation, and world. We followed this with our weekly Bible study, this time focusing on Abigail. If you wish to join the prayer call today at 6:30pm, feel free to use one of the following methods:

• Log in at 6:30pm on a computer (https://www.uberconference.com/FirstPresIndianola), which allows both audio and video.

• Dial 662-262-5152 at 6:30pm using a telephone.

• Answer your phone at 6:30pm! (If you tell me that you want to be called automatically when the call starts, I can include your telephone number for automated dialing. All you have to do is answer the phone when it rings! Just let me know if you want to be included.)

Prayer Updates

• Please continue to pray for Linus Lessmann. He is doing well and has made good progress. He is eating well, but is still not drinking.

• Bill Humbarger is continuing therapy and dialysis at Baptist Select. Please pray that his esophagus heals. He cannot receive visitors, so Georgia is at home.

• Q and Fran are entering the final stretch of their post-travel self-isolation. Please pray for all households as we learn to adjust to social-distancing guidelines.

Preparing for Worship
God is in control and has a plan for our lives. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all life. Let us trust in Him as we prepare to worship Him this Lord's Day.

Other Thoughts
Yesterday, Someone who was an elder in a previous church of mine shared, “We live in a dying world. The moment that we were born, we began to die, and it’s been that way ever since Adam’s cosmic treason.” This is most certainly true. People often speak as if things are worse than they have ever been. This is of course silly, since one only has to go back a short time to encounter Vietnam, or the previous generation to find World War II, or the one before that to experience World War I. There have always been troubles, and in this fallen world -- broken by sin -- there will always be trouble. People seem to talk as if we ought to be able to escape death, but this is outright denial of what God tells us in His Word.
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him. - Hebrews 9:27-28

Still God does promise in His Word that there is redemption from sin and its wages.
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23

What we do have today is LIFE. And what Jesus purchased for us is LIFE eternal. This is the amazing, astounding reality that deserves to consume our passions today. Life, not death. We are each called to share life with one another. All the current talk of pandemic panic reminds us that man’s judgment is clouded. When you fear God and Him alone, you need not be afraid.
For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear. - Ecclesiastes 5:7

We see a lot of panic. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit uses the pandemic to bring a lot of faith into view. If it were up to me, or to my savings accounts, or to even my own perseverance, I would be lost, indeed. But, it is not up to me; all is in God's control. And for this we can be very grateful.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. - Romans 15:13

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Real People Handout for Wednesday 3/25/20 at 6:30 (click here)

Wednesday 3/25/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

"The Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in Him. - Psalm 37:40

I pray that you are enjoying refuge in your Savior. Today is a wonderful day to meditate on Psalm 37. It is a good time to be reminded of God's wrath and to rejoice in how He graciously redeemed you from your sins. During our morning devotion, Debbie and I were reminded of how we often focus on the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, while neglecting the role of the Father. The God of the universe is Triune -- He is one God in three persons. Here are two actions of God the Father in your redemption:

• The Father declares you as 'not guilty' based on Christ's atoning sacrifice. You ARE guilty of sin. I am confident that you can recall things that you have done to hurt others and to rebel against God. It would be horribly unjust for a judge to ignore the wrongdoings of a defendant. "I know that he committed this heinous crime. Sure, let him go, whatever." Christ atoned for your sins -- He paid the penalty for you. The Father declares you to be righteous in His sight. The Father loves justice. He loves His children. And because His perfect Son sacrificed Himself for the elect, the Father loves to declare believers as righteous. 
  The Father loves the Son and has given all things into His hand. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. (John 3:35-36)

• The Father sent His Son and gave Him over in order to rescue you. Think about how families are separated in the midst of this pandemic. There are many who long to be close to their loved ones right now. It is difficult to send a family member out into the world where there is trouble, sin, and pestilence. The Father loves the Son. The Father was willing to send His Son as a Sacrifice for you. The Father was committed to redeeming His children. He did not let anything stand in the way of His love for those whom He had predestined and promised to save. The Father lovingly sent His Son. He gave Him over despite your sin and because of your sin. 
  For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. (John 3:17)

As you worship God today, think of the love of the Son and the love of the Father. And consider how the love of the Holy Spirit is encouraging you to share this love with others today. 

Last night, we had  wonderful time of prayer on our conference call at 6:30pm. Eight people joined the call and lifted up praise and petitions to our loving God. Feel free to join us again today at 6:30pm. Given that today is Wednesday, after our prayer time, we plan to discuss our Real People lesson for the week. You may join today's conference call:

• by logging in at 6:30pm on a computer (https://www.uberconference.com/firstpresindianola), which allows both audio and video. 

• by dialing in at 6:30pm using a telephone (662-262-5152)

• by answering your phone at 6:30pm! (If you tell me that you want to be called automatically when the call starts, I can include your telephone number for automated dialing. All you have to do is answer the phone when it rings! Just let me know if you want to be included.)

Please let us know if you need anything. Have a great day in the Lord!

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Tuesday 3/24/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

"I waited patiently for the Lord; He inclined to me and heard my cry." - Psalm 40:1

These are difficult and exciting times! As the pandemic affects the lives of most people around the world, God has given us the opportunity to re-think how we can interconnect. In particular, He calls us to spend even more time connecting with Him in private and household prayer. He also calls us to let others know about the value of spiritual worship. This is a good week to invite your family, friends, and neighbors to connect and participate in the virtual gatherings of First Presbyterian Church. 

• Interconnect in Weekly Prayer and Bible Study.

  • We have suspended our Wednesday Night Live fellowship meal, but we are still gathering for prayer and a lesson.

  • Anyone with a computer can be with us live on-line Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 7:00pm.
    The link is https://www.uberconference.com/firstpresindianola

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen and participate live. 
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • Attached is the document for tomorrow night's Real People lesson. 
    (Although you don't need the document to participate. You could use the lesson for your own household devotions.)

• Interconnect for Adult Sunday School.

  • We will conduct a Sunday School class at 9:30am to discuss the Book of Habakkuk. 

  • Anyone with a computer can be with us live on Sunday morning.
    The link is https://www.uberconference.com/firstpresindianola

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen and participate live. 
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • We are in chapter 3. I will send a hand-out before class (but the hand-out is not necessary to participate). 

  • Please let me know if you would like a copy of the commentary that we have been using (we have three spare copies).

• Interconnect in Corporate Worship on Sundays. 

  • Anyone with a computer can watch our worship services live on-line on Sundays at 10:45pm and 5:00pm. 
    The link is http://indianolapca.org/livestream

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen into our Sunday worship services live. 
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

  • In the morning, we are resuming our 1 Timothy sermon series with verses 5:19-21.

  • In the evening, we will be looking at Psalm 40.

• Interconnect in Daily Prayer.

  • Pray throughout the day, including especially at our church's dedicated time of 6:30pm. 

  • Anyone with a computer can pray with us live on-line each day at 6:30pm. 
    The link is https://www.uberconference.com/firstpresindianola

  • Anyone with a telephone can listen and offer prayers live. 
    The dial-in number is 662-262-5152

• Interconnect in Friendly Conversation for Encouragement.

  • This is a great opportunity to just call and talk to each other over the phone. 

  • Let us know if you need a current Church Directory and we would be happy to bring you one. 

Pass the word. As you can see, the church can remain in close contact, even as we practice safe social distancing. 

Here are few items to consider: 

• Maintain good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face. 

• If you experience any soreness in your throat, be sure to sip a hot beverage frequently (every 15 minutes) to kill the germs. 

• Follow guidelines to stay a safe distance from others (at least 6 feet). 

• God is in control. Trust in Him for His protection and deliverance. 

Today, I read this excellent quote from D. Martyn Lloyd Jones, "The terrible, tragic fallacy of the last hundred years has been to think that all man's troubles are due to his environment, and that to change the man you have nothing to do but change his environment. That is a tragic fallacy. It overlooks the fact that it was in Paradise that man fell." Pray that the Gospel of Jesus Christ would change lives this week. 

We look forward to joining together in person as soon as we can. Until then, please keep us informed of your needs. Please consider joining us in prayer at 6:30pm today. 

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Monday 3/23/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers!
For they will soon fade like the grass and wither like the green herb.
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. - Psalm 37:1-4

The Lord has been very good to us, even in these difficult times. We are excited that our first Sunday using livestreaming successfully allowed a number of households to participate in united worship, even though we did not gather in person. Our website indicated about 30 connections to our evening worship service. Now that we have begun to connect virtually, we are implementing improvements and news ways of connecting. For example:

• You can join and interact LIVE from a home telephone! We have created a conference call-in number for [all] church events: 662-262-5152.
  Dialing into this number directly allows you to hear and speak during our church activities. You do NOT need a smartphone to make use of this dial-in capability; a simple home phone will work. For example, tonight at 6:30pm, simply call the number above and you will be joined in live to our daily novel coronavirus Prayer Time at church. Debbie and I will be praying in the Pastor's Study starting at 6:30pm daily (except Sundays) and any and all who call in may listen and lift up their own prayers as they desire.

• You can join and interact LIVE from a home computer / smartphone / tablet and SEE what is going on! In general, each church activity will include interactive video connections, as well. You can join the conference call to WATCH us and/or share your own video feed (if your computer has a camera) as we conduct our prayer meetings, Bible studies, etc. You will need to use a Chrome browser on your computer. For example, we plan to use this next Monday to resume our Ladies' Bible Study at 1:00pm. The link is: https://www.UberConference.com/FirstPresIndianola

  • (Please connect through EITHER the dial-in telephone number OR the UberConference link, not both.)

  • (Please keep in mind that as we learn and get used to this new way of interacting, there might be some challenges in figuring out how to make the best use of the technology. Be patient. Don't be surprised if people talk at the same time as one another -- we will just have to learn how to adjust!)

• You can watch our Sunday worship services LIVE via a livestream from the sanctuary! We will be broadcasting our Lord's Day services (morning and evening) on our website at: http://indianolapca.org/livestream

• You can re-watch (or watch at a later time) previous services and sermons and/or download the audio of past sermons from the church website.

  • (NOTE: The livestream page on our website is where we will broadcast our Worship Services live. The UberConference video will be used for all other activities. In either case, audio access will be available at 662-262-5152.)

We plan to add music and otherwise improve these activities to make them more interactive. Please let us know if you have any questions or recommendations. We are excited to find ways to connect with each other MORE!

Also, if you have any technical issues, please ask Deacons or others for help.

God provides in mysterious ways -- in other words, you don't have to understand all of the technology in order to join us through the use of it!

I look forward to connecting with you and others more. Please join us this evening at 6:30pm to try out some of this new technology.

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

Saturday 3/21/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

"Jesus is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them." - Hebrews 7:25

FPC Livestream link for Sunday at 10:45am and 5:00pm:http://indianolapca.org/livestream

The world, this nation, and our community have all experienced difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thee are many who are afraid and are longing for relief. One of the great blessings from God is His setting apart one day in seven to rest and to worship Him. Let us rest from the stress around us and gather together in spirit and truth tomorrow, lifting the name of Jesus as our Lord and Savior. 

To combat transmission of the virus, health officials continue to discourage gatherings of more than 10 people. Therefore, First Presbyterian Church intends to observe the Sabbath tomorrow by livestreaming our morning and evening worship services. 

We encourage your household to join with us virtually as you:

• Prepare for Worship - Go ahead and change out of your pajamas! Get dressed in the morning as if you are coming to church. Spend some time in private prayer to prepare your heart and to intercede for the worldwide church. Invite friends and family to join you in your home or to livestream our service, as well. In a separate email, we will include the worship bulletin for the morning service. 

• Worship with us on the web! Surf onto the First Presbyterian website - Our website has a link for accessing the worship service live at 10:45amtomorrow and again at 5:00pm for evening worship. We will open this link (http://indianolapca.org/livestream) about 15 minutes before the service so that you can confirm your connection. We will begin promptly at 10:45am in the morning. 

• Later on, access the video or audio files from our website - We will post audio and video recordings so that you may review them or share them at a later time. 

If you are interested in attending the worship service in the Sanctuary, please let us know beforehand. (We do not expect more than ten attendees, so we believe that we can accommodate those who wish to be there in person. Still, we would like to be aware in order to coordinate.)

Here is a reminder of our current activities: 

• Sunday School - FPC has suspended in-person classes on the church campus. Members are encouraged to conduct their own Bible studies during this time. Let us know if you want recommendations and/or study materials. 

• Lord's Day Worship Services - FPC has suspended in-person worship on the church campus for this weekend. Households are encouraged to worship in their homes at 10:45am and 5:00pm on Sunday and to connect via livestream, if you are able. 

• Daily Family Worship - Now is a good opportunity to increase use of this age-old tradition of devoting time each day to private and family worship. Please let us know if you would like specific ideas or resources. 

• Monday Ladies Bible Study - FPC has suspended this meeting on the church campus. Members are encouraged to conduct their own Bible studies during this time. 

• Officers' Retreat - FPC has postponed this event until further notice. 

• Wednesday Night Live - FPC has suspended the fellowship meal and children's catechism class until further notice. We plan to continue praying as a church at 6:30pm daily. You are welcome to unite with the rest of the church by praying together in the Fellowship Hall or from your own home, as you feel comfortable. We plan to set up a dial-in number so that you may pray along with us. 

As always, if you have ANY questions or needs, please let us know. Thank you for your faithful service in His Kingdom, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

813-240-3106

Friday 3/20/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

"Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2

The events of this past week are unlike anything else that our nation has seen in a long time. I praise God for His mercy and faithfulness. I thank Him for His faithful bride, the church. Let us continue encouraging one another and reaching out to those in need. 

In the past 24 hours, California, New York, and Illinois have announced that all residents, except those in essential businesses, must stay at home. Pennsylvania is doing likewise. In addition, a case of COVID-19 has been reported in the ICU of the hospital here in Indianola. 

In response to the guidance from the health authorities, First Presbyterian will not be holding in-person public worship services or Sunday School in the church building this Sunday. We plan to video the sermon and make it available. We are testing our ability to livestream at 10:45am so that households can join on-line in real-time on the church's website. We will be sharing more information about this. Please note that the First Presbyterian website has sermons from the 1 Timothy series available for listening on-line and/or to download: http://indianolapca.org/ 

Overview of regular church activities:  

• Sunday School - FPC has suspended in-person classes on the church campus. Members are encouraged to conduct their own Bible studies during this time. Let us know if you want recommendations and/or study materials. 

• Lord's Day Worship Services - FPC has suspended in-person worship on the church campus for this weekend. Households are encouraged to worship in their homes at 10:45am on Sunday. We are aiming to provide a live sermon on-line. More details to follow.  

• Daily Family Worship - Now is a good opportunity to increase use of this age-old tradition of devoting time each day to private and family worship. Please let us know if you would like specific ideas or resources. 

• Monday Ladies Bible Study - FPC has suspended this meeting on the church campus. Members are encouraged to conduct their own Bible studies during this time. We plan to share teaching notes so that you may continue to study the book of Joshua, even though we will not be meeting in-person. 

• Officers’ Retreat - FPC has postponed this event until further notice. 

• Wednesday Night Live - FPC has suspended the fellowship meal and children's catechism class until further notice. We plan to continue praying as a church at 6:30pm daily. You are welcome to unite with the rest of the church by praying together in the Fellowship Hall or from your own home, as you feel comfortable. 

Prayer Updates:

• Linus Lessmann had successful surgery, has returned home, and is doing well. Praise and prayer for continued improvement. 

• Bill Humbarger is no longer on a ventilator and is breathing on his own. Praise and prayer for continued improvement.

• Martin Lessmann returned home safely from Costa Rica. 

• Fran and Q Davis have friends in Scott, MS who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. 

• Continue praying for for those who are in high risk categories. 

• Pray for those on our prayer list with ongoing health issues, such as Val Townsend. 

• Continue to pray that those who need in-home care will be able to have their needs met. 

Please let us know if you have additional prayer requests or needs. 

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:23-25

Let us meet together spiritually (and by telephone) in the midst of these difficult times. 

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

813-240-3106

Thursday 3/19/20 First Presbyterian Church Update 

"For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and buckler." - Psalm 91:3-4

Update on Wednesday Night Activities: Last night at 6:30pm, 7 of us gathered in the Fellowship Hall and thereby joined in united prayer with each of you who were praying at home at same time. We read Psalm 121 and prayed for deliverance for the world, our nation, and our community. We lifted up in particular friends of Fran and Q who live in Scott, MS and have been diagnosed with COVID-19. We also prayed for families and friends who are affected in so many ways by the pandemic. After our prayer time, we did a Bible study from our Real People series. I have attached a document of this lesson to this email in case you want to use it as a devotional in your own home. (Please let me know if you want lessons from previous weeks.) With the isolation brought by the pandemic, now is an excellent time to strengthen your personal devotions and daily household worship. 

Update on our ongoing United Prayer Time: Debbie and I plan to pray in the Fellowship Hall again this evening (and every day now) at 6:30pm until the pandemic subsides. Others are welcome to join in person. Our primary desire is that you would pray at the same time so that we can be united in our lifting up the needs of our community. There are still no known cases of the virus in Sunflower County, but there are now at least 50 cases in Mississippi. We have heard from families in the community who are concerned because their children are not in school and therefore are not able to receive their regular school breakfasts and lunches. The current situation is placing a burden on families that have no adult to stay at home with the children. Please include this in your prayers this evening. 

Update on our Lord's Day Worship Services: We are still considering how best to proceed. The health authorities are still recommending that gatherings be limited to no more than 10 people. We are considering holding our worship services outside and/or conducting multiple services with fewer people each. Please be in prayer as we evaluate our options. 

Update on the Flock: Bill Humbarger is currently experiencing hemorraghing and therefore needs focused prayer as the medical professionals seek to help him. Georgia is at the hospital now. Linus Lessmann is recovering from his procedure and is scheduled to return home tomorrow. Please continue praying for those (like Alice) who need in-home care. 

Update on our Communications: Quarantines can be lonely. Please continue to reach out by telephone to others within our church and community to encourage them. Please let us know of any particular needs or ideas that you have to help improve our situation and our witness for Christ. It is in His name that we pray for you and each other. 

In His name,

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

813-240-3106

Wednesday 3/18/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" - Psalm 91:1-2

Continue to dwell in God's shelter! It is in times like these that the church is called to pray and witness the grace, power, and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

We plan to pray as a church tonight at 6:30pm, especially lifting up those who are suffering directly or indirectly from the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

We are excited that we can pray as a church each evening at 6:30pm, even if many of us will be doing so from their own homes. We especially encourage those who are elderly or have compromised immune systems to pray from home at this same time so that we remain united in spirit. We are Christ's Body!

For those who wish to gather in person, we have set up tables and chairs some distance apart from one another in the Fellowship Hall. We will not be having our regular Wednesday night meal, but we plan to have a Bible lesson after the prayer time for those who wish to join. 

A few key items to pray about:

• Because of the virus outbreak, some in-home caregivers have suspended or reduced their services. This is likely affecting many in the area. Please pray especially for Doris Steed and Alice Varner to receive in-home care. 

• Because schools are no longer meeting, children must now remain at home. This can be especially challenging for families in which a parent is not normally at home during the day. Please pray for solutions to these and related challenges. 

• Small businesses, in particular, are facing difficult decisions. Please pray for economic and financial protection across society. 

• Uncertainty can bring stress. Please pray that God's people can bring God's Word and truth to those who are worried. Pray especially that we can encourage our neighbors, friends, and family, despite facing limitations on contact. 

• Pray for the healthcare professionals as they prepare and deliver care during this difficult time. 

• Pray for wisdom as we make decisions about church services. We are considering how to use technology and how to meet in smaller groups. 

Our plan is to continue this practice of praying at 6:30pm (in the Fellowship Hall or from our homes) every day until the pandemic subsides. 

Please join us at this time. If you have ANY questions, concerns, or needs, please call us. 

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes and the rest of the Session and Diaconate of First Presbyterian Church in Indianola

813-240-3106

Monday 3/16/20 First Presbyterian Church Update

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.- Psalm 121:1-2

Today, I pray that you are doing well. As we each respond to the coronavirus pandemic, I wanted to update you on the activities at First Presbyterian Church in Indianola. 

Each day, the Session and Diaconate are evaluating how to ensure the health of the church. For your safety, we are committed to complying with guidance from local and national health officials. As of yesterday (Sunday the 15th), there had been no reported cases in Sunflower County. We decided that we would continue with our scheduled morning and evening worship services. At the same time, we encouraged those who preferred to stay home to do so. Today, the Mississippi State Department of Health updated their recommendations, including avoiding social gatherings where 10 or more people would come into close contact. Therefore, as of this evening, we are canceling the dinner and children's catechism portions of our Wednesday Night Live activities this week. At the same time, we would like to encourage you to unite with our church in prayer at 6:30pm on Wednesday, from wherever you are. 

This Wednesday Evening @ 6:30pm. It is in times of grave national concern that the church is especially called to bear witness to the love of Jesus so that others may know His mercy. Our Lord instructed us to pray for others and modeled loving prayer for us. Therefore, the Session requests that every member of First Presbyterian Church take time to pray from 6:30-6:45pm beginning this Wednesday. Even from separate locations, we can still be united in spirit as we lift up the needs of the world. Would you join us in prayer this Wednesday evening? We plan to open the Fellowship Hall at that time for any members who wish to pray together (maintaining significant distances between the participants), but we do not expect or request that anyone feel compelled to attend in person. After the season of prayer, we will likely continue with a Bible lesson for any in attendance. 

Every Evening from 6:30-6:45pm. We intend to continue this pattern of praying regarding COVID-19 -- either in the Fellowship Hall or from our homes -- at 6:45pm each and every evening until the pandemic has ended. We hope that you can join us each evening from wherever you feel comfortable. At a minimum, you can be assured that our church body is committed to prayer. 

Now, consider the words of Jesus in John 16:32-33, "Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

Always, God is in control. Nothing is outside of His loving, sovereign will. God's people can trust in Him. Let's join our hearts in prayer for the sufferings of this land. 

Each day this week, we will send an update on our upcoming activities, including how we plan to worship on the Lord's Day. I look forward to speaking to you more, perhaps mostly by telephone. 

In His name, 

Rev. Duncan Hoopes

813-240-3106