The Gateway to the High Country Cowboy Church

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Our Current Newsletter

Howdy Pardners,

Well howdy there, and good morning to you friends.  I know that many are dismayed over the recent elections and the apparent direction our country is headed.  As with anytime in life we should look to scripture.  I've had numerous people ask me about what I thought and I kinda want to remind you of an event in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In Mark 15: 9-11 the people were given a choice between Jesus and a notorious criminal named Barabas, "But Pilate answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release to you (Jesus) the King of the Jews?”   For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy.  But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them."

Theologically, the choice of Barabbas over Jesus symbolizes the rejection of the true Messiah by His own people. It underscores the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy where he wrote "He was despised and rejected by men" (Isaiah 53:3). The event also illustrates the substitutionary nature of Jesus' sacrifice.  Barabbas, a guilty man, was set free, while Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, took his place, prefiguring the atonement for humanity's sins.

Morally and ethically the crowd's decision reflects the influence of mob mentality and the susceptibility of people to manipulation by leaders with ulterior motives.  It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forsaking truth and justice for expediency or out of fear of authority.  The episode challenges believers to stand firm in their convictions, even when faced with societal pressure.

Scripture reminds us again and again of the Lord's sovereignty.  

Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters” emphasizes God’s authority over all creation. 

Isaiah 46:10 – “I make known the end from the beginning… My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please” shows God’s eternal plan and sovereignty. 

Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” teaches that human intentions are secondary to God’s will. 

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” reassures believers that God’s control brings ultimate good. 

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God” encourages trust and surrender to God’s control in times of uncertainty 

These verses collectively affirm that God is in control of nature, history, and both national and personal circumstances.  Trusting in His sovereignty allows believers to relinquish anxiety, find peace, and embrace His plan, even when life feels chaotic.  Meditating on these scriptures can strengthen faith, provide comfort, and encourage reliance on God’s wisdom and timing.  And I'll keep saying again and again and again, Pray for our nation and our representatives.  Even the ones we didn't vote for. Because God can change their lives and minds as He did for you.

Upcoming Events: 

Tomorrow on Saturday November 7th is a Fall Open House at Camp Cedar Crest.  This is where our youth have been going, and countless others have gone for generations!  They are planning to have a pig roast, live music, hay rides, kids fishing derby, and more.  Lunch will start at noon.  See the attached flyer for more information.  
 
The Crossroads Baptist Association is putting together an Association Christmas Choir. Rehearsals will begin this coming Sunday, November 8 at 3pm at FBC Moberly.   Trudy Barnes (choir director/pianist at FBC Moberly) will be directing the choir.  We will be working on 4 songs. We will provide the music at the first rehearsal.  The association will host a Christmas Worship Service on December 13th at 3pm at FBC Moberly. The choir will sing, but there will also be congregational singing and a devotional given by Pastor Josh Moseley. 
 
The Fall Craft/Art and Bake Sale is coming up next week on November 14th from 10am to 3pm.  This has always been a great time to check out the skills all around us as well as picking up Christmas gifts and ideas.  It sounds like all the vendor spots are filled, but you can contact Carolyn Cunningham or Sandy Bemboom in case of cancellations.   
 
Soul'd Out will be in concert on Monday November 23rd at the Hallsville Baptist Church.  See the attached flyer for more info.   
 
There is an Operation Christmas Child Mission Trip to Aurora, Illinois over Friday to Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend to help process shoeboxes. It is for volunteers 13 and over.  If you want more info on that please check with Kathy.
 
Fun Horse Stuff:  When training your horse, it’s important to be consistent and to use positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a great way to reward your horse for good behavior and encourage him to continue to do well. This can be done through verbal praise, patting, treats, or even a light scratch on the neck.
 
 

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God Bless and Happy Trails!

Pastor Brook