This is Pastor David Averill writing from McAllen, Texas, near the Convention Center District and a shopping area. McAllen is a city with a population of 142,000, ranking as the 23rd largest city in Texas. It is part of the binational metropolitan area of Reynosa-McAllen. Historically, McAllen was known for its railroad connections and agriculture. The city experienced significant growth in the 1970s and 1980s, which accelerated in the 1990s after the passage of the North American Free Trade Act (NAFTA).
NAFTA allowed for the establishment of factories across the border in Reynosa, Mexico, with management in McAllen and workers in Reynosa. While agriculture remains important in the broader Rio Grande Valley, McAllen’s focus has shifted to manufacturing and logistics. Nonetheless, in the broader Rio Grande Valley (RGV), you will find cash crops like cotton, citrus, alfalfa, and pecans.
I want to introduce this week’s word of the week: “Border.” Reflecting on the borders and boundaries in our lives, many of these are man-made, including the US-Mexico border. It’s worth noting that before the Mexican American War in the 1840s, Texas was part of Mexico.
McAllen embraces multiculturalism and bilingualism, with many residents comfortable speaking Spanish. The community includes Tejano families with deep roots in Texas, even predating its statehood.
Spiritually, consider the borders God is calling you to cross. Whether it’s a new job, opportunity, crisis, or illness, trust that God walks with you through these challenges. As Psalm 23 reminds us, even in the valley of the shadow of death, God guides us, leading us to dwell in His house forever.
Reflect on the borders and boundaries you are facing, and seek God’s presence through prayer, study, and fellowship with believers. May God bless you on your journey. I look forward to our future words of the week over the next 12 weeks.
Blessings,
David Averill
Join a Bible Study!
Sundays at 9:30 am in the Chapel – Book of Ezra
Sundays at 9:30 am in the CEC Classroom – New Testament scriptures
Sundays at 9:30 am in the Choir Room – Chronological study of the Bible
Sundays at 11:00 am in Friendship Hall – Connecting the sermon to life!
Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the Chapel – Begins August 21
Wednesdays at 6:30 PM in the Chapel – Begins August 14
Meeting ID: 858 1169 9705 Passcode: 831923 — One tap mobile +13052241968,,85811699705#,,,,*831923# US
Join our Wednesday evening Bible study starting on AUGUST 14th! We’ll explore the captivating books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. These living documents offer timeless wisdom to navigate life’s twists and turns. Discover how God’s purposes remain steadfast, even when believers seem absent. Nehemiah’s story assures us that God equips us for specific tasks, and Esther’s tale inspires faithful living in a secular world.
Children on Sunday mornings
Childcare – Available from 9:15 am to 12:15 pm
Kids’ Church – Children begin in worship at 9:30 and then depart for Kids’ Church
Bible Fun – Available during the 11:00 traditional service
Wonderful Wednesdays for Footprints and Barefoot students return to our weekly schedule on August 21 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.
The Blessing of the Students will be on Sunday, August 11 at the 9:30 service.
Our Lake Cares food distribution is Friday, August 16 in our Friendship Hall. Volunteers of all ages are needed from 7:30 to 9:30 am. Please park in the Fifth Avenue lot.
The widowed support group will meet Thursday, August 22 at 9:30 AM in the Chapel. Anyone who has lost a spouse is welcome.
TWO BIBLICAL TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES COMING IN 2025 Make plans now to join one or both of these exciting adventures!
Join Paul Lane & Mount Dora FUMC on a Wonders of Egypt tour starting at $5,146* from Orlando on February 24, 2025. You will see Cairo, Saqqara, the Stepped Pyramid of Djoser, Serapeum Necropolis, the Egyptian Museum, Abu Simbel, Elephantine Island, Granite Quarry, Temple Complex of Philae, Nubian Museum, Dinner in Aswan on the Nile, Kom Ombo, Luxor Temple, Luxor Museum, Karnack Temple Complex, Valley of the Kings, Great Egyptian Museum, Sphinx, Giza Plateau and its Pyramids and much more!
Register Early and Save $75 Register by June 24, 2024 $50 Register by July 24, 2024 $25 Register by August 24, 2024 Full deposit required. Savings are deducted from the balance.
OR
ITALY
November 2025!
Italy, where the Roman Empire once reigned, offers a unique blend of biblical history, preserved ruins, and exquisite cuisine. Explore hidden gems in Rome and Campania, from Pompeii to Paestum, and discover the backdrop for the Gospel drama. Join us for an unforgettable journey!
