Chipley Kiwanis Club Enjoys Easter Program 

At the weekly club luncheon on Tuesday, March 30th, Dr. Bruce Christmas introduced the Easter Program..  Pastor Gladys Inman of the Believers Outreach Ministry in Marianna opened the program by singing an original religious song:  “A Special Love Affair”.  Dr. Christmas then introduced the Reverend Vince Spencer of New Life Assembly of Chipley, who gave the Easter message.  Taking his inspiration from Chapter 11 of the Book of Saint Mark, Rev. Spencer informed the Club members that there are business principles as well as life principles to be found in the Scriptures.  Everyone should hold strongly to their convictions and faith whatever their religion.  As Christians is impossible for us to hold strongly to our beliefs and not live them out in our everyday lives. A key business principle is commitment, as Jesus was committed to fulfilling his mission from God, even knowing that he was fated to die.

The second principle was that anything worth having is worth striving for, even in the face of trials and difficulties.  In short, “No pain, no gain!”

Finally, there is wisdom in not letting popular opinion direct your actions.  Rather, adhere to your principles, either business or spiritual.

Rev. Spencer explained that the traditions of the Easter bunny and Easter eggs derive from an earlier pagan holiday which was celebrated about the time of year of Easter.  As individuals came to faith in Christ those pagan traditions were redirected to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus.

Finally, Reverend Spencer made three key points: First, that Jesus did what he did because of his love for us regardless of what we have done.  Second, God has never been caught off guard by our mistakes.  Jesus’ sacrifice was meant to save us.  Third, there were three groups of people present to welcome Jesus when he entered Jerusalem:  Voices, those shouting “Hosanna”, Workers, those who had cut and were waving palm branches, and the Committed, who laid down their clothing for his animal to walk upon.  Reverend Spencer concluded by saying, “My prayer for you this morning is that God will touch your heart and you will be committed.

Pastor Inman concluded the program by singing another original religious song: “My House”.

The Kiwanis Club of Chipley is in its 69th year of providing support to youth oriented events and programs and last year supported 36 organizations throughout the county.  The club meets Tuesdays at Patillo’s Restaurant in the middle of the Washington-Holmes County Technical Center (WHTC) at Noon.   For an invitation to lunch, contact any Kiwanian or call Mark Collins, Membership Chairperson, at (850) 258-9453.