“Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much, and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much.” - Luke 16:10
In a world that constantly pushes us toward the next big thing…a bigger goal, a better job, a more dramatic transformation…Jesus reminds us of the sacred value of small things. In Luke 16:10, He speaks to a truth that is both simple and deeply challenging: how we handle the “little” things reveals the condition of our hearts.
This applies to more than just finances or responsibilities. It touches every part of our lives - our emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health.
When we choose to take a breath before reacting in anger, we’re being faithful in emotional stewardship.
When we pause to pray instead of spiraling into anxious thoughts, we’re being faithful in mental discipline.
When we go for a walk, get good rest, or eat with intention, we’re honoring the body God gave us.
When we spend five minutes in Scripture, even on a busy day, we’re tending the soil of our spiritual life.
These may seem small, but in God’s Kingdom, small faithfulness opens the door to greater trust, growth, and impact. It seems so simple - but often the simple is so hard to do.
So don’t be dismissive of the small victories this week. God sees every quiet choice you make; every time you respond in love, speak truth gently, show up when it’s hard, or surrender a burden to Him. Each act is a seed of faithfulness, and God is faithful to bring a harvest in due time.
Reflection Question: Where is God inviting you to be faithful in something small this week? Can you choose one small/simple and intentional act? It may be a moment of prayer, a walk outside, a word of encouragement to someone, or simply resting well and with intention you can offer it to God as an act of worship.
Peace, Pastor Erin
Check out the Weekly Bulletin to see the full schedule of what’s happening at TLC this week!
A big thank you to Diane Stef, Amy Dimmick, Pr. Todd, Don Hynek, and Frank Maggio for their help in distributing the 2nd round of God’s Work Our Hands food bags made on September 7. Your efforts helped many in our community.
A huge thank you to everyone who came out to the youth fundraiser at Presto Pasta! The TLC members did an amazing job, raising $189.20 for our youth programs. Your support means so much!
LOGOS has started! If you are between the grades Pre-K (3 years of age) through 5th grade, join on Wednesdays at 3:15pm for an afternoon of friendship, fun and food. Questions, call the church office 805-644-7474.
Join us for our first Adonai Art Café Create expressively from the week’s liturgical Bible readings through art. We’ll meet once a month, beginning this Saturday at 3:00pm in the Garden Room. Bring your own art supplies. Questions? Contact Diane at dianewallis4u@gmail.com.
Leo will be out of the office from September 26 through October 7.During this time, the church office hours will vary.
DEADLINE IS THIS SUNDAY As part of our annual 360 review process, the Staffing Committee invites everyone in the congregation to share feedback for our staff: Pastor Todd, Pastor Erin, Leo, Tilford, and Melanie Each staff member has a short Google form, and you’ll find all by clicking the link below.
Join us in celebrating our pastors on Pastor Appreciation Sunday, October 12. A heartfelt card is a thoughtful way to thank them for their dedication and service.
Young at Heart is Back! Join us for good food and great company on Thursday, October 16, at noon in the Fellowship Hall! Sign up at the Welcome Desk to let us know you’re coming.
Pinewood Derby – Saturday, October 25 • 2–4pm at TLC Ready, set, race! Bring your best Pinewood Derby car (or build one — kits at Amazon, Scouts.org, or Ventura Hobbies) and join us for an afternoon of fun, food, and friendly competition. Four categories, double-elimination races, prizes, and refreshments from Social Ministry. Sign up at the Welcome Desk to get on the list!
If you're looking for comfort and support, we invite you to join our Grief Support Group, which meets on Thursdays at 1:30pm. Led by Pastor Erin Martinson and Doug Miller, this group will meet for 10 weeks. While attending every session is helpful, we understand if you need to miss a week or two. We are here to walk alongside you on your journey.
Annual Book Give-Away Sunday, November 9, 2025
Join us for our Book Give-Away! All books are free to take home and enjoy.
As part of this event, we’ll also be collecting:
Cash donations for TLC’s Neighbor Aid Fund Groceries for The City Center Diapers (all sizes) for Redimidos of Oxnard, a diaper ministry for families in need
Book donations may be dropped off at the church during the week of November 3. Contact Leo for the drop-off location.
City Center is in need of paper towels and cleaning supplies.
Project Understanding has closed down, but any grocery donations we receive will be taken to The City Center. Please place items in the baskets located in the Gathering Space. Thank you for your ongoing support!
September 25 - Scott Powers September 26 - Jacob Azunna, Hailey Bartlett, Beverly Flothmeier, Lenora Weinerth September 27 - Grace Beech September 28 - Chanel Hoatson September 29 - Christian Azunna, Claire Bovenzi September 30 - Ron Downard, Beverly Macintyre, Katheryn Nolan
'25 Goal based on 2.5%+ over '24 actuals - $548,020.88/52 weeks. '25 YTD Challenge Goal based on 50% over 5 Years (8.5%) - $646,641.45/52 weeks. We are in Year 5
Attendance Week 37, 2025: Individuals in Person - 112 Estimated Individuals Online - 65
Attendance Week 37, 2024: Individuals in Person - 123 Estimated Individuals Online - 45
