HOPE

Written By Holly Hill Church of Christ

“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 15:5, ESV)

Mini Devotional

A mini message to take with you this week to help you in your devotion to God.

“HOPE”

A Devotional By: Jeff Jones

HOPE!

Bad things do happen, certainly not things we hoped for, more than likely, things we hoped would NOT happen.

This message today is on HOPE and how we use it in our everyday lives and how it relates to our discipleship.

HOPE is a big theme around Relay for Life, getting hundreds of people together to help them visualize hope. Signature laps sometimes categorizing 10, 20, 30 40 year survivors.

Others are there to remember their loved ones lost, uncertainty of themselves, possibly scared they will be faced with the fight and lose.

Some years ago, after going through various abdominal pain attacks from moderate to severe, I was finally granted approval for a colonoscopy, I was 36 years old, cancer was ruled out because I was almost 15 years away from the earliest recommended “first Colon Cancer screening” at age 50.

Colonoscopy right before Christmas revealed the answer and the immediate need for surgery. Christmas Eve at Central Baptist in Lexington running to pre-op base line tests was like a ghost town. (Blood tests, Blood pressure, X-rays…)

Christmas at my house that year was solemn, it seemed like I was awake at my own funeral because it seemed like the final viewing time.

Six AM the day after Christmas was the surgery, worst was soon confirmed it was a high stage, stage 3 through the colon wall and into lymph nodes.

Now I come back to what I was talking about earlier, HOPE not just for me, years later I finally understood that it was not just me that was diagnosed that day but my whole family. They needed HOPE as much or even more than I did.

Let me just say an apology for all of you struggling or who have struggled with loved ones and felt little if any empathy for your own struggle. A survivor feels isolated, he/she feel alone and that this struggle to survive is just yours alone, the reality is, if you are fortunate enough to have caregivers, realize that they are pulling just as hard as you and sometimes there are just one set of foot prints in the sand.

Soon was six months of chemotherapy which I call the medical world’s efforts to eradicate as much hope from you as possible under the guise of “where helping you!”

When I think of cancer, I think of natural disasters, back-to-back hurricanes leave a wide swath, floods, tornadoes, results are always bad.

  • Loss Of Life

  • Massive Destruction

  • Scared

  • Humbled

  • In Need

  • Feel The World Has Shifted

Cancer to me is an internal, personal, natural disaster.

After a disaster / what happens?

The community and surrounding areas show up to help, show support, pick up the pieces and rebuild the damage, giving survivors HOPE for the future, which is badly needed but they lack confidence. Will I ever be made whole or complete again?

Now look at the life of a Christian, the idea of God, Heaven a Son named Jesus and a sacrifice for us.  We want that security, certainty that even if we fail multiple times He is still there for us.

This is contrary to the world we live in. You fail to make your payments on your house, you will no longer be living there; you fail to show up to your job, you will no longer work there. We live in a very quid pro quo society, this for that and uncertainty prevails, security is weak as nothing seems to last, change is constant.

When you can lock into the reality of the asset that Jesus died for, it relieves the anxiety, uncertainty, worry, nothing to do with arrogance but everything to do with confidence!

1 Peter 1:3-4  “(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy has begotten us again to giving HOPE through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (4) To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you…”

If you have had to face the reality of your own mortality and that you may not make it as many years as you thought you were entitled to, you gain the peace that passes understanding and you see this world for what it is, temporary and death has no power. I will end with a couple of verses from Romans that will hopefully encourage you, so whatever natural disaster is in your life, know that you can and will survive.

Romans 5:2-5 “(2) Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (3) Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, (4) and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, (5) and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

Romans 8:24-25 “(24) For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? (25) But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”

News

This section is for any special announcements that are not upcoming events or prayer requests.

  • Team Emmie Update

    The past few days have been unreal. After three months apart, and on top of a nine month deployment, having our family back together under one roof is such a blessing. And it makes you appreciate every moment.

    In these three months, I’ve learned a few important lessons:

    • Faith conquers fear. There were many days when we had more questions than answers, but faith carried us. We serve a big God who truly works miracles!

    • Family is more than blood. So many unexpected people stepped up like family. I’ve had people I barely know travel hundreds of miles to be with my little girl, while some blood relatives stayed distant. Family isn’t about blood, but about who’s there for you, and if you’ve been there for us, I’ll always be there for you.

    • Taylor is a saint. I couldn’t have done this without her. She’s been my rock, and my love for her has grown so much as I’ve seen her sacrifice for our family.

    • Healthcare workers are incredible. From neurosurgeons to medical assistants, we’ve received amazing care, and some of those in Tennessee will be lifelong friends.

    • It’s a marathon, not a sprint. This journey is long, and while our little girl continues to amaze us, we know the road to recovery will take time.

    • Emmie’s story matters. I hope her story touches lives, brings peace, and even leads people to the cross. She’s a tough little girl, beating the odds every day.

    Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey with us.

    #TeamEmmie

  • Güines, Cuba Mission Report (July - August 2024)

    Holly Hill,

    Please see below’s message from Daniel in Cuba and read the attachment of the work you are helping support.

    -Robert Roach

    Mission Report (July & August) (Link)

  • Involvement Survey For The Women’s Ministry Program

    If you have a copy of the survey and have not returned it, please complete the survey and return it to Vickie Wise as soon as possible . Thank you!

  • Hope & Equip’s 3rd Annual Franklin Fundraiser

    We are excited to invite you to a special event on October 17th in Franklin, TN, where you can witness firsthand the meaningful work being done through Hope & Equip — a foundation led by people you know and trust.

    At Hope & Equip we look for opportunities both here and abroad where we can make a significant impact. We partner with local visionaries who live in the communities we serve — people with the connections, commitment, and accountability to truly make a difference. Our role is to equip them with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed in ways they couldn’t on their own.

    Every contribution to Hope & Equip, 100%, goes directly into these works. We intentionally bypass aid agencies and government entities to ensure that your support reaches those who need it most, without delay or dilution. But our commitment doesn’t end there — we stay connected with our partners, providing ongoing support and maintaining accountability.

    This event is more than just an opportunity to learn — it’s a chance to be part of something transformative. Whether you’ve been looking for a way to give back, to get involved, or to make a difference, this is your moment.

    For more information on the Franklin Fundraiser, read the letter linked from Robert Roach.

    • Attend the Event: Join us in person at Franklin Estates on October 17th. Please RSVP to confirm your attendance. Dinner will be provided. You should have received an electronic invite and if you have not you can go to https://hopeandequip-bloom.kindful.com/e/2024-franklin-fundraiser. If you prefer to RSVP another way, just email me at clefford@aol.com or call or text 502-545-2965.

    • Join the Livestream: If you can’t make it in person, we’d love to have you join us virtually. Join through Hope and Equip’s Facebook page.

    • Contribute: If this is something you think you can get behind, please consider making a financial contribution. 100% of contributions go directly into work like Juntos. If you wish you can mail the contribution to 12445 Bellingham Rd, Caledonia, IL 61011 or you can go to our website hopeandequip.org and donate.

    • Pray: We need your prayers for the event, and that we can continue strengthen and advance the kingdom of God.

  • October’s Pack-The-Pulpit Event For The Westridge Elementary Backpack Program

    It's that time of year again! Our service project for the year at Westridge Elementary School Backpack Program. We are going to Pack-The-Pulpit in: October, December, February and April. Our Pack-The-Pulpit date for this month will be Sunday, October 27th, but we will be making weekly trips to Westridge Elementary, in order to drop off packed backpacks.

    We need individual servings of food that can be microwaved and easy to open pull top tabs. If you have any questions, please see Jenny Jones.

    Items Needed For This Week:

    • (4) boxes of Hot Chocolate

    • (25) Tuna or Chicken Salad Kits

    • (50) Individual Veggies w/ Pop & Peel Top

    • (50) Jello Cups

  • Church Records: Sunday, Oct 6th

    • Bible Class Attendance - 62

    • Worship Attendance - 95

    • Contribution - $8727.00

Prayers

Here are some individuals that especially need our prayers this week. Please keep them in mind every time you pray.

  • New Prayer Requests:

    • Jerry Mayes (Mike Mayes’ Brother, Diagnosed w/ Cancer & Undergoing Painful Treatment)

    • Charlie Caldwell (Fractured Shoulder)

  • Ongoing Prayers For: Tony Moore; Sandy Meade Scrimager; Robin Ibershoff; Inez Chatham; Polly Deaton, Katie Bell, Robert Roach Sr. (Robert Roach’s father), Roger Caudill (Robin Mayes’ brother-in-law; fighting cancer), Brian Stapleton (friend of Jim & Val Clark), Emmie Forrest, Rita Tackett (Alyson Woodyard’s aunt), David Bird, Phil & Suzanne Wilkins, Mike Lay, Sharon Smither (Adam Owens’ mother-in-law), Brenda Perkins, Larry & Renita Clarke, Libby Smith, Lori Armstrong (friend of April Deaton), Jerry Roberts (member of the Clark family), Thelma Spears (member of the Clark family), Jessie Tropoulos, Kyle Cordial (Val Clark’s friend), Karen Durham (Val Clark’s friend), Britney Bartley (Val Clark’s friend), Jim & Val Clark, Amber Collins, Janice Gregory, Missy Farmer (friend of Dorothy Trent), Tim Lilly, Tanya Phipps (Brenda Stone’s niece), Judy Casey, John Widener Jr., Cynthia Whitehead (friend of the Blanton’s), Ann Pittman, Mark McPherson, Janis Friend, Betty Blanton, Helen Hall, Penny Harland (Katie Bell’s mother), & Alyssa Deaton.

Please submit your prayer requests for inclusion at office@hollyhillcoc.org

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are coming up that you need to make space on your calendar for.

  • Life Groups (Mike Mayes & Tom Owens) - Sunday, October 13th (2 PM)

    The Mike Mayes & Tom Owens Life Group will host its first meeting on Sunday, October 13th at 2 PM. The meeting will be hosted by Dennis & Jackye Stockton at their home. Please contact the church office (office@hollyhillcoc.org) for directions or the address. This Life Group will meet every 2nd & 4th Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

  • Life Groups (Elijah Bell) - Sunday, October 13th (6 PM)

    The Elijah Bell Life Group will host its first meeting on Sunday, October 13th at 6 PM. This Life Group will meet in the lobby of the church building every 2nd & 4th Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

  • The 3rd Annual Hope & Equip Franklin Fundraiser - Thursday, October 17th

    We are excited to invite you to a special event on October 17th in Franklin, TN, where you can witness firsthand the meaningful work being done through Hope & Equip — a foundation led by people you know and trust.

    At Hope & Equip we look for opportunities both here and abroad where we can make a significant impact. We partner with local visionaries who live in the communities we serve — people with the connections, commitment, and accountability to truly make a difference. Our role is to equip them with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed in ways they couldn’t on their own.

    Every contribution to Hope & Equip, 100%, goes directly into these works. We intentionally bypass aid agencies and government entities to ensure that your support reaches those who need it most, without delay or dilution. But our commitment doesn’t end there — we stay connected with our partners, providing ongoing support and maintaining accountability.

    This event is more than just an opportunity to learn — it’s a chance to be part of something transformative. Whether you’ve been looking for a way to give back, to get involved, or to make a difference, this is your moment.

    For more information on the Franklin Fundraiser, read the letter linked from Robert Roach.

    We would love for you to be part of this endeavor in one or more of the following ways:

    • Attend the Event: Join us in person at Franklin Estates on October 17th. Please RSVP to confirm your attendance. Dinner will be provided. You should have received an electronic invite and if you have not you can go to https://hopeandequip-bloom.kindful.com/e/2024-franklin-fundraiser. If you prefer to RSVP another way, just email me at clefford@aol.com or call or text 502-545-2965.

    • Join the Livestream: If you can’t make it in person, we’d love to have you join us virtually. Join through Hope and Equip’s Facebook page.

    • Contribute: If this is something you think you can get behind, please consider making a financial contribution. 100% of contributions go directly into work like Juntos. If you wish you can mail the contribution to 12445 Bellingham Rd, Caledonia, IL 61011 or you can go to our website hopeandequip.org and donate.

    • Pray: We need your prayers for the event, and that we can continue strengthen and advance the kingdom of God.

  • Fall Festival - Saturday, October 19th (4 PM)

    The Fall Festival is fast approaching! Plans are underway for activities for kids, adults, and families followed by a chili supper at 5:30. Volunteers are needed to oversee the activities and set up/clean up the chili supper. Please sign up on the bulletin board if you are able to help and Sign-up Genius to bring food! An attendance sign-up is also posted so we can plan for the materials for the activities and prizes! Contact Carol Roach if you have any questions!

    • When: October 19th, Activities @ 4 PM, Chili Supper @ 5:30 PM

    • Where: Holly Hill Church of Christ, 1020 Holly Hill Dr., Frankfort, KY 40601

    • Costumes: Optional (Nothing Scary!)

    • Food Sign-Up Sheet (Link)

  • Life Groups (Jeff Jones & David Jones) - Sunday, October 20th (1 PM)

    The Jeff Jones & David Jones Life Group will meet on Sunday, October 20th at 1 PM. Please contact the church office (office@hollyhillcoc.org) for directions or the address. This Life Group will meet every 1st & 3rd Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

  • Life Groups (Lee Wise & Scott Trent) - Sunday, October 20th (2:30 PM)

    The Lee Wise & Scott Trent Life Group will meet on Sunday, October 20th at 2:30 PM at the church building, downstairs in the Fellowship Hall. This Life Group will meet every 1st & 3rd Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

  • Pack-The-Pulpit For Westridge Elementary's Backpack Program - Sunday, October 27th

    It is that time of year again! Our service project for the year at Westridge Elementary School Backpack Program. We are going to pack the pulpit in: October, December, February and April. We need individual servings of food that can be microwaved and easy to open pull top tabs. October’s Pack-The-Pulpit event this month will take place on Sunday, October 27th, but feel free to drop-off items throughout the month. For more information, contact Jenny Jones.

  • Life Groups (Mike Mayes & Tom Owens) - Sunday, October 27th (2 PM)

    The Mike Mayes & Tom Owens Life Group will host its first meeting on Sunday, October 13th at 2 PM. The meeting will be hosted by Dennis & Jackye Stockton at their home. Please contact the church office (office@hollyhillcoc.org) for directions or the address. This Life Group will meet every 2nd & 4th Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

  • Life Groups (Elijah Bell) - Sunday, October 27th (6 PM)

    The Elijah Bell Life Group will host its first meeting on Sunday, October 13th at 6 PM. This Life Group will meet in the lobby of the church building every 2nd & 4th Sunday from October 2024 to May 2025.

How You Can Serve

There are a lot of ways you can get involved and do the work of God in our community!

Limited-Time Opportunities:

  • Pack-The-Pulpit For Westridge Elementary's Backpack Program

    It is that time of year again! Our service project for the year at Westridge Elementary School Backpack Program. We are going to pack the pulpit in: October, December, February and April. We need individual servings of food that can be microwaved and easy to open pull top tabs.

    If you have any questions, please see Jenny Jones.

    Items Needed:

    • Ramen Noodles (Beef, Chicken & Shrimp)

    • Oatmeal Packets

    • Nutri-Grain Bars

    • Easy Mac

    • Chef Boyardee Cups

    • Vienna Sausages

    • Granola Bars

    • Fruit Cups

    • Fruit Gummy Snacks

    • Applesauce Cups

    • Cheez-its

    • Hot Chocolate

    • Protein Bars

    • Slim Jims

    • Raisins

    • Corn

    • Green Beans

    • Peas & Carrots

    • Cheese Dippers

    • Individual Cookie Packs

    • Beanie Weenies

    • Tuna Kits

    • Soup Cups

    • Cheese & Crackers

    • Pudding Cups

    • Cereal Cups

    • Pop Tarts

    • Fruit Rollups

    • Rice Krispies Treats

    • Pork-N-Beans

    • Pretzels

  • Operation Re-Stock The Food Pantry

    The Food Pantry needs to be re-stocked. During the upcoming months we will be asking for specific food donations. There will be a box in the foyer for you to place your food donations. Thank you so much and let’s make Operation Re-Stock a success!! For the month of October, we need:

    • Pancake Mix

    • Syrup

    • Beef Stew

    • Mayonnaise

Long-Term Opportunities:

  • Meal Train & Potlucks

    If you would like to sign-up for either the Meal Train or the Potluck and haven’t received an email from Robin Mayes, please contact her by phone (502-330-3361) or email (rdmbears@yahoo.com).

  • Youth Activities Planning Commitee

    Are you looking for a ministry to get involved with at Holly Hill & still consider yourself to be young at heart? Look no further! For further information, contact Bruce Blanton.

  • Women’s Ministry

    Are you interested in learning more about Holly Hill’s Women’s Ministry? Want to get involved? Contact Vickie Wise today and find out everything you’ll need to know to get started!

  • Tech Team Support

    The Holly Hill Tech Team needs help. We would love to have a few more people trained and available to set up the livestreams and audio equipment. It’s a fairly simple task and you’ll be well trained before being thrown into the seat alone. If you’re interested, see David Jones, Brad Gregory, or Brad Proctor.

  • Card Ministry

    Every Sunday there are cards spread out on a table in the lobby that will be sent out to various church members and guests who need encouragement. You can help serve and encourage by making sure to sign these cards each week. If you know of someone the church should send a card, please give the name(s) and address to Joyce Best. We have “get-well” cards, “thinking of you” cards, “praying for you” cards, and sympathy cards. You can also text the information to (502) 593-5865.

  • Casey Blessing Box

    The Casey’s are collecting items to give away to those in need in their Blessing Box. Currently, they are accepting donations of:

    • Can Goods (Fruit & Vegetables)

    • Crackers

    • Cereal

  • Shriners Children’s Hospital

    Donna White is collecting soda can tabs to donate to the children’s hospital. Please leave your donations in the lobby.

  • Children’s Bible Class Teachers & Helpers

    If you’d be willing to teach, sub, or help, please see a member of church leadership. We have a wonderful opportunity to teach God’s Word to our children. Let’s make sure they get our very best! Thank you!

For more information or for help signing up for any of these ministries, please call the church office at: (502) 227-7796

Holly Hill Church of Christ
1020 Holly Hill Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601
Web - www.hollyhillcoc.org
Phone - (502) 227-7796
Email - office@hollyhillcoc.org

Service Times
Sun AM Bible Study - 10am
Sun AM Worship - 11am
Sun PM Worship - 6pm
Wed PM Bible Study - 6:30pm

Holly Hill Church of Christ
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