An Anchor for Life
by Tom Goodman
March 12, 2008

He was friendly, but blunt.

"My friend gave me this because I was asking him a lot of questions about Jesus," he said, holding up a copy of the Gospel of John.  "You expect a lot when the first thing I'm supposed to believe is that Jesus turned water into wine."

That was my introduction to Terry, a Canadian businessman with a practical mind who had begun a spiritual search.  I suggested we meet to discuss what Christians believe.  A small group formed from that suggestion, and we met weekly to explore Christianity together.  It became the first of many small groups I've formed for that purpose.

I'm forming one of those small groups right now.  Want to be a part of it?

The eight-week experience is called "The Anchor Course," and it starts soon.  Hebrews 6:19 says of our faith:  "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul."  I want to help people anchor life to something solid, and this course will help.  Through our time together, spiritual seekers can discover the meaning of Christianity, and believers can develop their understanding of the faith.

What do Christians believe about God and his relationship to us?  Why is the Bible so important to believers?  Who is Jesus?  What was his vision for the church, and how must believers make that vision a reality?  What about heaven and hell?  And why does the cross stand as the most recognizable symbol of the Christian faith?

Firm answers to these vital questions will anchor your life.

The Anchor Course is a chance to build friendships around a weekly meal, and a chance to build faith around a weekly discussion.  Join us -- and bring someone who has been asking questions about Christianity!

It all starts with my "Get Anchored" Dinner on Wednesday, March 19, 6:30-8:00pm.  By attending the dinner, you're under no obligation to sign up for the Anchor Course.  You'll enjoy a good meal and learn more about the course.  Should you decide to register for the course, we'll meet eight weeks for dinner and discussion starting Wednesday, March 26, 6:30-8:00pm.  Your children can join you for the meal and then go to childcare and youth activities, which take place at the same time.

For the "Get Anchored" Dinner, an RSVP is not required, but it is encouraged.  Contact my assistant, Jami (345-3771 or email).  To learn more, go to the Anchor Course website (here) or read a book excerpt (here).
 
--Tom

Drop By the Blog, Leave a Comment.  At my weblog, "Get Anchored," every Sunday I post a new "Song of the Week" (This week, "Boogie Back to Texas" by Asleep at the Wheel).  Also, every Tuesday I post some entertaining and informative "Links to Your World."

Do you know friends who would appreciate Winning Ways?  Just forward this e-mail to them!

Have you subscribed to Winning Ways?  You can subscribe by clicking here and following the instructions.  Your e-mail address will not be sold or given away to anyone, and you can automatically change your subscription or drop it by following the easy steps provided with each e-mail.

FRESH NEWS AT HILLCREST UPDATED WEEKLY:  www.HillcrestAustin.org

LISTEN TO RECENT SERMONS:  Click here

MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTIONS TO OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTERS:  Click here.  If you do not have access to the web, please send a note to newsmaster@hbcaustin.org to tell us of any changes you would like to make.