All posts by Cedar Hills

Deep Waters

Deep Waters

It is said that water covers about 71% of the Earth’s surface, and only 3% of it is fresh, with much of that locked in ice. Isn’t that interesting? There is no doubt that water is vital and essential for our overall well-being. Doctors often remind us that drinking enough water keeps us hydrated.

In Genesis 1:6, it says, “And God said, ‘Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.’” Then in verse 7, “So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it.”

I don’t know about you, but I cannot swim. Ironically, though, I really enjoy being in the water–just not deep water. My fear is that the waves and tides might sweep me away. I always get nervous about going too deep because I don’t know what lies ahead. This tension between the fear and love for water is something I have lived with my entire life.

But what if I told you that God sometimes calls us into deeper waters–not so we can drown, but so we can rise above the waves and tides? As I have matured in my faith, I see God calling me into even deeper waters. Isaiah 43:2 reminds us, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” This assurance from God is both calming and, at times, a little frightening.

Maybe you’re like me and feel God calling you into deeper waters. For me, it has meant walking by faith and not by sight remembering that the same God who made the waters will see me through to the other side. I have had to lay my fears of deep waters at His feet and embark on the journey.

Being in deep water has brought a sense of awe and even excitement. I am reminded that no matter how high the waves and tides rise, God is with me.

Frankline “Franky” Tshombe
Children’s Church Leader

Did you enjoy this article? Did you laugh, cry, or learn something new?  Let Frankline know.

    Lake View Camps

    Lake View Camps are awesome! Camps for all ages – even grandparent/grandchild camps! Registration opens Monday, Feb. 2 at 9am.  

    We highly value the Christian camping experience, and because of this, Cedar Hills will pay for half of one camp this summer for members of Cedar Hills to ensure finances are not a barrier between you being able to go.

    Use transfer code 2026Cedar when registering.

    Some camps are very popular (Elementary and Grandparent camps!) so we recommend registering as early as possible to ensure you can attend.

    www.lakeviewconference.com

     

    Rooted Retreat

    Rooted Together retreat happening February 27–March 1, 2026! This will be a peaceful and meaningful weekend away in a cabin setting, focused on growing deeper in our faith and in community with one another.

    Over the weekend, we’ll spend time in worship, Scripture, conversation, rest, and laughter as we explore what it means to be rooted in Christ and rooted together. There will be space to slow down, connect, and be refreshed in this unique rustic cabin setting and community space.

    📅 Retreat Details

    • Date: Friday, February 27 – Sunday, March 1, 2026
    • Location: Camp Liberty-New Liberty, IA (Near Davenport)
    • Cost: $100 per person
    • Payment: Check, cash or Venmo is accepted and may be directed to Beth Brown.

    📝 Registration

    • Deadline to register and pay: January 18, 2026
    • Spots are limited, so please sign up early to reserve your place by signing up via the sign up genius attached.

    What to Expect

    • Time in Scripture, reflection, and prayer
    • Teaching and conversations about being rooted in Christ and in community
    • Shared meals, fellowship, free time, and nature
    • Worship and encouragement around the fire

    We hope you’ll join us for this special time away together.

    SIGN-UP NOW

    Super Bowl Subs Fundraiser


    Orders Due Wednesday, Feb. 7

    Order subs for the big game! The Journey youth prepare your sub orders fresh on the day of the game for pickup after either service.

    Subs are $7 each and directly fund trips, conferences and activities for our middle school and high school youth.

    ORDER ONLINE

    Complete your order online and pay using our online payment system, or bring your payment to the church office.

    PRINT ORDER FORM

    Print your order form and return to the church office by Wednesday, Feb. 4.  Cash or check for payment.

    The Holidays at Cedar Hills

    November 26, 6:30pm – Thanksgiving Eve Worship: a light-hearted and family friendly worship service. Held in the Gathering Space.

    November 30 – Advent Begins. Services at 8:30am and 11am. We will light the traditional Advent candles in worship.

    December 7, 4:00pm – Advent By Candlelight – a women’s event with elegant Christmas-themed tables, desserts, and a program to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Pre-registration required

    December 14, 6:30pm Journey Youth – Christmas Movie Night For 6th-12th grade students. Invite a friend.

    December 17, 915am & 10:15am Away in a Manger – Noah’s Ark Preschool Christmas programs

    December 21 – “Joy” Sunday – come to worship in your Christmas attire–ugly sweaters, Christmas ties, or dress up and take family photos at our special photo area.  Regular service times. No Sunday classes.

    December 21 – Journey Youth Christmas Party – 6pm-8pm. A special Christmas celebration for 6th-12th grade students.

    December 24 – Christmas Eve worship services at 3pm and 5pm A celebration of Jesus’ birth with candles and carols.  Online service broadcast will be 5pm only.

    December 25 – Christmas Day.  No worship services.

    December 28 – Regular worship services at 8:30am and 11am. No Sunday classes.

    Food Pantry – Most Needed Items

    Cream of mushroom

    Cream of Chicken

    Tomato

    Peanut Butter

    Canned Green Beans

    Canned Peas

    Canned Corn

    Canned Carrots

    Canned Peaches

    Canned Pears

    Canned Applesauce

    Raisins

    Oatmeal

    Adult Cereal

    Kids Cereal

    Pasta-Spaghetti

    Pasta-Macaroni

    Pasta-Rice

    Canned Spaghetti Sauce-NO GLASS JARS

    Canned Pork & Beans

    Canned Chili Beans

    Canned Black Beans

    Canned Kidney Beans

    Canned Meat

    Macaroni & Cheese

    Hamburger/Tuna Helper

    Instant Potatoes

    Cake, Cookie, Brownie Mixes, Canned Frosting

    Advent By Candlelight 2025

    REGISTER NOW

    Dear Sisters in Christ,

    You’re warmly invited to our annual Advent by Candlelight gathering—a cherished evening of beauty, worship, and togetherness.

    🕯️ Advent by Candlelight: A Night of Worship
    📅 Sunday, December 7
    🕓 Doors open at 3:30pm | Program begins at 4:00pm
    📍 Cedar Hills Community Church

    Join the women of Cedar Hills for a soul-stirring presentation of “A Night of Worship,” featuring beautifully decorated Christmas tables, inspiring music, and a heartfelt message from our guest speaker.

    🎄 This year, we’re also supporting a local mission close to our hearts: the Cedar Hills Food Pantry. Let’s come together to bless our community with generosity and love.

    ✨ Registration is required—please sign up here to reserve your spot and help us plan a meaningful evening.

    If you have any questions or would like to host a table, please reach out to Carmen Gronewold at carmengronewold@hotmail.com or 319-721-0107. We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you.

    With joy and anticipation,
    Cedar Hills Women’s Ministry

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