Running the Race God Set Before Us
Salt and Light Newsletter
January 28, 2026
_________________________________________________________
Pastor’s Thoughts
Running the Race God Set Before Us
When Scripture talks about running the race set before us, it is easy to picture something neat and predictable. A clean track. Clearly marked lanes. A steady pace.
But that has never really been how following the Lord works.
The race God sets before His people is not a smooth oval or even a cross-country trail. It is more like a Tough Mudder. There are stretches where you run hard and fast. Then there are moments where you are crawling on your belly under barbed wire, inch by inch. Sometimes you run straight into a wall, and the only way over it is with the help of others lifting you up.
And all of it is still the race.
In seasons like the one we are in now, it is clear that God is moving. Doors are opening. Momentum is building. With things like the thrift store moving forward, the Stables, the new offices, the school, the building… The pace feels fast, because it is fast. But speed itself is not the danger. Misalignment is.
Prayer is what keeps us in step with God through every part of the course.
Prayer is not just for the slow moments or the hard ones. It is how we run when the pace picks up. It is how we crawl when the ground is low. It is how we stay humble when we need help and grateful when we are strong enough to help someone else.
There are parts of the race where God gives us strength to move quickly. There are other parts where He teaches us dependence, patience, and trust. And sometimes the lesson is simply that we were never meant to run alone.
Tonight’s Bible study on prayer matters because prayer is how we stay attentive to the Lord’s voice no matter where we are on the course. It reminds us that this is His race, His work, and His timing. We do not slow Him down, and we do not rush ahead of Him. We keep our eyes on Him and take the next faithful step. So let us keep running. Let us keep moving. Let us keep praying.
And when the race gets muddy, and it will, let us remember that God is not just at the finish line. He is with us in every step, every crawl, every lift, and every victory along the way. I am grateful to be running this race with you.
Pastor Justin
_________________________________________________________
Salt and Light Vision Update
I want to share a few important and encouraging updates with you regarding the thrift store and where things stand this week.
First, momentum continues.
We are actively working toward finalizing a lease for the store location. While nothing is signed just yet, this step represents real progress and confirmation that this vision is continuing to move forward.
Second, we are now accepting resumes for manager positions. As we shared last week, leadership for the store is critical. We are prayerfully seeking the right person or people who will carry the vision well, lead with excellence, and steward this ministry faithfully. If you or someone you know may be a good fit, we encourage you to apply.
Third, we are officially accepting startup donations through the church website. For those who have already committed to being part of the Founding 100, or for anyone who feels led to give at any amount, those gifts can now be made directly online.
As of this week, we now have:
Nine one thousand dollar donors
A fifty thousand dollar private loan at zero percent interest
And growing interest from others who want to be part of launching this store
That is a strong and encouraging start.
I also want to share a brief naming update.
As we have prayed, discussed, and received feedback, all signs are pointing toward naming the store Salt and Light Thrift Store. This name reflects who we are, why we are doing this, and the mission we want this store to carry into the community. While final details are still being worked through, this direction provides clarity and alignment with the heart of the ministry.
I also want to speak clearly to how the store’s funds will be used, because we have received thoughtful questions and we want to be fully transparent.
Salt and Light Thrift Store will exist to support the mission of Salt and Light Academy and the broader ministry connected to it. This store is not designed to take away from the church. It is designed to bless the ministry.
Our plan is simple and responsible.
If the fifty thousand dollar loan is used, profits will first go toward paying that back.
After that, funds will be applied to help cover the cost of operating the school for this year and next.
As those needs are met, funds can then be applied toward the building fund.
Because the school and the building are deeply connected, using store funds to support both is not only appropriate, it is necessary. As the building becomes less of a financial burden, more resources can be directed toward the long term sustainability and growth of the school.
What is important to understand is this. These funds are not for personal gain. They are about ministry flexibility and long term faithfulness. This store is meant to give us the freedom to respond to real needs, in real time, as the Lord leads.
Finally, one additional update regarding the property.
We do have a solid lead on removing the existing stables. The best option we have found at this time includes full labor, with the contractor paying the church one hundred dollars per stable for the reclaimed wood and iron. We have explored other avenues, and this is currently the best and most responsible option available. That said, if anyone has a better lead or alternative we are open to hearing it.
Please continue praying with us.
Pray for wisdom as the lease is finalized.
Pray for the right leadership for the store.
Pray for provision through donors.
And pray that everything we do would remain aligned with God’s will and bring Him glory.
We are grateful for your trust, your prayers, and your partnership in this work.
Pastor Justin
_________________________________________________________
Prayer Cards are located at the church entrances.
If you have a prayer request, please complete a prayer card and place it in the offering plate or boxes and someone will pray for you.
_________________________________________________________
Church Happenings
Wednesday at Salt & Light – January 28
6 - 6:45 PM - Dinner | Upper Lobby Roast Beef or BBQ Chicken Sliders, Mac and Cheese, Salad, and Dessert
A $5 donation is requested to cover food costs with additional going to the Building Fund. If you cannot make a donation, please join us for dinner, all are welcome.
7:00 PM Bible Study | Sanctuary
Following a brief time together, men and women will separate at 7:15 PM for a special one night Bible study on prayer.
Men will remain in the sanctuary with Pastor Justin.
Women will dismiss to the dining hall for Bible study with Kelly Walker.
Nursery - 5th Grade | Lower Level
Middle and High School Youth | Lower Level Romans with Paul Thomas
Girls (8th grade and up) - “Lies Young Women Believe” with Sarah Thomas
_________________________________________________________
Prayer Meeting - Friday, January 30 | 6:30 PM Meeting at Harrod’s Creek Baptist Church
8102 Highway 329 Crestwood KY 40014
All are welcome as we gather to pray.
_________________________________________________________
This Sunday February 1 | 11 AM
The Real House of David – The House God Built
Part II: The Reign of David
Six Steps at a Time (2 Samuel 6)
When David mishandles the Ark of the Covenant, a tragic moment reveals an eternal truth. God’s presence cannot be carried our way, stabilized by our hands, or avoided out of fear. Blessing comes when we obey His word, walk humbly, and rejoice in Him fully. This message challenges us to examine how we carry our faith and whether we are trusting God or trying to manage Him.
_________________________________________
Salt and Light Academy Top Golf Fundraiser - Sunday, February 1 | 2 - 4 PM
Top Golf 301 Oxmoor Ln, Louisville KY 40222
$20 per person ages 3 and up ($10 of your admission fee will be donated to Salt & Light Academy)
There are still tickets available to purchase here
Tickets are non-refundable.
To play with your friends, please enter together.
Questions contact Karen Shelton Karen@SaltandLightKy.org or Paul Thomas Paul.Thomas@SaltandLightAcademy.com
_________________________________________________________
Women of the Word Bible Study- Tuesdays | 9:45-11:30 AM
at Sharon Holbert’s Home
Continuing in the study of Daniel. Questions? Contact Sharon 502-235-6687
_________________________________________________________
Youth - Grades 6-12
Dessert Auction Fundraiser for Summer Camp - Wednesday, February 11 | 8 PM
Immediately after the service, bid on delicious desserts. Proceeds to cost for our youth to attend summer camp.
Camp - June 12–16, 2026
5 days of fun and fellowship—lake swimming, staying up late, eating too many snow cones, and most importantly, growing in God’s Word.
Students 12 years old (by June 12 and have completed 6th grade) through high school may attend.
February 16 - Registration Deadline | First payment of $75 due
A $5 registration fee is required to hold your spot.
Total cost $400 per student - $75 due February 16, $325 due May 18th
All camp payments are non-refundable.
Register Here
If the cost of camp is a hindrance to your student’s attendance, please see Paul Thomas or email Youth@SaltandLightKy.org
_________________________________________________________
Chili Cookoff and Cornhole Tournament - February 28
Save the date for this Salt and Light Academy Fundraiser! Details coming soon.
_________________________________________________________
Young Adults | Next Chapter (Ages 18-31)
For anyone around 18–31 who wants to stay connected, build friendships, and grow in faith together.
Signal Group - to request to join and stay in the loop or with questions - text Joshua Rieth 502-230-6629 or Kaiden Perrodin 502-663-3681
Bible Study - Sundays | 10:05 - 10:45 AM - Meets near the Library
Currently studying Colossians
Questions? Email Cheri Grinnell - Cheri@SaltandLightKY.org
_________________________________________________________
Lee Corps - Tuesdays | 7 - 9 PM Upper Lobby
Lee Corps provides a youth led, adult facilitated, Christian cadet program to foster leadership and a love for Christ in our community’s young men, ages 12-18. They excel in leadership and military skills preparation with a Christian worldview to serve their country and communities through training in tactics and field training, Christian apologetics, marksmanship, physical conditioning, and much more.
Lee Corps is not associated with or a ministry of Salt & Light Church but uses our facilities for their weekly training and welcomes interested young men to attend. No registration required.
Younger boys are welcome if they can sit through and be engaged in the presentations.
For more information LeeCorps.org or contact LtCol (Ret) Michael Muller (270) 300-1571 _________________________________________________________
Serving Opportunities & Needs
Building Fund - The building purchase and maintenance needs continue in 2026. Thank you for prayerfully considering giving an offering toward the property purchase. Please memo your offerings “Building Fund”.
In 2021, when Salt & Light outgrew our former location, God provided the beautiful 71 acre property with a former horse auction facility and barn where we now gather as a church family.
We entered a lease to own agreement with a payment due December 31 of each year until the purchase is complete.
_________________________________________________________
Recurring Monthly Giving - As the Lord continues to grow His work among us, one way many choose to serve is through recurring monthly giving. This helps provide steady support for the ministry and allows us to plan wisely while trusting God completely.
If you’re interested, you can explore this option through our online giving page by visiting the website. Thank you for your faithfulness. "God truly does fund what He calls."
_________________________________________________________
Security Team - Volunteers are needed to serve on the Salt & Light Security Team.
Please text Mike Muller 270-300-1571
_________________________________________________________
Food Pantry
Bible Donations - The Food Pantry gives a Bible to many of our visitors. Children’s Bibles are especially popular.
We are not requesting purchasing Bibles. If you have gently used Bibles that you no longer use or that your children have aged out of, it would be a blessing if you could donate them for us to share.
Food Items Needed
Frozen Chicken, Beef, Breakfast Sausage
Tuna
Frozen Pizza and Lasagna
Hamburger Helper (on sale at Kroger for $0.99 until January 27th!!)
Eggs
Canned Fruit Cocktail
Chef Boyardee
Spaghetti/Pasta sauce
Please place food and Bibles in bags labeled “Food Pantry” on the hospitality counter near the Coffee Bar. Please ask the Coffee Bar Volunteers to place perishable items in the refrigerator.
Thank you for donating and praying for this ministry!
If you are in need of food or know someone in need, please text Kristen Tingle 502-931-7987
for a private appointment to shop in the pantry.
_________________________________________________________
Children’s Ministry
For More Details or to Serve - text Jessica Walker 502-365-0839
Busy Bags - 2 volunteers are needed to serve weekly or bi-weekly to empty used items and replenish the busy bags provided to children who attend worship.
Teachers for 4-6 year old class - 11a Sundays
Music with the Children - if you are musically gifted, we would love for you to teach and sing Bible songs with the children twice each month or as you have time to share.
Substitute and Rotational Teachers are needed to fill in for 1 class or multiple weeks when regular teachers are unavailable or to give them a break for a month or so.
Special Needs - Volunteers are needed to serve as one-on-one buddies in class with children with special needs.
Vacation Bible School - July 20 - 24 | 6 - 8 PM
Emerald Crossing - An Irish Adventure through Psalm 23
Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas! Sign up now to serve.
Interest Meeting - Sunday, March 15 | 1 PM
Greet and Check-In children and their families to the nursery and their classes when they arrive on Sunday morning and/or Wednesday evening. Text Debbie Duvall 502-321-8798
_________________________________________________________
Salt & Light Academy
Classroom Build Supplies Needed - new classrooms have recently been constructed and a few items are needed to complete the project. If you have any of these items you could donate, know a donor, or would like to give money to purchase supplies, please see the listing of needed items here.
Questions contact Kurt Shelton 502-387-0960
Lunch & Recess Volunteers - Interact with and help the children to give the teachers a planning period. A background check is required. Email Michelle Elliott michelle.elliott@saltandlightacademy.com
Please continue to pray, promote, and support Salt and Light Academy. Your ongoing giving keeps the school fully funded and tuition-free, and every gift matters.
One-time or auto pay weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly donations may be made or set up online Here
Donations of needed supplies for classes and the office are greatly appreciated. You can view and give through our Amazon Wish List
_________________________________________________________
Wednesday Dinner Volunteers
Assist with food prep at Katie’s house in Shelbyville on Tuesday and/or Wednesday.
We don't need a weekly commitment, anything you can do to lend a hand will be greatly appreciated!
Contact Katie Anasis by call or text 937-441-4225. Thanks so much!
_________________________________________________________
Salt & Light Library
Open Sundays 8:30 - 11 AM and 15 min after service
Wednesdays 5 - 7 PM and 15 min after service
Volunteers Needed - Text Sharon Holbert 502-235-6687
Book Donations appreciated — view our wishlist:
_________________________________________________________
Family Communication Board
We have a bulletin board in the Upper Lobby inside the main entrance, on the wall above the giving box across from the Connection Point area, for you to post needs you would be blessed to receive and shares you would like to give.
Freely Receive - If you have a need - a service or item or a friend to do something with - please post it on the side of the board labeled “Freely Receive”.
Freely Give – when you have something to give - a lawn mower that still works, furniture you aren't using, a willingness to serve by sharing a skill or some spare time - please post on the side of the board labeled “Freely Given”.
Note papers are in the basket to write your give and receive notes to post on the board.
This is not a buy, sell, or trade board, but a family sharing board.
The only money that should be exchanged would be a paycheck if you are offering to hire someone.
Check our family sharing board often, there may be a message that will be a blessing for you!!
_________________________________________________________
Care Ministry
If you are in need of care (hospital, long-term facility, homebound), please contact Salt & Light at 502-265-6828
_________________________________________________________
Stay Connected – Join Our Facebook Groups
Stay encouraged and connected!
_________________________________________________________
Have an Announcement of an Event or Volunteer Need?
Please email new submissions by Monday each week to Marie Long at Long12686@gmail.com
Thanks for helping us keep verything clear and timely!