We had another good day yesterday. One of the neatest things was meeting a visiting family. Come to find out he came because he witnessed one of our own members being, well, a Christian. This guy was at a gas station and saw Mike McGee pumping gas for one of our widows. Evidently she was having some problems getting it to work so he walked over and helped her. This other guy saw it and told him it was the coolest thing he had ever seen. Mike told him they went to church together, so they did know one another. His next question? "Where do you go to church?" To make a long story short, he brought his family Sunday morning for worship. My observation through the years is, when someone really is living out the Christian life, people want to know where those people gather. We should always find ways to invite others to attend services with us, but it sure makes it easy when the person asking is living an authentic life.
This is a great lead into our current sermon series. Yesterday we tackled integrity. This big topic has a lot to do with what we were just talking about. Living the Christian life and not just talking about it. I appreciate all the nice comments about this series and my hope is we give God the credit for anything good that may come as a result. We have one more week in this study and we will end with a bang - the forgotten virtue of gratitude.
So what will we study next? I will begin a three part series called "The Divine Compulsion", in which we will look at such topics as "The Perfect Will of God" (Rom. 12:2); "The Heart of the Christian" (II Cor. 8:11); and "Living in Sync with the Will and Power of God" (Amos 3:8). I'm really excited about researching this series this week. These are the topics assigned to me for a conference I will be doing in Trinidad in November. The lessons assigned to me are challenging and to be honest, I love it.
Sunday night was another great time of service. Our numbers were lower than the past couple of weeks but the people who came were in good spirits. I was able to be a part of the intercessory prayer group for the first time. It was great to hear all those names rising up to the throne of God. In case you're wondering, the men and women meet in two different rooms in the upstairs Lynn Center. After this was over I stuck my head into the Teachers Supply Room where all kinds of cleaning out and re-organizing is going on. They instantly put me to work. Which I don't mind when the people you work with have such great attitudes. It was just a good day.
Keep looking for those who usually sit around you that may have been absent yesterday. Give them a call to make sure things are alright. It may be others you know have been sick and are in need of a card, visit, or phone call. Let the leaders know of anyone that may need extra attention.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Monday, September 23, 2013
A Great Day of Visitors
Sunday morning we had several visitors in our worship services. I'm not even sure if I was able to meet all of them, but I seriously tried. Of course, it's always nice to know many of you make sure everyone gets greeted, whether I miss them or not. Continue to roll out the red carpet to our visitors. Take someone to lunch with you, make a contact, introduce them to others, or anything you would like done for you if you were looking for a church family.
Our "Forgotten Virtues" series continued with a lesson on loyalty. One of those virtues that is easier to see in others than ourselves. Go out today with a new attitude, if needed, and be that loyal person of God. Don't just proclaim loyalty but prove it in every area of your life - friendships, family, spouse, the church, and the Almighty God. Next week we will be looking into the virtue of integrity. BIG topic. I'm really excited about beginning this study this morning.
Sunday night continued with a lot of great areas of service. The Lynn Center and HeBrews Coffee Shop was filled with people involved in all types of works. Several of the youth headed out to mow grass at homes who needed the assistance. "The Dock" classroom had a host of helpers, young and old, getting that room ready for our children's ministry. The teacher's supply room is getting a much needed, and major cleaning out. Many helped with the little kids so the parents could be involved. Visits were made, cards were written, and prayers ascended. I would say that is a pretty good Sunday night. Be patient with the leadership as we try to work out all the kinks. As with any program, in its early stages, it takes time to turn it into a well oiled machine, if you will. The important thing is to focus on the positives and there were many! If you have any ideas to help make this night of service better please let the leadership know as we talk about this program each week in our meetings.
Joe Wild is in Houston and had his scan, blood work and x-rays yesterday. Glenda reported that everything went well. Today he will meet with the oncologist. I will put reports on my Twitter (@TracyMoore1971) and Facebook pages throughout the week if you would like to stay up with what is happening. The main thing we can do is to pray. Pray that this cancer is gone. Pray for inner peace for Joe, Glenda and the family. Pray for the doctors and nurses caring for him. Some of you can think of many other things to pray about as well, but the important thing to do is go to the All-Powerful Creator of this human body and Savior of the soul.
Add to that anyone you know who is struggling right now, whether physically or spiritually. Reach out to those around you and extend the love of Christ. Who was missing yesterday that normally sits around you? Who do you work with that you know is struggling? Be an ambassador for the Messiah in your life today.
Our "Forgotten Virtues" series continued with a lesson on loyalty. One of those virtues that is easier to see in others than ourselves. Go out today with a new attitude, if needed, and be that loyal person of God. Don't just proclaim loyalty but prove it in every area of your life - friendships, family, spouse, the church, and the Almighty God. Next week we will be looking into the virtue of integrity. BIG topic. I'm really excited about beginning this study this morning.
Sunday night continued with a lot of great areas of service. The Lynn Center and HeBrews Coffee Shop was filled with people involved in all types of works. Several of the youth headed out to mow grass at homes who needed the assistance. "The Dock" classroom had a host of helpers, young and old, getting that room ready for our children's ministry. The teacher's supply room is getting a much needed, and major cleaning out. Many helped with the little kids so the parents could be involved. Visits were made, cards were written, and prayers ascended. I would say that is a pretty good Sunday night. Be patient with the leadership as we try to work out all the kinks. As with any program, in its early stages, it takes time to turn it into a well oiled machine, if you will. The important thing is to focus on the positives and there were many! If you have any ideas to help make this night of service better please let the leadership know as we talk about this program each week in our meetings.
Joe Wild is in Houston and had his scan, blood work and x-rays yesterday. Glenda reported that everything went well. Today he will meet with the oncologist. I will put reports on my Twitter (@TracyMoore1971) and Facebook pages throughout the week if you would like to stay up with what is happening. The main thing we can do is to pray. Pray that this cancer is gone. Pray for inner peace for Joe, Glenda and the family. Pray for the doctors and nurses caring for him. Some of you can think of many other things to pray about as well, but the important thing to do is go to the All-Powerful Creator of this human body and Savior of the soul.
Add to that anyone you know who is struggling right now, whether physically or spiritually. Reach out to those around you and extend the love of Christ. Who was missing yesterday that normally sits around you? Who do you work with that you know is struggling? Be an ambassador for the Messiah in your life today.
Monday, September 16, 2013
Great Weekend
Friday afternoon I walked in the door and out pops my oldest son, Lex. Yes, the one who is in college at Oklahoma Christian. He surprised Missy for her birthday, as well as the rest of us. I won't bore you with all the details, but it was special for all of us. He flew back yesterday morning. Great way to begin my weekend.
Sunday was another special day. We continued our series on "Forgotten Virtues", with the touchy subject of sexual purity. Unfortunately, I had "forgotten" something else - time. Not to make an excuse, but when you deal with a sensitive subject like this you (I) tend to try to make sure I don't leave anything out so there are no misunderstandings. You want to show the sin and at the same time offer grace. I appreciate everyone's patience and kind remarks afterwards. As any lesson I deliver, any good that comes from it is to the glory of God. This Sunday we will take the forgotten virtue of loyalty.
Sunday night was exciting to watch. We had people all over the place working, writing cards, making visits, painting, etc. Joe Wild's class on parenting was packed once again. For the second week in a row a Sunday morning visitor came back for the Vero Beach Church 101 class, which has taken more in the form of a one on one discussion. Things are getting better and better all the time.
One sad note from the weekend, Paul Hoskins passed away Saturday afternoon. Even though this was an answer to prayer, as he had been struggling for a while, our love and sympathy is extended to Jean, Steve, the grandchildren, as well as everyone who knew and loved this man.
Continue to remember those who sit near you. Is someone missing? Give them a call, send them a card, or let the leaders know if you know someone needs special care.
Sunday was another special day. We continued our series on "Forgotten Virtues", with the touchy subject of sexual purity. Unfortunately, I had "forgotten" something else - time. Not to make an excuse, but when you deal with a sensitive subject like this you (I) tend to try to make sure I don't leave anything out so there are no misunderstandings. You want to show the sin and at the same time offer grace. I appreciate everyone's patience and kind remarks afterwards. As any lesson I deliver, any good that comes from it is to the glory of God. This Sunday we will take the forgotten virtue of loyalty.
Sunday night was exciting to watch. We had people all over the place working, writing cards, making visits, painting, etc. Joe Wild's class on parenting was packed once again. For the second week in a row a Sunday morning visitor came back for the Vero Beach Church 101 class, which has taken more in the form of a one on one discussion. Things are getting better and better all the time.
One sad note from the weekend, Paul Hoskins passed away Saturday afternoon. Even though this was an answer to prayer, as he had been struggling for a while, our love and sympathy is extended to Jean, Steve, the grandchildren, as well as everyone who knew and loved this man.
Continue to remember those who sit near you. Is someone missing? Give them a call, send them a card, or let the leaders know if you know someone needs special care.
Monday, September 9, 2013
I Love This Church!
It is days like yesterday that make me love this church even more. Yesterday was one of those toe-stompin' sermons. Usually my toes are sore by the time I get ready to deliver a lesson like that, but it was the responses that provided the stronger sermon. We had two come forward who had been touched by the message. It didn't stop there as I heard one story after another of people apologizing to someone else, tears shed, and many who personally told me they needed that lesson. God is good. That is the only acceptable response. This morning I will begin my study on the second Forgotten Virtue - purity. Keep praying for this series.
Coffee Connection started back after a summer break. You never know what to expect each week, but we had more than expected. One visitor opened up about her life, which we do not push, and is seeking God's direction. Lots of tears, encouraging words from others, and new friendships developed. She was back with us Sunday night finding a place to get involved.
Speaking of Sunday nights, anytime you make changes and there are more than a couple of options there will be confusion. For the most part it seemed to go extremely well. The parenting class was full, people were busy everywhere I went, and much good was done. Thanks to all who came out and especially those who have been putting this thing together. Keep reading your bulletin, checking the website, and keeping a copy of the sheet printed with all the Bible classes, subjects, locations, and Sunday night events.
It's just great to wake up on Monday morning looking forward to going to work. Most people dread it, including some preachers I know, but I love this church. I love it because of the tenderness in your hearts for God's Word. I love it for the care you have for each other and my family. So many more reasons, but those came through the strongest Sunday.
Coffee Connection started back after a summer break. You never know what to expect each week, but we had more than expected. One visitor opened up about her life, which we do not push, and is seeking God's direction. Lots of tears, encouraging words from others, and new friendships developed. She was back with us Sunday night finding a place to get involved.
Speaking of Sunday nights, anytime you make changes and there are more than a couple of options there will be confusion. For the most part it seemed to go extremely well. The parenting class was full, people were busy everywhere I went, and much good was done. Thanks to all who came out and especially those who have been putting this thing together. Keep reading your bulletin, checking the website, and keeping a copy of the sheet printed with all the Bible classes, subjects, locations, and Sunday night events.
It's just great to wake up on Monday morning looking forward to going to work. Most people dread it, including some preachers I know, but I love this church. I love it because of the tenderness in your hearts for God's Word. I love it for the care you have for each other and my family. So many more reasons, but those came through the strongest Sunday.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Normalcy
The office staff is off today for Labor Day, so you will not get the Monday Morning Report until Tuesday. But after the last couple of months and weeks I am seeking a bit of normalcy. This is one of the reasons I am working this Labor Day. It isn't to prove a point or make others who took off this holiday feel guilty, it is what I need right now in ministry. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed my travels to Antiqua, Polishing the Pulpit, and especially a week off for vacation, but there is something about getting back into your routine that is comforting. The Monday blog at Panera is one of my favorite ways to start my week. It's pretty quiet with some classical music in the background. Plus, I love sitting in a booth with a cup of coffee. This is where my week begins. Usually there is a stack of papers and Bible verses that will be highlighted, thought over, and eventually prayed about. It is the weekly sermon preparation. It is in this environment I begin to plan out my week, prioritize my time, and try to make sure something important doesn't slip through the cracks. Most people hate Mondays, but for me I love them. Okay, I have bored you enough.
Yesterday was unique. We had several who were gone with Joel to Sonquest, leaving a big void in the auditorium and no doubt the overall spirit of the church. It was great to have them back Sunday night and for Joel (and Halla) to give an encouraging report on the work they did with disaster relief in Oklahoma. This month they have fulfilled our theme: Love God, Love God's Family, Love to Serve.
Along those lines, I have had several tell me about David Paladin and the children's ministry Wednesday night. Having a child in the program I have been impressed with the knowledge of the Bible these kids have been getting. Being in ministry over 20 years, working for several congregations in that time, I have never seen a children's ministry with this type of impact or knowledge. Not to cut down what others are doing, but we are blessed at this church. Think about these kids as they enter our youth program and eventually youth adults.
It is all about the process. We have good people in place from our children to adults. We have a young adults program that is now on its way up. The leadership is working on ways to help people find their place to serve. These are just a few ways we are seeing the progress of this church in a process to fulfill the Biblical theme of love. Things are getting better and better all time.
Speaking of the process - we have some things in place to help bring visitors to a mature relationship with God. This Sunday it begins as we bring back Coffee Connection during our Bible class hour and offer a Vero Beach Church 101 class on Sunday nights. You are a part of the process. Invite others, whether during the week or people you meet at our services, to attend these classes. Feel free to come with them, if you believe that would help. Either way, we want to help others learn about our Savior.
Finally, I just want to say I have enjoyed teaching the "In the Beginning" class this Summer. To be honest, we could have spent an entire year on the subject. This last week was special as we tackled the flood. To be honest, I almost drowned trying to prepare for these lessons, especially having to speak several times last week in Tennessee. I almost scrapped the Sunday morning sermon for one of the lessons I did at Polishing the Pulpit on Saturday night. But I decided to go through with it and the Lord once again proved to me who brings the power to my lessons - Him! Even I was amazed with what I was able to remember when I got up to preach. But most importantly was the kind comments. I was very dissatisfied with it Saturday night, but the Lord made sure it had the ability to connect. You may still feel like it needed more work, but believe me, it could (should) have been much worse. Anything good that came from Sunday's sermon came from God, I assure you.
I am so ready to start this new series this Sunday on "Forgotten Virtues." You will not want to miss a single lesson.
Don't forget to check on the people who were missing this week. If you know of someone who needs special attention let the church office or the elders know.
Yesterday was unique. We had several who were gone with Joel to Sonquest, leaving a big void in the auditorium and no doubt the overall spirit of the church. It was great to have them back Sunday night and for Joel (and Halla) to give an encouraging report on the work they did with disaster relief in Oklahoma. This month they have fulfilled our theme: Love God, Love God's Family, Love to Serve.
Along those lines, I have had several tell me about David Paladin and the children's ministry Wednesday night. Having a child in the program I have been impressed with the knowledge of the Bible these kids have been getting. Being in ministry over 20 years, working for several congregations in that time, I have never seen a children's ministry with this type of impact or knowledge. Not to cut down what others are doing, but we are blessed at this church. Think about these kids as they enter our youth program and eventually youth adults.
It is all about the process. We have good people in place from our children to adults. We have a young adults program that is now on its way up. The leadership is working on ways to help people find their place to serve. These are just a few ways we are seeing the progress of this church in a process to fulfill the Biblical theme of love. Things are getting better and better all time.
Speaking of the process - we have some things in place to help bring visitors to a mature relationship with God. This Sunday it begins as we bring back Coffee Connection during our Bible class hour and offer a Vero Beach Church 101 class on Sunday nights. You are a part of the process. Invite others, whether during the week or people you meet at our services, to attend these classes. Feel free to come with them, if you believe that would help. Either way, we want to help others learn about our Savior.
Finally, I just want to say I have enjoyed teaching the "In the Beginning" class this Summer. To be honest, we could have spent an entire year on the subject. This last week was special as we tackled the flood. To be honest, I almost drowned trying to prepare for these lessons, especially having to speak several times last week in Tennessee. I almost scrapped the Sunday morning sermon for one of the lessons I did at Polishing the Pulpit on Saturday night. But I decided to go through with it and the Lord once again proved to me who brings the power to my lessons - Him! Even I was amazed with what I was able to remember when I got up to preach. But most importantly was the kind comments. I was very dissatisfied with it Saturday night, but the Lord made sure it had the ability to connect. You may still feel like it needed more work, but believe me, it could (should) have been much worse. Anything good that came from Sunday's sermon came from God, I assure you.
I am so ready to start this new series this Sunday on "Forgotten Virtues." You will not want to miss a single lesson.
Don't forget to check on the people who were missing this week. If you know of someone who needs special attention let the church office or the elders know.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)