Bella

 

 

If you haven't heard, my little girl was baptized Sunday morning, which is why my blog this week is called Bella.  If someone sang off key, I don't remember.  If someone said something mean-spirited, I didn't hear it.  If I made mistakes in my sermon, I didn't catch it.  My girl was baptized.  That is what I remember about yesterday.  So for Missy and I, July 26th was a great day.

Although one thing I said I thought about later.  No one said anything to me, but I'm not sure how it came across.  I'm referring to the statement of "denying" Bella baptism for the last couple of years.  First of all, salvation is a personal issue between an individual and God.  The Lord never made me the judge of those who should be saved or not.  That being said, as a parent, you know your children better than anyone.  You know where they are in understanding, maturity, and even motives.  Sometimes kids get caught up in the idea of baptism.  Although, it didn't stop me from using these opportunities to help further her growth and love for Jesus.  I believe children are innocent.  At some point they reach, what I have heard called, "the age of accountability".  Not a biblical phrase, but we know their has to be a sense of faith and turning away from sin.  So what is the "age of accountability"?  It depends on the child.  Over the years I have talked with adults who want to be rebaptized because they didn't think they knew what they were doing when they were young.  We will talk and ultimately I will rebaptize them if they still feel strongly about it.  My philosophy is, if they didn't need it they just got wet.

FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH: If you have a children who want to be baptized here are a few things I have learned with having children.  First of all, ask lots of questions.  Such as, "Why do you want to be baptized?"  If they say "to wash away my sins", then ask what sins they have committed.  Don't let them be general about sin.  Sometimes they will talk about the sins of others.  These are good indicators of where they may be at this time.  Secondly, don't discourage them.  Don't make them feel like their answers are wrong.  They are being honest.  Encourage them.  The last thing you want to do is drive them away from future talks.  Next, talk to them about Jesus... always.  Whenever that time comes, you want your children to be in love with Jesus not an act.  Read some of those great stories in the Gospels.  I begin in Genesis.  Those years Bella wasn't ready, we talked about what happened in the Garden of Eden, the faith of Abraham, and the nation that brought Jesus into the world.  Finally, when the time came, I wrote down everything we talked about, Scriptures we read and put her answers in quotation marks to show what was asked and how she answered.  In my experience, those who want to be rebaptized do so because they can't remember what they were taught and conclude they didn't know what they were doing.  I had Bella sign her name to what we studied.  I am going to give her a copy and keep one for myself in case she questions this day later on.  Also, we are planning to add other Scriptures and topics we study.  It is important you continue study with your child about the Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, faith, love, sin, grace, etc.  I told Bella Saturday night, "Baptism is the beginning, not the end."  That being said, I'm not perfect on this subject.  There are things I am doing with Bella that I have learned with my other kids and years of ministry.  Some of you have done much greater things.  This is just one father sharing his experience with other parents.  Besides, it is their mother who has always been the spiritual rock.  Sometimes I feel like the guy who drove the last 5 miles of a 500 mile trip.  Most importantly, it is the Lord who deserves all the credit.  Missy and I are mere instruments in His hands.

This is one of the pages Bella signed for the future

SOMETHING NEAT: When Bella was ready to do this, I asked her who she would like to go up with her.  The first people out of her mouth, beside Missy, were Ethel Meadows and Helen Rathel.  She mentioned a couple of her friends but it was these older ladies she thought of first.  Sometimes our elderly wonder if they can impact the church today or the younger generation.  I'm here to tell you they/you do!  So why these ladies?  They included her.  When they would arrive early to prepare the Lord's Supper, it was these two who allowed Bella to help.  They loved her.  They encouraged her.  They didn't sit back and expect to be admired, because they were older, but they engaged Bella.  They didn't act annoyed when she acted like... well... a child.  It doesn't mean they never corrected or helped her improve, but they made many deposits of love that built a trust and respect.  It reminds me of the passage in Titus 2 of the older women training the younger women.  Bella loves the "Golden Girls".  She has mentioned Rebecca Ledford, Christin Paladin, Bible class teachers, etc.  These are people who have invested into her life.  Missy and I feel blessed to be at church where Bella has so many Christian ladies who influence her.  On behalf of Missy and myself - thank you!

Sunday was a great way to launch me into the week.  I have been out of pocket the last couple of weeks.  This isn't something I like doing but scheduling was tough.  The Caribbean Lectures were two weeks ago.  Which reminds me, this Sunday night we will do some singing and give a report on our trip.  And yes, we have Bob Brackett pictures you will want to see.  Wear your favorite Caribbean clothing.  Last week I spent a few days in Jacksonville, Florida to celebrate my parents 50th anniversary.  There were 19 of us crammed into a six bedroom house.  The house itself was 100 years old.  I can't remember seeing my mom and dad so happy.  Here is a picture of the family.

And then there was this... the "80th birthday party" for two 40 year olds.

 

Bill being Bill

George Blanton with the photobomb

 

Next Sunday: We begin the last month of our sermon series by looking into the fact Jesus was "Amazingly Unpredictable."  Just another reason to love this Savior.  I will stop here because I know I've gone beyond the average attention span.  Thank you for letting me share this time in my life.

Tracy

A Blog of Questions

How about a Monday Morning blog with lots of questions?  What do you think?  In honor of the sermon topic Sunday I thought I would try.  Speaking of the sermon, isn't Jesus amazing?  Doesn't His questions demonstrate brilliance?  Concerning next week, what about a lesson on the amazing stories of Jesus?  He was the master storyteller.  Do you want a good topic to invite others?  Bring them this week.

Who is celebrating 50 years of marriage this week?  My parents.  Did they want their kids to throw them a big party to invite all their friends?  Nope.  All they wanted was all of their children and grandchildren to be together a few days in the same place.  So we are in Jacksonville, Florida.  Us kids pitched in and rented a house that could sleep 18 (with a couple of air mattresses) until Friday.  I hate being away right after the Caribbean Lectures, but it was the only time everyone's schedule worked out.  After that I only have one more speaking engagement for the year, the last Sunday in August.  Here is a picture of the happy couple.

On Sunday night, August 1st, we will have our Caribbean Night.  Do you have any tropical clothing?  Wear them.  We will do some singing, show a few pictures from the Caribbean Lectures and tell you about next year.  Speaking of the lectures in St. Thomas, Iguanas' were everywhere.  In one spot I counted 18 of these huge lizards.  Some of you like puzzles so I thought I would include this picture.  How many iguanas' can you find?  Answer: 8.

Are you interested in demolition?  We have a project for you.  This church is taking on a much needed remodeling project for the Family Homeless Center August 1st.  David Paladin and John Pickerill are heading up the job.  They are asking for those who would be willing to give a couple of hours to help... well... rip up the place.  This is my gift.  I can't fix anything, but I am very good at tearing things up.  I'm planning to be there, who's with me?  Let David or John know if you would like to help.

Are you ready for me to wrap this up?  Me too.  So we will end with a few more questions.  Do you have people in your life who oppose you at every turn?  Have you ever tried using good questions, like Jesus, to make them think and possibly see your way of thinking?  Have you ever asked yourself questions about arguments people have made about you?  Maybe something you need to change.  Jesus is the only One who never needed to change.  It doesn't mean we should do a 180 on everything, but allow good questions to challenge you.

Final questions: Do you know of someone who sits around you that wasn't here Sunday?  Do you know of someone who needs prayers or maybe even a kind gesture, who is going through some difficult times?  What have you done for others?  Actually the better questions is, what have you done in the name of Jesus?  How have you served others because you want them to see the Messiah?  Who have you demonstrated the love of God to in your life?  How have you grown in your love for the Lord?  Too many distraction?  Solitude, prayer, Scripture reading and meditation, even fasting, are the way to clear the worldly mind to focus on the spiritual.

Tracy

Monday Morning Report - St. Thomas Edition

Here is my view this morning as I begin my blog.  From my balcony.

 

Not my typical blog spot.  It is one of those once in a lifetime moments that you never want to forget.  This place is so spiritually invigorating.  The lectureship is icing on the cake.  It is one of the times I am glad I get up early because no one is out of their rooms.  It's like having the resort to yourself.  Sunday morning I went to the terrace overlooking the city across the water just me, my Bible, a cup of coffee, and God.  Here was my view.  The Lord knows I need these moments of silence while surrounded by His amazing creation.

Our group arrived safely Saturday afternoon.  We were greeted at the airport by the Christians in St. Thomas.  We were given bags with snacks and cold juices.  The best part was the friendly smiles and kind words from the people.  It is a big deal for your island to be chosen for the lectures.  To them it is like being selected to host the Olympics.

The banner in the airport

The welcoming committee

We checked into the resort, ate supper together, and went through registration.  We all received two nice bags with tourist items and lectureship information.  And yes, we were greeted with big smiles.  This is my third year so I get hugs!  The rest of the group will get them before the end of the week.  Caribbean people are some of the nicest people in the world.  They genuinely love you.

Supper Saturday evening

Sunday at the lectures is always interesting.  We begin with singing (which is the best), listen to our first speaker, take a 15 minute break, have more singing, Lord's Supper, and another Sermon.  I know it sounds like the typical Sunday but when we look to the right we can see these big windows overlooking the island.  Amazing.

Singing

Scripture reading by one of the boys

Communion

 

The view

 

After worship the hotel provided lunch for everyone attending the lectures.  It was delicious!  And again, look at that view.

After that we had free time until the nightly lectures.  We were going to go into town but everything is closed on Sunday's.  It was sort of a bummer because we were looking forward to seeing the shops but also encouraging because Sunday is still a sacred day in other parts of the world.

Sunday night is always crazy at the lectures.  It begins with opening ceremonies.  Many speeches, guest speakers, national anthem (which was ours this year), etc. etc. etc.  It's long.  Imagine what it would be like for a bunch of preachers and politicians getting up to speak.  It is encouraging hearing the senator of the island, head of tourism, and hotel representative talk about God.  After that we had some singing, and a lecture.  After another prayer, song, and introduction we go into the second speaker.  It was a LONG night.  We came into the banquet room at 7 pm and didn't leave until almost 10 pm.  But again, we only had to look to the right and see the town lit up from our seats.  Beautiful.

Last night at the lectures (2nd sermon)

The view from the window (it doesn't do it justice)

 

The founder of the Lectures - Ken Dye (45 years strong)

The senator of the island

As I am finishing this blog I can hear the singing get started.  It's time for another full day.  We will have many class choices this morning and another sermon before we break for lunch.  After lunch our group has a tour of the city and hopefully some time to rest.  Then we come back again at 7 pm for more singing and two more sermons.  By the time we leave we will be physically and emotionally broken down, but we will have already begun our process of spiritual revival.  We will all leave with new friends and hug and talk about seeing next year in Tobago.  It's what we do.  The singing is one of my favorite times and the preaching is great, but it is the Caribbean people that keep coming back every year.  I love these people and they love me.  Those coming for their first time will tell you the same.

One more thing.  I received an email during your worship yesterday telling me what an amazing job Joel Soumar.  By the afternoon I had heard from others.  Sometimes I feel guilty being away like this.  I know I need it but I just love my church family at Vero and hate to be away.  Knowing Joel (and David), will be there to serve you gives me a sense of peace.  Tell these guys how much you appreciate them this week.  David also covered my Sunday morning class.

Ok enough, I've got to get into the lectures.  I can't wait to get back and share the things I learned and experienced.  If you are trying to get in touch with me via text I'm not getting them, but you can send messages to my email tracylmoore@msn.com.  See you Sunday.

Tracy

What Happened to June?

I'm not sure what happened to the month of June but it is in the rear view mirror.  The summer is moving fast and it doesn't look like it is going to slow down anytime soon.  This Saturday 10 of us will be flying out of Fort Lauderdale for St. Thomas, US Virgin Island.  It will be my third year in a row to attend the Caribbean Lectureships.  In my opinion, it is the best kept secret in the brotherhood.  The singing and preaching is amazing.  Christians from these islands are so loving.  And then there is the location, which is a different island each year.  We do ask that you pray for safe travels and spiritual enrichment for our group.  Here is a picture of the resort the lectures will be held.  Not a bad place to do some spiritual reflection.



 

It was a nice fourth of July weekend.  Our auditorium was filled with visitors from the community and those who came from out of town to enjoy our beautiful beaches.  The singing was good.  I love the way Bill lead us before the Lord's Supper.  The sermon series, "Amazing Jesus", continued as we looked into some of the miracles of Jesus and His display of "Amazing Power."  For the second week in a row the preacher has been long winded.  I will try to do better.  To be honest, I get lost in the subject each week.  If I could just preach from the Gospels and the Psalms, the rest of my life, I would be most content.  That isn't to say the rest of the Bible isn't important.  I just love being in these books.  Next Sunday Joel Soumar will be in the pulpit looking into the "Amazing Compassion" of Jesus.  Talk about a powerful subject.

 

Speaking of Joel, a big thanks goes out to him for coordinating the move for David Ward.  This has been an ongoing process for a few months.  Based on David's situation, there is a lot that has to be done, on the forefront, in order for a move like this to happen.  I appreciate all Joel has done in order to help David make this move.  Also, Joel has had some good help, especially over the last couple of weeks.  Brenda Chappelear packed up his house.  Merilyn Yergler left this morning to drive his belongings to San Antonio, Texas.  Jim Warren is driving David to the airport.  Rick Higgins took him around town to get important paperwork done.  Susan McGee, Carlene, Troy, and Faith Wiley, Garrett and Madison Dean, Mike and Nick Dean, Grady Brackett, Chris Dutton, Sasha Chisholm, and David Paladin all helped with loading and cleaning his apartment.  I hope I didn't miss anyone.  You get the idea, it is a big process.  David Ward also wanted me to let this church know how much he has appreciated all the help.  Many of you have assisted him in his time here by cleaning his house, giving him rides, and many things I don't even know about.  I know I would miss someone if I tried to name them all.  Personally, I want to say thank you to all of you who helped him in any way during his stay in Vero.

 

Last night was really special to me.  It was our monthly singing in the Coffee Shop.  We are blessed with some good song leaders in this church.  However, last night we had some first time leaders step up - Danny Brackett, Neal McFall, and David Ward.  Jerry Cutshall has lead on a Sunday night before, but it has been a while since his physical struggles.  Lonnie Ledford has become my right hand man on these nights.  I can honestly say it was an enjoyable night.  Our white board was filled with the songs people requested, and we came close to singing them all.  We keep everything upbeat - we sing, we laugh, and occasionally we pitch a song right (not me, of course, the others).  Afterwards we celebrated the July birthdays - Bob Brackett, John Manry, and Gay Stanley - which means we ate birthday cake!  A big thanks to Stephanie and Sasha Chisholm for taking care of refreshments each month.  Anyway, it was a good night.

 

Go out today and live in the power of Christ.  Live as if He is still in control of this world, even during the storms.  Our Jesus is amazing!  He cast out demons, healed the sick, walked on water, calmed storms, etc.  Read these stories over and over again and let them build up your faith.  Don't live like a people who have no hope.  We have the greatest hope of all!