Greetings from the Great Smoky Mountains. It is currently 65 degrees (although it will warm up to 85). If you do not know already, I am speaking this week in a conference in Sevierville, Tennessee (hometown of Amanda Kross). I have been fortunate to be asked to speak on personalities over the last four years. Each year I have seen this conference (Polishing the Pulpit) grow. This year they surpassed 3,000. It is made up of preachers, elders, deacons, and church members who enjoy the wide range of topics, multiple classes and, of course, the beautiful area. They have classes throughout the day for children of all ages, teenagers, and ladies. Personally, I enjoy the singing each night when over 3,000 voices are raising the rafters. It also gives me some personal time to reflect on the work at Vero, to meet new people, and sit in the "pews" to be fed.
Saturday night was my first class: using personality to match deacons to their works. This afternoon, I teach a second class on "Understanding Myself" which is a basic lesson on the temperaments and how they apply to Scripture. Tomorrow, I will be teaching teenagers about using their God given personality to serve the church. Wednesday, I speak that morning to teens on overcoming temperament weaknesses and then that night to adults on marriage and personality. Then I get up Thursday morning and make the 11 hour drive back to Vero, Lord willing.
This Sunday my plans are to preach on an ending to our Summer class (In the Beginning...). I got started on it last night and I'm pretty excited. Then the next week, September 8th, we will begin a 5 week sermons series on "Forgotten Virtues." Also, on the 8th, we will be starting back the "Coffee Connection." Start praying about this now as it can be a powerful avenue to reach our visitors. Also that night, I will begin the "Vero Beach 101" class for visitors and new members. It is a great way for others to understand what we are about, what we believe, and what the Lord expects of us. If you know of anyone who has ever said, "What do I have to do to be a member?" or "What do you guys believe in?"... invite them to come.
These are just a few of the many new classes, opportunities of service, and activities that begin on September 8th. Look to your bulletin, the website, and announcement boards to stay up to date. This should be a great year.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
A Great Day
Sunday was a great day. One of the highlights for me was the Darrel family visiting with us. This is the couple who lost their 9 year old son, Jordan, to drowning a few weeks ago. Being that the funeral was in our building, I know their minds were flooded with the memories of that day. When Bill started leading the song "I Am Mine No More", tears began to flow from this struggling father's eyes. That afternoon he and I were texting each other and he told me something that is even further proof God is in control of the outcome of my sermons. He said, "Good lesson today and yes, I thought about him through most of it. The grief can be overwhelming at times. If anything ever epitomized doing the hard things, this is it for sure." The sermon was focused on doing the hard things in your service to God, but my belief is God's Spirit took that lesson and spoke to this father on an even deeper level. Please pray for Ray and Kara Darrel. Pray for strength, the love and grace of God, and that they may find His family at this church. Pray for me that I may be able to find the words to make a difference in their lives and lead them to the Chief Shepherd.
I would like to thank all of you who came around and greeted our visitors Sunday. Most of you had no idea who the Darrel family was when they came through our doors. We usually have no idea what brings visitors to our worship service. It's easy to assume they came because of a friend or they are vacationing in the area, but I find that many people in the community come because of a need, a hurt, or a longing for something greater. Keep that in mind each week when you see new faces. Your friendly face may be the very thing that helps them through another day. Most importantly help them find the Prince of Peace so they can encounter the Spirit of Peace.
It was also encouraging to me to hear the many kind words about the Bible class. There is something that fascinates us about fallen angels intermarrying human women and having giant children (my opinion) that keeps us on the edge of our seats! It was a longer study for me than normal but also enjoyable. I am planning to write out both views and corresponding Scriptures from the study. I had a few people ask me about notes and verses after the class and some requests on Facebook in other places (I had posted the topic that morning). So if you are interested let me know and I will make sure you get a copy. Because of the length of the research I wasn't really able to put it down in written form. I was working from scribbled notes, highlighted research, and memory to present it in class. I'm not exactly sure when I can have it out, as this will be a very busy week trying to get ready to speak multiple times at a conference all next week on personalities. But I will get it out ASAP.
Speaking of personalities, I want to thank many of you for your comments about the sermon. The idea of serving isn't the most popular subject, but one we are called to fulfill. We can get comfortable in our "going to service" rather than serving. Sunday night, the elders will be discussing upcoming opportunities to live out a life of service. Be here. I am very excited about the things coming up.
Do not wait for Sunday night to find ways to serve in the name of Christ. Check up on our sick, shut-ins, or anyone in the church who may be hurting. Do good for the people you meet this week. Think outside of yourself.
I would like to thank all of you who came around and greeted our visitors Sunday. Most of you had no idea who the Darrel family was when they came through our doors. We usually have no idea what brings visitors to our worship service. It's easy to assume they came because of a friend or they are vacationing in the area, but I find that many people in the community come because of a need, a hurt, or a longing for something greater. Keep that in mind each week when you see new faces. Your friendly face may be the very thing that helps them through another day. Most importantly help them find the Prince of Peace so they can encounter the Spirit of Peace.
It was also encouraging to me to hear the many kind words about the Bible class. There is something that fascinates us about fallen angels intermarrying human women and having giant children (my opinion) that keeps us on the edge of our seats! It was a longer study for me than normal but also enjoyable. I am planning to write out both views and corresponding Scriptures from the study. I had a few people ask me about notes and verses after the class and some requests on Facebook in other places (I had posted the topic that morning). So if you are interested let me know and I will make sure you get a copy. Because of the length of the research I wasn't really able to put it down in written form. I was working from scribbled notes, highlighted research, and memory to present it in class. I'm not exactly sure when I can have it out, as this will be a very busy week trying to get ready to speak multiple times at a conference all next week on personalities. But I will get it out ASAP.
Speaking of personalities, I want to thank many of you for your comments about the sermon. The idea of serving isn't the most popular subject, but one we are called to fulfill. We can get comfortable in our "going to service" rather than serving. Sunday night, the elders will be discussing upcoming opportunities to live out a life of service. Be here. I am very excited about the things coming up.
Do not wait for Sunday night to find ways to serve in the name of Christ. Check up on our sick, shut-ins, or anyone in the church who may be hurting. Do good for the people you meet this week. Think outside of yourself.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Coming Home
The Moore summer vacation is in the books. We packed up this morning and headed for Vero. As I write this I am getting in one last cup of coffee while overlooking Manatee Bay. A beautiful view, but I'm ready to get back to work. I feel refreshed and those creative juices have begun to flow again.
If you are wondering what we did this week it consisted mostly of fishing and snorkeling. In fact, the water is so clear here we were able to dive to find the fish we were looking for. We ended the week with a fishing charter. Once we threw the first hook in the water I couldn't remember a time someone wasn't hooked up with a fish. Not all were keepers, but lots of fun. We had some nice baked Spanish mackerel and grilled redfish for our "last supper." Great way to end our trip.
We did see some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Being on an island, the sun came up on the bay behind the house and the sun set on the beach, which was a 3 1/2 block walk from our rental.
Now back to business. This Sunday will be a lesson on using the talents you have been given to serve the Lord. This isn't about "just get busy" type of sermon, but using our God-given gifts. I'm really excited about this study.
Enough for now. I've got to get started on this lesson and prepare for an elders meeting tonight. I am looking forward to seeing everyone Wednesday night.
If you are wondering what we did this week it consisted mostly of fishing and snorkeling. In fact, the water is so clear here we were able to dive to find the fish we were looking for. We ended the week with a fishing charter. Once we threw the first hook in the water I couldn't remember a time someone wasn't hooked up with a fish. Not all were keepers, but lots of fun. We had some nice baked Spanish mackerel and grilled redfish for our "last supper." Great way to end our trip.
We did see some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Being on an island, the sun came up on the bay behind the house and the sun set on the beach, which was a 3 1/2 block walk from our rental.
Now back to business. This Sunday will be a lesson on using the talents you have been given to serve the Lord. This isn't about "just get busy" type of sermon, but using our God-given gifts. I'm really excited about this study.
Enough for now. I've got to get started on this lesson and prepare for an elders meeting tonight. I am looking forward to seeing everyone Wednesday night.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Signing Off
I am going off the grid, so to speak, this week. It is a time of renewal and refreshing for myself and the family. That being said my phone will be off. David and Joel will be back from Oklahoma tomorrow night if you were needing to get in touch with a minister. Also, our elders are always willing to help out with any spiritual needs you may be having.
That being said, almost every rod and reel in the garage has been packed, along with my favorite fishing magazines, and coffee. Everything is loaded and ready to go.
Despite being down in numbers, I felt we had a great day of worship. The singing was great, we completed another sermon series, and we enjoyed another group of visitors. I can only speak for the upstairs Sunday night service, but we had some powerful discussions on prayer. Things are getting better and better all the time.
August is officially in full swing as it leads up to many new things coming in September, which is when our year officially begins. The elders will be presenting the plans in a few weeks. I can tell you about a sermon series that will begin September 8 - Forgotten Virtues. It is a 5 week journey to restore forgotten virtues in our world - honor, purity, loyalty, integrity, and gratitude.
Speaking of sermons, the Sunday I return from vacation I will be preaching a lesson on finding your place to serve. It will focus on being the most effective in our work for Christ. We will be dealing with your personality and the best fit for you. Love to Serve will be a major emphasis over this coming year, not so much in words but in deeds.
Well, I have already taken enough of your time, as well as my own. Have a great week!
That being said, almost every rod and reel in the garage has been packed, along with my favorite fishing magazines, and coffee. Everything is loaded and ready to go.
Despite being down in numbers, I felt we had a great day of worship. The singing was great, we completed another sermon series, and we enjoyed another group of visitors. I can only speak for the upstairs Sunday night service, but we had some powerful discussions on prayer. Things are getting better and better all the time.
August is officially in full swing as it leads up to many new things coming in September, which is when our year officially begins. The elders will be presenting the plans in a few weeks. I can tell you about a sermon series that will begin September 8 - Forgotten Virtues. It is a 5 week journey to restore forgotten virtues in our world - honor, purity, loyalty, integrity, and gratitude.
Speaking of sermons, the Sunday I return from vacation I will be preaching a lesson on finding your place to serve. It will focus on being the most effective in our work for Christ. We will be dealing with your personality and the best fit for you. Love to Serve will be a major emphasis over this coming year, not so much in words but in deeds.
Well, I have already taken enough of your time, as well as my own. Have a great week!
Monday, July 29, 2013
Long and Productive Weekend
It has been a busy week around the church building. Early in the week we learned of a 9 year old child, who attended the same school as some of our kids, who had been in a bad accident while he and his family were on vacation. Jordan Darrell died not too long after. We were approached by the school to hold the funeral. Anytime there is a death of a child or teenager you know there will be a big crowd but you really cannot estimate the number of people coming. So we knew we needed to over prepare. A'Lana did a great job working with the school, our staff, and getting volunteers from this congregation. Most of you did not know this family but you came out to find a place to help. Words cannot express how proud I am of this congregation. People in the community and from the school made several comments about this church. I believe God is going to do good things.
Sunday night was another outreach opportunity for this church. We had some good visitors and everyone seemed to enjoy the movie. It really was a powerful film. John McGlenn did a good job afterwards sharing his story and the support that was needed through a Celebrate Recovery. I talked with one man afterwards who wanted to get back in a church. We all know people who have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Let them know about what is being offered on Monday nights. We appreciate everyone who came out or helped with this special night.
Sunday morning was also a positive day filled with visitors. We had at least two families return from the following week. I am hoping to begin a new Bible study this week. This church is blessed with many Christians who go out of their way to meet our guests. You have no idea how much it does for someone looking for a church home.
One more thing, don't forget to pray for the group we have on their way to Oklahoma today to help with the tornado clean-up. Being on the last disaster relief effort, I can tell you it will be a blessing, not just to those they will be helping, but also to the team we have going. Personally, I wish I could be with them. The other two ministers are leading the way.
One thing comes to mind: Love to Serve. Everything that happened last week and this week is about serving in the name of Christ. This shows a maturity of this church in the love process: Love God, Love God's Family, Love to Serve. Look for other ways you can serve others in the name of our Lord this week.
By the way, the church office is closed today due to the long hours put in this past week. A'lana especially deserves this time off as she did her regular duties, helped with the Celebrate Recovery movie, the funeral, and MANY complications with our internet, printers, and just about anything else that could go wrong in an office. She has not had a day off, or worked normal hours all week.
Sunday night was another outreach opportunity for this church. We had some good visitors and everyone seemed to enjoy the movie. It really was a powerful film. John McGlenn did a good job afterwards sharing his story and the support that was needed through a Celebrate Recovery. I talked with one man afterwards who wanted to get back in a church. We all know people who have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Let them know about what is being offered on Monday nights. We appreciate everyone who came out or helped with this special night.
Sunday morning was also a positive day filled with visitors. We had at least two families return from the following week. I am hoping to begin a new Bible study this week. This church is blessed with many Christians who go out of their way to meet our guests. You have no idea how much it does for someone looking for a church home.
One more thing, don't forget to pray for the group we have on their way to Oklahoma today to help with the tornado clean-up. Being on the last disaster relief effort, I can tell you it will be a blessing, not just to those they will be helping, but also to the team we have going. Personally, I wish I could be with them. The other two ministers are leading the way.
One thing comes to mind: Love to Serve. Everything that happened last week and this week is about serving in the name of Christ. This shows a maturity of this church in the love process: Love God, Love God's Family, Love to Serve. Look for other ways you can serve others in the name of our Lord this week.
By the way, the church office is closed today due to the long hours put in this past week. A'lana especially deserves this time off as she did her regular duties, helped with the Celebrate Recovery movie, the funeral, and MANY complications with our internet, printers, and just about anything else that could go wrong in an office. She has not had a day off, or worked normal hours all week.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Monday Morning Report
It is good to be back blogging at Panera this morning. The trip to Antigua was very productive and much needed. If you want a more detailed account of things you can go to my Wednesday blog tracylmooreblog.wordpress.com.
Back to America. Yesterday I met several visitors. Some were in town on vacation or visiting family, but there was a great number from our community looking for a church home. Hopefully many of you were able to meet some of them.
We kicked off our new sermon series, "Great Jailbreaks" this week with a lesson on authority. This Sunday we will continue with another escape and corresponding lesson. What will we learn? Prayer.
Also, this Sunday night will be an outreach event and movie. The elders shared a trailer for the movie, "Home Run." If you were unable to be here you can go to homerunthemovie.com and see a preview. Most of you know about our "Celebrate Recovery" program. It is designed to help the people of this church and in our community with hurts, hang-ups, and habits. It is not an "AA" program but much broader and Christ-centered. This movie shows one of the ways this program helps others. If you do know someone who is needing this kind of help, try to get them to attend.
But don't think this movie is only for those who need "Celebrate Recovery." This week I read, in an Alabama newspaper, about a church of Christ preacher who was fired after being arrested on heroin charges. We went to college together and were in the same social club. To be honest I lost all contact after I graduated and had not seen him until this past year at a conference I was speaking. We exchanged pleasantries but nothing more. I went on his Facebook page when I discovered he had been arrested, trying to make sense of the whole thing. In 2010 he lost his 10 year old son in a car accident and almost lost his daughter. Since that time, he and his wife apparently divorced. I don't know all the details, but just a quick glance I would say he was trying to deal with his pain in the wrong way. Maybe as a preacher, he felt like he had to appear strong and didn't have a place to deal with his struggles. I don't know. But I do know "Celebrate Recovery" is a place he could have turned to through the whole ordeal. Losing a child goes under "hurts" and drug addiction comes under "habits." Who knows, maybe if he and his wife would have had something like this they would still be married and he wouldn't have turned to drugs. Only God knows. Either way, my plea is for the people in this church to use this resource. Everything is confidential and those who run the program are compassionate and understanding. Don't wait until you read someone's name in the paper before you invite them to something like this. This movie is a first step.
Enough for today. Keep praying for our sick and shut-ins. Check on those you haven't seen in a while and let the leadership know if there is a need. Have a great week.
Back to America. Yesterday I met several visitors. Some were in town on vacation or visiting family, but there was a great number from our community looking for a church home. Hopefully many of you were able to meet some of them.
We kicked off our new sermon series, "Great Jailbreaks" this week with a lesson on authority. This Sunday we will continue with another escape and corresponding lesson. What will we learn? Prayer.
Also, this Sunday night will be an outreach event and movie. The elders shared a trailer for the movie, "Home Run." If you were unable to be here you can go to homerunthemovie.com and see a preview. Most of you know about our "Celebrate Recovery" program. It is designed to help the people of this church and in our community with hurts, hang-ups, and habits. It is not an "AA" program but much broader and Christ-centered. This movie shows one of the ways this program helps others. If you do know someone who is needing this kind of help, try to get them to attend.
But don't think this movie is only for those who need "Celebrate Recovery." This week I read, in an Alabama newspaper, about a church of Christ preacher who was fired after being arrested on heroin charges. We went to college together and were in the same social club. To be honest I lost all contact after I graduated and had not seen him until this past year at a conference I was speaking. We exchanged pleasantries but nothing more. I went on his Facebook page when I discovered he had been arrested, trying to make sense of the whole thing. In 2010 he lost his 10 year old son in a car accident and almost lost his daughter. Since that time, he and his wife apparently divorced. I don't know all the details, but just a quick glance I would say he was trying to deal with his pain in the wrong way. Maybe as a preacher, he felt like he had to appear strong and didn't have a place to deal with his struggles. I don't know. But I do know "Celebrate Recovery" is a place he could have turned to through the whole ordeal. Losing a child goes under "hurts" and drug addiction comes under "habits." Who knows, maybe if he and his wife would have had something like this they would still be married and he wouldn't have turned to drugs. Only God knows. Either way, my plea is for the people in this church to use this resource. Everything is confidential and those who run the program are compassionate and understanding. Don't wait until you read someone's name in the paper before you invite them to something like this. This movie is a first step.
Enough for today. Keep praying for our sick and shut-ins. Check on those you haven't seen in a while and let the leadership know if there is a need. Have a great week.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Great Week
It has been a great week. We couldn't have asked for a better Wednesday night. Not only did the rain hold off but the temperatures were comfortable with a nice breeze. I cannot think of a July 4th week when I didn't sweat profusely just by stepping outside. The crowds were bigger than anticipated, we had some great guests, good food, and uplifting worship. I cannot thank those who helped out enough.
Sunday was also another great day. We seem to be getting more and more visitors every week. Add to that most of them are young adults. It is encouraging, to say the least. So much is happening with this group right now. Praise God for the increase!
Our adult class, "In the Beginning...", is going smoothly. Many kind comments have come may way about this study. It has nothing to do with the teacher but the powerful Creator, as He never ceases to amaze us. This week will be a more detailed account of the creation of man along with this special garden (home) for the first family to live. There is so much in these verses.
Looking ahead it is going to be a busy, yet interesting week. Bob Brackett and I will be flying to Antiqua Saturday so I can speak at their annual lectureship on Sunday. It will be my first trip to our mission point and we ask for prayers in our travels as well as any good we can do for the brethren. We are leaving you in good hands as Jerry Cutshall will continue our Genesis study and Joel Soumar will deliver the sermon. Bob and I will be coming back to America on Tuesday.
Let us continue to remember those around us who were unable to be here Sunday. Make a phone call to find out if everything is alright. If there is a special need please let the church office or an elder know.
Also, don't forget that "Celebrate Recovery" is tonight. If you or someone you know is struggling with anything, not just addictions, encourage them to come. There are two sessions each week at 7:00 and 8:00 PM.
Sunday was also another great day. We seem to be getting more and more visitors every week. Add to that most of them are young adults. It is encouraging, to say the least. So much is happening with this group right now. Praise God for the increase!
Our adult class, "In the Beginning...", is going smoothly. Many kind comments have come may way about this study. It has nothing to do with the teacher but the powerful Creator, as He never ceases to amaze us. This week will be a more detailed account of the creation of man along with this special garden (home) for the first family to live. There is so much in these verses.
Looking ahead it is going to be a busy, yet interesting week. Bob Brackett and I will be flying to Antiqua Saturday so I can speak at their annual lectureship on Sunday. It will be my first trip to our mission point and we ask for prayers in our travels as well as any good we can do for the brethren. We are leaving you in good hands as Jerry Cutshall will continue our Genesis study and Joel Soumar will deliver the sermon. Bob and I will be coming back to America on Tuesday.
Let us continue to remember those around us who were unable to be here Sunday. Make a phone call to find out if everything is alright. If there is a special need please let the church office or an elder know.
Also, don't forget that "Celebrate Recovery" is tonight. If you or someone you know is struggling with anything, not just addictions, encourage them to come. There are two sessions each week at 7:00 and 8:00 PM.
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