It was one of the most uplifting Sundays I can remember. Let's start with the biggest news. Chuck and Cindy Kirby were baptized into Christ! I have been studying with them for some time. The first study I learned they didn't have a Bible and gave them one the next day. They had so many great questions about God and the church. One of my favorite moments was when Cindy, for the first time, made the connection that baby Jesus was God! She was amazing and excited! Our last study was two hours - one hour of our regular study and another hour of answering questions. It was just a neat experience for all three of us. Chuck came over yesterday afternoon to tell me "thank you"... again. Of course, all I can do is reemphasis it was the Lord who did the work, but they were so glad someone told them the Good News. One of my favorite questions they asked, during our studies, was "what is expected of us when we become a Christian?" They were not looking for a quick fix to their sin. They were not trying to find out how little they can do and still go to heaven. I could go on and on, but I am really excited about this couple.
Also, Steve announced the Porter family as desiring to be apart of this church family. They are another couple I have been talking to. They have been very impressed with our youth and children's program. They moved to this area recently. John and Tina have a deep faith in God and have been active in churches they attended in the past. We want to welcome them to the family. Get to know both of these families or any of our newest members of this church.
I knew the other two were taking place Sunday, but there was one more unexpected blessing yesterday. Mike and Shelly Pickerill came forward calling on the church to pray for their marriage. Many in the world would give up but they truly love each other and want to make sure their relationship grows stronger. Begin praying for them each day. They have begun individual help. And let me say this, I appreciate their openness. So many will let these things go until they find themselves in serious trouble, and in some cases in the land of no return. I commend them for their decision.
By the time I got home I was emotionally exhausted, but in a good way. After a nap I was refreshed to hear one last lesson on Proverbs from Joe Wild. It was a good day all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching my class that morning. The singing in worship was so good. This morning I woke up, before my alarm clock went off, ready to get the day started. I'm joyful.
This week: My family still has a Jamaican in the house. He got back from Ohio Saturday night. He was also able to speak with a church in West Virginia. He was supposed to go to Texas but it fell through. That being said, he will be going back home Friday. If you would be able to take him to the airport in Fort Lauderdale please let me know. Bob Brackett has taken him to breakfast this morning and the Warrens are feeding him Thursday night. If you would like an opportunity to treat him to a meal let me know.
As far as next Sunday is concerned, we will have Arthur David speaking to us Sunday night. Brother David is back in the states but he has been a missionary we have supported from Liberia. He continues to be in contact with the brothers and sisters there and the struggles they are facing on a daily basis with the Ebola virus. I believe this is something we would all be interested in hearing.
Finally, thanks for the kind comments many of you made about our series on Creativity. This Sunday I will deliver one lesson on the shame and glory of the cross of Christ. We will use songs as a means of teaching this powerful account in Scripture. Hope to see you.
Continue to remember those who were unable to be with us yesterday. A special prayer for Gay Stanley has she was struggling last night over the loss of her niece. I know the families would appreciate your remembering Reagon Brackett and Amber Roe as they are doing mission work in Africa. Continue to pray for our sick and give praise for blessings God is giving you daily. Have a great week.
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