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.
Monday, September 16, 2013
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.
Monday, August 26, 2013
The Tennessee Monday Report
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.
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 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!
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