Awesome Friends Day

Personally, I believe it was one of the best Friends Days we have had since I've been here.  Thanks to many of you, we have several good prospects to share the Good News of Christ.  That's what it's all about.

The Coffee Connection wasn't packed out like we had envisioned.  There were only four visitors and one was looking for a church home.  We average that on a regular Sunday.  Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled to have the one, which made it all worthwhile.  Our greatest numbers were when our services were flipped.  There is something about having Coffee Connection after worship that appeals to visitors.  Something to think about for the future.

As far as worship was concerned we had many visitors with us.  The final count was 298.  This is really good when you begin to think of everyone who wasn't able to come due to sickness or being out of town.  It was encouraging to say the least.  Best of all was all the people who were either looking for a church home or had no church family.  The leadership wishes to thank all of you who were able to bring someone or at least tried.

That being said, let me mention a couple of things that need to happen now.

1. Contact those who came with you this week.  If you can make a one-on-one contact that is best.  Take them to lunch, stop by to see them or at least make a phone call.  Also, if you know of others who were able to make connection with them, give them your friends address so they can write a card.
2. Invite your guests to other things we have going on that may be of interest to them.  Our Celebrate Recovery on Monday nights.  The Psalms class on Wednesday nights.  Other Bible classes or happenings.  If you think they are ready for a small group, contact Bill Raikes or Mike McGee so they find the right group for them.
3. This Saturday night, call them to see if they would like to come back this Sunday.  Mention to them about the series that will be continuing.  By the way, this Sunday is "One Friend Away."
4. For the rest of us, roll out the red carpet for those who come back this week.  Don't stand back and wait for someone else to do it.  Don't get so caught up in your own relationships with others that you neglect those who may be seeking that type of fellowship.
5. Finally, whether you brought a friend or not, continue to reach out to people you know who are looking for a church home or have no church home.  Every Sunday should be treated like Friend Day.  Let us not get into the mindset that we invite people once a year.  Let this be a kickoff for the rest of the year.

Personally, I would like to thank everyone who participated in our Friends Day to make it special.  From the staff doing those extra things this week to get the building ready, to those who came early Sunday morning to set up and stayed late to clean up.  Thanks to everyone who brought food.  Not only was it outstanding but we had plenty to go around!  Also, a big thanks to everyone who participated in our worship.  Not only was it well done, but I thought the comments made were very appropriate for the day.  Once again, thank you to all who invited others to come.  Without you it would have only been Church Family Day!  I am very proud of this body of believers.

Looking ahead.  This Wednesday night we will continue our study of the Psalms as we deal with prayer.  There is so much to learn.  It is something that has the potential to change your prayer life forever.

Have a great week and don't forget about those who are sick and unable to attend.

A Great Day for this Church

Sunday was a great day for this congregation.  If you missed last night, you missed a historic event for this church.  Mike McGee was appointed as an elder of this church with 98% of the congregations approval!  This is one of the highest percentages you will ever hear.  He joins a short list of great men to serve this congregation since its beginning.  Add to that, we are getting a godly elders wife who supports him in this work.

Yesterday we also had another "crop" of visitors from our area.  The Coffee Connection was packed out and one commented to me how friendly this church was to him.  He had sat outside while he waited for his family to arrive and was greeted by several of you.  This is the kind of thing the leaders love to hear!

Speaking of visitors, our Friends Day is in two weeks!  It is almost redundant to ask many of you to invite your friends and family for this day since many of you are doing this each week (as evidence of the guests we have been having).  But we want to fill the building.  There will be dinner on the grounds, in which the church will supply the meat.  Start inviting people today.

Before that happens the church will have a family night at Vero Bowl.  We have done this before and it has been a huge success.  It is a time for our church family to come out and enjoy being together.  Whether you like to bowl or not you should come out and enjoy the company.  I have seen some of you bowl and it is very entertaining.  Seriously it should be a great night.  We are reserved for 100 people.  $2 shoe rentals (if you don't have bowling shoes) and $2 per game.  Everything begins at 6 pm to give time for people to eat.  Although, the bowling ally has really good food.

I'm sorry to say that I will not be able to make it to the bowling night.  Next weekend I will be speaking for a youth conference in Orange Beach, Alabama called G.U.L.F.  Joel will be handling the second part to our series on "Love & Hate".  It is so nice to have capable ministers who can take over while I am away.  I will be in town until Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.

Continue to check on those who normally sit around you that wasn't there Sunday.  As always, let the elders or myself know if someone needs special attention.

First Report

It is good to be back at Vero after a week of Christmas vacation in Port St. Joe, Florida.  We rented a house with my parents, my sister and her family, and their dogs.  You heard me right - the dogs.  Port St. Joe, Apalachicola, Cape San Blas, and the other small towns along this "Forgotten Coast" not only allow dogs but encourage you to bring them.  They were allowed on the beaches, in stores, and even restaurants.  We had a great time, but it is good to be back.

Yesterday we had a great crowd!  Some were from out of town, but many were from our community.  The Coffee Connection was packed out.  I appreciate everyone who reached out to those who were visiting with us.  We want to make more of an impact on those searching for more in their lives in 2014.  Let me know if you bring someone who would like to study the Bible.  Better yet, let me know how I can help you study with someone you are talking with about Jesus.

We got the year started off with our annual lesson on "This is a Football."  A basic lesson on the Scriptures as a whole.  Next week we begin a two part series called "Love & Hate." It deals with those things God loves and hates.

Also, we are a couple of days away from the launch of the Book of Psalms.  I am very excited about studying this great collection of God's Word.  The intent is to give you more than head knowledge but to find the heart of the psalms.  Over the next three months we will try to learn of the depth of our worship - praying, singing, meditating, etc.  We will talk about some of those outrageous psalms we run across (like sticking a javelin in your enemies eyes).  We will learn more about the Father.  We will find out our Savior is all throughout this book and discover He used them during His ministry.  And what about the Holy Spirit?  Just a New Testament topic?  Nope, the Psalms speak of His work as well.  What is the background behind all these chapters?  We will meet in the Coffee Shop on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm.  This is a great class to invite someone you know from work, a friend, or family member.

Sunday night the elders will be hosting our annual meeting in the Coffee Shop.  There are so many important things they will be discussing so make sure you attend.  Also, bring a dessert to share.  We will provide coffee, tea and water.  Get there early to get a booth!

One more thing.  This is a good time to start planning for our Missions Sunday coming up the first Sunday in March.  In those New Years resolutions put money aside so we can reach our goals, more importantly, to support the works we have to carry out the gospel of Christ.  I received an email this weekend from Louis in India - a dozen more baptisms.  We receive reports like this often from our mission works that show God's blessings on many of these churches.  So start praying and saving for this special day.

It's a new year so don't forget to check up on others who may be sick or need attention.  Also, make sure you mention our Celebrate Recovery to people you know as many may be looking to make some major changes in their lives.  This is for anyone who has hurts, hang ups, and habits they are struggling with.  It begins tonight at 7 and 8.

Worship Heats Up!

Maybe one of the most memorable worship services before Christmas.  If you were not with us you missed out on a hot time!  The air conditioning units decided to go out.  I believe the technical term was that the units "fried." Nice choice of words for those of us in an 80 degree auditorium.  But we didn't let that stop us.  We shed jackets and ties and opened up doors for a breeze.  The best part, in my opinion, was everyones attitude through it all.  We laughed, fellowshipped, worshipped and enjoyed one another.  It was really a great day.  A big shout out to Danny Brackett for getting to the building early to try and fix things before services.  Our old building keeps Danny, who is over our building and grounds, very busy at times.  Make sure you give him a pat on the back to let him know how much you appreciate his efforts.

Last night we had a good number of people show up to either help set up for our Christmas Eve Luncheon or to go caroling to the homes of some of our shut-ins, elderly and those who have had a difficult year.  I'm not sure if we sang more or laughed more.  Also, everything looks festive in the Coffee Shop for our luncheon.

Speaking of our luncheon, it happens tomorrow.  Every year Jay and Chris Dean lead this congregation in a great benevolent/outreach opportunity.  So many of you take a portion of your Christmas Eve to volunteer.  The purpose is to feed, not only the poor, but those who are lonely or struggling this time of year.  Our goal isn't just to provide them a great meal but also to spread the love of Christ.

This Sunday our church will be blessed to hear Mac Lynn.  For most of you, he is the son of Heber Lynn (named after our Lynn Center).  For preachers like myself, he is well known for his books and knowledge.  Either way, it will be a treat to have him stand in our pulpit.

Frank White is in the Indian River Medical Center with health issues.  He is supposed to have a stint put in today.  If you are planning to go by for a visit he is in room #374.  At the hospital he is listed as Lewis White.  If you ask for Frank you will get a blank stare from the receptionist.  Just thought you might want to know.

From my family to yours, I want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas.  Take this time to enjoy your family.  For those of you who enjoyed Steven Wilson's Ecclesiastes class, let me quote one of its passages.  "So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people to do in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life.  That way they will experience some happiness along with the all the hard work God gives them." (Eccl. 8:15).  Understanding the context makes this verse even better.

Don't forget to check on our sick.  Be an encouragement to someone you know is lonely or struggles this time of year.  Baked cookies and a smile go a long way.

A Tale of Two Funerals

This past week I was involved in two funerals.  Nothing about them were the same.  One was the tragic death of a 24 year old man and the other the natural passing of an 88 year old woman.  One was surrounded with deep grief and morning, while the other was surrounded with a celebration of sorts.  One left others with many unanswered questions and the other had no questions.  As a preacher who conducted both funerals, one came with great mental stress and the other a sense of relief.  I could go on but you get the idea.  Death is no respecter of persons.  It doesn't care that it is Christmas time.  It doesn't always make sense.  Death is a curse that began with sin in the garden (Gen. 3:19; Rom. 5:12).  It hurts.  It grieves.  It stings.  This is why the coming of Christ into the world is so important.  This is why His birth was so joyful because it allowed Christ to take on human form so He could live and die for those sins.  But even more, to resurrect to give us hope in death we had not had before.  (I Cor. 15:54-57)  Praise be to God for the newborn King!

It is weeks like this that help me to realize how blessed this church is with the ministry staff.  The day of the David Koliner tragedy, David Paladin was out dealing with another family tragedy in the congregation.  He is also the one who picked me up in the pulpit while I was gone to be by the side of my grandmother.  He learned Friday that he would need to preach just two days later.  Never once was I concerned about the preaching while I was with my family.  That is a blessing.  David had his regular duties to accomplish, including getting the kids ready to perform for the Christmas party.  He also had a big Greek test in his masters program.

Add to that Joel Soumar.  When I received the call from Micheal Koliner that his brother had just been struck and killed, it was Joel who went with me to their home.  He was there those three hours with the family as we waited for the coroner to take the body.  Three hours he helped me console the family just feet away from their son under the delivery truck.  Three hours he helped talk with neighbors and friends who were upset.  He would also make several trips with me to see the family and to be there at the funeral home when the family first saw the body.  He also helped me remember some great things about David Koliner to use in the funeral.  Joel also handled the graveside for me so I could leave to be with my grandmother before she died.  Words cannot express what I feel about these two men, who also ministered to me in the passing of my grandmother.

A'Lana picked up the slack of my leaving early, the extra calls on the funeral and even dealing with the funeral home.  She also helped with the Christmas party, all the while planning for her parents 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday night.

My family is very thankful to the elders and the people of this congregation.  Throughout this whole process with my grandmother the elders have been encouraging and understanding.  They would have had me go sooner and stay later.  They are good men.  Add to that the kind words, hugs, and encouragement I have received from this church.

Speaking of this church family: I have never been so proud of you as I was during the loss of David Koliner.  The turnout of the funeral alone blew me away, especially with it being a Wednesday morning.  Most of you didn't know David very well but you came anyway.  Add to that the food that was prepared, the visits some made, and the cards.  The result?  God blessed us.  Sunday morning David's family came to worship (first time since Mike was baptized) and later that night to the Christmas party.  The family has mentioned the love of this church several times to me.

Speaking of the Christmas party, it was a great.  I appreciate Julie and Mark Anderson taking this on.  It was a huge success, based on everyone I have talked with or the things I read from many of you on Facebook.  They had some great help to make all this possible.  I wasn't in a party mood Sunday night but it really lifted my spirits seeing all of you.

While we are throwing out appreciation, I would like to thank Robbie Brackett for taking charge of the new bathroom project.  There are many headaches that come along with something like this and I am personally grateful Robbie took them for us.  I know Danny Brackett had a big part in things, especially with the children's playground, and these improvements are much appreciated.  Although Bella, my 9 year old, was very concerned about the old playground being taken down as she thought this was going to be given for the teenagers to use.  The mind of a child!

Sorry this report is so long.  This is what happens when I don't preach the day before...I have to get all my words in for the day.  Seriously, I love and appreciate each one of you.  I'm looking forward to this coming Sunday as we deal with the topic of "Joy to the World", and go Christmas caroling to our shut-ins.

God is at Work!

It has been a difficult week for some in this church.  Most notably is the tragic death of David Koliner.  He was a great kid who loved his job, was obedient to his parents, and liked a good joke (even mine).  His last words were calling out to Jesus.  His brother, Mike (aka "Mad Money Mike) was home when it happened.  Mike, like his brother, has a condition from birth that makes him more childlike, yet it was his faith that has been an encouragement to myself, his parents, and others in this dark time.  As soon as Joel and I arrived on the scene his first words were, "God is good, all the time."  He beat me to having a prayer with him and his family.  He pulled out his Bible first to read from Psalm 23.  There are many other things Mike has expressed to myself and others that display an amazing faith.  It's easy to discount someone like Mike in the church, but this may be the very person God has put before us to learn.  I Corinthians 1:27-29, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise.  And he chose those who are powerless to shame those who are powerful.  God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important, so that no one can ever boast in the presence of God. (NLT)  As for me, God is a work in my life thanks to the simple faith of a simple guy.  Mike may not know the literal Hebrew and Greek meanings of the word faith, but he understands it better than some who do.

As far as yesterday went, things seemed to go smoothly.  Our new sermon series, Carols, got kicked off with a trip to the little town of Bethlehem.  This week we move into the stable for a lesson on "Away in a Manger" as we try to understand why the Son of God would be placed in something animals use to feed.  Continue to invite others to attend.

Last night we had two unique opportunities.  Some chose to see one of the most fascinating videos on the star that lead the magi to the new born King.  Others took advantage of report on Trinidad and how this island church raised $66,000 for their mission works.  Amazing stuff.  Afterwards Joel Soumar delivered a powerful devotional on how we should see ourselves.  If you missed it you may want to get with Joel just to get the video he used.  It was an uplifting evening.

This week is filled with opportunities.  David Koliner's funeral will be at our building Wednesday morning at 10:00.  If you can help with food please contact Liz Raikes or the church office.  The viewing will be at Cox-Gifford Tuesday evening from 2-4 and 6-8 pm.  Also, take an opportunity to visit our sick or call those who may be struggling or missing from our services the last week or two.  Check on our shut-ins.  Sunday night will be another opportunity for the whole church to get together for a devotional and annual Christmas party.  Wear your tacky sweater/t-shirt and wrap up a wacky gift for the "White Elephant" gift exchange.  This should be fun.  It will be at the Heritage Center.  Please check your care group to determine what you need to bring.

One more thing.  Our annual Christmas Eve Luncheon will be on us before we know it.  If you know of people in need that could benefit from a great meal and some good fellowship, please tell them about this event.  If you don't know realize how many days we are from Christmas ask your children or grandchildren (they can break it down to hours, minutes and seconds).

Great Sunday Night

It isn't that Sunday morning worship was not uplifting.  In fact, the singing was good and the spirits were high.  We had so many visitors and most of them were from the community and not just holiday travelers.  Hopefully each of you are making a concerted effort to meet our guests each week.  Introduce them to others around you and especially make sure I have an opportunity to meet them.  I love visitors.  We really need your help inviting them to our Coffee Connection before worship in the Fireside Room (LC #103).

Sunday night was especially good, in my opinion.  We had one of our Circle Up Singing events.  To be honest, I didn't know if we would have enough people to show up to fill all four parts.  It rained, and rained, and rained all day.  According to Gay Stanley some people shouldn't be out driving in this type of weather, right June?  (You would have to be there to understand that last statement).  We had a decent crowd, but the singing was GREAT!  Bill Raikes, Joel, and myself led the singing.  We began with some of the golden oldies and moved into the popular 80's songs and ended with the teen songs of today.  Everyone seemed to enjoy the fast past, two verses only, singing.  Several mentioned to me how much they enjoyed last night and how good the singing was.  We will definitely do this again.

As far as Sunday nights, let me encourage everyone to keep up with their bulletins, the website, and announcements of what is going on.  THIS WEEK you will have two choices: 1) Come to the Coffee Shop for a Trinidad update and devotional or 2) go to the Fireside Room for the viewing of "The Star of Bethlehem", which we have played a couple of times over the last few years.

Let me begin with the Trinidad trip.  Most of you know I had the privilege of speaking on this Caribbean island last month.  If it was nothing more than I went in, spoke, and come back, I wouldn't take up a Sunday night to report.  But for me it ended up being much more.  It was one of the most encouraging speaking trips I have ever been a part of.  Wait until you learn why I was there, what I did, and what happened on that Sunday night.  I'm also going to tell you about another opportunity this Summer that some of you may be interested in.  Yes, there will be pictures and some of those are of food (of course).

"The Star of Bethlehem" is for anyone who hasn't seen, or would like to see, the video again.  It is one of the most fascinating documentaries on the star mentioned in Scripture.  They have found the star and you might be surprised what they discovered.  PLEASE use this as an outreach opportunity for someone you know to attend.

As far as outreach opportunities goes, this Sunday morning we are beginning a new series of sermons entitled "Carols".  Three lessons - three Christmas songs.  We begin with "O Little Town of Bethlehem."  Why would the King of kings be destined to be born in a town of about 150 at the time?  A very unimportant city for the anticipated Messiah.  I'm looking forward to this lesson.  Invite others to join us for this series over the next three weeks.

I know this blog is long today, but I wanted to update some of you on my grandmother, who may not already know.  Immediately after services Tuesday night I received a call from my dad telling me my grandmother, Marine "Mamaw" Lundy, had several mini strokes and a massive heart attack.  The doctors had called in the family believing she only had a couple of hours to live.  They put her on a respirator with the hopes some of the family would get there in time to say goodbye.  A couple of hours later she was still alive, as well as the next day, and then the next... well, she never died.  The doctors and nurses are calling her a "miracle" patient.  I don't know if it is a full blown miracle where someone gets out of bed and carries it out the front door, but I do believe God had a big hand in what happened.  She is now standing up on her walker, eating solid foods, with no tubes, heart medicines, and certainly no respirator.  Who knows, she may never walk out of the hospital before another big heart attack happens, but the Lord has blessed our family with some amazing things, especially the extra time with Mamaw.  My family does ask that each of you keep praying.  She was really thrilled when I told her the churches in India were praying for her (thanks Louis).  International prayers are always the best, right?  Seriously, we want to thank everyone who has kept her in their prayers.

So much more I could tell you about what is happening and the upcoming month, but I feel I may have exceeded the average attention span already.  Keep an eye out for our sick and others who may be struggling.