Thanksgiving Week!

 

Ok, I get a little excited about Thanksgiving.  It is my favorite time of year.  One of the benefits is having several visitors and our college kids home.  Because of that fact, our singing was extra good.

Yesterday we finished up our sermon series on the 2nd Coming of Christ.  I have enjoyed going to the office, over the last several weeks, to dive into this topic.  Don't let the message die... look forward to that day and hurry it along... (II Peter 3:12 - NLT).  Amen! Come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20 - NLT).

Speaking of sermons, this Sunday we will announce the December series, along with the plans for our adult Bible classes.  Add to that, something the elders and ministers have been working on for January.  There will be video clips of a couple of these things.

TUESDAY NIGHT: Please join us tomorrow night for our "Sticky Note Thanksgiving!".  Joel and I have been working on this evening.  We will sing a few songs, read some inspirational Scriptures, offer up prayers of thanksgiving as well as an interesting use of sticky notes.  Our prayer is to lead each of us to a true feeling and understanding of gratitude.  We begin at 7 PM.

I would like to say how much I love this church.  I am thankful we have elders and a ministry staff that is focused upon this congregation of believers and treat our sister congregations with love and respect.  We are not hung up on "conservative" or "liberal" titles.  It doesn't mean we may not disagree, only that we do not become their judge and jury.  Of the seven churches of Asia, Sardis is the only one in which Jesus doesn't begin with a compliment.  He really hammers them, but also says, "Yet even in Sardis there are some who have no soiled their garments with evil deeds.  They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy."  (Rev. 3:4 - NLT)  Today I am truly thankful God has allowed me to be apart of this church and its leadership.

Find ways to share the love and grace of God this week. Do you know someone who is physically sick or spiritually drained?  Is there someone you know who may not have any family you could invite to Thanksgiving.  As a father, I can't tell you how much it means to Missy and I that at least three families, in the church Lex attends in Oklahoma City, have invited him for lunch on Thursday.  Don't just count your blesses this week... share them.

Finally, look who I ran into at Panera this morning.  They sat with me while they ate their half burned bagels.  I am thankful for the young people we have in this church.  Have a great week and we will see you tomorrow night.

A Good Day

Yesterday was just a good day all around.  Sunday morning we had a good crowd, good singing, and good fellowship.  Sunday night Joe lead a good discussion on the church in Laodicea from Revelation.  The teenagers had a good night with Joel and Ann for a bone fire and board games.  It was a good, solid day.

We completed our third lesson on the 2nd Coming of Christ to answer the question, "Why hasn't Jesus come yet?". One more sermon in this series, "Until Then...".  What are we to do while we wait for His coming?  The Scriptures tell us.

We are proud to announce Bob Brackett was reunited with his umbrella Wednesday night.  It was a joyful reunion that was filled with dancing and singing.  It was also great to have two other umbrellas brought back (in case you're missing one).

On a serious note, we have many brothers in sisters in Christ who are dealing with a lot of things.  Mike McGee announced yesterday the passing of his sister, Brenda.  She had battled cancer for a while.  She loved coming to this church and being greeted by so many kind faces.  The funeral will be here at the building on Saturday at 2 PM.

I would like to also mention Sue Mora.  She volunteers in the office every Monday.  The ministers love these ladies give their time each week.  Sue has been dealing with her moms, Dorothy, hip replacement and rehab.  Her brother is down and will have back surgery soon.  Her sister is in the hospital in Port Saint Lucie on a respirator after a violent asthma attack.  Her brother-in-law, Billy, is in rehab in West Palm.  Sue is trying to keep the family going.

Then we have Ola Ellis, who has been dealing with a lot with her family recently.  Her sister is in hospice and not expected to live.  Her sister-in-law has been dealing with a lot of health issues.   It is a lot on her right now.

Jerry Cutshall is still trying to determine what is causing his severe headaches.  The latest test from the EEG did not reveal the answers.  It is very frustrating.  Jerry, as well as all of these need our prayers.  Keep up with the bulletin and updates for others that may not have been mentioned.

PLEASE call the church office (567-2465) if there is something to report on those in our congregation who need prayers.  Even if no one is in the office at the time, the volunteers check the voicemail once or twice a day - Monday through Friday.  Of course you can always email us.

Let's end on a positive note...a sticky note, that is.  On November 25th, we will be having our regular Wednesday night meeting on that Tuesday night.  Everyone will meet in the Worship Center for a time of Scripture reading, singing, and prayers of thanksgiving.  We will also use sticky notes for something unique.  Make plans to be here on the 25th at 7 PM.

COMING SOON: Announcements for upcoming Bible classes beginning in December.  The December sermon series.  Sunday night activities in December.  Information about our Christmas Eve Luncheon and New Years Day brunch.  There is something special coming in January that will be rolled out soon as well.

Come, Lord Jesus!

I'm not the kind to start off talking about my sermon, but the message is so powerful.  Paul tell those who are in the Lord not only to live each day as if Jesus was coming, but anticipate it - call for it.  Revelation 22:20, He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (ESV) When you get up in the morning and, as an elderly person, you are dealing with a lot of physical pain... Come, Lord Jesus!  You turn on the news or read the morning paper and suddenly faced with all the negative in the world... Come, Lord Jesus!  You are hearing more and more about Christian persecution and intolerance... Come, Lord Jesus!  What a powerful phrase to live by.  This week we will look into the question, "Why hasn't Jesus come yet?" Believe it or not, the Bible has an answer.

A group of Christians in Liberia are probably looking forward to the 2nd Coming.  We have all heard the news of Ebola in that region.  Besides the disease, which is bad enough, people have been unable to go out, work their jobs, or support their families.  This is the reason we took up a collection of $29,000.  Arthur David has sent pictures to show where some of our monies were spent.  As you look at these pictures realize you helped Christian families in a time of desperation.  Add to that, food was supplied to the elderly, the deaf and children.  Don't stop praying!  The economic situation has gone from bad to worse.  Come, Lord Jesus!

Some positive news, our Rockin' Seniors had a great trip to Central Florida Bible Camp for their annual fund raiser.  They had a great time.  If you are looking for a boring group of elderly folks to do things with, this is not your group.  They always have an adventure, as shown by the latest picture of the church bus.  It looks like an 80's metal band took it on tour.  You try to get to the bottom of what happened and they all say, "What happens on a Rockin' Seniors trip...". This is the same group who helps out with a Tuesday night service at Horizon Bay.  I'm afraid to ask what kind of damage they have done there, but the people love them coming.  If you are interested in being a part of this crazy group or trashing the church bus, let us know, we will hook you up with the really wild ones.  I love this group!

Sunday night was another great study of the early church.  The video and information from the city of Ephesus was powerful.  Steve Hoskins did a good job leading the discussion and we are proud to say no one seemed to have the "mark of the beast" on them before they left.  Those who came know what I mean.  We have one more Sunday night in this study - Laodicea: Hot or Cold.

If you haven't heard, Dorothy Mora fell yesterday afternoon and broke her hip.  She is having surgery this morning.  We will give a report later on how things went.  So say a little prayer for Dorothy today.

Also, don't forget about those who were unable to be with us yesterday morning.  If there was someone around you who was out, check on them.  This is the time of year many get sick, thanks to the weather changing like a yo-yo.  If you start to feel ill try a "Nanna Toddy".  This is my mom's concoction of half orange juice - half orange Gatorade.  I have made many believers of those who have tried it.  Pulp is optional.

One last thing, I talked with David and Christin Paladin last night after church.  They are on their way home from vacation and should be in sometime today.  They had a great trip but sounded like they were ready to get back.  In other words, we get to see Mya Wednesday night! (and David and Christin).

Tracy

Fall Has Fallen

I realize I'm in the minority, but I loved the Fall temperatures this weekend.  You know my love for sweater vests and hats.  Even at that, the cold got me this time.  Saturday night Bella complained of a sore throat.  Sunday morning I woke up hoarse and low energy.  By Sunday afternoon I was wiped out and could sing bass (and not a good bass).  Feeling better this morning, but still not 100%.

That being said, I appreciate David Brooker handling the Circle-Up Singing for me last night.  He always helps out, but this time he had to do it all with only a few hours notice.  Hopefully I will be ready to go in December, which is going to be a special Circle-Up (more to come).

Sunday morning was a great day of worship.  Even though we had several out of town the singing was really good.  David mentioned to me the same thing.  We began our new series on The End is Near.  The comments were very positive about the subject.  And it is a great topic...the day our Lord comes back to take us home!  This week we will follow up with a lesson called "Jesus is Coming Soon!"  I am looking forward to digging deeper into I Thessalonians and II Peter in preparation for this lesson.

I am happy to report no one showed up two hours early for church, despite the fact I told everyone to Fall Forward.  I would like to thank everyone who texted, emailed and called in your funny remarks about the mix up. I knew it was supposed to be Fall Back but had a lapse in brain power that afternoon.  I wasn't too worried about it.  In all my years of preaching I have only known one person to mess up the extra hour of sleep... me.  On that Sunday I started to rethink my position on the Rapture.  Now I have seen MANY Christians forget to set their clocks when we lose an hour.  Either way, it really was a great day of worship.

Looking forward to another great week.  Continue to check in on our sick.  Right now we have many who are recovering from surgeries or illnesses.  With the change in weather we may have a few more who were unable to be with us as well.  Check in on those folks and let the church office know if it is something the elders/ministers need to know and act upon.  Your communication to us is important.

Everyone take your Vitamin C, wear the proper clothing and wash your hands several times throughout the day.  If you haven't had your flu shot, now would be a good time to get one.  No one likes to be sick this time of year.  Besides we are only 24 days away from the greatest holiday of the year - Thanksgiving!  It is never good trying to eat turkey with a runny nose.

One final thing.  I like sharing good articles.  Here is one on 10 ways to drive away first time guests.  Thom Rainer is one of my favorites because his material is based on surveys.  I was really happy to see how many of these we are doing right.  A few things to work on, but that is why we read these things.  http://thomrainer.com/2014/11/01/top-ten-ways-churches-drive-away-first-time-guests/

Tracy

Sunday Happenings...And There Was A Lot Happening

Sunday morning we completed our sermon series on Strapped with a lesson on "Putting God First".  As a preacher, I hate preaching on money and contributions.  Most ministers feel the same way as certain televangelists have given the rest of us a bad name.  Yet, despite that fact, it is a Biblical subject that needs to be taught... properly.  My prayer is this was accomplished.  It's all about being better.

Next week we begin our next series - The End is Near?, dealing with the 2nd Coming of Christ.  So many different versions and concerns arise from this subject.  We will be doing our best to understand the Biblical teachings from I Thessalonians 4 & 5, as well as II Peter 3.  The first weeks lesson is entitled "No One Left Behind".  This is another great opportunity to invite others to attend.  Most people are very interested in a topic like this.

Speaking of visitors, we had MANY Sunday.  Several of you introduced or helped point out folks you met.  That is so helpful.  Continue to seek out guests each week.  If you can, take them out to lunch.  Get their information so you can send them a card.

As far as Sunday morning was concerned, I need to apologize to Steven Wilson.  He read from Galatians 5:14 for the Lord's Supper, which speaks of loving your neighbor.  Great verse, but not exactly the focus on Christ that is needed at that time.  Steven did a pretty incredible job making it all tie in with Communion.  Sitting in the pew I realized I had left out a very important thing...the dash.  It was supposed to be Galatians 5:1-4 which begins by saying, So Christ has really set us free.  Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law...  Sigh.  Next week I will double check.

Sunday night was our not so scary "Truck or Treat" for our children.  I'm not sure who had more fun, the kids or the adults.  You will see from the pictures below some of the great stuff going on.  Thanks to everyone who decorated their vehicles, handed out candy, and just had fun with the children.  The scariest part of the night was Joel's piñata.  Fortunately no one, including Joel, was hurt.  We appreciate David Paladin for getting it all planned, even though he looked like something from Star Trek (the 60's version).

 

 

 

 

 

 

After seeing these pictures, I guess I need to wrap it up.  Don't forget about our sick and shut-ins.  In fact, there are many things going on this week we need to be praying about.  Today Michael Scott is having an ultrasound on his gallbladder.  Peggy Stephens is having outpatient surgery to have polyps removed.  Diane Williams is having outpatient surgery on her hand.  Pray a special prayer for Michael Kolinar (a.k.a. "Mad Money Mike") who is struggling with life in general.

Be Christ to your world.  Continue to find ways to be better in your walk with the Lord.  Pick up your Bible this week and read.  Lift up your voice and offer thanks to our Heavenly Father.

No Burden, Just Better

Yesterday we completed our third lesson in our series called Strapped.  Our main thought is "we don't serve money, we serve God.  Money serves us as we serve God." It is about getting better.  This series isn't to see how much guilt can be dumped on us, but ways to get better... out of financial bondage.  The reception of these lessons have been very positive and I appreciate all of the encouragement.  We have one more lesson to go - "Putting God First." Don't miss this important lesson.  By the way, I saw this car in town the other day and had to get a picture!

 

Along those same lines, I am putting up the new posters for our November series.  It was supposed to be on II Peter, but after praying and studying through the book it changed to one of its major themes - the Second Coming of Christ.  When we sent out surveys, a few months ago, this was a topic recommended.  In fact, money management was another suggestion, which is why we are in our current series.  I'm really looking forward to this study.

Yesterday I noticed several of our "regulars" out of town, but the house still seemed to be full.  I met a few people from our community and few folks from other places.  Either way, it is great seeing a steady stream of visitors come our way.  I appreciate those of you going out of your way to meet and greet others.

Tonight is our Celebrate Recovery.  Monday is a good time to meet people who may have hurts, hang ups or habits they want to overcome.  Those who serve in this ministry offer two convenient times - 7 & 8 PM.  If you know of someone who is interested let us know and we will put them in touch with someone from the program.

This coming Sunday night is our "Trunk-or-Treat".  If you haven't participated before, it is a time we decorate the trucks of our cars and allow our children to go around and have a safe venue to get some candy.  The kids really enjoy this and will bring friends to participate.  We only ask that we keep things... uh.... not so frightening.  Such as a bloody zombie hanging out of your trunk or you dress up with a fake ax going through your head.  We want children to come back to our church, not run as far away as possible.  We encourage the adults to dress up as well, but nothing immodest.  The last thing we need is for one of our members to dress up in the sexy French maid costume.  I realize it might cause some visitors to come back, but not exactly the way we want to "draw people to God." You know what I'm talking about.  Never had a problem with this, nor do we anticipate any problems this year.  We will do this immediately after our Sunday night classes.

One more thing.  I found out last week that A'Lana Cutshall has been helping out with our website.  I failed to mention her with the list of volunteers we have helping the church office right now.  I knew she had built the site but did not realize she was still working with it.  I was glad to hear this as A'Lana has great creativity.  Keep looking to our website as it gets better and better all the time.  If you click on the "Events" window, at the top, you can find a calendar of all of our upcoming events.  Just go to vbcofc.com.

Praying everyone has a great week.  Continue to remember those on our prayer list and let the church office or elders know if someone needs special attention.

Tracy

It's Monday, Monday

It is a busy Monday, Monday of things to report.  We will begin with Sunday happenings.  After several weeks, the kids in the Aquarium finally sang loud enough to interrupt my class, across the hall.  David Paladin, their leader, has asked me each week if I heard them, and each week I have said "no".  You could see the disappointment on his face.  But this week it finally happened.  If your children came home with sore throats and strained vocal cords... you know why.  More to come from this group.

Sunday worship was also a positive experience.  Great song service, a heartfelt talk about the Lord's Supper and the many prayers for one another.  Opal Powell came forward for prayers for her grandson, Stephen Brooks, and the fact he is going blind in one eye.  Stephen is a former member of this church who now lives in Hawaii.  This family has dealt with many loses over the last few years.  Continue to pray for them.  Along those same lines, Dewey Hall is also dealing with something similar with his eyes.  Vision is a beautiful gift of God.  Pray for each of these this week.

Let me also comment on my sermon from yesterday morning.  People continue to appreciate the topic.  Many of you have shared many kind words.  Although yesterday was some of my favorite.  One of my children came home and asked Missy, "Is dad going to sell Max?! (family dog)".  It is always good to keep your children on their toes.  Someone told me about another father who told his kids that he would sell them before he got rid of their dog.  One person went to an elder to ask, if they are not in debt can they still get their nails done?  And my favorite, and most frequent comment, "where can you get 12% interest?". As I said yesterday, I'm a sanguine, I don't do math, so the examples I used I found.  Either way, it was great listening to everyone.  This weeks sermon, "The Buck Starts Here".  I can't wait to hear what you have to say this Sunday!

On a sad note, Judy Gauntt lost her mother-in-law Doris Gauntt.  They were very close and she has taken care of her for a long time.  Funeral arrangements will be made today.  Do me a favor and send her a card.

Judy Gauntt
514 4th Place SW
Vero Beach, FL 32962

This weekend the children's ministry did a special day for the girls, G.A.L. (girls acting like ladies).  The Soops hosted a day of swimming and crafts for the girls.  Bella told me she had a great time.  I appreciate all the adults who helped out with this.  Look at these smiling faces.

I also want to give a shout out to Lisa Brackett.  She has been volunteering to help with our website and Facebook accounts.  She is really doing a great job with both of these.  Check out our website sometime verobeachchurchofchrist.org.  Also, those of you who follow the churches Facebook page, "share" upcoming events on your own site to spread the news.  Recently Lisa has been dealing with migraines again, so let's say a special prayer for her this week.

While we are on the topic of volunteers.  The ministers cannot thank the ladies who have been coming in each week to help out in the office - June Hansen, Ethel Meadows, Sue Mora, Helen Rathel, Gay Stanley and Teri Swinford.  If you have called the church office recently you have probably talked with one of these ladies.  Not only do they answer phones, but they check emails, compile lists, work on the computer, clean out clutter (although David's office is a challenge), fix us coffee, prepare our lunch, wash our feet (well maybe not those last few things).  Seriously, the greatest thing they do each week is come in with a smile on their faces.  David, Joel, and myself couldn't do it without them.

We have so many who need prayers and attention this week.  Please read your bulletin and watch for updates throughout the week to see a more complete list.  Think about those who may have missed seeing yesterday and give them a call or drop them a card.  Be patient with the people in our world and shine the light of Christ.  Be the church!