Reflections From 2009

It's New Year's Eve 2009. In a few hours it will be a new day, a new year, a new month, a new decade. Wow.
The past year has been like most years - mixed with good and not so good. As far as the church goes we started the year very strong. Finances were in great shape - Attendance jumped in the first months of the year. We kept ahead of pace for six months. The sermon series on the Shack touched many lives. The message on forgiveness made a difference.
Then we seemed to lose our pizzaz. The summer months saw attendance drop off a bit more than usual. At the same time our stewardship held steady.
While we were doing ministry day in and day out it seems there were many great works being done. We had more people involved in mission - people kept gaining new insights to faith.
By the time we came to the fall things began to pick up once again. This year our financial drive found more people pledging more dollars than in previous years. We purchased a net for Nothing But Nets for each pledge card received. We really are getting more and more missional.
We ended the year moving forward until the blizzard hit us on Christmas Eve. Our attendance for these services was down about 30% but still saw 1400 people participate in a Candlelight Service.
During a year when we read and heard so much about our economic recession we ended the year on a really good note. We are truly blessed with some extravagantely generous people.
So now we turn the page. I sense the Lord leading us to emphasize a few things. For instance: Here is a updated mission statement:
Our mission at PWUMC is "to build an outward focused Christian Community of full participants in the life of grace."
I see us being even more intentional about being outwardly focused than we have been. This translates to increased work with mission, ministry to others and faitih sharing evangelism.
The part that intrigues me is the idea of being a full participant in the life of grace. It seems like I have been learning fresh things about grace during the past few months and look forward to ways of sharing these insights in the coming year.
We are going to take time to learn this year. Our leadership and especially our Staff Parish Relations Committee will have a learning opportunity in February as we seek to better understand how to be faithful and fruitful in this larger church setting.
We are going to have a "violence symposium" in February where we will seek to learn about some root causes of violence in our city and discern one or two initiatives our church may participate in.
We are going to launch a new small group ministry where we will grow deeper in grace.
We are going to practice hands on faith and minstry with a service day in May. (Rather than everyone come sit in church we are hitting the streets to serve our community in the name of Jesus Christ.
That's the first half of 2010. My sense is that God is up to something among our church and the Holy Spirit is stirring our hearts.
I anticipate placing increasing influence on being missional, relational and incarnational in 2010. These priorities are inclined to attract more participation in worship, giving, learning and serving.
As I think about you on New Year's Eve 2009 I pray the "blessing prayer" for you.
"May God bless you with long, abundant and fulfilling lives that bring glory and honor to God and peace and joy to many."
Looking forward to the morning - new day, new month, new year, new decade, new life!
blessings.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Christmas Eve - Christmas Day - The Sunday after Christmas -- this has been a busy few days. The blizzard on Christmas Eve didn't help much but even snow, ice and wind is no match for Jesus!
I have seen people in our church during the last few days who came for the first time. There are some I know from other settings who I saw in worship.
I've got to believe many people have sensed the presence and power of God in the last few days.
As I was praying and reflecting on things this morning (after pushing snow off the drive way again) I realized I need to get centered (again) on the Lord. There is so much to do. There are so many plans to make and execute. There is so much at stake. It is easy to look around and see Christmas is past and I hardly noticed it coming!
So here is an early New Year's resolution -- Get centered on Christ and be an MRI Christian. (I contrasted ABC Christians -- Attendance - Buildings - Cash-- with MRI Christians - Missional - Relational - Incarnational in a recent blog.)
Mission is evangelism (sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in meaningful, relevant and compelling ways) as well as serving and taking Christ to the lives of others.
Relation means caring for others and allowing the Lord to create a spiritual bond between people. As we care and build relationships with others (in particular those who are not presently in a relationship with Christ or part of the Church) we find ourselves used by the Lord to express his grace.
Incarnation is how God gets involved in people's lives in the world today. God became flesh in Jesus Christ and has done all that need be done to effect our salvation. Now we are invited to share in the kind of incarnational ministry that takes the Light of Christ into the dark places of this world.
I anticipate God continuing to change my life! I invite you to experience a freshness of the life changing, life transforming Spirit of God.
blessings,
steve
-- One more thing -- thanks to the youth band for leading us in worship today. It is so encouraging to see our youth taking leadership and showing the light of Christ

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Wow. The music day at church was great. The choir did the cantata 3 times this weekend. Good crowds at each service - middle service this morning was pretty packed. It was a blessing.
I can't say enough good things about Walter, Nancy, Donna, Mike and everyone who participated in the choir and orchestra. Thank you so much!
But there's more. Baptized 3 adults and an infant today. Nothing better than seeing God in action. Marked for Christian discipleship - embarking on the Christian way - the life of grace becoming active in people's lives. It was a great day.
But there's more. We receieved 10 new members today. A real joy to have people follow their hearts and become part of this community of faith.
But there's more. Christmas dinner with Cindy's family. Lot's of life with happy kids running around everywhere! It really is a great time.
(I thought I had a good gift in the exchange but my brother-in-law took my gift card and stuck me with the alarm clock with the little helicopter on it!)
All in all it's been a great day.
I hope you are getting ready for the week. Our first Candlelight service will be tuesday @ 7:00. This is especially for any who will be traveling or have other commitments on Christmas Eve. I hope you will take advantage of this service.
On Christmas Eve we begin services at 3:00 followed by services at 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 and 11:00. Come sing the caroles, hear the story, share in communion and light a candle.
Looking forward to seeing you this week.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Curtis preached a very good sermon today! It was a joy to be in worship and hear the Word. If you were at the 11:00 service you probably noticed I was not there. I had the opportunity to lead the confirmation class this morning.
Confirmation. We have that special service where young people make their public profession of the Christian faith. The service includes the part where we place our hands on the confirmand and say, "I confirm you in the faith and fellowship of all true disciples of Jesus Christ." This may be a one-time experience where conversion takes place. At the same time this is part of a life-long experience in the life of grace.
Today I talked with the class about a number of things but specifically spiritual gifts. Bottom line: All spiritual gifts are resident in the Holy Spirit - by virtue of your faith in Jesus Christ the Holy Spirit lives in you - therefore as you walk with Christ and are engaged in ministry with the Lord you may believe that any gift or resource needed is available. It's a pretty encouraging concept.
I truly look forward to watching these young people grow and develop in the Christian life. They are naturally gifted and with the grace of God filling their lives they are also spiritually gifted.
By the way, this holds true not only for confirmation class, but for any of us who claim Christ as Savior.
On another note. I just started reading a book by Leonard Sweet. He has more images of the church and the Christian life. One thing I noted was a call away from ABC church - A=attendance; B=building; C=cash. He would trade those for MRI church - M=missional; R=relational; I=incarnational.
Actually this later way of looking at church and the Christian life seems to fit the spiritual gift way better than the former. I have a suspicion that should we get focused on MRI the ABC will take care of itself - more people will respond to the missional, relational, incarnational message and find forgiveness and new life in Jesus Christ.
It's been a good day. Always good to catch a glimpse of some fresh insight. I hope you've had a good day to.
blessings,
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Just back from the children's Christmas program at church. There is something really neat about watching kids sing and dance and praise God. For any of us who grew up in the church we have these memories of Christmas that always included special events at church. I remember our Christmas program was on Christmas Eve. Hard to imagine isn't it? We'd say our parts - dress up in bathrobes (at least the shepherds did) and tell the Christmas story.
We have some challenges in our culture. There are an increasing number of people without the background and memories many of us hold dear. But this also produces a great opportunity. We may help others discover the Christmas story and what it really means. We may help others discover their own ways to participate in the message. We may help others build their own traditions of Christmas.
Today we talked about ways our response to grace (favor) may take the form of "risky obedience" and disarm our fears. When we engage in risky obedience we will find the fears our culture produces yield to the Word of the Lord. When we engage in risky obedience we will find that the consequences of following Christ pale in the light of God's call.
I pray you find your place in Christmas this year. We continue our jouney - and do so with joy. Be sure to bring another with you as you live the story of Christmas.
I hope you've had a blessed day - it's been good.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

We gathered this morning for worship and began the season of Advent. For the next few weeks we will be getting ready to celebrate the birth of our Savior. There are some things we may do to help prepare.

1. We may look forward with hope. As certainly as God has remembered His people through history He continues to do so. These are days to remember that though clouds form and struggles ensue God is with us. (Don't mistake the fact that God is with us for some notion that this makes life easy and always a bed of roses. You might want to read the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis and note that when he was sold by his brothers, falsely accused and jailed -- God was with him.) Our hope for today, the future and eternity is in God.

2. We experience joy. Christmas is potentially the most joyful celebration. How can one not find great joy in recognizing that God has come to save us. We look for ways to experience the joy of Christ.

3. We find peace. We pray for peace. World peace -- the peace of Jerusalem -- inner peace -- the peace of Christ. We seek peace in families and relationships. Our peace is grounded in the confidence we have in God. He calms our hearts and stills our souls. Peace.

4. We are grounded in love. God's love - family love - brotherly love - the love the world needs - the love we find growing in our hearts through faith in Christ.

5. It's all about Jesus. When we come together on Christmas Eve we will light the Christ candle. Christ is in the center of our hope, joy, peace and love. Christ is the source of all other light.

So we may build our anticipation of what life looks like when God is vitally involved in all we are about. During this Advent season I encourage you to make it a point to seek out others who may know little or nothing about hope, joy, peace or love. Share the good news. Discover the joy. Experience the Light.

Facebook, Virus, and Sin

The other day I hit the wrong thing on Facebook and set a virus in motion. After 24 hours it was taken care of. It took time to get the computer cleaned up. More importantly it took an emotional toll. It was pretty bad stuff that ended up in many people’s Facebook and it had my name on it! I did some reflection on the whole thing and made a fresh discovery.

Facebook is trustworthy. That is the assumption from which I was operating. When I got the Facebook email notice I was doing a couple of other things. The name associated with the message was familiar. I opened it. Soon when I looked closely I realized I should not have done so. Frankly had I gotten the message as an email I would have immediately deleted it. But Facebook has always been free from the objectionable material that is so prevalent on the internet. So I hit the button and the adventure began.

I soon realized that there was very questionable material going to every one of my Facebook friends. (most are still friends – I think) So I began the task of stopping it. Twelve hours later things were still going out. Twenty-four hours later we had it stopped. (Thanks for www.malwarebytes.org)

It was a malicious virus. It did not hurt people but it was embarrassing. It did not cost money but it created deep discomfort in me. I lost a morning’s prayer time searching my heart and trying to stop the spread of the virus. But I also received a fresh insight of a spiritual nature.

I recently preached a sermon on the topic of sin. I named five types of sin: sins of commission, sins of omission, sins of neglect, sins of ignorance and sins of errors. I could have added systemic sins which affect innocent people.

In light of this understanding of sin I saw what was happening with the Facebook virus. I was seeking to apply the lesson to my own experience and life. Here are the insights.

First I could have been operating from a totally deviate place. I could have been committing a “willful transgression against a known law of God.” I could have been taking an intentional, willful, malicious action. I assure you this was not the case. Whew.

On the other extreme I could have been a pure victim. A hacker could have randomly attacked my account and caused everything that ensued. If I could that is the picture I would like to believe. But I don’t think I can say I had absolutely nothing to do with the activity.

Two other type of sin are the sins of ignorance and neglect. Upon reflection this is where I find myself. My primary transgression in this process was neglect. Had I paid attention to what I was doing I would have simply deleted the post immediately and never had anything happen. But I was doing other things. I was on Facebook which I did not consider a source for this type of activity. I recognized a name and failed to pay attention to the message. So I see myself as guilty of the sin of neglect.

Stay with me on this. We teach that there are not degrees of sin. But at the same time we teach there are different categories of sin. In the category mindset a willful malicious act is worse than neglect which is worse than innocent complicity. But it is in the result of sin that we cannot have degrees of sin.

Here is what I mean. Had I been willful and malevolent in my action or ignorant or negligent, the result would be the same. The virus spreads and infects others. The fact that I acted out of neglect rather than malice did not keep the virus from spreading to others and infecting their computers. A virus is a virus. Sin is sin.

The world we live in is full of sin. There are some really heinous things going on. There are “little sins.” There are the things we call victimless sins. But the reality is that sin is sin and all sin spreads and infects others. We may have the best of intentions but if we error the sir spreads and infects.

If nothing else this reminds me of how important it is to recognize and work with the doctrine or original sin. This stuff is everywhere! Even those who act in good faith but are in opposition to the revealed will of God become agents for the spread and infection of the sin nature.

Thankfully there is an antidote. I turned to others for help. Some suggested I run a virus scan. (I had.) Some suggested I change my password. (I did.) We contacted our IT company and they referred us to a download that would remove the problem. Pastor Curtis helped me navigate through the process. The virus was cleansed. The problem stopped.

Here is the spiritual application. We have another to turn to. We turn to God in repentance. (virus scan) We look for help to point us out of our struggle through the fellowship of the Church. (IT company) We apply an application – the cross of Jesus Christ – and find our sins removed. Our savior, Jesus Christ, cleans up the problem of sin.

One more point to the story. I posted how we got my problem solved and shared with others. There were some who got hit pretty hard. We shared how to clean up their computer. The remedy went to everyone in my friends list.

We continue the story by sharing with others how the grace of God in Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin and unrighteousness. We have good news to share. We certainly tell others how to get rid of a virus on their computer. We may also tell others how to experience redeemed love and grace through Jesus Christ.

I wish I had not been negligent and “dumb.” But I think I am more thankful for learning something and gaining a fresh insight. I certainly am sorry for the inconvenience I may have caused others to experience. But I am grateful for the reminder that I have a great gospel to share. Good news.

Steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

First I'm saying a little prayer for my secret "friend" who has been sending inappropriate things out on facebook like it is coming from me. Why do people think this is fun? So I've been running virus scan and changing passwords - now I'll get to make sure any infections get cleaned up. Oh well, technology.
On another note -- I'm choosing not to Worry! I listened to myself preach today! Something that stuck with me today came from Gail's doing the "Our Town" speech. The basic question - do any people ever fully recognize all of life every, every minute? It is truly something to consider and work on.
This afternoon we hosted a community thanksgiving service. Pastor Angie brought the message and blessed everyone present. The music was great. Had folks from a number of churches in the choir and two different bell choirs combined.
The other cool thing today was the Chiefs won a game - and against a really good team. Strange things happen.
Now I am getting ready to go to Kearney where we will join with some other churches for a cluster charge conference. Thankfully we have already worked through all the things needing approval and we can enjoy the fellowship and learning time.
It's been a good day -- and a messed up one what with that crazy facebook junk. But all in all the Lord is alive and well. I'm going to keep on and see if I can't recognize the presence of God in all of life - every minute.
blessings.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Do hard things -- Do new things -- Change things. Those were the ideas that surfaced in the message today. I have to say I really like the "rebelution" idea. (www.therebelution.com) "A teenage rebellion against the low expectations of an ungodly culture." Frankly that could apply to all of us - especially followers of Jesus Christ. I hope we hear the call to raise our expectations of what it is be Christians in our time.
It was a day of joyful worship. I found myself having a great time. The worship touched hearts. Baptisms always remind us of the grace extended to us. I had a feeling that people went home today having been in the presence of God and anticipating ways to raise their expectations of the life of grace.
On another note -- next Sunday at 7:00 we will join with other churches at Kearney UMC and have our annual charge conference. We've almost got our budget and it will be worked with this week by our finance committee. We plan to hold the line but at the same time want to be ready for anything God may have in store for us in the coming months!
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
blessings.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

If you are a Chiefs fan -- too bad.
If you are an MU fan -- too bad.
If you are a KU fan -- too bad.
If you are an OU fan -- too bad.
Today it is better to be a KSU fan and of course a fan of Baker University!
Even better this is a great day to be a God fan! We had a great day at church. I really enjoyed doing the sermon with Curtis and Angie.
I loved the Footsteps dance group. This was the groups first time out this fall and to see them in their new outfits (memorial in honor of Valerie Gooch) was a blessing.
And that's not all. We truly sensed the presence of God in our midst today. I had a couple of take aways from today.
When God's Spirit moves among the congregation and the people respond amazing things happen. We mentioned this in light of our "Today, Tomorrow, Together" finance campaign we held about three years ago. We greatly exceeded our goals - God moved and people responded.
I also hope you caught the part of perfecting your strengths rather than spending too much energy on compensating for your weaknesses.
The other thing to remember is what may happen when an environment is developed where people are free to engage in the ministry they sensed they are being called to. So if someone has an idea that honors God and ministers to the needs of people that should be enough.
All in all this has been a great day to be a fan of Jesus Christ. I hope you've had a great day too.
blessings,
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Angie started our "Last Lecture" series this weekend. She did a great job with the message. Next week our pastoral staff will combine to do the message that speaks about mentoring. (Guess who is cast as the 'old' mentor?) It's shaping up as a very meaningful series.

I have come to the place of deeply appreciating reading the names of those saints who have preceded us in death during the previous year. When the names are read, the bell is rung and people stand in honor ... I feel a true sense of gratitude and appreciation.

This year we (great idea, Angie) added the opportunity to light a candle in memory/honor of another. Went great.

I have to confess that when I am not preaching I get pretty wrapped up in those details others take care of regularly. Are we "on time?" What if we go late? What if we run out of communion elements? What if we burn the church down?! But then I hear - the Word of God - legacy - thanks - hope - grace - life. It happened today. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to worship with you today.

Not only was church really good today, Cindy and I drove out to Baker U yesterday and watched the football team beat William Jewell 26-6. For a Baker grad it is always a great day when we win over Jewell. (Sorry all my Jewell friends.)

It's been a great weekend. I trust you will enjoy the wonder of God's creation. Have a super day and week ahead.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Thanks to Mara Andrews for showing me how to hit a basket on a PlaySchool basketball goal. The point was emphasizing Nothing But Nets. We've done this before. It's a program that got started a few years ago. Medically treated malaria nets are purchased for $10 and sent to Africa where they are distributed to families. Each net has the effect of literally saving scores of lives. It's amazing.

This year when people return their 2010 pledge cards indicating their financial support for the church we are going to buy a net. Everyone who pledges will have a net purchased in their name. I hope this is incentive for many people to be very intentional about their tithes and offerings for the coming year.

We want to communicate that Platte Woods UMC intends to be an outward-focused church. We want to communicate that we want to be a mission-minded church.
Tithes and offerings do more than pay operating costs, salaries and things like that. Your tithes and offerings change lives - save lives - literally.

When Mara made the basket I used that to illustrate a net bought and lives saved! Furthermore when she made one (she actually made 2 out of 3) she showed what God expects - 1 out of 10. A tithe. A miracle of what God is able to do in and through the people of God.

It's been a good day - now off to Trunk or Treat.

I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

It's been a good weekend. Busy day at church this morning - baptism of 7-year-old Ben. Welcome to the family of God. 27 third-graders received their Bibles - music, spirit - we sensed the presence of God.

Yesterday Cindy and I (among many others) walked in the Ian's Flu Foundation walk. It is an annual event. Glen and Julie Moise have responded in an amazing fashion to the loss of their son. I encourage you to go to the Web site and get acquainted more fully with their story. But what I want to say is this.

At 11:00 the walk was beginning. 200 people were joining together to support the effort to educate and vaccinate children so no other child need die from the flu. As I joined with others I thought of another event taking place at 11:00 a.m. yesterday.

Bishop Eugene Frank's memorial service was taking place downtown. Bishop Frank was elected bishop in 1954. He served 16 years as the bishop of Missouri. Everyone in the church knew Bishop Frank.

I remembered a time over 30 years ago when I was a seminary student. Cindy and I were home one weekend and we went with my dad to a one-day retreat and heard Bishop Frank. In his message he made the statement: "God plants the seed of redemption at the heart of every tragedy." I've repeated the insight many times.

Yesterday as we were doing the walk and Bishop Frank's service was taking place at the same time I thought of that moment. And I realized that what he said was so true. I found myself participating in the seed God planted at the heart of the tragedy of Ian's untimely death. Glen and Julie are truly being used by God to make a tremendous witness for the redemptive power and grace of Jesus Christ. It's been a great moment of finding ourselves in the midst of what God is doing.
Blessings.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

I love fast pased days like today. Sorry if I was talking too fast but we had lots to do and there were some things to say! When we have Christ in our hearts we are experiencing the transforming power of God. Part of the transformation is the peace of Christ in our hearts. The idea is we then are empowered to take the peace of Christ into the workplace and God will use us as agents of transformation. Pretty good news. So the peace of Christ molds our Attitudes (a get to attitude as it relates to the workplace) Ambition (do all we do as unto the Lord) and Achievement.
There was something else that happened today. It made me think of the story Jesus told about having 100 sheep and one of them wanders off. The Good Shepherd leaves the ninety-nine and goes in search of the one that was lost. It is a great story that describes the searching and finding nature of God. God came to seek and to save the least, the last and the lost.
But I digress. As I was shaking hands with people on the way out of church and extending greetings a lady said something that stopped me. She indicated she expected a call from the church. I inquired as to what the call would be related to. She said membership. I said I'm sorry and I'll take a look but by that time she was past me. I did not get her name. I don't know if she was planning to join the church today but had a miscommunication. Maybe she checked something on a connect card and felt the folllow-up was lacking. I really don't know.
What I do know is I'm going to try and find the one that I allowed to slip away. If Jesus would go in search of the one that was missing and I am a follower of Jesus there is nothing else I can do!
It really has been a great day - in spite of missing one. Now I look forward to being the one who goes to seek and find - anyone care to join me?
I hope you've had a great day.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today I had a different experience. Cindy, Bobby, Leslie, Andrea, Marcus and I all sat together in church. I remember a Christmas Eve service a few years ago when we had a similar family worship experience but those are rare for us.
The view from the balcony is pretty good. I loved the sermon. (Even though I had not heard about the bees.) The worship put us in a spirit to experience God's presence. Communion was meaningful as I was able to join with others in receiving. It was a meaningful experience of worship.
In the balcony you get to interact with people. Preaching makes a connection (on a good day) but it is different. From the balcony you get to see how others engage in worship. This is more difficult to discern from the front. In the balcony you can reflect on what is going on in people's lives as they gather in the name of Jesus to find a touch of grace for their lives.
It is a good reminder of why we do what we (preachers) do. Weekly we seek to hear from God and be able to bring a Word from the Lord that will encourage you in your daily lives. It is a tremendous joy to do so.
Next Sunday I plan to be back in the front. I doubt our whole family will be together then. But we will all be somewhere. And wherever we are the certainty is that God will be with us. God is with us when we preach. God is with us when we listen. (I believe God is even with us when we go to the Chiefs game - like we did today - but I'm not sure the Lord enjoyed it!)
The point is we seek to live our lives in the presence of the Living God. God is with us in and through all the experiences of life. But it is in church - whether the balcony or the front - that we give our most intentional focus on the purposes of God.
I was glad to be able to worship with you today. I hope you've had a good day enjoying the Lord.
blessings,
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

This has been a mixed day. You realize I base this on our church services this weekend. There were some really great things happening. The music - Jubilante, praise team, choir, were really on it. They practice and come on Sundays and help us experience the presence of God. So much talent and so many gifts.

We highlighted some amazing things going on in the life of the church. When Ginger talked about the upcoming "My First Prayer Retreat" I was so glad we are taking the opportunity to help our youngsters learn the joy and importance of prayer. That is amazing.

There were good conversations going on all over the place. That is a great sign of fellowship. We had first-time visitors. A number of people indicated they planned to come to the new member orientation this afternoon. Should be good. These are great signs of life.

I'm counting on our youth to download John Mellencamp's new song "Forgiveness." It is a great message.

People were engaged. I am convinced that many who were there gained some fresh insights into God's forgiveness and our human capability of extending grace and forgiveness to others.

Here's the other side of the mixed day. There were an awful lot of empty seats today. Our attendance was significantly lower today than it was on the final weekend of September last year. It makes me wonder what we need to do. There are so many doing so much, so what are we missing?

I suppose the best thing to do is get back to praying and planning for next week. We'll have a wonderful worship experience next week. There will be all sorts of service opportunities this week. God is alive and well among us and we are going to keep on loving and learning and serving our Savior. In that light it's been a good day.

On another note I've been watching the Chiefs today. (I am and will always be a Chiefs fan.) I'm reminded of what Coach John McKay once said following another loss of the Tampa Bay team he was coaching. When asked what he thought about his team's "execution" he responded, "Right now I'm all for it." I don't know how Todd Haley keeps from going out of his mind.

So much for that - just scored a TD.

Enough of this rambling. Have a great day and God bless you in all you do.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today was a special day in the life of Platte Woods UMC. We celebrated our 50th anniversary. Glen Wiggs, Jerrol Boehmer and John Breon were three former pastors who joined us and shared some of their experiences at PWC. Jeff Denton organized the event and shared from the time capsule. (We'll get the letters on-line soon.) Food was great - the day was great - Makes a fellow eager for the next 50 years!
While we were celebrating we also were looking ahead. Our past is wonderful but the future belongs to God! So today was also a bit of vision casting. Check out the sermon on our website if you want to hear what I see in the next few years. Hint - some building - lots of mission and ministry and a church that clearly understands our purpose, mission and vision.
To be the church (whether PWC or any church for that matter) God is calling us to be we MUST discover the joy and power of inviting others to participate in the life of grace through worship, learning and serving. To be the church God wants us to be we must increase our own commitments to being present and bearing witness to what Christ is doing in our lives.
Back on the inviting theme. I was recently meeting with a group of people and we were talking about the book, Simple Church. The question was posed; what would be an example of something we might stop doing if it was not matching our purpose? I mentioned one of our most successful ministries - the ladies Christmas Tea. My thought is that if this becomes a "members only" event and we do not invite our friends who do not regularly worship it would lose its value. I also mentioned the Men's Faith Breakfast - we need to be sure we invite folks who do not go to church to these events with the idea they will be introduced to Jesus Christ and the life of faith.
At that point a statemnt was made. "I did not know we COULD invite outsiders." You talk about something I assume that was not communicated! Then it was explained. The information about the event encouraged everyone to "register early" and signalled that space was limited. The person knew a number of people he thought would love to come but did not feel he could invite them. Wow.
Let it be known that we are REQUIRED to invite people. If we run out of room we'll figure it out. We need to invite.
Today we had roughly 550 people eat in the new dining hall. We were pretty nervous (Jeff Denton!) about what to do with the anticipated crowd. It went very smoothly. People came through the lines in a timely manner. It was relaxed and enjoyable. God has a way.
It's been a really good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

This weekend we introduced Curtis and Terri Huffman in our worship services. Curtis has been appointed to start a new UM church in the Northland. Church planting is so much different than when I had the opportunity in 1982. We were more neighborhood oriented then. Today Curtis is charged with finding unchurched people and gathering a launch team which will then develop the church, including the site where they will worship. It is exciting to see new beginnings. We at PWUMC have the opportunity to partner with this new work. We can all look forward to getting acquainted with Curtis and Terri.

This past week I had the opportunity to attend a "Changing Church Culture" seminar in Dallas. The event was sponsored by the North Dallas Conference and the topic dealt with changing the culture in a church to become more focused on reaching the unchurched. The seminar was held at the Southwest Airlines Corporate Headquarters. About half the time was spent with a leader from Southwest and included a tour of their facility and history. It was a great opportunity to learn more about setting priorities and developing the spiritual DNA of a congregation.

When it comes to applying the principles learned it simply becomes an issue of how we go about our life together. I have the privilege of setting the tone in many ways and definitely seek your continued prayers as I offer servant leadership here.

Worship this weekend was really meaningful. Things came together very well. I was truly blessed by Michael Short singing "I Can Only Imagine." The praise team and then the choir certainly made that time of worship heart moving. Thanks Michael and everyone who brought us to the throne of grace today.

Claim the moment of God's Spirit in and around you today. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Labor Day weekend is not one of our "high holy" days but we still had good attendance and a great spirit in worship today. I always come away from church with a song in my heart. It may be a hymn, a chorus or even "Jesus is Just Alright With Me!" but our music stirs the soul. Thanks to all who make it happen.
At the 11:00 service I realized during communion that we had a family from another religious tradition. It seemed neat that I had specifically addressed different world religions and was not aware of this family. I noticed them during communion as one of our members was taking time to explain what we were doing. That is so important. After church the family was delighted to have been present with us. I look forward to following up with them.
One of the amazing things about preaching is how we end up speaking to ourselves! If you heard the closing illustration today you understand how important I believe it is to not only have Jesus know our name but to know Him as well. I pray that this week when I meet the risen Lord Jesus in some person, circumstance or place that I fully recognize the One who knows my name.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too. (I am going to need to change this before long since Charlie Gibson has announced his retirement!) But for now.....
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

If you heard the sermon today you know I was talking about what I would need to do in order to be a better golfer. It sounds like a great idea. I'd love to play golf regularly. I'd like to hit the ball straight and far. I'd love to be able to chip and putt. For this to happen a couple of things must happen.

1. Take lessons. I went over that. I would need someone to instruct me in the fundamentals. It is important to do things correctly - grip, stance, swing. Then ...
2. Practice. Hit balls - practice chipping - putting - all the different shots - get consistent.

Practice takes commitment. Time - energy - focus - expense. I doubt many were surprised when I said right now, it's not going to happen. At this point in life I am not willing to set aside the time, use the energy, place and focus and commit the expense to being a better golfer.
Many people consider the spiritual life but when it comes to needing to practice - spiritual disciplines - prayer - Bible reading - Christian conferencing - worship - they decide not to pursue it. Not now. Maybe later.

People are not against the Lord. Some will come to worship occasionally (just as I still play in the church golf tournament!). But there is a real challenge to making a commitment to the spiritual life.

It all fit together pretty well this weekend. It was funny - I got blessed preaching the sermon! The worship - baptism - commissioning a mission team to go to Greensburg, Kan., next weekend - youth sitting together in good numbers - the choirs - the praise team - special music - youth ushers - Wow. It was a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

In the parable of the Sower Jesus talks about planting seeds. Seeds get scattered in various places - a path, rocky ground, among thorns and on good soil. The results are fairly predictable. Seed that falls on the road tends to get eaten up by birds looking for food. Jesus likens this to the devil coming along and stealing the Word from people before it takes root and makes sense. Other seeds fell on stony ground - this is like the seed that sprouts up but in the heat of the day the produce withers. When the Word gets started in a person's life it will get taken down when challenges to faith arise. The seed in rocky places is like the Word sown in a life but the cares of this world choke it out. Only in good soil does seed produce. Jesus indicates we might expect as much as a 100 fold increase!

This weekend many seeds were planted just in our church alone. Here are some examples of seed planting. Greeted at the door - fellowship in Sunday School classes - a lesson for our youngest children - music - prayers - scripture read - a sermon - corporate worship - personal prayers - a smile - a handshake. You could add to the list. All these are seeds of the gospel of grace being planted week after week. We do it here and seed planting is reproduced all over the world. You will be planting seeds this week. The daily planting is essential for kingdom growth.

My question is this. How do we get to the good soil? Is it merely by chance? Is some soil predetermined to be good while other is just not going to produce? (That could be a Calvinist's interpretation but we are Wesleyan!) Should we be more selective in where (or to whom) we plant seed? Is there anything we might be able to do that would produce good soil? Are we able to create an environment in our church where the seeds being planted on a regular basis will be finding good soil - our hearts and souls?

Would you join me in praying that the seeds planted find good soil and we are privileged to witness seeds growing up and producing much fruit - many hearts touched - many lives moved - many souls saved.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Brody Smith told me I mentioned "Christ" 54 times in the sermon this morning. Too repetitive or Christ-centered? Humor me a moment and allow me to consider it Christ-centered.

• Some are exploring Christ - some are growing in Christ - some are close to Christ - some are becoming Christ-centered (that's all Willow Creek stuff but it is good).
• Some are walking away from Christ - Some stopping at the impulse of Christ - some turning to Christ - some walking to Christ - Some walking with Christ - Some walking in Christ.
• Christ calls us to follow - Christ desires our life - Christ calls us to join him.

That's 16 times in a couple of minutes - he's probably right.

Now if I can only back up my "talk" about Christ with actually living in Christ - the Christ-centered life.

This is our goal. It is a value to claim and pursue. To be Christ-centered forms a life where Jesus Christ is at the core of everything - Christ is the center of all our life. Christ is the power that holds all aspects of life together in the grace of God.

Well, I was glad to know I had something (SomeOne) to talk about today. I'm glad Brody was listening.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today we came together to worship as people in a variety of spiritual places. If we could create a "dread" scale we would have found people all along the spectrum. Many are living life oblivious to the dark cloud just over the horizon. Not really anxious, fearful or facing dread - but just moving along. (Use this season of life to strengthen your relationship with Christ - These are seasons for grace and growth - foundational.)

Others are smack in the middle of a dread experience. The hovering cloud of dread just came along and covered us. We're hanging on. We're in survival mode. Now is when we rely on the foundations of faith and grace that have been formed through the years. We find sustaining power in a season of apprehension, fear, anxiety and dread.

Others are coming out of the cloud. We are moving forward with dreams rekindled. Our trust in the goodness of God is stronger now than before.

It was that kind of day.

I'm pretty sure someone will put that video on here so you can see what dread looks like in my life! I'm not sure where it is right now.

I so appreciate everyone's part in our services. A special thanks to Cody Lawrence (he's in high school) for singing today. It takes a lot to get up and do that! Thanks.

Right now I'm getting ready to take our daughter Andrea to her birthday dinner. Cheesecake Factory - be there in a little while.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Just a minute to brag on our pastoral staff. Pastor Angie preached on Freedom from Disease today. It was encouraging, inspiring, instructive, authentic - what else could I say? People were obviously blessed.

You put her message alongside Curtis last week and Pastor Ginger preaching that great sermon on Freedom From Doubt and you see how blessed we are.

But you only see the up-front part. This staff is an absolute joy to work with. Not only are Curtis, Angie and Ginger very gifted but they each have a tremendous heart for God and serving people. What a blessing.

Today we added the element of anointing to Holy Communion. Just another way to remind us that the risen Lord Jesus Christ comes to us, touches us, encourages us, corrects us, loves us ---heals us. I know people left church today with a keen sense that they had been in the presence of God.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today Cindy and I took the day to visit another church. When I take a week off I like to worship in another place. It's good to see friends and also helpful to see what others are doing. This morning Cindy and I attended the NorthStar UMC in Liberty. This is about a 10-year-old church. They are doing some good things. We were blessed by the worship and preaching of Jim Hoffman. He had me searching for things I might be unadvisedly attached to.

It was about 10:15 when we left there, got in the car and thought about where to go next. There are a couple of great churches in the area. We thought about going to one of them and I know it would have been a joyful blessing. Then I said, "You want to go to Platte Woods?" Cindy said yes and so we came to our favorite church for the 11:00 service. And I am glad we did.

Today's service brought great joy to me. Everyone did super in putting the service together. Curtis' sermon was right on. (Made me cry!) The drama had my heart from beginning to end. The worship was great - way to go choir and Susan. Plus I got to sit by Cindy and Curtis' parents!

It is such a blessing to be part of what God is doing at PWUMC. The staff is fabulous. The leadership is second to none. You - the people of our church - are making this a place where people may come and experience the saving and perfecting grace of God in Jesus Christ.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

business card on your car?

Evidently someone chose our church to put business cards on everyone's car today. It sends you to a Web site. I decided to check it out and found some of the old ultra-conservative, anti-church stuff I ran across 30 years ago. If you have looked at the Web site I would encourage you not to be alarmed. A telling point deals with what translation of the Bible is appropriate. The source of this Web site insists only the King James Version is a legitimate translation. This is simply not true. Those who advocate this position fail (in my opinion) to recognize that the KJV, just like any other translation is just that - a translation. You better learn Biblical Greek and Hebrew if you are going to get a "purer" translation. Yes, even if you read Greek and Hebrew you must still translate the words. Suffice it to say that God is the author of His Word and (I believe) graciously gifts people to translate, expound and interpret the Word for our salvation and edification.

I don't think I'll point out anything else from the Web site. There was a time in my faith life that this sort of misinformation and warning would trouble me. But not today! We're not an apostate church - We are not sold to the world. We are a faithful expression of the Body of Christ.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

The children kept coming at the 11:00 service. I'm not sure how many of our Vacation Bible School kids came to sing at church this morning but they certainly were a great hit! Isn't it amazing how much energy and excitement children bring to worship? Today was just an extension of the joy expressed all week during a super VBS.
A couple of things hit me during church this weekend. It is fun when you start seeing things while you're preaching! Whether our obstacle to grace is financial debt (which is what we focused on this week) or something else the principles seem to be the same.
1. Ask God for help. This is what the widow asked Elisha (II Kings 4:1-7) to do. The prophet is the representative of God. When faced with a struggle, an obstacle, or a barrier - ask God for help.
2. The insight we saw today dealt with financial debt -- satisfy your obligations.
3. The next insight follows directly - live within your means.
4. The essential principle to remember is that no situation is hopeless - as long as God is involved and with us! That is good news.
Today was one of those days where you got the sense that God was with us. Now recognize God's presence in your life as you move into this new week.
I am sort of on "vacation" this week. Trying to take a few days off and recharge the spirit a bit. I'll be around and see you soon. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too. (Although I am tempted to modify the closing from Charles Gibson to Walter Cronkite.) That's the way it is July 19, 2009. Good night.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Ahh summer -- nothing quite like it. People are taking trips -- going places -- doing things. It doesn't do a great deal for church attendance but it sure is a great time. Even with many people busy here and there we had a really good day at PWUMC. Ginger preached a great sermon on Freedom From Doubt. We could all find ourselves in the story somewhere! The worship was good. God was with us. It was a good day - and we did have more folks in church than last week!

There was more. This afternoon Roy is taking a group to a leadership conference at Saddleback Church in California. Rachel Zolnowski and Bob Hummel are going with 10 of our youth to this leadership conference. I took a moment to share with the group as they were preparing to leave. This can be one of the great experiences of their lives. Saddleback Church (Rick Warren is the pastor) is one of the great churches in the history of time! These 10 young men and women will have an opportunity to gain insight and learn things that will stay with them the rest of their lives. I am praying that they bring back a new spark and we soon see the fruit of their efforts.
I told the group how neat this experience is. Most of us never had an opportunity to do anything like this when we were in youth group. The big "trip" I went on was a sub-district meeting in Nevada - 30 miles from home!

Be in prayer for our youth as they travel and experience this leadership conference this week.

And while you are praying -- here is another big one. VBS -- Vacation Bible School -- starts in the morning. Ms. Anne and so many others have been putting in long hours in preparing for this significant week in the life of our church. It is a proven statistic that the majority of people who put their trust in Jesus Christ do so in childhood. There is no more significant group in our church than our children. This week we will be putting all we have toward their spiritual development. VBS is one of the great things we do here at PWUMC. At last count I heard there are 234 children registered. We'll have a few extras and a few not make it but it is going to be a bunch of kids running around church this week! On top of the children we have many, many youth and adults who will be helping (I see Cindy working on her lessons now!). We'll give it our best. Please keep our children and VBS in your prayers - May God grant us a great week and may children know the love of Christ like never before.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

The insight from this weekend could be summed up by saying "bricks from straw." It comes from the story in Exodus where Pharaoh withholds straw (an ingredient in brick making in Egypt back in that time) and forces the Hebrew slaves into oppression. Interpreted this could mean we have certain needs, resources are diminished, and demands are increased. This is a real formula for oppression.

We see it in the Exodus story. We could see it in the American Revolution. We see it throughout history. Anytime some tyrant is in power and seeks to maintain what they have by oppressing people they are resorting to "bricks without straw." One observation is that whenever this happens rather than ensuring that the oppressed people are "kept in line" the seeds of freedom are being planted.

The whole "bricks without straw" idea may also be seen in our personal lives. There are factors that line up to press us into a mold or life that God never intended. Needs persist, resources diminish, demands increase.

The good news is that Jesus Christ is our sure source - God meets us at the point of our every need - The Lord is more than sufficient to empower us to meet the demands of the day.
That was the main point from today's sermon. I hope everyone has been able to celebrate the tremendous gift of freedom we enjoy as citizens of the United States. I trust you are being renewed and ready to step back to work, worship and service. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Let me start by saying this was a good day. The series on Young's book The Shack went very well. I sensed the Lord among us as we looked at the theme of forgiveness today. I'm glad I didn't miss it.
Which brings me to another thought. Transistor radios. I had my transistor when I was a little kid and used it to listen to the Kansa City A's baseball games. I did not miss a game (or so it seems now.) In the early 60's you didn't dare miss one of those games because they only won ever week or so and you didn't want to miss it. That transistor radio made it so I didn't miss anything.
I used my transistor radio in other ways. I listened to WHB 710 am. Phil Jay, Johnny Dolan - they were some of the deejays. They played top 40 songs. Those were the childhood days of rock 'n roll. I made up this game where I used a golf ball like a baseball in the milkbarn. It had concrete walls and floor and helped the old reflexes when I used it as a ball field. I broke every window in the place at least once. Thanks dad, for not getting mad or making me stop. I listened to WHB while I played hour after hour.
I listened to one of those A's games one night on my transistor radio, while I was hitting rocks with a plastic bat in the driveway. (It was good to live in the country - the only windows I broke were in that same milkbarn. Orlando Pena was a pitcher for the A's. One night I listened and he hit a grand slam homerun. I'm glad I didn't miss that. Especially since that may have been the hear he lost 20 games - which is pretty hard to do.
I still had a transistor radion when I went to college. Cindy got me a set of golf clubs and I took a class and started playing. In those days the golf course in Baldwin City, Ks. had sand greens. I guess it is still a sand green course. It really works better for a cross country course than a golf course but that is where I started to play. I paid $25 for an annual family membership with unlimited play. If I could get that deal at the National I'd start playing golf again! Anyway, I would play practically every day. And take my transistor radio with me so I wouldn't miss the K.C. Royals games.
The bottom line is that since I was a little kid I've not wanted to miss things that were important to me. Baseball games - whatever I could get on my transistor radio. Times have changed. Now it's an Ipod. Nobody does transistor radios anymore. But I still don't like to miss things.
Now here is the jump. I come to church week after week (I know it is pretty much expected of me but I really think I'd want to be here even if I didn't have to) because I find that God is among us. God does amazing things. And I don't want to MISS anything God is doing.
Today was a good day not to miss. It was a good day to reflect on the forgiving grace of God. I think it helped me to develop that idea of not wanting to miss anything when I was a kid - I still don't want to miss anything.
I hope you've had a good day.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

I called dad this afternoon. Happy Father's Day. I looked in the balcony at church today and saw Bobby, Andrea and Marcus. It made a happy Father's Day. I got home from church and Cindy, Bobby and Andrea had fixed lunch - hamburgers & bratwurst - homemade ice cream and blackberry cobbler (i start the diet tomorrow). I tried to watch the Royals but oh boy. Golf is much more interesting (imagine that).
Today church was alive. At least that was what I felt from where I was. The music was great. I KNOW my Redeemer Lives - thanks Susan N. Curtis made me excited praying for campers and leading us to the throne of grace. While I was preaching YOU brought me to life.
Preaching is an amazing thing. Sermon preparation starts early in the week. It continues each day. The study and work gets done. That's just part of it. I have discovered that I can write a sermon. I can deliver a message. But i can't preach unless the Holy Spirit shows up. I am learning the key to preaching is found in YOUR eyes. When there is hope, anticipation and a sense that you are really listening for a word from God - a preacher can PREACH. I don't know how you found it today, but you were alive.
My prayer is that you find in the core of your being that you truly believe that God is good, God is love and God is trustworthy. I pray that in the core of your being you truly experience the perfect goodness of God. I pray that as only God is able you face tomorrow KNOWING at the core of who you are that God is good, is love and is absolutely trustworthy.
Wow. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve

Thursday Night Worship

So what's up with having church on Thursday night? Well, since you asked...here are some of my thoughts that go into this.
1. Worship is really important. It is in worship that we have the greatest opportunity to experience the presence of God. Worship is important to our spiritual life. Worship is where transformation begins, continues and moves us forward. So worship is important to the Christian life.
2. Culture has changed and Sunday morning at 11:00 is no longer the "sacred" hour for worship. We are committed to multiple worship experiences. We realize that many people travel and have a multitude of other commitments and opportunities on the weekend. So we want to provide a time for worship that does not conflict.
3. The preacher for the weekend will preach the Thursday night service. The sermon on Thursday is the same as the one on Saturday and Sunday. It is not a "devotion" time. It is a worship service. Thursday night gets the same thing Sunday gets.
A couple of other things. We have now had two Thursday night ReNew services. 59 and 72 people have taken advantage of the service. In my opinion "50" is a number that indicates a meaningful worship experience. So we have begun in the range we need in order to provide a quality experience.
We are planning the thursday night service for 10 weeks this summer. I have no idea how the service will progress. If people take advantage of this opportunity and God blesses it we may in fact make this a regular part of our church. If it does not meet a need we are not going to push it.
I see our staff having an attitude of "whatever it takes." We are committed to offering ourselves in whatever way we need to in order to reach people with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In the future I see churches needing to have even more worship experiences to reach a changing world. This summer's Thursday night service anticipates this coming reality.
The bottom line is....if you are not going to be in town or available for worship on the weekend, come on Thursday night. Worship is an important value we hold and the expectation is that people will worship each week unless they are sick or out of town. I believe you will be blessed and your experience of Jesus Christ will be enhanced through the passionate worship we engage in at PWUMC.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

It's been a busy day. Church went very well today. A highlight was Michael Short's special music. Amazing - as was the choir and praise team. What a blessing.

We had our first Thursday night service this week and 72 in attendance. It worked for this week as most of the attendees were out of town this weekend. We think worship is really important and want to do whatever it takes to provide the needed opportunities for people to come into the presence of God. I really appreciate everyone who makes the extra effort to serve.

After church I played (I use the term loosely) in the church golf tournament. Hadn't played in a couple of years - hit some good ones (ok maybe 3 good ones!) but the team of Curtis Olsen, Robbie Robison and Steve Barth carried me pretty well.

Thanks to Nelson Hopper for all the work he and his team do in order to make this annual event such a success.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Royals

Last night (Friday) Cindy and I went to the Royals game with a group of adult leaders and students in our youth program. It was a great night - the game was all you could want - but the post-game show was memorable. They had lots of fireworks which is cool but they also celebrated 40 years of K.C. Royals baseball. I remember day 1. As a matter of fact I was in the stands for the second game in Royals history. (I'd have been at the first but had to go to school or something like that.) Anyway, I've been a Royals fan since they started.

I grew up with these guys. Paul Splittorff, Willie Wilson, Frank White, John Mayberry, Freddie Patek, and of course George Brett. There was Dan Quisenberry and Dick Howser. Hundreds of men have worn the Royal uniform through these past 40 years.

It amazes me how a baseball team is able to capture things that are really important. They recognized PASSION, COMMITMENT, TRADITION AND THE EXPERIENCE. You could make that the emphasis for a church.

Anyway, the remembrance was neat. I think about some of the men like Dan Quisenberry and Dick Howser who have passed on. I remember the "pine tar" game with George Brett and the fierce competion with the New York Yankees. The big crowd that was at the New "K" last night had a great trip with our past stars and those now wearing the Royals uniform.

Just a few thoughts on something that has brought me joy for many years.

Blog Thoughts from PWUMC Attendees to 09 Annual Conference

From Pastor Ginger Pudenz: Our 2009 Missouri Annual Conference was a great encouragement to our ministry hearts, as always. The theme this year was “Somewhere Out There,” and throughout the conference we were blessed with beautiful vignettes of personal testimony from lives that have, at one time, been somewhere out there – at a distance from God, out of personal relationship with Jesus. Hearing about that precious moment in a person’s faith walk where they truly connected with the body of Christ and walked into a church for the first time is no small thing. It first reminds us that we have all been strangers in a strange land. It reminds us that welcoming others into the relationship is such a privilege and a joy. And, it reminds us that there are preparations to be made for those folks who are still a far ways off.

At my home, when we really make a concerted effort to straighten up the house inevitably one of our sons will ask … “Are we expecting guests?” We often chuckle at that question; yet, how profound that question is! The moment someone is moved to come closer to Christ – it’s us – the children of God who get the honor of opening the door and greeting them. There are also folks somewhere out there who will need us to go to them, to provide learning and service opportunities within the body of Christ, and to be home to welcome them. Fortunately, we were also reminded of the words of Jesus who explained, “ … if I am lifted up … I will draw everyone to myself.” (from John 12:32) Our ministry is that of lifting Jesus up! Let everything we do lift Him up! I look forward to another season of ministry with you in caring for our faith family and in praying for those who will come. Join me in praying discernment for all the many ways that we will be called to those out there.
Pastor Ginger

From Lay Leader Alan Herndon: “Somewhere Out There …” was the theme of the Missouri Annual Conference this year. As your lay leader, I found it a fitting theme as we continue to be “the outwardly focused congregation.” Annual Conference started off with incredible worship and a very passionate message from Rev. Robin Miller, senior pastor of Church of the Shepherd. Her focus on Friday morning was how “somewhere out there” was a person like her who had gotten out of the habit of going to church, but through the care of Christian love of a fellow believer she remembered her youthful call, and is now blessed to lead one of our largest and fastest-growing congregations in the state.

Saturday morning continued to start the day off with a powerful message by the Mississippi Annual Conference Bishop Ward. She challenged us to focus on recounting our own personal engagement of Christian contacts with others. As leaders she pushed us to reignite the light of Christ in others, and instructed us to point our direction outward to ignite others to believe. The worship services are always the best part of Annual Conference for me. It always renews me and my focus as a church leader. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed seeing friends, students, prospective seminary students and other ministers. But sitting for 8 hours and listing to reports is not my idea of fun, but it is Annual Conference. We voted on some General Conference Constitutional Amendments that we should receive word later this year about the results. They all are important Constitutional Amendments that can affect the future of the United Methodist church.
I had the opportunity to be an usher this year. What does an usher do at Annual Conference? Thanks for asking. WE HAND OUT A LOT OF PAPER!!! We also assisted in special worship services and helped a lot of people find their spots on the floor, answered a lot of questions about the annual conference, and guided others to find coffee.

Finally, we ended the annual conference with a time of sharing from Rev. Emanuel Cleaver II. As Rev. Emanuel Cleaver II so passionately reminded us on our final day together, “ If we can fill a stadium with tens of thousands of screaming fans jumping and yelling for a football team that has a win loss record of 2 & 14, we should then celebrate God with the same enthusiasm and vigor! We should remain Christ-Centered in our daily happenings for the one who has never lost and never turn away.”

I hope as a congregation we continue to be thinking of those “Somewhere out there and what we can do as Christians to share the light of the world.”
Your Lay Leader, Alan D. Herndon

From Evelyn Evans, PWUMC Lay Member: It was really a wonderful conference this year. We heard all the teaching moments and gained knowledge from those. The different pastors that spoke were really great. The business end of the conference went very smoothly with very little debate on issues. Bishop Schnase gave a wonderful teaching moment on Monday morning. It was great. And then to have the privilege to hear Congressman/Pastor Emanuel Cleaver II was outstanding! We are truly blessed to be able to call him one of our own.

On a personal note, it is fun for me to be able to connect with pastors and laity that we have known for many, many years.
In Christ's love and service, Evelyn Evans

From Brian Evans, PWUMC Lay Member: This was my fourth Annual Conference representing Platte Woods Church, and I have to agree with Steve it was my most positive. Bishop Schnase and the team he has assembled have done a great job of re-focusing our conference to do the work we are called for. We did the usual business of an Annual Conference, but this year even that seemed to create an increased level of unity.

The theme for this year's conference was "Somewhere Out There." We experienced many examples of "somewhere out there" through great sermons, teaching times, personal testimonies, a report on our success in Mozambique, etc. "Somewhere Out There" highlighted examples of how our conference (churches) are being pro-active in reaching out to those with physical and emotional needs, but, most importantly, taking the gospel of Jesus Christ to a love-starved world. I know that pride isn't suppose to be a trait of a Christian, but I think the reference is to self-pride. Therefore, I can say, I left this year's Annual Conference prideful of how our churches (congregations) are making a difference right now.
Blessings to all, Brian Evans

From Mike Cole, PWUMC Lay Member: This was my first annual conference and I enjoyed the experience. Coming from the business world I have attended many conventions, conferences and meetings over the years so the size, format, workshops, displays, breakout sessions and actual meeting processes were familiar but the overwhelming difference was this was about God, Christ and reaching people for them. A business convention for God! And his spirit, the Holy Spirit was surrounding us everywhere.

I was very impressed with the focus and drive that the Missouri Methodist Church shows in its leadership. Bishop Robert Schnase is pushing his team and all the pastors in Missouri to focus their efforts to reach people in our communities with an outward focus. One passionate speaker said it best by reminding us that if our churches and ministries are not outward-focused then we are not doing the work Christ commanded us to. If we are not focused outward then chances are pretty good that we are focused inward and sooner or later an inward focus can lead to infighting and a subtle form of idolatry.

Think of Platte Woods Church as an emergency rescue life boat in the midst of a raging, stormy world, then think of the congregation members as folks the life boat has already picked up or is in the process of pulling on board. Now if you’re the boat captain or his staff or active passengers should you focus primarily on people already in the boat or is your rescue mission to get to those in the water and save as many as possible while you can, before it’s too late and they are lost, forever!

I felt God tugging on my heart the entire weekend in many ways and giving me direction. I pray I have the courage and sense to follow.

Thank you for allowing me to attend the conference and help in representing Platte Woods Church. It was a blessing.
Mike Cole, Lay Member

Annual Conference Day 4

We finished conference today. It was probably the most positive, inspiring, encouraging conference I have participated in. (At least that is my perspective.) Now some people would rather we enter more forcefully into debate about certain issues. We did vote on a number of constitutional amendments and the debate seemed pretty minimal to me. But we will see how all that turns out.
The day began with Bishop Schnase sharing a a teaching time with us. I have never heard him better. He issued the challenge to be invitational. A few examples were shared of ways he has allowed normal circumstances to lead to entering a conversation with someone about faith and church. (This will be our invitation for the next several months!)
Congressman Emanual Cleaver II was introduced as a new assistant to the bishop. The man gets more done on "break" than most do in a full time job! He will offer his expertise to the churches of our conferences, especially the African-American churches and pastors. His comments - it was a real sermon - was tremendously inspiring. He inspired me to "life up Jesus!" We often need these reminders to get back to the basics of life in Christ and what our faith is really about.
All the appointments were "fixed." Your pastoral staff - Curtis, Angie, Ginger and myself are re-appointed for the ensuing year. Personally I am extremely grateful to be privileged to serve as senior pastor of Platte Woods UMC.
Good to be home. Now back to work putting to practice the insights gained.
Our lay members - Brian and Evelyn Evans, Mike Cole, and Alan Herndon will be putting some thoughts together and they will be posted on my blog. (I think) Look for that in the next few days.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve

Annual Conference - Day 3

The memorial service held this morning was meaningful to me. Rev. Jim Bryan from Missouri UMC in Columbia did a great job with the sermon. At this service the names of those clergy and clergy spouses who have died in the last year are read and honored. We are invited to stand when the names are read of people who have touched our lives. I'm sure it is a sign of my "experience" but I found myself having been impacted by over half the men and women who we honored today. It was a meaningful service.

In the afternoon we did our business. The main issue dealt with constitutional amendments. We talked a little but there was not a huge amount of debate (interest?). We will not know the results until all annual conferences have sumbitted their results.

We were running ahead of schedule and the bishop led us through the budget process. We approved our conference budget with an increase of around 3%. The increase is primarily due to increased health insurance costs (18%) and another item or so that we do not control (general church issues).

We are ahead of schedule and hopefully will complete our work tomorrow in a timely fashion and be home before evening. (I will probably stop in Appleton City and say hi to mom and dad - and that may lead to something to eat - so who knows?)

The evening events begin shortly. Heading to the Springfield Cardinals baseball game! It is actually a conference event!

Annual Conference - day 2 - Saturday

We started early. Bishop Hope Morgan Ward preached and did a great job. She serves the Mississippi Area. (In her sermon she mentioned Fanny Lou Hamer and an experience in Indianola, Ms. I once preached in the church there!) Little things that strike a chord.

The business that is done early in conference is basically done to get things ready for action that comes later. For instance we "present" the budget to get it in front of the conference but will not approve or amend it until Monday.

Before lunch we had the Retirement (I believe 29 retired) and Commissioning Service (16 commissioned if I remember correctly). A personal observation - I have a story about practically all those who retired. I've served with them. I've know many since I started out over 30 years ago. I was district superintendent for a couple of them -- gave one his first appointment. And I also have begun working with those who were commissioned. It was a good and meaningful time for many.

The afternoon was spent in workshops. I went to rehearsal for the ordination service. Following a Board of Ordained Ministry dinner where we recognize those to be ordained we headed to the site of the service. As always it was a very meaningful and moving service. Bishop Schnase ordained three deacons and nine elders.

Among those ordained was Chris Snyder, our former associate. Good to see the family!

At the ordaination dinner I found myself seated by the bishop from Mozambique. I mentioned to her that we had a team from the church I serve in Mozambique right now. She asked if "Chris" was there. I discovered new fame for Chris Sams. Later I was reminded that the offering taken at the ordination service was for the orphanage our team has gone to visit and that we are seeking to complete.

All in all it was a good day. A bit tiring. Enough challenges to keep us paying attention. Enough joy to encourage us.

Annual Conference

Yesterday we began Annual Conference. Rev. Robyn Miller and the praise team from Church of the Shepherd in St. Charles led in worship and it was a great time. Church of the Shepherd is similiar in size to us at Platte Woods UMC. Really encouraging time.

We began conducting some business but it is mainly preliminary reports that will be acted on later in the conference.

In my role as chair of the Board of Ordained Ministry I led a lunch for people who are taking a first step at this conference. We call it "commissioning." I shared some things with them about their continuing in the process and helped give them a gift from the conference.

From there we went into the "clergy session" where the pastors do some specific business. Actually this is a time led by the Board of Ordained Ministry so I introduced people who do all the work! (The bishop did ask at the end if there was anything I'd like to say and I said, "nope.")
Following that meeting (the laity had their own gathering at the same time) the whole conference came together. Once again I had a report to make and did so in a timely fashion. We introduced all the people who will be ordained or commissioned.

A little more business and then the bishop spoke and did a great job. He was followed by Bob Farr who leads our "congregational excellence" office. He always brings great energy and enthusiasm to the work of the church.

One part of his report included the new church that will begin in the Northland (somewhere along the 152 corridor.) We (Platte Woods UMC) are the "mother church." This means we offer encouragement and help the new pastor (Curtis Hoffman) along the way of developing a new faith community.

In the evening we had a "Mozambique Mingle." Food - conversation - a number of booths communicating the mission in Mozambique. The bishop from Mozambique spoke. Good gathering. We (Missiouri Methodists) are doing some pretty amazing things in this very poor country. (Be sure to pray for our team from the church that just left for two weeks there!)

It was a good first day of conference - a bit tiring - but inspiring.

You are being represented by myself, Curtis and Angie, Ginger, Alan Herndon, Brian and Evelyn Evans, and Mike Cole.

Today (Saturday) we start at 8:00.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today we talked about the Day of Pentecost. Some reflections -- An ancient festival was given present relevance when the Holy Spirit was poured out upon all people.
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is a bridge from the ancient practices of faith and the future realization of God's perfect will. By God's grace we may live in the present reality of the Spirit filled life.
If we are to follow the example of the early church (and we should) we will find that the Holy Spirit is to be experienced - the Holy Spirit is relational (relating us to Christ and one another) - the Holy Spirit transforms lives.
Of particular note is the way the Holy Spirit enabled the Christ followers to declare the praises of God in culturally relevant ways. All those people from various parts of the empire heard their proclamation in their own languages.
The Holy Spirit is given for all people - not just a specific few for particular tasks - all people - young and old - men and women - for living the Christian life day by day.
A contemporary church that is filled with the Spirit will be empowered to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in culturally relevant ways.
It was a good day. It's always a good day when we get to share in the sacrament of baptism. (We baptized 2 - only 2998 short of the Day of Pentecost!) More to come.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today I read of 16 people being injured at a Sikh temple in Austria. This was followed by more violence among castes in India at their place of worship. Then I read about a religious leader in Iran who leans on a rifle while he preaches. I am certainly glad to be where I am. It seems so strange that violence is such a part of religion in so many places in our world.

We have other things to wrestle with. We don't have such violent disagreements over worship practices or beliefs that we have to come to church armed. We struggle with more subtle things.
We have many distractions that keep us from making the full impact we could. We are free - we are able to travel freely - we have many opportunities to do many things - we run the risk of allowing many good things to crowd out the best thing - our relationship with the Lord - our service to the Lord - our worship of the Lord.

We find ourselves being pulled in so many directions it is hard to keep track of where we need to be next. Life is full of joy and opportunity. Then we look around and discover that we seem to have allowed our zeal for Christ to grow cool.

We did not come to church armed today. I am thankful! As a matter of fact we had a really good day. The baptism at 11:00 was a blessing. At 9:30 Rachel Riddel sang "Anything But Ordinary." We were blessed.

There is so much to celebrate. So much to be thankful for. On this Memorial weekend we pause to remember those who have gone before us - especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and defense of freedom.

We gathered and worshipped. We sang the songs of faith. We prayed. We heard the Word read and proclaimed. Things were much different here than they were in Austria, India and Iran. We are blessed. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

The Shack

In a month I begin a three-week sermon series on the book, "The Shack." Sermon 1 will be "The Wound and the Lie", sermon 2 "The Road to Redemption" and sermon 3 "The Way of Forgiveness." If you have read the book I would love to have you send me any questions you would like addressed in the series. I can't promise to get everything but your input will help. I begin working on these sermons tomorrow so go ahead and let me know what you have on your mind. If you have not read "The Shack" I invite you to do so before the series begins.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

I'm still pretty jazzed over the "Change Without Compromise" conference I attended this week. Brad Powell has led Northridge Church through a period of transition that has produced a truly kingdom building place. There was a lot of information but what really stands out is how we experienced the presence of God in a conference setting. There were signs of changed lives everywhere you turned. The key to this church's (now the 15th largest in America) growth may be attributed to people experiencing the transforming grace of Jesus Christ and transitioning the church to the dynamic Christ-centered place it is today.

Early on they identified some principles that anyone would be wise to consider. They identified ...

• Commitment to Tradition over Truth;
• Commitment to the Past instead of the Present;
• Commitment to Defense over Offense;
• Commitment to Duty over Desire;
• Commitment to Place over People;
• Commitment to Structure over Mission; and
• Commitment to Talk over Power.

Then they set out to correct these things. - and obviously have done so. We could obviously think through each of these (and probably will in coming sermons!).

We also heard about developing a plan for transitioning a church. They begin by laying a foundation that is descriptive of what your church is. Your "Vision" defines you; Your "Purpose" directs you; Your "Values" drive you. These are all principles that come from God as revealed in Scripture. The other important principle is "Strategy" which designs how you operate.

I invite you to think about these. I'm sure the concepts will show up in the days ahead.

The powerful part of the event rests in having an opportunity to find myself fully in God's presence. I guarantee you this is a vital part of what has literally transformed Northridge Church. When one person and then another and another and another experience the transforming power of God it spreads through the church. This creates the kind of momentum in a church that brings more people with a sense of expectancy. There is a sense that God is here and He may well step directly into my life today!

I pray to be able to share this spirit with you. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Today at church --

The worship services at each service this weekend were top rate.

It is always a joy to recognize Mothers' Day.

We baptized two adults and an infant - that was a joy!

The choirs and praise team led us in worship.

Something that was really neat was the dedication of the prayer shawls. Pastor Ginger has been meeting with a group of women and they have been making prayer shawls. We prayed that God would use these to bring grace to those who receive them. It is yet another way to extend the ministry of the church into the lives of others.

To top off the day we went out and dedicated the new flag mall. This project began a few years ago when a memorial contribution was made in honor of Bob Salisbury. He gave many years to scouting and Troop 314. The idea was to put up a flag pole. The concept grew and eventually became an Eagle project for one of our members of the troop. Today we dedicated the results. Three flags will fly -- the American flag, the United Methodist flag (we can also use the Christian flag) and another to be rotated. Today we raised the flag of Mozambique. We have a mission relationship with Mozambique. Our sister church there is Chibo. We fly their flag as a symbol of our outreach. This flag will be changed from time to time to represent other countries where we have mission outreach. We will also fly the troop flag from time to time.

It was a blessing to have Elizabeth Salisbury and members of her family present for the ceremony.

Today was a reminder of how we gather as the people of God and continually extend our witness beyond the walls of the church into the community and world.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

This has been some weekend. Pastor Angie gave great leadership to the Creation Care event Saturday. We are blessed to have people call our attention to these significant environmental issues.

The youth were on retreat this weekend. I know they had a meaningful time at Wilderness.
Our worship services were alive and joy filled. If you missed Walter doing his rendition of "I've Been Everywhere" you missed a treat. Good to know God is everywhere!

This afternoon the children's arts festival kept the spirit going. Bells, children's choirs and "Splash Kingdom!" was fun.

Sometimes things just come together and God shows up. Music, worship, baptisms, new members and communion -- it all adds up to finding ourselves in the presence of God.
In addition that YouTube video from Central Station Antwerp drew us into God's place of joyful celebration.

My prayer and hope for you is that the coming week be filled with places of joyful celebration.

It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

worship this weekend

Just a note of encouragement as we approach our weekend worship services. With the many issues surrounding the swine flu we want to do what we can to alleviate anxiety. We also want to continue our worship practices and sense of fellowship. With this in mind we will ...
-- have our greeting time but invite people to greet without a handshake. I am sure there are many appropriate ways to greet one another and especially our guests.
-- We will share in Holy Communion this weekend. I've looked at our General Board of Discipleship Web site and feel we will serve the sacrament in a very responsible manner. We will continue the practice of "intinction." Our servers will handle the bread and give you a large enough piece that you may dip the tip in the cup. Health officials believe our practice of holy communion does not place anyone at an extra risk.
-- I will shake your hand at the door if you desire but will certainly honor your desires to communicate verbally or in a manner of your choosing. (That hand sanitizer stuff is pretty good.)
-- We will provide a handout when you leave worship this weekend with some thoughts on dealing with this swine flu issue.

I trust you will want to be sure and be in worship this weekend. We all have the opportunity to find ourselves in the presence of God - our healer and sustainer.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

It's been some weekend. I had the opportunity to serve as spiritual director for the women's Emmaus Weekend number 31. I could name the weekend "51 Women and Me!" but that sounds way too much like a country western song. I'll just leave it at saying Joann Hummel and her team provided an opportunity for a number of people to experience the grace of God in a new and fresh way.

It is probably not the smartest thing in the world to try and do but I was also the preacher for the weekend at PWUMC. And we had a really good weekend as well. For me the highlight was the Confirmation service at the 9:30 service. I had the privilege of baptizing 4 young people and confirming 17 in the "faith and fellowship of true disciples of Jesus Christ." There is nothing that brings me more joy. My thanks to Roy and everyone who worked with our confirmation class this year.

On Friday night I slipped off from Emmaus and went to the Confirmation lock-in. I shared with the group and talked about them listening for a call from God to enter a life of ministry. Some personally sensed that God might have this in mind and then others were identified or confirmed by their peers. Six people are the focus of our prayers that God's will be done. We have 6 young people who are listening for the call of God to enter ministry!

I hope you get a sense of why this has been a really good weekend. Person after person has been touched by the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is more real for a number of folks this day. This is what I live for. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

It strikes me that the early disciples were not sure what to do after the resurrection. The same could be said for the church today. We do wonderfully well at recognizing and celebrating the resurrection on Easter but don't know what to do next. Where do you go from the central event of the Christian faith?

The early disciples went into locked rooms and tried to overcome their fear by hanging together.
They eventually decided to go on a fishing trip (John 21).

They kept questioning their own experience.

We continue to wonder what to do in the aftermath of the resurrection.

Eventually something happened. The disciples moved into mission and witness. The key to this was the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came upon them and into their lives. After that they knew what to do as resurrection people.

I encourage you to continue your faithfulness in these days following the celebration of Easter and prepare for your own Pentecost.

Today we continued to think about Jesus' Social Network. (This Facebook thing gets more interesting.) Next week we will look at "being friends of God." We will also confirm this year's class.

On another note, we were able to host the Emmaus weekend these last few days and will host the women's walk next weekend. It's been a very meaningful day for many. It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

What's in a number?

1886. Do you have any idea what happened in the world in 1886? An Englishman (you'll have to look up his name yourself) invented the flush toilet. The first "Avon" ladies started working in the US. Coca-Cola was first advertised and went on sale. (It claimed to be a cure for headaches and dyspepsia.) The tuxedo got its name when tobacco heir Griswold Lorilland wore a short black dinner jacket with satin lapels to the Tuxedo Club in New York, NY. (You realize I googled 1886 to find this information. Not common knowledge for me.)

Emily Dickinson died in 1886.

Among those born in 1886 were Ty Cobb (baseball player), Ed Wynn (comedian) and Karl Barth (theologian.)

There were many other events, births and deaths in 1886. So like any year it has some significant things happening that no one would have known at the time.

Why 1886? That is how many people we counted in worship on Easter. 1886. Who knows the stories that will be written in the lives of those 1886 people? Some will have significant spiritual experiences. Some will become leaders in the church. Some will never show up again. But among the many God is at work. Just another reminder of God at work among us.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

He is risen! He is risen indeed! We had a great Easter celebration. I really want to commend the youth for a super Sunrise service. How 'bout that Quin Pudenz who preached! Actually it reminded me of the first time I preached. (Nearly got sick!) Good job man. Hope it becomes a habit. In addition the drama the youth shared was very moving. If you weren't there, ask somebody about it. Blessings on all who helped make this service possible.

All in all it was one of those days where God showed up. The music, the fellowship and everything that happened made us aware of the presence of God.

Just a reminder about the "Facebook" series. Think about what Jesus' profile would look like. How would you fill in the blanks? What do you think Jesus' interests are? What about what he is doing now? Who are his friends? I would encourage you to get familiar with the profile page on Facebook and imagine how you would fill it in. It won't determine what Jesus is actually like but will give you fresh insight into how you think of Jesus.

This is an amazing place. We have had a wonderful Easter celebration. I hope you get enthused about what exciting things God has in store for us in the days ahead. It's been a really good day. I hope you've had a good day too.

Reflections From Sunday Evening

Well there is one more college basketball game to follow. Tomorrow night is the national championship game between North Carolina and Michigan State. Did anyone know that Tyler Hansbrough's aunt attends church here at Platte Woods Church?

Anyway, here is something else that goes with basketball. M.U. coach Mike Anderson was awarded the Clair Bee Coach of the Year award. There are a number of these kind of awards given out each year. K.U. coach Bill Self won a Coach of the Year award (actually a bit more recognized than the Clair Bee award).

The thing I like about Coach Anderson's award is the person it is named for. Clair Bee was a college basketball coach at Long Island University from 1931-1951. During that time he had two undefeated seasons. His teams won two NIT championships (when that was THE big tournament) during his tenure.

In addition to being a successful coach he was also an author. He wrote technical books on basketball. But I remember his Chip Hilton series. These were inspirational sports books. They were books I read when I was a kid.

Chip Hilton was the star in football, basketball and baseball depending on what season it was. He always brought out the best from his "sidekicks" and others on the team. He was a leader. The teams usually went from some sort of struggle during the year to a championship. Any little boy who read Chip Hilton books would certainly dream of being that kind of teammate and leader who was always in the middle of a championship season.

Now here is the jump! We are in the midst of a Christian championship season. We begin Holy Week. There are ups and downs. There is a plot to the season. There is a supper. A struggle. A betrayal. A defeat. A crucifixion. But there is more. The season turns! Easter arrives. Resurrection prevails. A victory won!

I hope you will be part of all this week offers. Walk with us through the struggle. Take in what it means for Christ to die for you. Join us for joyful celebration next Sunday!

This has been a good day. I hope you had a good day too.
steve

Oh, I about let it get past me. Last week you committed a little over $720,000 for our kitchen/dining hall project. This is certainly enough for us to proceed! Plans will be developed and bids let in about 3 weeks. If you have any questions about this project (or anything else at church) please do not hesitate to get in touch with me. Just another sign of a "championship season."