Reflections From Sunday Evening

We held a tornado drill at the end of the 9:30 service today. It went well. We learned some things to be sure to take care of should we ever be in a situation where a severe storm comes during worship.

We did the "live" drill on Wednesday and took great care of our PDO children.

We have amazing people on our church staff and we have amazing volunteers who do so much to care for our congregation. We are in good hands.

Today we invited people to make a special offering for the people of Joplin. I look forward to seeing and reporting on your generosity. I guarantee your gifts will make a significance difference in many lives.

Cindy and I spent eight years serving First UMC in Joplin. We have many people who we feel close to in that community. It has been difficult learning that many of them have lost their homes. Some have suffered the loss of family members. It is a horrible situation.
But in horrible situations people rise up in many ways.

Barry Sanborn, the youth director at First Joplin, is giving some great leadership. They are postponing their youth mission trip to Puerto Rico and contributing $25,000 to the relief effort in their community.

Pastor Aaron Brown who serves St. Paul's UMC - a church destroyed in the storm - spoke at the memorial service today. I know Aaron brought hope and comfort to his community.

There are stories after stories that may bear witness to God's presence among the people. Our daughter, Andrea, is in Joplin this weekend. She and a very good friend spent time this morning writing the speech for President Obama! They were providing stories from interviews held during the week for his remarks.

This was a week that changed the lives of many people. The community has years of rebuilding ahead. We will seek ways to help in any way we can.

This afternoon I am grateful. I am grateful for a great God who is active and redemptive even in the midst of tragedy.

I am grateful for people who rise up to give and serve.

I am grateful for the Church.

I am grateful to be your pastor.

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