President's Day Post

Some thoughts as the week starts:

• Worship on Sunday was intense. It seemed like there were lots of new faces even when numbers were down on a holiday weekend. I loved the fact that first service had more people than second service, the first time that's happened in a long time! The 'different' kind of sermon seemed to land on folks, and I'm excited to see the feedback. Yes, there was tension, but it was good tension.
  
• The two best moments of the message each service: when I said, "I think it's a travesty for Christians to stand in the shadow of a blood stained cross and argue over 10%," you could hear the Spirit land on folks. And when I asked people to put a third box on the card and write, "I will rob God," the nervous laughter in first service and the deathly silence in second were evidence that folks were listening. God is challenging us, and I'm glad; it's always the beginning of good stuff when He does!
  
• We had 60 responses to the Tithing Challenge! There were a few who made up their own box to check, but for the most part, people were willing to say they are stepping up to the plate on this. I can't wait to see what God does in the lives of His people when they take Him at His Word! For the rest of you, it's not too late! Wrestle this to the ground and test God, He's told you to!
  
• I was once again reminded that we need to get better at communication. It's a struggle right now to get the right info to the right people at the right time. Pray for us as a church family to continue to get better in this area. Thanks for reading this blog, and pray for us to have the resources we need to use this and other tools more effectively.
  
• The video going out to the Connection Groups. One tool we're experimenting with is the occasional video announcement to the Connection Groups, so I was glad to see leaders getting the newest one for their group. Make sure you get a look at it this week, then visit the website, it's up and running now. (If you don't know what website I'm talking about, get to a C-group!)
• Can't wait to get started on this next series! There are so many folks in our valley that struggle with the fallout of difficult emotions, and taking a look at what God's Word says about handling anger, bitterness, envy and pride is going to make a difference in the lives of people. Bring a friend with you and come to the Toxic Emotions series the next four weeks. It will change lives, and it has the potential to save a life. Don't miss this!

Keep praying for your church family, God is up to something big!