Sunday is Mother’s Day. That was always a special day around our house when I was growing up. Dad would always go out in the yard a cut rose buds for us three boys to wear to church on that Sunday. Mom always got a fancy corsage and was treated like a queen on that day. Why we would even let her rest for a few minutes after dinner before she did the dishes, cleaned the kitchen, manage a load of laundry and got supper together before we headed back to church that evening. Oh I know that was really spoiling her…but she deserved it! Mom went home 8 years ago this summer and I still haven’t adjusted. I only wish I had known how blessed I was with the mother I had. It was the only life I had ever known. I thought every boy went home to find a mom with a snack ready and a desire to know what went on at school that day. I thought every mom was convinced that their child was the best and brightest. And didn’t every mom sacrifice for her children and determine to move heaven and earth for their benefit?
It was only later I learned just how blest I was. When God created mothers I think He had her in mind. My mom was a kind, loving and gracious soul who passionately loved and was devoted to her children. While not perfect and having her faults I would not trade my mom for anyone. In my book she stands unrivaled except by one woman…the mother of my children.
Rheadon is an extraordinary woman who has brought grace and dignity to our home. Without question she is the heart and soul of our family. She is the most caring person I’ve ever known. Her acts of kindness and compassion are beyond measure. She has for 28 years made our house a home. She is a marvelous mother and has been preparing, for years now, to be a grandmother. For years she has been buying baby clothes, toys and books, “These are for the grandkids room.” “What grandkids?” “In time.” She is special. I’m thinking about letting her put her feet up for a few minutes Sunday afternoon. It might be nice. I’ll see you Sunday.
I’m not fond of doctors. I don’t like that appointment every four months. He keeps harping on the same things! I keep trying to get my doctor to look on the positive side of things. For instance – I keep telling him, “Round is a shape. I’m in ‘shape’ just not the one you’re looking for.” He doesn’t buy it. But then that is his job – to make we look at what I don’t want to look at. I’ve been thinking a lot last night and this morning about our church. I find myself this morning with mixed emotions.
There is much that I’m happy about and grateful for. I’m grateful to be part of such a loving church family. I’m thankful that we are a praying people. I am amazed at your generosity and your willingness to help others. I’m thankful that our church is known throughout our community for its involvement in community activities and projects. I love the fact that the building is slow emptying on Sunday after services. People linger, visit and laugh together. There is so much I’m grateful to God for and yet there is another side.
I’m concerned about a lack of aggressive evangelism and outreach. I’m concerned that there are areas of service unfilled. We have critical needs in our nursery during Sunday School and on Wednesday evening. If not corrected we’ll no longer be able to have nursery during Sunday School or on Wednesdays. What will that say to families – both those visiting and those who are members? We have a critical need for teachers in the children and preschool. I was looking over reports this morning of our Sunday School over the last 5 years. Did you know the highest percentage of attendance for a single month over the last 5 years is 12% of the total enrollment?
I guess what I’ve noticed is that it is a mixed bag when thinking about church. There is good and there is bad; things that are great and things that are not so great. We have some things worth celebrating. And we’ve got some things over which to repent. Now the question is how should I/we respond? First and foremost we must pray. We pray that the Lord of the Harvest will supply workers. We must fill the needs in nursery, preschool and children. That is an immediate need that cannot wait. And we must pray about long-term goals and structure. Taking an honest look at where we are and where we need to be. That will not be easy and may be painful but it is necessary for our health as a church.
I just wanted to share this with you because it was on my heart this morning. I’ll see you Sunday.
Sunday evening, June 15, is going to be a wonderful night of praise and worship. Our own “Celebration Singers” along with guest singers from First Baptist Church Tulsa, and a number of guest soloist will be performing Saviour. Saviour traces the Son of God from creation, through the fall to His coming to redeem a people for God’s glory. It is a wonderful piece of music telling a glorious story. Joining our excellent choir will be soloists Mike Davis (son of Jim), Jeff Elkins (minister of music FBC Tulsa), Robert Winn (from Santa Fe, New Mexico), Sue Wilson and our own Todd Cochran. It is going to be a wonderful evening. Bring family and friends and enjoy a night of praise.
Also on June 15 we will be observing Parent Dedication during the morning service. If you’ve had a child since our last dedication and you would like to participate please call the church office and talk to Katrenia. Oh, and that day also happens to be Father’s Day.
I hope to see you and your family in Bible Study and worship this coming Lord’s Day.
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58, ESV)
