Without a doubt there is no greater joy than the joy of being set free.  Set free form bondage.  Liberated from the clutches of a tyrannical force.  But don’t take my word for it.  Ask anyone who has been freed from a P.O.W camp or one who has been held captive behind the iron curtain or been the slave of alcohol or drugs.   Ask any poor soul who has been a victim of endless demonic oppression who...  Read More

It is a fairly common experience.  When inviting someone to church or talking about the Christian faith people will respond with, “I’m not interested in attending anyone’s church they’re all filled with hypocrites.”  I must admit I do not feel the need to argue with them on that point.  More often than not I feel the need to say a hearty, “Amen!”  I’m too aware of my own sin and shortcomings to tr...  Read More

I want to take just a second to welcome Russell to the church staff.  I’m looking forward to working with Russell and I’m excited about his vision for the music ministry of our church.  I appreciate his understanding of worship, the role of music within the worship of the church and his commitment and desire to equip and engage the whole congregation.  A desire and commitment to use the choir, and...  Read More

What are we to do when we disagree?  How are we to handle problems that arise within the church?  Is every issue the same?  Is there “a” way to approach every situation?  What is “the” governing issue?  Is it truth?  Is it love?  Is it the integrity or wholeness of the gospel or is it fellowship and harmony among the members?  These are not merely rhetorical questions.  I don’t know if you are awa...  Read More

It’s true.  The older you get the faster life moves.  I blinked and it is September!  Of course, kids are back in school, sports programs are kicking off, a new church year is looming.  Busy times.As we look at a new year, we have a couple of pressing needs.  One, we have need of someone to coordinate our funeral dinners.  This person will be responsible of overseeing the work of the benevolence c...  Read More

Have you ever been so discouraged you just wanted to give up?  Ever been so depressed that you just felt like you wanted to die?  Ever found yourself in an unbearable situation in which you saw no way out and you just didn’t care anymore?  Has life ever dumped on you?  Have you ever had your worst nightmare become your reality?  When that happens life becomes overwhelming, even for those who are t...  Read More