Greetings on this beautiful rainy morning. The rain is softly coming down as I write. The sun may pop out later this afternoon.
Sunday was a beautiful day for worshipping the Lord. Brother Jake and Brother Jerry were on hand to begin the service with hymns and a warm welcome to all. Eloise and Brother Les sang a duet together for special music. Brother Les delivered to us God’s word using scripture from Exodus 14:10, Isaiah 41:10, Psalms 56:3 and Philippians 3. The theme of the message was, “Trust In The Lord In All Situations For He Will Prepare A Way For Us.” Sometimes, like the children of Israel, when they were chased by the Egyptian Army to the Red Sea without a way of escape, we can be backed into a corner and seemingly have no way out. But there is always hope when we call out to God for help. In Exodus 14:14, Moses told the frightened Israelite people to hold their peace because the Lord would fight for them. And, as we read on in this scripture, we find that the Lord parted the sea with a mighty wind so they could cross over on dry land to safety. The total Egyptian Army was drowned as they tried to follow across. God can always solve our problems even after we have exhausted all our efforts. I often remember David’s word in Psalm 56:3, “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.” David had a lot to be afraid of at that time in his life. King Saul was determined to have him killed. In Isaiah 41:10 God sent word to His people saying, “Fear not, For I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Wow! How comforting is that folks? Brother Les reminded us, as Paul did to the saints in Philippi, to beware of false prophets or anyone who would try to lead one away from God’s word and His way. “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilations!” (Philippians 3:2) In verse 18 and 19 of this chapter they are described as enemies of the cross of Christ; “whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame – who set their mind on earthly things.” In verse 20 and 21 Paul goes on to say, “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.”
Sunday evening was “Praise Night.” Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the special music presented. They also enjoyed the food and fellowship that followed the service.
Do you remember when I talked about my battle with keeping the green tomato worms off my tomatoes? Well, I had someone tell me that they had so many tomato worms that they decided to see what they tasted like rolled in batter and deep-fried. When asked if the fried worms tasted like fried green tomatoes they replied, ”Yeah, but a little chewier.” This really happened. I don’t know about you, but I’m not going to try that. I don’t think they will again either.
Visiting with Maxine Lirley one day last week was Gary and Alice Lirley. Alice had taken Maxine a few ripe peaches a week ago, and she commented on how much she enjoyed them.
I spoke to Pam Shell on the phone this week. She has been busy painting walls. That’s always a lot of work, but it gives one a great feeling of accomplishment, once it’s all finished.
I asked Eloise about the music concert that she and her two daughters attended weekend before last. She said that it was held at a large church camp just outside the Kansas City area. Several music groups were featured. Most of the music performed was contemporary along with some light gospel rock. Skillet, one of Miranda’s favorite groups, was there to perform. That made her happy. They were blessed to be able to stay in one of the campground cabins, which made it easier for them to attend any of the concerts they wished. All in all, it sounded like a great weekend.
I got a report that there were 51 family members that attended the Metcalf Reunion on Labor Day weekend.
Well, that’s all the news for now. Take care and have a great week. “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).
