Hearing all about the Joplin tornado damage, injuries and death that took place over the weekend, gives cause for one to count their blessings. Viewing the television coverage of this horrendous storm would not have the same effect on one as actually being a victim of it or witnessing firsthand the unbelievable destruction that tornado caused. While watching and listening to the T.V. news of an actual video that someone took while in hiding from the storm, I heard voices crying out the name of Jesus. It sounded to me as if they were praying. I know that’s what I would be doing. I understand that all in that group came through the storm physically unharmed. It is not God’s wish that any of his children fall into harms way, but it is His desire that we trust him to bring us through it all.
The Red Bank Sunday church service began with Gary Lirley leading the congregation in hymns. Jerry Huff provided a hearty greeting to members and visitors. Celebrating a birthday with a mission offering was Jerry Maggard. Special music was presented by Eloise Hallmark.
Brother Les based the morning sermon on building our lives on solid ground and not on the sifting sands. The Scripture text he used was taken from Matthew 7:24 where Jesus spoke these words, “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: In other words, build our lives on what Jesus taught and not on what we might hear from the mouths of men.
Willene Adams and Maxine Lirley accompanied Jeane and Jerry Huff to church this week. It was wonderful that they were both feeling able to worship with us this Sunday.
It was nice to have Bob Jackson and his family come to worship with us at Red Bank. We invite them back any time.
Visiting with Maxine Lirley one day last week was Gary Lirley and Jeane Huff.
Gary and I took a day off and went shopping in Ozark last week. We were mostly looking for some flowers to decorate the graves of our loved ones this coming Memorial Day. I found quite a few groups of flowers that I liked in Ava, but I had to look else where to find some pink ones that I could use. Gary was very patient with me and took me several places to look for the particular flowers that I needed. Of course, he rewarded himself with a Windy’s Chocolate Frosty, which he loves, but doesn’t get very often.
Don’t forget that the Fifth Sunday Singing will be held at the Dogwood Nazarene Church on Sunday, May 29. These services usually begin at 6:00 P.M. Everybody brings a covered dish for a fellowship held after the singing.
Take care and stay safe during this tornado season. Remember to pray for the ones suffering from the storm and for those that are volunteering their help. To quote Franklin Graham, “Prayer is not a weakness but a strength. Its benefits are patience, insight, endurance, and the power to cope with anything.”
