Driving to church this morning was a precursor of what was to come. It had rained most of the night and was still raining, creating dangerous puddles of water on the roads and making the trip slower than normal. Yet Monieca and I enjoyed the 15 minute drive, worshiping as we listened to a Moriah Peters CD.
Yes, the rain affected attendance but not nearly as much as I had expected. I spoke with several first time guests, two families joined FBC, and two girls made professions of faith. That alone made it a good day. Then Jamie Burdette shared a brief report about Saturday’s Servolution – more than 130 members served at 14 locations around our city showing Jesus’ love to people in practical ways.
We continued our “Future Family” teaching series, looking at qualities that build family relationships: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, bearing with one another, forgiveness, and love (Colossians 3:12-14). You can watch or listen to today’s message, as well the previous messages in this series, on the First Baptist web site.
During our ride to church Monieca and I discussed how easy it is for people to use rain as an excuse to stay home on Sundays. We talked about how those same people would never miss work because it was raining. That’s why I was so encouraged today. Many more people who normally attend FBC said “yes” to worship than said “yes” to the temptation to stay in bed listening to the rain. While heavy rain can be a challenge for some who are elderly and for single moms with really young children, for most of it’s just an inconvenience. This morning God’s people were faithful and this Pastor was blessed. It really was a good day and I’m grateful for our FBC Family of Faith.
Pastor Steve Hogg
Stephanie Neel says
This morning as I was praying about not coming to church because I had to carry a ten pound cello, my music bag and bible that is another ten pounds (none of which can get wet). God said, “Do you love me enough to be uncomfortable?” I said I did. He said, “Well, roll up your pants and put your rubber shoes on because you’re going to receive a blessing.” It was scarey driving and then the parking lot at 8am had water up to my ankles. But, true to His word this morning I felt so blessed by Pastor Hogg’s sermon and an extra blessing by attending Sunday School today for Tim Ivey’s first Sunday School lesson at FBC. It was a great day and the sun was shining after Sunday School.
Jan Futrelle says
I like the two beautiful testimonies about following God, being faithful in the storm and not giving in to temptation. Had I not had two important responsibilities yesterday, I very well might have been one who stayed home. The rain had stopped when I left my house, I am thankful for that, and I am thankful I made it safely through some “large” puddles, and the sun was shining beautifully when we got out of church. “Our God is an awesome God, and worthy of our praise and worship.”