Today

Our services today were really cool. Tim sang the song "Cinderella" ( Steven Curtis Chapman). We had pictures of dads and daughters on the screen, along with three dads and daughters dancing at the appropriate time. Steve Oliver and his sweet little girl, Sydney, Wayne Hill and his graduating daughter Gloria, and then Gary Jones and his married daughter Lacey, added just the right touch for the song.

This is an example of how we can use media, and music to really bring home a point for the sermon. These things are not the sermons themselves, but they engage people emotionally. And I believe that at those points, many of the barriers that people bring to church are broken down.

The point is that we want to prepare people to listen to God's Word. Tim and his creative team do a great job of coming up with things... and then working them out so that they are presented with quality and clarity.

Considering some of the things we have done in the past, we have come along way. I love those who serve in so many ways. Just for the service alone (not counting First Touch, Nursery, Childrens etc.) we had about 30 different people involved on the stage and in the sound, video and lighting area. That does my heart alot of good. I look at some of those people and know where they were 5 years ago. Some were far from God. Others were just chomping at the bit to serve and use their gifts. Some were strong 5 years ago and still are.

It was a special as we talked about "Parenting in a Chaotic World." Elizabeth and Nathaniel were here... It is their last visit until baby Grace comes. Lizzie will not be able to travel after the first of the month. She looks great... and I am so proud of both Nathaniel and Lizzie.

Abigial was home too, which is a delight. She has had such a great freshman year at Ozark... It will be great to have her home this summer.

Joel had to work today...a first at his new job. But that happens. He is enjoying his job and his apartment.

Lydia will be back in Oklahoma in a few weeks, and she and James join our staff in the Children's Ministry area. Can't wait!

Pam and I have been so blessed by God through our kids.

I got some great comments on the blog and in email about parenting. Thanks to all of you. I settled on 4 things Parents have to provide their children. Affirmation, Discipline, Attentiona and Spiritual Guidance.

We are having some issues on getting the messages up on the website. But hopefully that will be remedied....check out www.fccowasso.com in a few days and we will see.