e-news for week of 2/22 - 2/28

I love it when God gets a hold of someone. Being around Travis Tipton both pre and post baptism was a rush because he can’t wait to see what God is going to do next in his life. The words of Jesus ring so very true, “unless you become like a child.” Ever notice how a child constantly expects new and ongoing adventure and learning? That each experience is new and fresh? That commonplace and “ho-hum” aren’t in their vocabulary?

I’ve asked this a lot lately, “Do you see God at work? Do you see the daily wonder of new mercies? Do you embrace each day as a new opportunity or have you allowed the deceiver to cloak your heart in the fog of darkness where you can’t see God’s light in all areas of your life?”

I want to thank Caleb Kaltenbach for preaching this past Sunday for us. Having just finished writing my report for us as elders these were the exact words I used to describe it: I thought Caleb Kaltenbach hit a walk off home run in the bottom of the ninth. Perfect time in my mind to restate and solidify why we are doing what we are doing.

This Sunday we start a brand new series called, “March Madness.” I know many of you probably aren’t basketball fans and even the phrase “March Madness” means very little to you. Let me allow you to glimpse into my heart, soul, brain, and prayer life for just a moment. This is a season of the year when people are piqued in interest about church with Easter coming up, etc. March Madness is a phrase that Columbia Joe gets. Plus, the Tigers are like number 8 in the country right now (trust me, when I chose this series back in September of 2008 I personally didn’t anticipate that, and I doubt most of you thought MU would be there – hats off to Coach Anderson) and that just heightens interest. This is a great series to invite friends to come to because we are going to do nothing other than talk about the life and ministry of Jesus. From the tip off of Jesus’ ministry to the incredible slam-dunk of the resurrection – we are going to see Jesus up close and personal.

I’m excited. Really excited. Your faith that is expressing itself all over the place in a lot of ways is a contagious. Each week I hear over and over from so many of you how you can’t wait to worship, how you are praying for a friend, how you have been comforting a friend, volunteering at school, etc.

PS – One of the people in the church gave me some White Castle paraphernalia following up from the sermon where I referenced White Castles. Thank you so much. This week’s sermon will focus on an obsession I’ve had for tickets to the Final Four J. Looking forward to worshiping with all of you this Sunday. -- Scott