We rejoice at the baptisms of Preston Johnson this past Friday and Erika Stewart on Sunday. God continues to work at Forum in a great way. Isn’t it great to be a part of the kingdom of God? To know that eternal decisions are being made for Jesus Christ!?! To know that we are part of something greater than ourselves and we leave a spiritual legacy?!?
As I write, I’m at the North American Christian Convention. It’s a yearly gathering of people from independent Christian churches (like Forum) that is filled with great preaching, great worship, and phenomenal connections. There are no “denominational” type of decisions being made, and no voting or anything of that nature occurs. Stopping by one of the missions booths we support, they gave me great encouragement connected to Forum and what they have noticed as they’ve worshiped with us several times over the past years. This missionary said, “There’s life. There’s vibrancy. The church really seems to be doing great.” I couldn’t agree more.
On a side note – the North American Christian Convention will happen next year in Orlando, July 10-13. The convention will happen in a Marriott resort and they’ve negotiated room rates of $115 a night (which is unbelievably cheap for Orlando). The family registration is also a great price for the value. I’m encouraging many families to consider going. If we have enough families attend, we’ll try to put together some Forum morning Bible studies for the families that are there. More details to come.
I have a bittersweet announcement to make. Jared Wortman, our associate minister, has decided to pursue further education. For those who have sat in on Jared in the classroom, you’ve benefitted deeply from his preparation and depth of study. Jared would not tell anyone else this, but I will. Jared applied at three top shelf schools — namely Emory, Princeton, and Duke. He was accepted at all three. He’s choosing to go to Duke. Also, he and Katrina are pregnant (no pressure due to life change going on here for sure). On Sunday, July 31 we’re going to have a combination going-away dinner and shower for them (they are having a baby girl). This will happen in the fellowship hall immediately after third service. The church will provide the meat and drinks. If all the rest of us would bring sides and desserts, that would be great. Let’s do it this way: If your last name ends in A-K, bring a vegetable; if your last name ends in L-Z, bring a dessert. That should give us a good balance. Jared has served with the utmost distinction and dedication, so let’s send him to Durham with a great celebration.
This weekend we’ll continue look at the providence of God connected to appointing leaders within His kingdom and how we help them to lead. In a nutshell, the scriptures are replete with God anointing and appointing leaders. Numbers 16 and 17 still speak today in a very powerful way. Read ahead of time and come with an open heart ready to engage. Can’t wait to worship with you Sunday – Scott.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
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