Right now, I am currently in a predicament where I need to make a very important decision. We are also talking about this in Sunday School and I only wish we started this lesson a month ago. I have now been praying about it for weeks butttt I have not been able to determine what God wants me to do. So many times, I pray about things and you know, you just know what God is telling you to do. In this case, I am just not getting an answer.  God talks to us in so many ways but sometimes other things can distract us from what He is trying to tell us. Well, that’s the way it is for me anyway. How does God talk to you? Do you get signs, visions, dreams, gut feelings, what?Â
July 31, 2007
July 30, 2007
Sunday, July 29th
As we were headed out to Ryans yesterday with our family, James made the comment that Sunday morning’s service might have been the best service we have had so far at Mt. Jackson and I have to agree. And by the way, let me say thank you to the Beckners and the Lamb family for being so generous and sharing their Sunday afternoon with us. We always have a great time with you guys. But back to the service. We had some awesome music. A shelter in the time of storm, In the Shelter of His Arms, Til the storm passes by, and some great specials too. Kenny sang one of my favorite songs, Amy sang one of my favorite songs (Daystar), and the quartet sang one of my favorite songs (There is a Redeemer). Wow, I hope we can say this every Sunday.
This Sunday would not be possible without everyone pitching in and working together. You are all great at that. Thank you so much.
Reminder! Check out the blogs you see on the right side of this page. One is my own personal blog and I would love you to go over and check it out. Have a great week everyone.
July 26, 2007
Now What Do You Do?
The time is quickly approaching where we start our children’s programs again. The discussion last night gave everyone an idea of where the need is. So now is the time to decide what you will do. Start by praying and ask God to show you where He would have you serve. It does not always mean you have to be able to teach. The are many other needs there. So give it some thought and prayer. God bless you as you make this important decisions.
July 25, 2007
Tonight at 6:30
Yesterday Brenda posted about how important our children are and how much they need to be taught and mentored. Tonight at 6:30 we will have a meeting to discuss future programs and our vision for our youth. We would love as much input as possible, so let me encourage as many as possible to be there. Even if you have never worked with the youth before. Don’t forget, we will be having hot dogs so you won’t have to worry about supper. We’re looking forward to seeing you tonight.
Looking ahead: James is planning a trip to Dollywood in the near future. Watch for details.
July 24, 2007
Future Generations
I have had the occasion to talk with someone (not in our church) about church programs for our kids so it has prompted my thoughts to share with you.Â
I carry a burden for our young people. I grew up in a church that never focused on children and I know I missed out on a lot. I never was asked to memorize scripture or take part in the services. There are still many churches today that hold the philosphy of Children are to be seen and not heard. If we take this approach, we are only hurting ourselves.    Our Children are our future Pastors, leaders, caregivers, etc.  Our children can be 2 years old or 20 years old but regardless of their age, we need to be teaching them and mentoring to them.   Â
We are never to old or to young to work with our kids because they learn from us. I have actually (recently) heard people say that it is the responsibility of those who have children to work with them. That is not true. We all need to be mentors and we all have different life experiences that we should share with them so that they can learn from us.  We have to be teaching them biblical principles so that they can continue to share the Gospel with others as we are all mandated to do.  John Elefante sings a song called “Pass the Flame” and its focus is just that. Let’s pass the flame so that the light remains shining. Â
 Please attend the Wednesday night meeting about working with our young people.    Our young people are a joy to be with and they need us to help guide them. If we don’t, the world will. Â
July 23, 2007
Sunday, July 22
Good Morning Everyone! ‘Another great Sunday’ is the best way to describe our service yesterday. We started off with “What a Lovely Name” and “His name is wonderful”. Then Donna helped the choir with “Sheltered in the Arms of God”. Ken Hall did a great song and Pastor Charley sang a thought provoking song. He topped it off with a sermon on Hell.
Again let us say thanks to all those who helped in the VBS. It was a wonderful week.
This Wednesday we will be havng a meeting for all those who want to help with any of the kids programs starting this Fall. We will be having a hot dog supper also so everyone is welcome to come and sit in on the meeting and eat with us. Any questions… contact Donna. Have a great week.
July 20, 2007
All Good things must come to an end!!!
Well, Bible School is finished and boy what a time we had. Although we all were probably tired by last night, it was one of those good kinds of tiredness.  The Ramseys did a FABULOUS job bringing God’s word to us and by George we had a blast. I never understood why anyone could say that Christians don’t have any fun. The older I get, the more I realize that this is true fun and enjoyment. The Puppets were phenominal and brought love and laughter to all we did. The teens in our church were excited about them and did a wonderful job working behind the scenes as puppeteers. Â
I hate that many of our church/community members missed out on all of the livliness happening at Mt Jackson but we still wanted to share our experiences, so Phyllis has posted pictures on the blog. Check it out and I don’t think you will find anyone not having fun and learning about Jesus to boot.Â
Let’s continue to pray for the Ramsey ministry as they travel bringing the joy of Jesus to others. Also, Let’s pray for our Pastor and his family as they bring us joy on a continual basis.Â
July 19, 2007
God Made the Birds…
Sorry Matthew, I couldn’t resist. You guys are great. Your willingness to do all that silly stuff to make sure a group of kids has a great time. Thanks for all your hard work.
We have all had a great time this week with the Bble School. The kids have been taught some valuable lessons that I’m sure they will not soon forget. The Ramsey’s have been wonderful. Let’s continue to pray that God will use this week to change the lives of children.
July 18, 2007
Blue vs. Gold!
The competition is really heating up for the blue and the gold teams in Bible School. Hopefully, we’ll keep it nice though. Remember this is a “total Church” bible school so if you haven’t come out yet, you’re really missing it. The lessons on Pilgrim’s Progress have been wonderful. We are learning so much. A favorite is the puppet time so I’ve added a picture.
Don’t miss the rest of the week.
Thank you to all of you who have lended a hand to help. We couldn’t do it without you.
July 17, 2007
Let’s Go Mountaineers
Vacation Bible School has been a Blast. For those of you who are not attending are missing out on a great Blessing, bunches of fun, and some fine fellowship. The Blue and Gold teams are competing for the top spot and they are definately working hard and having fun doing it.  For those VA Tech fans who are in our Mountaineer competition, isn’t it great to be an eer? Donna Coleman looks great in Gold, doesn’t she? Much better than Maroon.  Donna, Blue and Gold are your colors.Â
Challenge for the day. Let’s help our Kids recruit a few more players for tonight and see who has the most Mountaineer spirit.  Â
See-ya tonightÂ