Hey everyone, I am excited that Eric is taking us into the blogosphere. I pray that this place will be a good way for you to receive encouragement, updates, and get a peek into our world as well. I must admit that to this point I have not been a strong blogger. I have posted, but only to spread the word on the birth of our youngest daughter. Since she is now well over a year old, you can get a feel for how often I have posted on blogs!  So I will make you all a deal… if you read this thing, I will commit to post on it much more frequently! In fact, I encourage you to give me feedback so I know you are actually reading this from time to time.

I hope to post about upcoming events and happenings in the realm of Care Groups, Children’s Ministry, Next Step, and 316. Thanks Brett for highlighting grace in one of our outstanding CM teams on your post earlier!  For teens and Next Stepper’s I may even drop hints or even give a small prize to the first person who can answer my question on here (in person!) and stuff like that. (Note to younger teens – always make sure your parents are o.k. with you going on-line – don’t get me in trouble over this!)

First things first, I notice that my blogger bio stated that I host a TV show called “Chris the Carpenter.” For integrity’s sake I must disclose that no TV network has picked my show up (yet). However, if you would like to see a live show (and help out!), my next project will be window and sliding glass door replacements. My order is expected to come in early to mid October, and I am looking to replace 7 windows and 2 sliding glass doors. If interested in helping, let me know and you can come out and at least learn how NOT to do it! J After that it will be wrapping the trim in PVC coil and installing vinyl siding, then finally a potential garage conversion. What fun!

I woke up this morning keenly aware of my need for God’s grace and sustaining power today, so I leave you with 1 Corinthians 12:9: “… ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

-Chris-

Saturdays are usually pretty quiet around the church.  With the exception of the pastors there isn’t usually a lot of traffic.  However, on one recent Saturday, as I was headed out I noticed a classroom door open.  When I reached the room I popped my head in and found Cynthia Rickards with some kind of craft project in her hand.  Her son, Reed was at a table working on something as well.  I asked her what she was up to.  She smiled and told me she was getting her classroom ready for “move up” Sunday.  Her enthusiasm for this assignment was obvious.  

She and Martha Bixler team teach the 6 year olds in our Children’s Ministry.  I looked around the room and my eyes took in various letters, colorful designs, and scripture passages displayed in creative ways.  This didn’t look like a classroom it looked more like a kid’s play area, alive with excitement!  Cynthia went on to tell me how she loved the kids and the opportunity to teach them each week.  She was eager to meet them the next day.  !

Cynthia’s children are beyond the age of participating in our Children’s Ministry.  Yet, for a number of years now she has taught the little boys and girls in these classes.  Teaching a small child anything is no easy task, just ask the nearest parent.  Multiply the number of kids by 5 or 10 and you’ve got a sizeable challenge.  Cynthia probably wouldn’t describe it that way though.  She is committed to playing her part in seeing that the 6 year olds in our church know the Gospel.  Through her creativity, gifting and patience she’s also helping these little ones come to know the God behind the Gospel.  Her extra efforts make a difference in what the children experience each week.  As both she and Martha serve in this way they are exemplifying Paul’s admonition, “ Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” (Col 3:23,24).  Because of this kind of attitude, it was no surprise the next day when I heard my six year old daughter tell me how much fun she had in her class!  She was eager to show me her letter (from the “A,B,C’s of God”) and recite her memory verse. 

I’m so thankful that I ran into Cynthia that Saturday.  It reminded me of the many blessings God has poured on our church in the form of people.  He’s using folks like Cynthia and Martha, along with many others to build His Church. 

~ Brett

p.s.  By the way, it’s not too late for you to get involved in Children’s Ministry.  Just talk to Todd or Laura Neff