Monday, October 23, 2006

10-23-06

Thanks to all who were praying this past weekend. Joyce did well at the retreat and was blessed on how well it went and was thankful for the many spirit-led conversations. I, of course, was glad to have her back home. Even tho she was only gone for two days the house felt empty.

The memorial service was a challenge but it really went very well. There were a lot of folks who I hadn't seen or talked to for 15 years or more. God helped me deliver a message of compassion and He helped me present the Gospel clearly. Candy Ferner helped with the music and she sang beautifully.

I haven't talked with anyone from our team at the street faire Sunday, but God blessed the day with clear, pleasant weather, 60,000 people, and lots of opportunities to talk with folks.

Sunday's morning message went well too as I spoke on "Dealing with Doubt." The text was about John the Baptist wondering if Jesus was really the Messiah because he had been thrown in prison by King Herod, who John had expected to be overthrown by then.

John dealt with doubt by directing his questioning right back to Jesus. Always the most important first step away from doubt or disappointment or depression is turn to Jesus. It's not a sin to doubt...just be sure you bring your questions first to Jesus.

A fellow named Cuyler back in the 19th century said, "Every step toward Christ kills a doubt. Every thought, word, and deed for Him carries you away from discouragement."

I think the Lord touched a lot of hearts thru the study. You can go to the ccesco.com website and listen to the message if you'ld like.

Anyway, all in all it was a quick weekend filled with lots of ministry so thanks for praying!

Tomorrow, Tuesday 10-24, I take Joyce back to her oncologist for her bi-monthly examination. Please pray for a good report.

In His Arm's, Pat

1 comment:

  1. As a staff we've been faithfully praying for the appointment today, including when we got together this morning. As I wrote in a comment to your previous post, it was a blessing having Joyce at the retreat.

    I'm glad the memorial service went well and that Candy had the opportunity to help you with it.

    Josh gave a report this morning about the street fair. He shared that simply giving away free water bottles to people passing by had an impact on them. Heard it was hot too [laughs]. He's already excitedly planning for the next one. You should talk to him one-on-one to hear the report for yourself. =)

    I like that quote from Cuyler.

    We're all blessed by your openness and all that God is teaching you and Joyce through this. You are in our prayers.

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