I AM NOT GOING TO STAY HERE!

August 23rd is a day that will be significant at the Allen household forever. It was the first time both of our boys had their backpacks in tow and headed out the door to school together! What an exciting day this would be, right? WRONG!

Cameron was fired up and ready to go . . . Easton on the other hand had no idea his life was about to change forever. As we walked into his classroom, he proceeded to march around the room twice with a frown on his face and then return to me with arms folded and said, “I AM NOT GOING TO STAY HERE!” After a whisper in his ear that said, “Yes, you are,” and a hug, I walked out the door. He had a good first day of school and even went back the next day!

As I thought about Easton’s announcement to the world that he was “not going to stay here,” I got to thinking about our relationship with Christ. I know those are the words our Heavenly Father wants to hear from us. He does not desire for us to stay in one place spiritually for very long. He wants us to have an attitude of moving forward in our relationship with Him. I am afraid too many Christians have gotten to a point in their spiritual walk where they have “stayed here” too long. Easton’s statement was a subtle reminder to me concerning my spiritual journey and maybe it will be a nudge to you in yours.

What a great Sunday we had on August 22nd! We baptized nine new believers. We had great crowds come to worship in both services. We saw another family become a part of our church family. God was so good! We continue to see new faces in our midst on a weekly basis and it is our job to make them feel welcome.

I want to challenge you in another area. I realize we are all busy and our schedules are hectic, but there are people amongst us who simply need a phone call, card or some other form of touch to let them know they are important to what is going on at FBC. When you notice someone is missing, will you make an effort to let them know you missed them? It only takes a few minutes and you will never know what a difference it can make!

School is back in session, so that means all of our Wednesday night activities are back in full swing for all ages. Perhaps you and your family have been involved in the past, or perhaps you have not. I want to encourage you to come on Wednesday night and see what all is going on. There is a meal at 5:30 and the activities will kickoff at 6:30. If you are not there, you are missing out!

Finally, I want to encourage you to remember to keep our students and school staff in your prayers as they get the school year started. Pray for wisdom in decision making and for opportunities to share their faith. We are blessed with a great school district, and I am convinced it is because of our prayers!

In Him,