We are definitely into summer now. You can tell by the temperatures and a little by how many people are gone. As for the musings …

-Temperature and humidity remained high this week as did the water level. The rain that wouldn’t stop last Sunday returned several times this week which left us with standing water in some places all week.

-We had a great spirit all through the worship service. People seemed very engaged during all parts of the music and they were singing out.

-After a difficult week for many in our congregation we had an outstanding time of prayer during worship. There are a lot of needs in our community but we have many people who are getting very serious about prayer. Good things follow when people get serious about praying.

-We had some great times of discussion with people again this week. Some of the conversations were throughout the week and a few following the message yesterday. Many people are really seeking to follow Christ in all areas of their lives. That is very exciting and encouraging.

-Our attendance was pretty good, especially as you looked at how many were out of town.

-The core group of people who were here when I arrived are very encouraged and excited about the growth and are even excited about what is coming next. I love ministering with people who desire to see more and more people come to know Christ and get connected in the church.

-The message yesterday was on bitterness. It was part of a series on healing relational pain. We examine a pain point in relationships and then look at the healing directed from the Word each week. Bitterness is a tough one, because people don’t usually like to admit it. Several people confessed and committed to letting go of the bitterness. Praying for continued healing for each of them. Part of the next steps in healing was for them to choose someone to be their encourager, and accountability partner, in their healing from bitterness. I am praying for those partnerships.

-We had a good time with a few sharing testimonies during our worship service. What a great time of encouragement.

-We met with a family last evening just for a time of fellowship and had a great time laughing and sharing. I love doing life with this group of people.

-This coming Sunday is the conclusion of the series on relational healing. I am really looking forward to sharing this message and encouraging fathers as well.

Here’s to hoping you find encouragement coming your way from someone this week.

Dennis