Yesterday was a tough one, but it finished well. As for my musings …

-There was a definite lack of energy in both churches yesterday.

-I did a horrible job preaching yesterday. The good news is that God’s Word still works even when I don’t explain it well. More good news is that God is not dependent on my ability.

-It is a very good thing that I am getting some days away. My wife and I left town yesterday afternoon and are at a retreat with several other pastors and spouses. It is a beautiful setting and the relaxing and refreshing have already begun. I love getting time to just relax with my gorgeous wife.

-The sermon yesterday was on choosing hope in the midst of pain or suffering. I was so burdened to get the message across to my people because it is such a timely and needed message.

-I think my fantasy football team is going to pull out the win this week. My opponent still has 2 players in tonight’s game but my lead is pretty big. If I do hold on for the win it will end a 3 week losing streak.

-My son, daughter in law and 2 grandkids made it back to Kenya safely this week. In just over a month they will move to the Central Africa Republic to begin a new ministry among a mostly unreached people group.

-Attendance at both churches was very low.

-Had a great time of discovery and discussion in my discipleship group this past week. I love that group.

-Heavy hearted over the burdens that many people in my churches are carrying. Some of them are carrying their own and others are carrying burdens of those they love. The prayer list grows.

-Very thankful for people in my churches who give their time and efforts so enthusiastically and generously. I am more appreciative of them than I can possibly express. Without them our church would grind to a halt.

-I loved the weather this weekend. It was long sleeve weather in the mornings and shorts in the afternoon type weather. Unfortunately it makes trying to get the church building’s temperature at an acceptable level very difficult.

-This is going to be a little shorter than normal as I head out of for the retreat time with my wife and as well as some great friends.

Here’s hoping that you have a great week full of hope.

Dennis