Not sure what was going on with our weather yesterday. I am so confused. The calendar said August 6, but the temperature never got above 70. I think the weather messed with a lot of people because our attendance was down at both churches. As for my musings …

-In the afternoon yesterday, my churches participated in a community Backpack Giveaway. It was an effort among several churches and the police department to get backpacks and school supplies to elementary and middle school students whose families could use some help with back to school expenses. It has been a very good cause. The weather messed with the event. It was supposed to be a pool party and backpack giveaway. However, the cool weather and the forecast of rain closed the pool. We were still able to give the backpacks away and help a lot of students and families.

-At my 10:30 church there was a family who attended for the 3^rd Sunday in a row since our VBS. That was a very encouraging sign.

-This week there is a party/reception for a husband and wife who are celebrating their 90^th birthdays. It is being called a “9^th Decade” celebration. They are special people. He is a retired minister and prays over me every Sunday before our worship service.

-School begins in 9 days, so the aisles in many of the stores are crowded with parents and students who appear to be both anxious and excited.

-At my 9:00 church I informed them that my ministry with them would finish at the end of the month. I had already informed the District and church leaders a while ago that I felt it was the right time to leave. When I began that ministry and we agreed to evaluate it after 1 year. It has now been a year and a half. I will still be at my 10:30 church.

-Last week my wife and I attended another funeral. It was for the brother of a lady in our church. It was her only sibling and they had been very close. I feel so bad for her. I have attended, or participated in, too many funerals this year.

-This week my wife and I will celebrate our 42^nd wedding anniversary. I am more in love with her today than I was 42 years ago. I couldn’t imagine doing life without her. We are both very busy on the actual day of our anniversary, but I am sure we will find some moments to remember and celebrate. Our 10:30 church blessed us with a card and a love offering. They are so kind and generous to us. We are blessed.

-I have been working on a sermon series that will begin the Sunday after Labor Day. I am really excited for this series and the possibilities that I believe could result from it.

-I am preparing for a wedding next month. It is for a young lady who was a part of my previous church. It will be good to see some special people and participate in a very special day. This morning, during my personal time with God I came up with the challenge for this couple and their wedding.

-Still praying for my son and his family for the government clearance and visas for the new country in which they are ministering.

-My Cubs are still in first place, but I am comfortable with it. They have too inconsistent all season. But, they are still the World Series Champs. It feels great to be able to say those words.

Here’s hoping that you find some time this week to reflect and celebrate something that is significant in your life.

Dennis