Christmas Presents for Meadow Village

What a blessing this church has been to the kids in Meadow Village!

Western Hills, along with Canyon Creek, took on the challenge to help the kids living there have a good Christmas by providing gifts to 164 kids. On Saturday, December 17th we had the opportunity to pass out presents in the Meadow Village Apartment Complex in Temple. It was a great time! Some people were expecting us. Some were not. As each door opened and gifts were handed off, the Love of Jesus was truly shared. Everyone was extremely grateful. The smiles and thank yous were heartfelt.

I want to say Thank You to this church for taking on the challenge to share the love of Jesus through this ministry project. The generosity of Western Hills continues to impress me!

For those who took a name or two, I encourage you to keep those kids in your prayers. The ministry at Meadow Village continues to make an impact. Pray for our teens and others who regularly go there to minister to kids.

Thanks again for being living examples of what it means to be the Hands and Feet of Jesus.

God's Blessings.
-Scott Seela

Sweet Week Grand Openings!

This could possibly one of the best weeks ever. WHY? Because of the grand openings...First The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe opened. I have not seen it yet (and with twins it is doubtful I will see it anytime soon) but the early reviews are telling me it is INCREDIBLE. I am most encouraged by many telling me the Christian elements and themes are not diminished at all. Second grand opening this week: KING KONG. This is the movie that Peter Jackson (director of the Lord of the Rings) has wanted to make all of his life. And again the early reviews tell me it is an amazing movie. (Again with the twins not sure when I will see it, but I can hope). And finally the last grand opening is today. The Chick-fil-a across from our church building is open for business! I may not make it to Chronicles or Kong as fast as I would like but I will be feasting on the perfection that is a Chick-fil-a sandwich. In honor of the new store I wanted to share this post with you from another minister, Perry Noble. He writes about some of the lessons a church can learn from Chick-fil-a.

Enjoy!

Scott M.

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Lessons the Church can learn from a Chick-fil-a

#1 - They Keep Things Simple What is Chic-fil-a known for? Uh, one guess...think about it...did you say CHICKEN? Ding ding ding--we have a winner! You can't go to Chic-fil-a if you want a hot dog...well, I guess technically you COULD...but you would leave disappointed. They don't have a very large menu selection, which enables them to do a few things well instead of trying to be "everything to everyone." The church should apply the same. I believe there are many churches trying to maintain programs that at one time WERE very affective--many lives WERE changed--BUT what may have worked 30 years ago may not work today. However, the mistake that many of us make as church leaders is that instead of getting rid of things we add to our plate--and our "ministry menu" looks so large--and we are doing a lot of things--but really doing none of them well. One of the things we are striving for here at NewSpring is the simplicity of ministry. We KNOW that we cannot do everything well--and so we say no a lot more than we say yes to certain programs and/or ideas...and not because we don't care--but because we do care and it is our desire to honor Jesus Christ in the best way possible by providing an excellent ministry environment.

--

#2 - They Stick To Their Convictions You know what I love...AND HATE...about Chic-fil-a? They are not open on Sunday! (Just being honest!) There are Sunday's when I long for a chicken sandwich from there--but I can't get one, not until Monday. I remember hearing the story of when Chic-fil-a was negotiating with shopping malls to open up within the mall and one of the stipulations was that they had to be open on Sunday. The leadership didn't really have a decision to make--they had convictions...and were willing to walk away from the opportunity that the malls were giving them because it would have meant going against what they felt was right. The malls realized they needed Chic-fil-a and backed down...and so we can now shop till we drop and refresh ourselves at the little sample stand outside of the restaurant. (Come on, you know you've snatched a nugget or two!) If a church is going to be able to maintain ministry in today's society then the leadership is going to have to have a clear vision of what the church will and will not do--and be able to stick by that vision--no matter what. It is my conviction that God's word never changes...and I have an incredible high view of Scripture...but the methods used to communicate His word often change. We will never compromise Scripture here--that is one of our core values--but we will always be willing to use whatever methods it takes to reach people. One note on this before moving on...Chic-fil-a has often received criticism about this aspect of the way they operate--but it has not deterred them at all. You cannot let criticism derail your vision--ask God to light your heart on fire--to fill you with His vision...and stick to it no matter what.

--

#3 - Things Are Always Very Clean I never NEVER been into a nasty Chic-fil-a--EVER. The restrooms are always nice--the floors always look like they have just been mopped--despite the tons of traffic they get...they manage to keep things nice and neat. We can REALLY use this lesson! I have this deal on Sunday's that when I am walking into the building we are renting and I see a piece of paper on the ground--I pick it up. When I go to the restroom and I see a paper towel on the floor--I pick it up. People, especially the unchurched, want to come into a clean environment. At NewSpring we have an incredible team of people who show up early each and every Sunday to sweep, to mop, to vacuum--to make sure that the worship environment is as clean as possible...and it does make a difference. And let me say this before moving on...at Chic-fil-a I have NEVER seen a dirty area for kids--it's always clean--and that matters. It breaks my heart when I hear of churches who place their children in some damp, dirty room with people who are there because someone made them feel guilty about not working with kids (and we wonder why many kids hate church.)If a church is serious about reaching the lost and unchurched--one of the BEST things they can do is make sure the children's area is both clean and safe. The only people who will tolerate less than perfect conditions for their children are parents who grew up in those same conditions and are completely unaware that other options exist.

--

#4 - The People Are Always Friendly Maybe you have had a different experience...but I don't think I have ever met a rude person at Chic-fil-a. From what I have seen--they always have a smile on their face--and say "thank you." I always tell churches that one of the best things you can have for your church is have a team of people who great others on Sunday's. Who stand outside--even when it is cold and rainy--and say things like, "good morning," and, "good to see you!" Trust me--this makes a difference. I remember visiting a church once and this little old dude sort of shoving a worship guide in my hands and not smiling at me...I actually said "good morning" to him...and he gave me a dirty look! I thought, "if I were unchurched--THAT would be the ONLY excuse I needed to not come back here." And those who are interested in reaching the unchurched--you know that is the way they think.

Mexican Food and Evangelism

Ok! I thought I knew about every hole-in-the-wall-dive-Mexican-food restaurant in Temple/Belton. One of the reasons I love living here is there is an abundance of GREAT Mexican food places -- and I have dined at all of them...or so I thought. On Sunday afternoon, our own Lurry Leavelle (doctor extraordinaire!) and his wonderful wife Donna invited Erica and me to join them for lunch at a Mexican food place. It was one I had never been to nor even heard about. The name: "Fruteria Ruby Tacos del Sur y Pollos del Norte." I am NOT making that up. (I will just refer to it as Tacos del Sur for short.) Immediately I was intrigued. Could there possibly be a decent Mexican place in Temple I have not heard of?

---

Tacos del Sur is located on East Ave. G. It is actually one of three places of business owned by a family (restaurant, store, and nursery). What we experienced there was nothing short of south-of-the-border nirvana. I am high on the place for these reasons...The salsa was great (always important when sizing up a Mexican food place), the food was authentic, the portions where large, the prices small, and the place was spotlessly clean! If you are are a Mexican food lover...And who isn't? Then you have got to try Tacos del Sur.
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So what does all of this have to to with evangelism? Simply this...I heard about Tacos del Sur because Lurry cared enough to invite us. Because of his invitation I had a tremendous experience and now I am telling YOU about it. The advertising world for years has said there is no better advertising than "word of mouth." So why not for the church? You tell a couple of friends about Western Hills and then invite them. It's that simple. For too long the church has said that evangelism is the best done by setting up Bible studies with people you hardly know. While studying the Bible will always be a good thing, most people I know are not gifted to lead a Bible study. But everyone can invite friends and neighbors. Right?! To expect everyone to do evangelism by leading a Bible study would be like expecting Lurry to have cooked the Mexican food himself. He didn't do that, instead he took us to where the great feast awaited.

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So what is holding you back? Be praying now for the people in your circle of influence you need to invite to Western Hills. When you do that, congratulations you have just become an evangelist. I will see you (and your invitee) on Sunday.

Want to meet for lunch afterward? Dare you to try the salsa verde!

---

Adios Amigos

Scott M.

Sharing God's Story

In our current sermon series titled "Coming Home for Christmas," Scott Meyer has led us in re-examining the account of the first Christmas as told in the Gospel of Luke to prepare us for Christmas. We believe we must prepare our lives, not just our houses, for Christmas. That is to say we need to prepare our lives for the coming of the Christ.

Last night, we continued this preparation by looking back over the incredible story of God caring for and leading His people. The story of God can be told either in terms of the main characters of the story, or of pivotal events that helped shape and define the people's journey of faith. To do this, we focused on 5 key characters/events:

• Creation, Adam & Eve, Sin (Genesis 1-4)
• God calling Abraham (Genesis 15)
• The Exodus from Egypt (Exodus)
• God choosing David as King (1 Samuel 16)
• The Angel Gabriel's Announcements (Luke 1)

We gathered as families and friends around tables in the fellowship room to create "ornaments" that symbolized each of these characters/events. The ornaments are to be visual reminders of the Story of God Redeeming His People.

As we made each ornament, each table recounted the story that went with it. From our young children to our adults, the stories of God's working were shared. The young taught the old. The old taught the young. The church was blessed.

I encourage you to continue telling The Story as we prepare for Christmas.

God's Blessings.

-Scott Seela

Coming Home for Christmas

Christmas Season is HERE! I am excited about this season for many reasons.

1. It will be the first Christmas for Cutter & Cooper (our twins).
2. Our Christmas lights are already up!
3. I am grateful for all God is doing through Western Hills right now.

We are in a series I am calling "Coming Home for Christmas." We all spend lots of time preparing ourselves for Christmas: shopping, decorating, cards, lights, cooking, etc...All of this to celebrate the coming of the Christ. Well I believe we must prepare our lives, not just our houses, for Christmas. That is to say we need to prepare our lives for the coming of the Christ. Be sure to invite a friend to join us each Sunday in December as we look at the preparations made for the very first Christmas.

Love Ya Much
Scott M.

Mistakes and Church

This post is from another minister, Perry Noble, who preaches at the NewSpring Church. I found his words to be very insightful. Hope you are challenged and encouraged by them.

#1 - If You Are Not Making Mistakes Then You Are Not Trying!I can say that our mistakes here at NewSpring have came from people who love Jesus, love the church, love people--and are really trying to do what they think is right. In doing that we will drop the ball from time to time. However, that is OK--the church has played it safe for way too long.

#2 - Do Not Try To Hide The Mistake!If you make a mistake then address it. We don't do this many times in the church world, we "pray about it" and expect God to handle it. (Does it seem that at times we over spiritualize everything?) But the best thing to do when making a mistake is to address it!

#3 - Do Not Fear The Outcome When you make a mistake you can count on the fact that your approval rating will drop in the public polls. Our job, however, is not to worship people--but to worship Jesus--to do what is right before doing what is easy...and trusting in a Sovereign God to take control.

#4 - The Only Bad Mistakes Are The Ones You Do Not Learn FromUh, enough said, right? I can't wait to see what the next five years of ministry looks like here at NewSpring. God is blessing us so much...and we are going to continue to strive to be excellent in all that we do--to be creative--to be relevant--and to teach the truth in an uncompromising way. However, we are not perfect--and we will make mistakes--but that's a lot better than playing it safe!

God Bless

Love Ya Much

Scott M.

Thankful for Western Hills

In this season of thanksgiving I want to make it known that I am grateful for what God is doing with and through Western Hills. Every week He is bringing new people through our doors and giving us an opportunity to reach them for Jesus. I am grateful for all of the folks who serve to make the Sunday morning experience a authentic encounter with a living God. Thanks to everyone who serves on the praise team, runs audio/video equipment, cleans the pews, hands out bulletins, greets newcomers, and on the list goes. To each I am thankful.

I want to call each of you to be in prayer for those God will bring our way during this holiday season. Be on your knees in prayer and on you toes to respond to the opportunities God has for us.

Love Ya Much,
Scott M.

Chuck Fortenberry Honored

Chuck Fortneberry's life and sacrifice will be honored through the naming of the new Physical Fitness Center at Fort Rucker after him. Cynthia and the boys will participating in the dedication cermonies scheduled for December 9, 2005.

Chuck was a loving dad, gracious husband, and outstanding Soldier.

Continue to keep the Fortenberry's in your prayers.

Love Ya Much
Scott

Update from Jorge Quijano

"The good news over here is taking place in Blanca Flor, even though it has been raining almost 3 of 7 days every week. The foundation of the new [church] building is almost done. Brother Pedro and the men are taking this project very seriously. The brothers from Chetumal are considering the possibility of helping with labor, along with 2 or 3 from Sac Xan. I have been blessed beyond my own understanding being with these people.

"The churches [in the region] have been keeping up the good work and remaining faithful to the Lord. It has been difficult due to Hurricane Wilma, as the amount of damage has been enormous, but thankfully few lives have been lost. At church in Bacalar, I tried to have the church to consider other losses beside the material ones. We are so focused on material things, even myself, that we are able to number them so quickly and easily. But the church is totally ignorant about spiritual wealth. When the church cannot value it's relationship with God, any inconvenience makes it easy to leave and not come back. We are trying to make a list of our spiritual wealth, qualities found only in the church.

"This coming month (November) is the Ladies Meeting and then a big fellowship at the end of the year. This would have been a good time to have had the Medical Mission Campaign due to Wilma causing a lot of people to get sick. We pray for Western Hills; may God bless you and all there".

Jorge Quijano

What a Party!!

It happened again! God took the simple event of a "Jesus Party" at Meadow Village and turned it into something incredible.

Those of you who were out at Meadow Village experienced the excitement and energy first hand. Kids and families were everywhere having a great time at the creative activities that were sponsored in love.

Lots of love, candy, prizes, candy, hugs, candy, hotdogs, candy, cookies, candy, balloon animals, candy, donuts (and did I mention candy?) were distributed to the Meadow Village community.

Thank you to all who helped make this happen. Thanks for the mass amounts of candy donated and for the excitement you brought to each and every activity.

The Light of Jesus truly shined at Meadow Village! Praise God for His working through His people.

God Bless.

-Scott Seela

Get Ready to Party!

WOW! The response to the Carnival @ Meadow Village is amazing. This church is going crazy to put on the best Jesus party ever. Here is just a small sampling of the creative booths and events we will be hosting...

Fire Truck
Pig Races (don't ask I don't know either)
Fire Safety House
Hanging Donuts
Photo Booth
Barrel Train Ride
Face Painting
and much, much, much, more!

Remember...All of the booths need to be set up and running by 3pm on Sunday. We will have the limited edition Western Hills T-Shirts available Sunday morning in the foyer for $5. Buy one to wear during carnival. The weather forecast is for a great day.

See you on Sunday!

Scott M.

Fellowship Cafe Filling Up Fast

Already more than 70 of you have purchased your tickets for Fellowship Cafe. I consider this a tremendous response for the first trial run. If you have not bought your tickets yet, you can still buy them until Wednesday night. Just find Patty T. or Dianne H. and they will be happy to get you set.

See you on Sunday!
Scott M.

Fellowship Cafe

Tired of having to decide where
to eat after church on Sunday?

Do long waits and poor
service at a restaurant bug you?

Do you wish you didn't have to end
your conversation in the foyer just
to "beat the crowds" to eat?

If the answer to any of these questions is YES -
then have we got a deal for you!

Following morning worship, we will all have an opportunity to experience Sunday lunch the way it was meant to be. We are calling it FELLOWSHIP CAFE. Make plans for this special fellowship time by purchasing a ticket in advance from any of the office staff or at the Welcome Center in the Foyer. The cost is $8 for adults and $4 for kids. The menu is: roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, crescent rolls & dessert. The deadline to purchase tickets is Wednesday, October 26th.

A Jesus Party!

If Jesus were to throw a party in Temple, whom would he throw it for? Jesus' list would probably include a lot of people… but we're thinking that right at the top of Jesus' list would be the people in our city who are often overlooked or forgotten people who don't usually get parties thrown for them. We believe that those who don't have parties thrown for them would be the very people that Jesus would make the honored guests at his party.

Join us for a “Jesus Party” as we enjoy a Fall Carnival with the kids and families of Meadow Village Apartments here in Temple on Sunday, October 30th.

The carnival will take place at Meadow Village from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Several of our 20/20 Groups are sponsoring booths/activities.

Here's just a few of the booths/activities planned at this time:

• Candy Fishing
• Pig Races (I have no idea!)
• Face Painting
• Antique Fire Truck
• Cup Knock Down
• Hot Dogs
• Bean Bag Toss
• And much, much more!
  

It's going to be a great party. Don't miss this opportunity to be Jesus to someone.

If you have any questions, would like to sponsor a booth/activity or need help in developing your booth, please contact Scott Seela.

Funeral Service for Andy Anderson

Andy's service will take place at Western Hills Church of Christ on Wednesday, October 12 at 2:00 p.m.. A military burial ceremony will follow at Hillcrest Cemetary.

Family visitation will take place Tuesday evening, October 11, from 6:00 to 8:00 at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, 3110 Airport Road in Temple.

Our thoughts and prayers are with this precious family.

Update on the Scott Family

Jeff, Jennifer and the kids are now situated in north Texas. Jeff has traveled to spend time at the retreat location in New Mexico. You can follow their updates by reading the blog Jeff has begun. The address is www.jffsct.blogspot.com. Keep them in your prayers as God continues to bless them and the new chapter in their life

In Him
Scott M.

Upward Basketball

What's Upward Basketball? This is an evangelistic sports ministry designed to promote community outreach, develop volunteer leadership, and share the love of Christ with children and their families, using something as simple as a basketball! Specifically designed for kindergarten through sixth grade boys and girls, Upward promotes Bible teaching, character, and self-esteem in every child.

Our 1st Game of the season will be Saturday, January 14, 2006.

Just a few ways you can be involved in this wonderful ministry:

• Be a Prayer Partner
• Be a Coach
• Be an Assistant Coach
• Be a Referee
• Help with the Concession Stand
• Help with Set-Up on Game Days
• Serve as needed on Game Days
• Tell Others about Upward

If you are interested in getting involved in Upward, please pick up one of the interest forms, fill it out and return it to the church office or Scott Seela. (Applications for Coaches, Assistant Coaches and Referees are also available.)

Upward Basketball- another great way to reach our community for Jesus!

Mission Sunday this Sunday

Western Hills has been called a hands and feet ministry congregation, and this is no better illustrated than in our MISSIONS. In order to raise awareness of our variety of missions involvement, we are conducting a Mission Fair Sunday, September 25. After our morning worship service, with our missionary Dave Meadows, we will have a potluck luncheon with displays provided to illustrate all of the ways Western Hills is involved in the mission of God.

Here's a brief summary of what will be on display:

Dave and Sarah Meadows have been doing outstanding work in greater Sao Paulo, Brazil for well over 30 years. They have been instrumental in establishing a thriving congregation in Guarulhos, as well as neighboring communities, and have developed an "after-school school" for the poorer children of their area.

Denville and Nicolette Willie have begun and developed numerous "house-churches" throughout Cape Town, South Africa. The response has been overwhelming. The church is growing faster here than in any other part of the world.

Jorge and Josephina Quijano, who live in Belize, Central America, but center their efforts in the Yucatan region of Mexico, conduct Men's and Women's Seminars, VBS, preach and teach in several villages, and are the local coordinators for the Medical Mission Program.

Speaking of the Medical Mission, Western Hills has been sending teams of 20+ people to the Yucatan Peninsula for over 15 years to treat and minister to upwards of 2000 mostly Mayan Indian poor during the 5 day clinics. Not only does this effort directly touch lives in the villages we visit, demonstrating Christ's compassion to others, but it energizes the local churches as well.

World Bible School, headed up by our own Jack Williams, brings Bible knowledge and instruction to countless individuals (mostly in Africa), who otherwise wouldn't have access to such information.

Our Youth Group is very mission oriented, not only with trips to Monte Crystal, Mexico to assist building a church clinic, along with a nightly VBS, but also to mission fields in the US, such as the Four Corners area, large metropolitan inner cities like Atlanta, and right here in Temple. Scott Meyer and Matt Peacock lead this incredible mission.

Upward Basketball, coordinated by Scott Seela and our Children's Crew, brings the mission field right to us in our own FLC, and is generating a lot of excitement and enthusiasm among the younger folks (as well as their parents).

A Whole Lotta Fun!

Last Sunday evening, we kicked off a new format for our 4 year olds through 5th Grade. This new format is called CREW TIME.

It was a blast!

We began with praise time. We are learning some great new songs during this time. They are really fun and have a great message for kids and adults alike.

We are in a series called "Stories Jesus Told." Everyone helped tell our parable for the evening, The Sower. All the kids were "Seeds" while our teen leaders were the different "Soils." Of course, I got to play the role of "The Farmer."

After our story, everyone made a book about the parable. The covers of the books were awesome! (See the picture above.)

This coming Sunday, September 18th we will start Crew Time again at 6:00 pm in the gym.

Kids, be sure to get your parents to bring you so you can take part in the story of The Lost Sheep.

See you there!

- Scott S.

Katrina Relief Fund

On Sunday, this church held a special collection specifically for aid and relief to the victims of hurricane Katrina. I am excited to announce that $5,592.80 has been collected so far. Praise God. This is simply one more sign (among many) God is active in this place and working through this church.

The money collected will be used to create a resource fund, right here at Western Hills. We are dedicated to meeting the vast needs of this disaster both immediate and future. So this fund will place us in the "at-the-ready" position to meet the needs God brings to our attention. This may include:

• purchasing immediate food/water/diapers etc
• covering cost of medications
• providing transportation for evacuees
• sponsoring a family who was displaced by Katrina

We are not sure exactly which opportunities of ministry God will bring to us. We do know He will bring some opportunity and this fund is just the beginning of His providing the means to answer the call.

May God continue to bless Western Hills with ministry.

Scott M.

Crew Time on Sunday Night

When was the last time your kids dragged YOU to church? We are wholeheartedly committed to making sure church is NEVER boring. Therefore, this coming Sunday evening, September 11th, we will kick off a new format for our 4 year olds through 5th Grade that will hopefully elicit such a response from our kids.

The new format is called Crew Time and it will take place in the FLC Gym on the 2nd & 3rd Sundays of each month during The Well.

Some of the basics of Crew Time:

The Worship
Our focus will be to not just sing “kid songs”, but to help lead our kids into worship that connects them with God. Creative use of hand motions & movements will be employed when appropriate/useful.

The Messages
The messages will be active. Use of the kids, drama, storytelling, etc. will be hallmarks of the message time. Getting the kids to actively engage with the message is our goal.

The Games/Activities/Projects
We will be using several different methods to reinforce the messages. The method (game, activity, project, craft, etc.) will vary depending on the message.

Crew Time promises to be a blast... so don't miss out- Bring your kids to the FLC Gym @ 6:00 pm before you head off to The Well.

-Scott S.

Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina is well on her way to being the most costly (in terms of life and economy) natural disaster in our country's history. As a church we will want to respond to the immense need that thousands along the gulf coast now find themselves in. The recovery effort will be a long sustained process, so we too will need to be praying and assisting over the weeks and months to come.

There are 2 ways we can respond immediately. 1) PRAYER - this is always our first and most powerful response to events that are beyond our control but not beyond God's control. Like we prayed for our 40 Days, let's pray for the people in the Gulf without ceasing. 2) HEB Drive - I have confirmed with HEB that tomorrow (Friday Sept. 2) from 8am-6pm at the store on 31st there will be a truck collecting emergency items. These items include...

• bottled water
• peanut butter
• canned tuna
• granola / cereal bars
• diapers

You can purchase the items at the truck, in HEB or bring some from home. The truck will leave Friday night to go to Waco then onto the coast. Let's make this our first of many efforts to be the Hands & Feet of Jesus to our neighbors to the east.

On a personal note...One of our Western Hills own, Kyle C. has headed to the coast as part of the National Guard to assist in the rescue and recovery. Keep Kyle in your prayers as he ministers.

God Bless,

Scott M.

You are invited to click the comment link and post your prayers for the victims of Katrina.

AMAZING SUNDAY!

If you were present during our Sunday morning worship service then I do not need to tell you that we witnessed God do some AMAZING things as we concluded our 40 Days of Prayer and Fasting. For those who could not be with us allow me this chance to recap some of what occurred.

First, a big thanks to Byron and the praise team. The worship on Sunday was powerful and encouraging. Thanks for using your gifts to lead us to God.

Second, an announcement was read by Larry Matthews sharing the GOOD NEWS of Jeff and Jennifer's future plans. They will move to the Dallas area and join the staff at The Colony Church of Christ. This church offers a program specifically designed to help ministers and their families overcome and heal. Follow the link if you wish to support this effort financially.

Third, Philip, who has spent the last 4 years in prison is now released and joined us for worship for the first time.

Finally, if all of that is not amazing enough...Courtney, one of our WHY members, gave her life to Jesus in baptism.

The service ended with all gathering at the front and singing "Holy Ground" together. Only God could have arranged all of the participants.

Remember Joshua 3:5 says

Conscecrate yourselves for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things
among you.

Looks like He meant it!

Love Ya Much
Scott M.

Request Night

Isn't music a powerful tool in our spiritual formation? There are certain songs we sing that bring up all kinds of emotions and memories in me. Of course "Holy Ground" is one of those songs. Every time we sing it the memories of all of the baptisms at Western Hills comes rushing back to my mind.

This Sunday night during our service known as "The Well" we will be worshipping in an "ole fashioned way." We will be singing the songs that you want to sing straight out of our song book. Is there a song that is meaningful in your spiritual journey? Do you have an old favorite that we have not sung in a long while? Is there a song that you have wanted us to learn? In either case bring your request with you to The Well this Sunday night and our worship leaders will lead as many songs as there is time. See you there.

Because of the Cross
Scott Meyer

Back to School Prayer Blessing

Last night, during The Well, we had the wonderful experience of praying for our students, teachers and all those involved in education as they prepare to return to school. From our preschoolers to our college students, each group was lifted up to God. Many of the prayers offered were for protection and strength. Other prayers asked God to empower each student to live as Christ would.

As we prayed for our teachers and administrators, I was moved by how many of our number are working in the field of education. What a wonderful ministry they have! Not only do we have great students living as Spiritual Champions, but we have great leaders in education as living models of what it is to be the hands and feet of Jesus!

Continue to lift up our students, teachers and administrators in prayer throughout the school year. Encourage each one to be a Spiritual Champion that illuminates every place they go.

-In Him,
Scott Seela

Summer Fun USA

Tonight several of the churches in Bell County came together for a great time at Summer Fun USA Waterpark. This is the second year this event has been held. The turnout tonight was terrific and everyone had a great time. Each year this event is hosted by the Bell County Youth Ministries. Hosting churches this year included Ave T, Belton, Canyon Creek, Northside, Salado, and Us! If you did not make it this year you missed out. Hope to see you next year.

Mountain Top Experience

Our Trekkers are back on level ground. The Western Hills Youth Group is home from Wilderness Trek. After enduring 80 degree days and cool nights our group of 11 has come home from a week in God's beautiful creation. The week was spent getting to know ourselves, each other, and God. The trip was both physically challenging and spiritually challenging. On Tuesday of the experience each Trekker was allowed to take their water bottle, Bible and journal and instructed to go "spend 3 hours with God." This was time for prayer, journaling, worship, and simply spending some time with our Father. Below is a poem written during the "Solo Time" by Crystal Hughes. May it be a blessing to you...

God's Creation

Sparkling streams
Ripple beneath a clean crisp breeze.

Mountains majestic
Kiss radiant blue skies.

Cotton-like clouds
Send dancing shadows across rolling green hills.

Fragrant flowers
Adorn soft warm meadows.

Towering trees
Embrace tender creatures of all sorts.

Sumptuous sun rays
Soak into carefully rounded stones.

God's creation,
Heaven's imagination.

We marvel with ease
At His perfect masterpiece.

But we often forget,
Push aside and neglect,

That above all the magnificence He's made out of love,
WE are His treasure, His children, His most prized, his beloved.


Matthew 6:25-34
Matthew 10:28-31

By Crystal Hughes
July 27, 2005

A Word from our Shepherds

On behalf of the elders I would like to provide some information on the status of the replacement process for our pulpit minister.

Very early in the elder’s discussion of the next steps and the process of recruiting and hiring a new preacher it was decided that we would take our time and as much time as necessary to get the right person for the job. We want to be very methodical, intentional and prayerful as we move forward. The decision was made to give ourselves a minimum of six months before we begin the process of actively seeking and recruiting for the position.

We are now three months into that time period. Over the last several weeks the elders have had and continue to have regular formal and informal discussions concerning the vision and direction of this church, the process of recruitment and selection that may be best for Western Hills and the many traits and qualities that the next preacher should possess in order to help insure a good fit and a successful tenure.

During these last few months we, both individually and as a group, have earnestly asked God’s guidance in and through this process. As you are well aware, we have also asked for you to take an active part in this process by participating in the current period of 40 days of prayer and fasting. We firmly believe that God will hear our prayers and that we need to be sensitive to His leading as we move through this process and look to the future.

We are interested in your comments, concerns and questions. Please know that you are welcome to speak with the elders as a group or individually at anytime. We are looking at and considering a way or ways that communication between the leadership and the congregation can be accomplished in the most positive and constructive way possible. We will make every effort to keep you up-to-date as to where we are in the process.

Over the past few weeks and into the future we will be having guest speakers fill the pulpit on Sunday mornings. Some members have asked if any of these men are candidates for the full-time position. They are not. It is understood up front, when the invitation is extended, that they are not looking for a job and that if they preach in the capacity of a guest speaker they will not be considered for the full-time position. We will try to have as much continuity with our guest speakers as possible.

The elders recently asked the ministry staff to take charge of the Sunday evening period of worship and congregational fellowship that we refer to as “The Well.” The staff has taken this assignment very seriously and will be developing meaningful programs and activities for our times together. These periods of worship may be non-traditional in format but will be designed to build our relationships with one another and with the Lord, to help us explore our missional outreach to the world and to deepen our overall spiritual commitment. There will be singing, prayers offered, scriptures contemplated and there will be an opportunity to share the Lord’s Supper with those who were not present during the Sunday morning memorial feast. If you do not already regularly take advantage of “The Well” the elders encourage you to do so. Please take advantage of this great opportunity to worship God and to learn how to become a better disciple.

Finally, Western Hills is blessed to have three wonderful, dedicated ministers on staff. The elders want you to know how very important they have been to keeping things moving during this difficult transition period. We are very grateful to them for going above and beyond what is expected. I don’t have time to list all that they have done but just know that they have done amazing things with wonderful, positive attitudes sometimes on very short notice. Please take time to say thanks to Scott Meyer, Scott Seela and Matt Peacock and please be diligent in praying for them and their families as they serve us and the Lord with great dedication and enthusiasm.

May God bless us all as we strive to serve Him.

James Penland

Moving In

The Lord’s message to Joshua- See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands! (Joshua 6). It's moving day for the Israelites. God has brought them through the Jordan River and it's time to move into the promised land (or as Meyer calls it, the God Place). The plan is simple: March around the city once a day for 7 days, led by the priests. On the 7th day, march around 7 times. Blow the trumpets & shout. The walls will collapse. Simple plan, yet it required great faith.

God’s plans are not our plans. His plans require faith and trust in Him. His plans require obedience to Him. God wants us to trust Him. He wants us to lay everything down before Him so that He may move us in to His place… the God Place. You see, sometimes it’s a lot easier to be afraid of the future than to trust God with it. But that is just what we must do- trust Him. And God honors the confidence His people place in Him- and He shows Himself worthy of our trust!

God has a future for Western Hills! And it’s up to us to not let fear or uncertainty get in the way of doing what God has planned for us! We must listen to Him & obey. And it will be amazing what walls He knocks down as we MOVE IN through faithful ministry that lifts up Jesus! And we trust that He will lead us, day by day.

Keep Praying!

-Scott S.

Prayer Rocks!

"What do these stones mean?" This is the question asked by children in Joshua chapter 4. Joshua ordered the building of a memorial out of stones from the Jordan river. The memorial was to celebrate the amazing acts that God had done.

Around Western Hills right now stones have a new meaning. Each member of Western Hills is carrying on them a small river stone. What do THESE stones mean? They also serve as a reminder to us of all that God has done to make us debt-free church. AND the stones serve as a reminder to be praying and fasting for the next 40 DAYS as we seek his leading into new dreams and plans he has for his church at Western Hills.

So let's keep on praying and seeking God. This could be the most crucial 40 days in our history as a church.

Love Ya Much
Scott

Victory Sunday!

This Sunday (July 17) will be an extra special day at Western Hills. This is the Sunday we celebrate what God has done to make us a DEBT-FREE church. We have paid off the note on the Family Life Center. The original note was over $600,000 and we were making payments of more than $3,000 per month. The debt is paid and we no longer are having to make monthly payments.

Join us this Sunday at 10:15 in our main auditorium as we praise God and dream of the future. Following the service everyone is invited to a hot-dog lunch to complete the celebration.

See you there,
Scott

A Church on Fire-WORKS!

Last Monday night Western Hills gathered at the home of Lynn & Kim Becker to celebrate the 4th of July. The evening contained great food, comfortable weather, a blaze of fireworks and most importantly a large gathering of good friends and family. The evening had the feeling of a family reunion, with the youngest to the oldest present.

It is a blessing to have a church family that enjoys being together. It is sad reality but many churches are too involved in fights and squabbles to even enjoy each other. Western Hills continues to shine in the warm, welcoming, fellowship department. If WHCC is to continue to be a church on FIRE then we must WORK at it. We must constantly be inviting others to come and experience the fellowship we know so well. We must constantly reach out to those in our schools and workplaces and share with them the good thing that God has blessed us with. We must always be the church on a mission.

Special thanks to Kim and Lynn for making last Monday possible and reminding us all of the powerful community of faith God is building here at Western Hills.

Love Ya Much
Scott

Wilderness Wonderings...

This is a unique time in the life of Western Hills. I have heard many ask "What are the elders planning to do about the preaching position?" Others have asked, "How long will we go without a preacher?" Still others have asked, "When will we finally know something about the future?" All of these are great questions. Let me now share what I understand to be the current "plan" for the future. The elders have decided to have an intentional interim time. This means the elders want Western Hills to have a span of time to adjust to the new future before we make some knee jerk decisions. The elders have entered into a time of prayer for the future of Western Hills. They are trying to hear God's voice to direct them into the future.

This is an in between time. This is a time of transition. In many ways this is a time of wandering in the wilderness. When God called his children out of slavery in Egypt he could have magically whisked them off and dropped them down into the promise land. He did not do that. Instead he led them on a journey through the wilderness, a journey that lasted for more than 40 years. WHY? Because God needed time to transform his children from slaves into a nation ready to posses the land. God used the time in the wilderness to shape and form his people. God has a track record of calling his people into the wilderness.

Consider these examples...

• Moses spends 40 years herding sheep before God calls him in a burning bush
• Israel wanders for 40 years before crossing the Jordan
• Joseph and Mary are commanded to flee into Egypt
• Jesus fasts for 40 days in the wilderness before beginning his ministry

God calls his people to spend time in the wilderness. It seems in the wilderness we are formed and shaped in new ways to listen to God. Following each wilderness, God calls his children into a new reality and future- one that could not even be conceived of before the wandering and wondering time.

So, take advantage of our "wilderness time." Let God shape us as individuals and especially as a church. Be in prayer for the elders and Western Hills. Continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we move into the future.

Love Ya Much

Scott

Kum Ba Yah....Koinonia

Well, it's that time of the summer again, time to pack the bug spray, the box fan, and the swimsuit (In case you couldn't tell I was just making sure I had everything). We are going to camp K. I am excited about heading through the hills of FM 1431 and starting a great week of Koinonia. This year's theme is ALIVE. We are going through the book of Ephesians, and learn what it means to be an ALIVE person. Paul writes words to the Ephesians all of us need to hear to understand what Christ did for us, what His sacrifice means for me now, and the implications for me after my physical body gives out.

This is going to be an intense, fun, life-changing two weeks. If you would like to post a prayer or an encouraging message for our kids, counselors, and other volunteers please do so. They will be appreciated. We will see you soon and miss you much.

Matt

The Life Saving Station

Last Sunday night during THE WELL, I shared this modern day parable. I thought it would be appropriate to share it here as a reminder to us and our mission in this world.

On a dangerous sea coast where shipwrecks often occur there was once a crude little live saving station. The building was just a hut, and there was only one boat but the few devoted members kept a constant watch over the sea, and with no thought for themselves went out day and night tirelessly searching for the last. Some of those who were saved, and various others in the surrounding area, wanted to become associated with the station and give of their time and money and effort for the support of its work. New boats were bought and new crews trained. The little life saving station grew.

Some of them members of the life saving station were unhappy that the building was so crude and poorly equipped. They felt that a more comfortable place should be provided as the first refuge of those saved from the sea. They replaced the emergency cots with beds and put better furniture in the enlarged building. Now the life saving station became a popular gathering place for its members, and they decorated it beautifully and furnished it exquisitely, because they used it as a sort of club. Fewer members were now interested in going to sea on life saving missions, so they hired life boat crews to do this work. The life saving motif still prevailed in this club’s decoration, and there was liturgical life boat in the room where the club initiations were held. About this time a large ship was wrecked off the coast, and the hired crews brought in boat loads of cold, wet, and half drowned people. They were dirty and sick and some of them had black skin and some had yellow skin. The beautiful new club was in chaos. So the property committee immediately had a shower house built outside the club where victims of shipwreck could be cleaned up before coming inside.

At the next meeting, there was split in the club membership. Most of the members wanted to stop the club’s life saving activities as being unpleasant and a hindrance to the normal social life of the club. Some members insisted upon life saving as their primary purpose and pointed out that they were still called a life saving station. But they were finally voted down and told that if they wanted to save lives of all the various kinds of people who were shipwrecked in those waters, they could begin their own life saving station down the coast.

As the years went by, the new station experienced the same changes that had occurred in the old. It evolved into a club, and yet, another life saving station was founded. History continued to repeat itself, and if you visit that sea coast today, you will find a number of exclusive clubs along that shore. Shipwrecks are frequent in those waters, but most of the people drown!

May God bless Western Hills, as we stay true to our mission in this world.

Love YA Much

Scott M.

A Father's Impact

We (okay, it was really just Qwynn) bought a Father’s Day card for her dad the other day. The text of the card reads: Dad, thanks to your lectures, I never change horses in the middle of a job worth doing, I know the squeaky wheel gets the worm, and I never count my chickens until I’ve walked a mile in their shoes. And you thought I wasn’t listening!

I can very much identify with this card. I’m pretty sure a lot of what my father’s told me over the years has not completely registered. There are a few phrases that have stuck, of course! Phrases such as:

“You can do what you want. You know what your mother and I would prefer you do, but you do what you want.”

And...

“I’m sure you’ve already thought of this, but what if you…”

There are many others, but that’s not my point here. For me, the impact of my father’s words do have power, but the impact of his actions have much more power in my life.

I’ll never forget the hours my dad (usually with me in tow) would spend helping others. Whether it was a home repair need, a computer problem or simply a difficult math problem (he was a math teacher), my dad would do what he could to help others. I also remember many Saturdays at the church building taking care of repair needs there or balancing the church books (he was the finance deacon).

It was those times together that reinforced what I knew my parents believed- “It’s not about us and our needs, it’s about others and their needs.” I guess one of the greatest things that I learned from my father was a heart of service. And for that, I will always be thankful!

-Scott S.

How about you? How has your father, or a special father figure, impacted your life? Share a story or two by clicking on the comments link below.

New Website Features

Exciting stuff is happening online for Western Hills. Our website now has the capacity to present the sermon from the most recent Sunday in streaming audio. To access this feature just go to www.westernhillsonline.org and click on "Hear the Sermon." (This feature works best if you have a high speed connection.) While this feature will never replace you being present with our church family it will allow you to hear the lesson from God's word if you are out of town or working on any given Sunday.

Some of our other features you may be interested in:
1. A link for Bible class teachers to access some great teaching resources available on the Web.
2. A link for resources related to personal spiritual growth.
3. Updated youth ministry website
4. Current prayer requests and hospital list
5. Updated church calendar

Every aspect of our site is designed to help you stay connected to Western Hills and encouraged in your ministry for Jesus.

Love Ya Much,
Scott M.

Home Again!

God is good and faithful! Late last night (12:30am) the Mexico Mission Team returned home to Central Texas. We are glad to report that God blessed the mission in many ways. He provided safe travel, good weather, open hearts, servant spirits, good food, sweet fellowship with our Mexican brethren, times of worship, and a week spent on holy ground. In short the mission was a blessed success. Please ask any team member (young or old) how they saw God at this past week? Also ask them how God worked on them personally during the week?

The mission effort in Monte Cristal continues to move forward. The construction of the medical clinic has advanced far beyond last year. The final shape can already be seen and it is easy to imagine folks from Monte Cristal filling the building to receive medical care.

The VBS effort was one of the best yet. Our mission teens shared the message of God through skits known as "Beyond Words." Like the name implies they dramatically acted out God's love and overcame the language barrier.

Thank you for your prayers. God answered them in dramatic ways.

Love Ya Much

Scott

I want to invite any member of the mission team to click on the comments link and share a story of the ways that you saw Jesus this week.

Join us as we GO-mission our teens!

You will want to be apart of our evening service this coming Sunday, June 5. During our service we call "THE WELL" we will be talking about what it means to be followers of Jesus who "go into all of the world." During the service we will charge our teens to be "go-ers" as they head to Monte Cristal on a mission trip. Following the service EVERYONE is invited to the gym to share in some hotdogs and a Mexico packing party.

If you haven't figured it out yet you soon will - Western Hills is a mission passionate church. We are actively in the business of equipping our young people to live lives of mission. We want them to always see their responsibility as people who "GO".

So be there Sunday night. Be apart of this church sending its own out to be the Hands & Feet of Jesus into the world.

Love Ya Much
Scott M.

Bless our Teens - If YOU want to bless our teens with your prayers click the "comments" link below and leave a prayer/blessing for them. We will print out all the prayers that are posted and share them with the teens on Sunday night during the service. So click the link and be apart of the spiritual prayer cover for our mission team.

The Great GO-Mission!

The Gospel of Matthew ends with these words...

"Therefore GO and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."

The Message version phrases it this way...

"GO out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

Either way the marching orders that Jesus leaves for us is GO! We are to be people who GO. In today's life we are definitely people "on the go" as we rush through our day from one event to the next. In fact we seem to be going lots of places: the store, work, the mall, soccer practice, the lake, and of course one more trip to Wal-Mart.

The question for us to wrestle with in all of our going is "are we going with a sense of mission"? Do we go through our day with the realization that we are right now in the middle of the mission field? In our days of rushing remember that God expects more from us than a frantic pace. We are called to more than membership, we are called to discipleship. Disciples go with a sense of mission.

Love Ya Much,
Scott M.

Questions for Matt Peacock

Matt Peacock recently joined the Western Hills staff in the role of youth ministry resident. Matt will serving in our youth ministry for the next 15 months. Recently we sat down with Matt and asked him these questions. Here is how he answered them...

Western Hills Blog: What is your role at Western Hills?
Matt: My role here at Western Hills is a Youth Ministry Resident. My role here is to serve this church by helping Scott with the youth. Because both of us will be working with the youth we will be able to divide the work and put more time into other areas such as small groups, worship, and family ministries. I want my time here to be seen not as a time in which this church has two guys working with the youth, but as a time where this church has two ministers willing to serve in all facets to this church.

WHB: After already being here for 2 summers previously why did you decide to return to WH again?
Matt: This church has blessed me many times over and I want to give back to this church. I want to serve and be used by God in this place. I could have interviewed all over, but I know that this is a place of Godly people with elders that are looking towards the cross. This is a good place to be! And I want to serve here.

WHB: What do you hope happens during your time with us over the next several months?
Matt: I hope to be a minister that is always pushing this congregation towards more cross shaped lives, and in that process become more cross shaped myself. I hope to see more excitement and joy in this place. I want the community to see this congregation as the church that loves them and a place that they want to be. There are some great things going here and I want to keep them moving, never growing stagnant. And of course, I hope to teach Jesus Christ and what it means to be His disciples to the teenagers of Western Hills.

WHB: Why do you love working with teenagers?
Matt: I love working with teenagers because they are like little sponges: Teenagers are going to be filled with something. They will listen and take it all in. Teenagers, because they are still trying to find who they are, will be moldable. I think it is important that the mold they become is that of our savior Jesus Christ. Another thing that I love about working with teenagers is that they are so creative and fun. It is amazing what a teenager can do with a little direction and creative freedom. Teenagers are a unique breed of human being and are in many ways frustrating but in many ways bring so much joy. Despite the broad range a teenager may fit in, I love them all.

WHB: Are there any other big changes in your life besides coming to WH?
Matt: I just graduated from ACU, but I don't think that was the big change you were referring to. I just recently (5/11) got engaged to a beautiful, Godly woman named Megan Towery.

WHB: How did you "pop the question?"
Matt: The morning of the 11th I drove into College Station and left an invitation for her to meet me at this park in College Station that she and I have picnics at quite often. I had a blanket, rose petals, Gerber Daisies, candles, the whole bit. Something funny happened as I prepared, though. I lit the candles and so as not to start a fire went to throw the matches in the pond. When I got back to the blanket I looked down and saw this brown stuff. I had stepped in dog mess and got it on the blanket. So I was scrambling to get the blanket turned over. It was a mess. When she got there I gave here a Bible that I had wrapped with "Megan Peacock" embroidered on it. I read to her the last part of Psalm 85 which is "our verse." After I got done reading, I turned the Bible toward her and the ring was tied to the place marker. I got down on one knee and she said "Yes."

WHB: What is it about Megan that attracted you to her?
Matt: How much time do you have? Oh, where to begin? She and I were first kisses (I was hers and she was mine) way back in junior high school. So I guess I had always been attracted to her. One of the most attractive things about Megan is her servant heart. She is always ready to serve. She and I have been best friends since those junior high days and she has always been able to challenge me spiritually. We have the best time together. We can make a game out of just about anything. Just thinking about her now makes me smile. Plus, she's hot. :)

WHB: Do you see Megan feeling comfortable as a part of the WH family?
Matt: She already does. One of the best qualities of this church is its ability to embrace people. She has commented to me several times how much she love the people here and how excited she is to become a part of this church family. I personally want to thank all of you for embracing her. Obviously she is important to me and the fact that you have opened your arms to her means a lot to me.

WHB: You are quite a movie buff, what is your favorite all time movie?
Matt: This may be the hardest question you have asked. I have to be honest I have a very eclectic taste in movies. What I really mean is that I like some weird movies. This may sound like a cop-out, but I love movies so much that I never have an all time favorite, just a favorite of the moment. The favorites of the moment might be a three way split between "The Notebook" (I know, I can already hear the comments, but I am a sucker for a good love story),"Troy" (It is not Homer's original, but such a good story. Plus, who does not like a good one on one sword battle), and "Finding Neverland" (If you like Peter Pan, this ones for you.) Now that you have got me thinking, let me make a suggestion. For all who love "Star Wars" the newest one is by far the best of the prequals.

If you wish to leave Matt an encouraging word or give him your suggestions for movies just click the comments link and let him know.

Crossing Jordan

Joshua Chapter 3 finds Joshua, and all of God's people, camped out beside the Jordan River during flood stage. The word of the Lord comes to Joshua, the new leader of Israel, and the command is this, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you." (Joshua 3:5). In this command the people of God are called to do something they have never done before - cross the Jordan and posses the land.

It is my belief that these words are God's call on Western Hills today. In recent weeks this church has faced struggles, trials, and loss. In many ways it appears that a river at flood stage separates us from our future. How in the world do we move forward? We need to hear God's call for us, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."

What does that mean? It means that collectively and individually, publicly and privately we pray and we fast. We pray for ears to hear the voice of God and eyes to see the movement of God. We get ready for God to declare himself. Remember, it is he who will DO the amazing things. And when the call to move comes, we head out.

Love Ya Much,
Scott M.

So what is your prayer for Western Hills? What amazing things are you praying for God to do among us? Share them with us. Click the comments link and let us know what God is doing in your heart and in your life?

What is a BLOG?

A Blog is a shorthand term for "web-log." Blogs exist on the internet in all kinds of forms for all kinds of reasons. But simply they exist as a kind of running journal or diary. On each blog the most recent entry or "post" will appear at the top of the page.

Our blog will be a way to give you a "behind the scenes" look at the on going life of this church. Western Hills is far more active than just Sundays. This blog will be a way to highlight many more of the exciting things that God is doing. In this blog you will discover devotional thoughts, upcoming events, theological reflections, words of encouragement, and those random thoughts that fall out of our heads.

We enourage you to check back often to stay current. We also encourage you to click on the comment link and leave a comment. This will be a way we can have an on going conversation and you can be part of the dialogue. Can't wait to hear what God is doing in your life.

Love Ya Much
Scott