In Local News....

"Don’t miss the big parade around the square at noon Saturday when the Bean Queen and the Rib King will be announced."

I kid you not..... it's often like a time warp in G-town.

Cannot help but love it no matter how much I try.

unChristian - The Book

If you haven't read unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons... Brother G and I greatly encourage you to do so.

While it is a tough book to read in some ways - it is a necessary one to understand "what a new generation really thinks about Christianity and why it matters."

Our local church body's book club is reading unChristian currently at our recommendation. They will be discussing the book in detail next month.

You may find unChristian on Amazon for $12.23. It is worth every penny and more.

Time to reach out to a new generation and show God's love today... this moment.

It is not ours alone to receive or keep.

Lawn Pastor......

For those who have inquired....

Yes, Brother G is still being the lawn pastor for G-town and our highly secure gated community. If you or someone you know is in need of lawn care and home visits - he'll be happy to make arrangements with you.

Depending upon the individual - services could be provided for free.

You may contact him the following ways:

1) Call our home number
2) Call his cell number
3) Drop by our home
4) Call the physical church building
5) Or catch him on Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings.
6) Via comment here
7) Via email

For the record: My mother is not his secretary. Please do not leave a message with her. Feel free to leave one with one of our sons should they answer the home phone.

What exactly is a lawn pastor? It's a pastor who takes care of more than just the lawn.

Please Pray....

Esther S. was just involved in a car accident outside the front gate of our highly secure gated community. The older gentleman who hit her car is on fire and they are working to get him out of the it. Esther is seemingly okay at the moment although quite shaken up as to be expected.

Please pray for all involved. And please use extreme caution when traveling on that particular highway as there have been numerous accidents and serious injuries/deaths on it as of late.

Thank you.

Questions Answered.

The last few days I've been asked a series of questions from several individuals. The following are my answers. They are in no particular order.

1. No. I am not working on a book at this time. That's part of why this blog was started. I know you say that God is telling you that I am supposed to be writing one right now - my schedule says otherwise.

2. No. I am not going back to school at this time. Again - my schedule won't allow it. I might take more classes here or there but not pursuing any more than that. Every day life is a classroom. And all my guys are in school as it is. That can be crazy enough...

3. Austin is at LBA. Travis and Parker are both still currently in public schools. That could change if public schools go even more in a direction we disagree with. At no time have we turned over their education to the public system and/or the government.

4. No. I'm not going through a mid-life crisis because of turning 40 next month. I embrace turning The Big 40. I've never been healthier in all my life. If you don't like my hair - I'm sorry. And it's more than okay if you don't find it sexy either. It fits my current schedule to a T. And no - I do not plan on dying my hair to cover my grays.

5. Yes. I have said and will continue to say that Brother G does not "complete me"... nor do my sons, my job, or anything or anyone else other than God. Want to learn more about that? Come to our marriage class.

6. Parker is a touchy feely kid. I rather like him hugging me in public. At ten most kids want nothing to do with hugging a parent where and when they might be seen. I encourage it - not discourage it. Besides, I'm a hugger myself.

7. No. We did not give the car to charity. It was in the shop. I am the charity! And I still have a blast driving. So frankly - I do not care what type of vehicle I drive.

8. No. I will not be attending the annual golf tourney in memory of my dad. I will be at work. I do not have a golfing bone in my body. Why pretend that I do? Have fun without me. My brother will be there. Spend time with him since he does not live here. Yes. I do enjoy driving the golf cart on the streets of the highly secure gated community we live in though.

9. Yes. I did say that I hope we do not stay at two services for very long. I'm praying for Spiritual Awakening and Spiritual Revival every single day!

10. Yes. My mom is allowed to date. Austin is not. (Read: She's 65 and is a widow. He's 16. There is a difference.)

There ya have it... My answers for today.

As always - you have been prayed for this moment.

And you are loved by The One who truly matters the most in life!

Bible Studies - Women & Co-Ed

Please continue to pray for our Bible study groups.

Today, my women's class will be diving even deeper into the Sermon on the Mount. Heavy hitting stuff for most of the women in it. As a teacher, I do not want women taking any of my classes just to check it off a "To-Do List." Please pray that it truly penetrates every moment of their life.

Brother G and I are starting a new class this Wednesday night. We are teaching on marriage and how to make it work in today's world. This is a subject that we are passionate about. One of the reasons of course being that we know firsthand that God and each of our own relationships with Him must be at the top of our marriage on a daily basis. This is a co-ed class and will run at the same time and room as usual. Cannot wait to see what God has in store for this group!!!

Randal's class will continue to meet as usual as will the other women's only classes.

Have you picked up God's word since Sunday and dived in? If not - what are you waiting for?

Picture Time!

All pics taken at The Main Event either for Spring Break 08 or Park's 10th b/day!

(Disclaimer: Sorry.. I did not get all the students and adults who were there.)

Love G-town Testimony

Via email from Micky on Saturday:

What a great day!!! That is just all we could say after our Love G-town service project this morning. Everyone had a great time and we wanted to give all of you a report on how things went today.

First of all, we had one group at the Brookshires Grocery Store helping to bag groceries, doing customer carry out and cart return. We had approximately 150 kindness cards handed out by that group. Many of the customers really responded when our folks handed them a kindness card and told them that "God loves you." A number of Brookshires customers offered to make donations to us, which flung the door wide open for us to explain that what we are doing is totally and completely free...just like God's love is free!! The Brookshires employees were very appreciative of the extra help our people provided and one of them even asked me "can't you guys stay until 9:00." The manager on duty this morning told us that he would love to have us back any time we wanted to come.

Next, we also had a group at the Brookshires service station. From 9:00 AM to 12 Noon today we went retro and converted the station from self-service into a full service station. Our people greeted the station customers as they pulled up to the pump by explaining that we were from LBC and that we were doing a free community service project this morning. We offered to pump their gas and wash their windshields free of charge with no donations accepted. A number of people almost seemed shocked that we would be doing that sort of thing, but said "in that case, sure go ahead." While someone pumped the gas and another washed the windshield, another person was able to hand the customer a kindness card and engage them in conversation while they waited for their gas to finish pumping.

We had some really great conversations at the gas pumps and even had a couple of people share some pretty heart wrenching stories with us and we assured them that we would add these names to our prayer list. I'll just share one with you in this email. One was for a lady's husband, whose name is H.D. Ms. D came through the line at one of the pumps and when we handed her the kindness card that said we were doing this project just to show God's love, she nearly broke down in tears and commented, "we really needed God's love this week." She related how her husband had gone to the oncologist earlier this week and had been diagnosed with advanced prostrate cancer that had already metastasized into his bone. She went on to explain that along with the shock of getting that sort of devastating medical news, they were also dealing with the fact that he was apparently misdiagnosed by another doctor earlier this year, so they are also having some anger issues as well. She seemed so grateful for us taking the time to listen and to put her husband on our prayer list. As I said, we gave her a card and we told her to be sure and call the church if we could do anything at all for them. We did not sense that this family was connected to any church body and we think this could be a wonderful ministry opportunity for our church.

We handed out right at 200 kindness cards at the service station! So all in all, we handed out well over 300 cards between the two groups. What a great day it was. Please pray with us that God will send forth other Believers to water and nourish the seeds of kindness that were planted today and for the ultimate harvest that God will reap through His Holy Spirit. God bless!

Reminder: Our Kindness Explosion is April's Love G-town. Please watch for more details.

Desperate?

Yesterday afternoon, in the middle of the production that is getting our worship folders ready for Sunday - the folding machine suddenly stopped working.

I heard my name called. Next I was on the phone calling the company to see about getting a repair person out ASAP. According to Stephanie and Jennifer, it merely said, "Power Out." They tried turning it off and on and etc. Nothing. Nothing. We do almost all our printing in-house.

The person I spoke with was very polite. When she asked me what it was doing, I relayed what Stephanie and Jennifer had said and done. The tone in her voice was that of, "That's not good." When I told her we were doing one of our largest printings - she said, "Oh! You're printing for Easter!" We got disconnected.

I called back and they promised to have a repair person out at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow morning (today). The woman said she greatly appreciated us and what we do.

When I gave the news to Stephanie and Jennifer, Stephanie said, "Thanks for sounding so desperate Camey." I had to laugh at the moment..... We were desperate.. but still I did not realize that's how I sounded. Stephanie's words got me to thinking... (I know what's new there)

We can be so desperate about getting everything so ready for our Easter services that we might miss the true depth of the cross. Wanting this or that to go just right.... Or a person/family might be so desperate in finding the right clothes, the right time to feast and where and etc.... they miss it too. Whatever else this weekend might bring....

Are we desperate to truly experience the cross and Jesus and His amazing love?

Are we desperate to show and tell others about the Only One who is truly worth any fame?

Am I desperate?

Are you?

Wednesday - Spring Break

Pictures from Monday's Main Event will be posted here soon. They will also be posted on Myspace and Facebook. Next time people - try to look like you're having a good time. And thanks to Terry for sharing his nachos with us. Awwwwwww. Loads of laughs too!

Tonight's Schedule:

Dinner - regular time and place

Preschool and children - SKATE NIGHT (Yes, we're skating! WHOA!)

Students - Attic with Ryan

Adults - Free to join students in the Attic as there are no other Bible study classes meeting

David's people - same as always


Make Today Count!

Prayers Answered. Spring Break.

Prayers Answered:

Thank you to all who have been praying for Joe and his family. Terri sent word last night that Joe has indeed went home to be with our Lord. What a privilege it has been walking with their family through this time. To hear their faith alive and breathing even though Joe was on a ventilator for quite some time. Please continue to pray for them as they remember Joe and celebrate our Father.

Thank you also to all who prayed for Brother G and those there at the camp. Seeds were planted. We may never know the results - and that is okay with us. It is a privilege to share God's love no matter the situation or time.

Spring Break:

So, it's Spring Break here in G-town. What does that mean? Well...... Main Event for our student ministry today at 12:00. ( Meet at the physical church building on the hill) The G family is looking forward to hanging out with our amazing students and whatever parents dare to come too! Our students rock! Yes, Shelley and Ryan do too... We love you guys!

In the midst of Spring Break - may we be found guilty of sharing and showing God's love no matter where we may be found. Can't wait to play some air hockey! Oh Yeah!

More to come.... stay tuned....

Lifting Up Dear Ones.

Please lift up in prayer the family of Joe. I personally do not know Joe but I am close to his grown daughter Terri.

Joe has been ill for quite some time now. Joe and his family made the decision together to take him off the ventilator. It is only a matter of time now.

Thank You Lord for Joe's life and for how his family has stood by his side. Treasured moments indeed.

Please lift up also those at the camp where Brother G is. He spent time last night with a college student who claims to be of a different religion. He said it just sounded too easy to become a Christ-follower. Knowing of course, sometime it is seeds that are being planted to be harvested at another time by someone else for God's glory alone. Any thing is possible with Him.

Pray also for those who walked into any physical place that is said to represent Christ. May His Word be alive today for He is. And may lives be forever changed because of having joined together with other believers. Truly may HE alone be worshipped and praised!

Lifting up dear ones. And you dear reader have been lifted up too.

On Mission III

This just in from Brother G....

Only 4 out of 10 in his small group are Believers. That's just in his group alone....

Keep praying!

Thank you.

Where Does My Help Come From?

Over the course of the last few days, I've had several intense conversations with individuals. Individuals who frankly weren't sure where to go, what to do, where their help was going to come from.... and yet, they found their way to the local physical church building.

One man I've come to know by name and sight. And while his particulars I'll keep - this I can share....

This grown man admitted the other day that he is not comfortable in applying for jobs on-line. He has very limited computer skills. You could tell it was difficult for him to admit out loud given the day and age we live in. Enter into this picture another individual.... This individual has agreed to help him. This individual is another grown man although much younger.

I do not believe in coincidences. I do not believe the younger man came through the foyer right when we were discussing someone to help him just because he wanted a drink from out of the machine.

Where does my help come from? It may appear to come from someone who walks by in the foyer of a local church building... but it truly comes from Lord.

May His Help fall like rain onto those who need Him. That should cover each of us.......

Where does your help come from?

On Mission II - Never Encountered!

This just in from Brother G....

Please continue to pray!

Most who are attending the camp have never encountered The Gospel before.

They are international college age students. Some have only been here a couple of months to 14 days. Some do not know much English. Some have come to this Country with no friends or family here to study.

Never encountered The Gospel before....

May lives be touched and forever changed because His Word is Alive!

On Mission....

Brother G is heading out of town today. Please pray for him and those he will be serving with today through Sunday. Also pray for those who will be there who do not know God.

On mission....

Are you?

Things Are Happening!

Testimonies are happening all over the place today here at the local church building whether via phone, email, or in person.

I'm tellin' ya....... it's not just about Sundays folks.

Things are happening... THANK YOU JESUS!

Bruce. Open House. Joy.

Bruce:

His name is Bruce. He sits by Parker now on the school bus. I am amazed watching and listening to Parker talk about Bruce. At first, Parker thought the bus driver made a mistake in having Bruce sit by him. Now, Parker understands that it was no mistake. Please pray for Bruce... and of course, for Parker too. Oh the lessons that can be taught, caught and learned while on the school bus.

(Yes... His name is not Bruce. And yes, we have forgiven him. Even Parker's mommy.)

Open House:

Parker is in public school. Last night was his open house. As we were walking around the intermediate school, I saw several faces I recognized. They recognized me too. One of the best parts of ministry is helping others with the most basic needs. And while I do represent our local church body.... I better represent Christ first and foremost.

Joy:

Yesterday morning was Bible study class. I count it all joy to be in this study right now. Is it easy? No. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Thank you again for all who have committed to pray for me, the ladies, and the study. I felt those prayers yesterday in a mighty way as His Spirit flowed. Sheer joy.

Signed,
Beyond Thankful in Texas

Are You Moved?

Parker and I sit together on Sunday mornings. Austin is up in the booth. Travis sits with the students. Hubby, of course, is wherever he needs to be given the moment.

This past Sunday morning, Parker and I had a real bonding moment. We looked at each other and we each were tearing up big time. That little man kept putting his arm around his mommy or holding my hand.

Yesterday, the boys were all at home with me. Parker and I talked about what was going through our minds and hearts Sunday morning. Parker said, "The meaning behind the words of the songs we were singing made me want to cry. In Philippians, we were talking about for me to live is Jesus and to die is more Jesus. I wish more people understood that."

He then said that he knew that's why I was moved to tears also. He knew it. He did not have to ask me. He knew. He was right. That was exactly why I was moved.... to tears..

Are you moved?

In a world that says you need more of this and or that.... do you want more Jesus?

Jesus wants more of you... In fact, He wants all of you.

He wants you to be sold out completely.

He never said that life would be easy. He just said, "Come follow me."

Are you moved to follow Him?

And will you allow Him to move you wherever He wants you to go?

For one thing I truly believe about Jesus... while our foundation is solid in Him.. and on it we can stand... We are never meant to stay... we are meant to go.... even if it's just down the street..

Are you moved? today.... this moment?

If not... ask Jesus to move you...

Signed,
May Each Day Be A Moving Day

Today in History. Year: 1966.

A baby boy was born.

That boy grew up and now is a man.

I could go on and on but that would spoil my plan.

Today in History. Year: 1966.

Happy Birthday Hubby!

At 42 - you never looked so good.

Even more amazing what a Godly man you are and becoming.

I'm thankful for you every moment of living.