New Growth

Just to catch up on things, I am now the full-time worship leader at church. Oh yes, I am back at my family church. Things are going well, in the right direction. Tim is continuing to attend at our "new" church, having become involved in the choir and worship team there. But we manage to attend services at both churches quite often. Not bad, really, I know I am getting quite a bit out of this.

There are times of pruning in our lives which are painful, but necessary. But after the pruning, new life grows fresh and fuller than before. I have faith that is where our church is now. Ready to begin branching out with new growth, better fruit.

Some have left, but those who remain are more committed, more ready to love. They have had a chance to look at their church, and themselves. They have, I believe, dedicated themselves more fully to the job at hand and God will now be able to use them as never before. That is what I believe. Others who grew weary and left, I hope to see returning. Why not? I did.

This morning's service was a happy time of worship. I chose patriotism, God's blessings, and God-given vision for the future as the worship theme. (4th of July, I wonder where that theme came from? ;) Tim sang "God Bless America". If only I had HIS voice...well, I guess I wouldn't want his voice because I would look silly singing with his voice....so I guess I'm happy with my voice.... It was a very good sermon on "anticipation". All in all, one of those uplifting services you enjoy, one that our church has seen too few of over the past years.

Which brings us to Wednesday, this week. We will be assembling for a congregation business meeting to discuss the future. Will we catch our vision? Will the anticipation be for future growth in our walk with Christ? Will we walk in God's blessing? I believe so. I believe this time of testing and trial is nearly over, and I believe it is time to put the past behind, all the doubt and self recrimination and guilt. There has been a spirit of confusion allowed to trespass. That can happen to God's church. But if there is any lesson to be learned from all of this it is pray, pray, pray...and then pray some more. God is faithful if you call on Him faithfully.

Rest in Peace Cowboy Bill

Grandpa Bill, Grandma Florence and my dad

Cowboy Bill Newcomb passed from this life this morning on the Fourth of July, 2008.

My Grandpa Bill had a gypsy in his soul. Married 4 times, his exploits were the things of family legend. The memory of his booming voice, infectious grin, and gift of entertainment will be passed down the generations.

The stability and solid Christian example of my Mom’s parents enrich my life and give me an example to reach for as I strive to become the woman I hope to one day be. But the adventurous tales and very infrequent, but memorable, visits with my paternal grandfather left an indelible mark. His memory will forever tell me that I have it within me to be whatever I want to be. He was not afraid to take a chance, step out of the mold and do it his way, sometimes it seems, to his own disadvantage.

But, all in all, I perceive that in me is the solid, practical, Christian seed planted through my maternal grandparents, as well as the larger-than-life, take-a-chance entertainer that is the spirit of my paternal grandfather. I believe he found faith late in life, but like everything with Grandpa, it was bigger than life. With a family tree like that, I must conclude that God has implanted me with everything I need to be whatever He calls me to be.

Rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus, Grandpa. Your traveling days are over and you are finally home.