Blogspot Brock Christian Sites Classic CUMC video sermons Cuba Cuba Calendar .
Email London Mills Officers Pastor Ardith Pastor Paul This & That UMW

for god so loved the world

Paul's Ponderings

Isn't vacation great? I'm sitting at Panera Bread in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, talking with folks about their lives, and trying to figure out how to get on the Internet so I can send my articles to Ellen. I knew that I had to get this article done before I left, but I decided that it wouldn't be too bad to do it when we got back to London Mills on Monday. Now it is Tuesday and Tes and I came back to Mom's to give my sister some help.
As I was walking out of the door this morning, my sister, Janet, asked me if I was ever truly on vacation. I had to say that I guessed not. We went to church on Sunday so Jonathan didn't have to try out a new church alone, we've prayed regularly, and I'v ehear about what's happening from home through Becca. With the presence of cellphones, email, and the Web, it's hard to fully get away.
People sometimes tell me that they're taking a vacation from church because they're feeling overwhelmed, upset, or unsure of their faith. I've never quite understood this way of thinking. The fellowship of believers is the place where I've always found more directioin, help for my dilemmas, and stability for my faith. Even though I may be frustrated in life, I can't imagine being separated from others whos faith buoy's me up when I feel like I am sinking.
One of the hardest parts about being on vacation is coming home again. After being able to sleep in, visit new sites, and relax, it is difficult to come back and get into the schedules of everyday life. When you've been gone from church, it can feel a little awkward and challenging to get back into the habit again. Just like coming back from vacation, we have to be willing to get started at church. Here are a few tips that might make it easier:
  • Remember all the folks from church that you haven't seen in awhile. We're always happy to see you, and we will welcome you back with open arms.
  • Ask someone to meet you at church so you won't have to sit alone.
  • Most folks say they feel better when they're at church regularly. Think about what you can bring to church or get from church on your way.
  • Remember that God asks us to include Him regularly in our lives. If we don't make sure to fit Christ into our schedule, we'll tend to forget about Him in the rest of our days.
I hope to see you in Church soon. Vacation's about over, but the fun is just beginning. In Christ,
Rev. Paul

Let's not forget those of
our church family who are in a nursing
home or homebound.
Clayberg-Harriet Lemon, Doris Helle
Everly House-Macomb-Mary Nimmo, Harold Plate
Graham Extended Care-Marie Long
Heartland-Henry, Illinois-Reva Black
Knox County-Klint Smith
Homebound-Maxine Churchill, Doris Murphy, Louise Smith
Red Oaks Estates-Mildred Wheeler
Peoria High Rise-Dora Gray Avon Nursing Home-Mildred Homer Heartland Healthcare in Macomb-Maxine Ford