Look: Back Left - It's Eli Manning!

I go to LFA in Longview, Texas. Our pastor (of 15 years) retired several months ago. Our board didn't immediately hire someone, and our staff didn't rush out to start looking for new jobs. The sense of urgency to put a warm body in that position does not trump the growth that is taking place right now.

The reason that I still go there despite the transition is that the door to my heart has been kicked in. I feel the presence of Jesus more than ever before. My ideas of Christianity and religion are constanly challenged, and I have a new vision of "Church." I play drums on the worship team, and I get to be immersed in the presence of my Jesus every time I sit behind the kit.

God is calling, and for the first time in my life - I am really, truly listening.

Our church website - http://lfa.ag

Looks Russian to me...

Shouldn't it always be about forgiveness though? Why would we want to spend our time focusing on the balance of judgement? In my honest opinion, the minute that God forgave me, I lost most of the zeal that I had to see things balance out. I realized that I was saved from a place of despair and death, and I wouldn't want anyone else to face the same fate that I was headed towards.

As far as a legend goes, the legend is as big as the person that believes in it. I am heartbroken that MJ died, but not because of how I followed his music or anything. I am heartbroken because I haven't heard anyone say that he personally knew Jesus. I feel the same pain when a gang-banger or dope addict dies apart from Christ.

I guess that legend really doesn't matter when death is seen in the light of eternity...just my opinion.

I read many of the prayer requests, and my tears have been flowing freely. To be honest, my little issues seem so much smaller now. I could ask for financial prayers, guidance in decisions, and many other things. The purpose and importance of a gathering together in one accord is something that has held my head above the water line during my life. Instead of asking for your prayer, I am joining in to pray.

I will also pray for you, Los. I pray that you will have wisdom and guidance for when things get confusing and foggy. I pray that this community will experience the lifting of the spirit when "Peace, be still" is heard.

My prayer for this community...

May God calm the face of the waters and quench the fierce attack of the storms that we face. May healing be the banner that is raised in triumph. May victory be the shout that billows from our throats. May compassion be the flood that flows forth from our souls. Amen.