Making the Call

I really struggled this morning to make the call about whether or not to cancel services at FBC because of the weather.  I despise cancelling church.  Today was a struggle on multiple levels.  

First, the weather itself.  It took me about 10 minutes and 3 pitchers of warm water (I know better, but I was desperate) to get my vehicle drivable.  The big, heavy, 4WD suburban made it into town without any real trouble, but I saw other vehicles struggling.  Water in various forms continues to fall from the sky and temperatures continue to fall.  The issue came down to what we expect conditions to be like at noon- not pretty.  So we made the call to cancel and encourage you to stay home.  I miss you guys, though.  And I look forward to Wednesday night when we can gather again.

Second, we were supposed to start our new study of "I Am A Church Member" today.  This first session is the most important as it lays the framework for the rest of the study.  While I was excited to launch into this new series, I didn't want to start out on the wrong foot with just a very few brave people.  We will get started next week.  In the meantime, read ahead in the book and be prepared for some discussion.

Third, we were going to take some time today to remember and pray for families whose lives were turned upside down 2 years ago in the Leap Day Storm.  Our hearts are heavy as we look back on that day.  While our eyes are filled with tears of sadness as we remember that day, we are also filled with gratitude.  Through that storm, and its aftermath, God has proven Himself both Great and Good- over and over again.  He has brought comfort to the hurting and restoration to the broken.  He even brought life to some who were dead in their trespasses and sins!  He is always Great and He is always Good.  Sometimes we struggle to see that.  Spurgeon once said, “If you can't see His way past the tears, trust His heart.” 

So, on this snow day, here are my suggestions:

1. Spend some time in prayer remembering the journey God has brought us on over the last 2 years.
2. Spend some time reading "I Am A Church Member" in preparation for next week.  Give special attention to the Scriptures that are references.  Look them up and read the broader context.  
3. Take advantage of the great resources of the internet and listen to some excellent preaching.
4. Take a nap.