Sunday is here!

Our sound man, Fred, from Canada.

Nancy arrived early to practice her special with the pianist, Janet.  Jay, also a sound man, is harassing Nancy, telling her to put her book in front of her face because he knows I am trying to take a picture.

Nancy sings beautifully.

John and Nancy are leaving today and I wanted a picture of the four of us.  Warren was sweet and took our picture. Nancy is one of best encouragers.  We’re sure going to miss them and pray for their safe trip home.  Looking forward to next season with them!!!

Don’s sermon this morning was from 1 Timothy 2:1-7, “First of All, Pray.”

¹I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;

²for kings and all that are in high place; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity.

³This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior;

⁴who would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth.

⁵For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, himself man, Christ Jesus,

⁶who gave himself a ransom for all; the testimony to be borne in its own times;

⁷whereunto I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I speak the truth, I lie not), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Don told a story about a lady who always prayed with her hand open and her thumb next to her heart.  When asked about this method of praying, she explained:

1. The thumb, next to the heart, reminds me to pray for those closest to me; my family, friends, co-workers.
2. The index finger represents those who point “the way;” preachers, teachers, missionaries, etc.
3. The middle finger represents those in high places; government leaders, etc.
4. The fourth finger is the weakest finger.  Try to lift it while your hand is in a fist.  It’s almost impossible to do.  This finger represents those who are weak, sick, down and out, struggling.
5. The little finger represents you and is a reminder to pray for yourself in all things.

What a great way to remember how to pray and who we need to pray for.

Don also loves to use the ACTS acronym when praying:

A – Adoration (praise the Lord)

C – Confession of sins

T – Thanksgiving

S – Supplication (intercession and requests)

As Christians, praying is not the least we can do, it is the most important thing we can do.