1.  I’ve only missed one Sunday this summer (last week), but it felt like I had been gone forever.  So glad to be back in church today.

2.  We took time to pray for Destiny Church in Columbia after the tragic van accident with some of their youth group members that occurred last week.  Their pastor, Steven Morgan, is a close friend of mine.  We’re praying for this church family in their time of deep grief.

3.  For the first time ever, I forgot to have “fellowship time” during our 10:45 service.  This is such an important component of our service, as our friendliness and warmth is necessary to make people feel welcomed.   I simply forgot!   I hope that doesn’t happen again.

4.  It was sad to say good-by to my good friends Jonathan Lee & Laura McEllheney.   Still, but I know God is going to use Jonathan and Laura in a powerful way in their new job.   They will be greatly missed at CIL.

5.   My message The Heart Behind One Sunday was one of the most important talks of the year.  I’ve never been so excited about the future of CIL.  I’m excited to see the wave of momentum God is going to help us create on Sunday, August 21.

6.  We will have water baptisms next Sunday – August 7th.  If you are going to be baptized in water let me know which service so we can properly plan our time.

7.  It’s hot out there!

8.  The guys and gals on Capital Hill really know how to complicate things.  The solution is simple:  spend less then the income you bring in.

and I’m thinking about tomorrow’s sermon.  I know some of you will read this after the sermon is over, but I want you to know what my thoughts are tonight.  I preach approximately 75 – 90 times a year.   Tomorrow’s sermon feels different.

The title of my talk is The Heart Behind One Sunday.   I have high hopes for this targeted Sunday on August 21 as a way to create momentum in our congregation.  That is why tomorrow’s message is a special sermon.  God is calling us to mobilize as a church family.

I believe tomorrow will be more than a sermon, but a new directive from God to our congregation.

Together, we can make a difference in Sumner County and beyond!   It starts with One Sunday.

On Saturday morning (July 30th) the Compassion Ministries at CIL gave out over 265 backpacks filled with the specific school supplies requested by the schools.   These back packs and school supplies are a tangible way for people to recieve a boost, and to be reminded that God loves them.  Every family who got a backpack, received personal prayer from one of our amazing prayer partners.

I’m so grateful for the leadership of Pastor Kim Driver and other volunteers who spend months preparing for this event.   We exist to Know His Love,  Share His Love.   This morning CIL truly “shared His love” with our community.

1. A fantastic Sunday!  Great energy with the worship led by Beth Allison.   I loved hearing the violin added to the mix!

2. “Antioch” is one of the most important cities to our faith, but it is often overlooked.  I think everyone learned something today from Acts 11, and the Holy Spirit was present as we responded to the Word.

3.  An amazing team of volunteers came to VBS Set up Sunday night.  We had a lot of fun!  It was neat watching  242 Groups serve together.

4.  Do you know a year ago we had different service times?  The change in times last August was a little tough on the church, so we’re not changing again (for now)!   It’s just interesting to think how a year can seem so long ago.

5. Coming straight home after church instead of going out to eat made my afternoon longer, and more fulfilling.  I had to make a stop at Food Lion, but it was worth it!

6.  Do you have August 21, 2011 marked on your calendar?  It’s “One Sunday.”   I’m asking everyone at CIL to show up that Sunday.  More to come!

7.  I’m switching my “Sabbath” this week from Monday to Friday, for one week only to accommodate a family need.   If you need to get a hold of me on Monday, feel free to call the office.

8. It was good to see Pastor David on Sunday after he spent a week caring for his wife, during her hospital stay.   Margie is 5 months pregnant, and doing well.  However, pray for her for the duration of this pregnancy.

9.  If you haven’t tried Blue Moon Barbecue in Hendersonville – wow!  The best beef brisquet you’ll find east of the Mississippi River.  Outstanding stuff!

10.  Beth Allison’s birthday is Tuesday, July 12.  She’s turning the big 4-0.   I joked in my sermon, “You look great at thirty.”  She looks great at forty, or any age.  Happy birthday, Beth!