Midweek Update #9

Dear Dayspring Family,

Here we are in the middle of the week between Christmas and New Year's trying to stay ahead of things.  I am doing a lot of work for SAGU this week in preparation for the beginning of the semester and the first day of classes. At the same time I'm working on my upcoming messages for Dayspring Church.  I'm glad to hear that Christmas sales have been positive and the economy seems to be improving.  Tonight, I thought we would look at the book of Ecclesiastes since it is the end of the old year and beginning of the new.  Our key portion of scripture will be Ecclesiastes Chapter 3.  Chapter 3 verse 1 states from the N.I.V. that "There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven."

King Solomon, son of King David and the wisest man who ever lived, wrote the book of Ecclesiastes.  The Theme of the book is Vanity, Vanity, All is Vanity or Everything is Meaningless.   In this small book of 12 chapters, Solomon tells everything in life he attempted such as all kinds of work projects, adventures, and pleasures. All of these were an effort in futility according to Solomon.  Everything he attempted found no meaning for him in life although he was the wisest and wealthiest man that has ever lived.  He attempted many things.  The following are a few of the things he pursued to find a satisfying life:  wisdom, pleasure, vast gardens and parks, laughter, accumulation of great wealth, music, a vast harem of women, many wives, and many work projects.  All of these are reported by Solomon as a chasing after the wind and nothing significant really accomplished in the pursuit of these things.

By the last chapter, Solomon does end in a positive note and tells us two things that are worthwhile  in life that we should pursue.

It seems as I become older, I desire whatever days are remaining to be meaningful and significant and to really count for something.   I am hoping to continue working full time until 70 or 75 years of age.   I do still enjoy traveling throughout the world and SAGU provides an opportunity at spring break time for me to do that.  Tonight in the Wednesday evening prayer and Bible Study at 7 p.m., let's talk about this past year's accomplishments and opportunities for improvement in the new year in light of what Solomon says in the book of Ecclesiastes.

Well, I look forward to seeing you tonight for fellowship,  prayer, and time in the Word.  It's good to be a part of a church family who cares for one another. Love ya'll and see you tonight if the Lord is willing and the creek doesn't rise.

I have been reading George W. Bush's biography entitled Decision Points and finding it very insightful into his life.  Remember to pray for those from your Sunday bulletin prayer list.

Blessings to you,

Pastor Larry

Midweek Update #8

Hey, I think it has been warmer back in Dallas than it has been here in Florida.  It has been down in the 20's at night this week but will warm up to 75 by tomorrow.   I have had an opportunity to spend time with my son Shawn and his wife Julie in Orlando and my brother Rex and his wife Anna in Naples.  It was cold there also.

Stopped by Clearwater Beach and no one was on the beach except us and we were wrapped up warm.  Very seldom does Florida get this cold.

Tonight, Andy will be sharing in the Wednesday evening service. I know you will enjoy him.  We really appreciate Andy and Lucie in their ministry.  Kevin does a great job in working with them and with our Youth.  They are like the dynamic duo.

Today, Leah and I are headed to Lakeland, Florida, to visit with friends.  I pastored in Bartow which is just south of there.  Already have had some fresh Florida oranges and strawberries justed pick from the field just before the freeze this week. 

Doing some Christmas shopping.

Look forward to seeing you all this weekend as we continue our series on the Gift of Christmas. Good to get away for few days with Leah.  But there is no place like home.  Oh, don't forget the special Christmas Candlelight Service next Wednesday night and we will be sharing a meal together.  More details to come this Sunday.

Well, just wanted to let you all know that I was thinking about you and love you all very much.  See ya soon.

Pastor Larry