Monday Morning Downloads [on wednesday]

*Sunday night was one of those nights where I knew in my heart that the Lord was going to teach me some big lessons and He did.
*I learned that people really do want to go deep into the scriptures and they are hungry for Bible teaching. I have had more encouragement about this new series than I have ever had during all of my years of teaching.
*I learned that when you let Godly people do what they are called to do, great things happen. Donovan, Lindsey, Ryan, Judy, Larry, Nathan, Erika and Joe all work so well together to make sure that the service flows and that everything we offer up is pleasing to Him.
*I learned that Christians love to laugh and I believe humor is pleasing to the Lord. Is there bad humor? Of course. Just like there can be bad talk and bad preaching. When James talked about taming the tongue he didn't mean that we should never laugh.
*I learned that the Lord WILL draw people to a gathering that honors Him and lifts Him up. That has been our prayer and we have seen it answered time and again. Sunday night, two different people told me that they felt "drawn" to our service. Neither one had attended the morning service, so they are in for a treat when they hear Pastor Mike!
*I learned that people want to grow in community with one another. Lots of people hung around well after the service "ended" and that made me happy.
*I was going to say that I learned that I have a beautiful and wonderful wife, but I've known that for a long time.
*A lot of people have been asking about our graphics. Joe Bivens does all of our graphics and tech stuff.
*Why didn't we put the scriptures up on the big screens? Because I wanted Erika up with us during the service and during the altar call. She has a servant's heart, but she is also a prayer warrior and I appreciated the prayer support.
*Lillian did a great job singing last night. A few people asked when they can hear her sing more, and for starters you can hear her during Tree of Life's morning services. Lillian is a teacher at Branches Academy and the kids love her.
*The Lord also blessed us with some time with Him at the altar. It has been humbling to hear some of your stories about your time in prayer at the end of the service.
*Thanks to everyone that joins us on Sunday night. Next week's message is gonna be on "The Great Commission". The Lord led me to some cool stuff to bring forth and I can't wait.