Monday Morning Downloads

*We're right in the middle of our "After The Altar Call" Series.
*Last night had a different vibe to it, but it was a really good night. Everybody was a lot more serious than normal, but I think that has something to do with Fall and the fact that a lot of people are sick. A LOT OF PEOPLE ARE SICK at Tree of Life and across our city, so please remember to pray for each other!
*During sound check/practice for the praise team I just slowed down and enjoyed the music. Believe it or not, I actually worshiped during their practice. I say it every week, but what a Godly group. Most people may not know, but our praise team starts their Sunday very early because they lead worship for the middle school ministry during the 11:00 service and they have to set up before Sunday School starts. They never complain and they just show up ready to worship and serve. I am blessed to serve with Donovan and his group.
*Joe knew I was struggling yesterday with lack of sleep and worry about Misty so I leaned on him throughout the evening as he handled just about everything for me. I am thankful for Joe and his ministry here at Tree of Life.
*Linwood and his wife were there again last night. I think Linwood is about 117 years old and he hasn't lost his sarcasm or his wit. He asked when he would get his attendance certificate for being there on Sunday nights. "I only attend church for the certificates" he said. That actually made me laugh for quite a while...
*I love hearing Lindsey sing. Misty and I have her songs stuck in our heads all week.
*Joe and Misty and Matt and I prayed in the weeks leading up to our time on Sunday nights that the Lord would draw lonely people. I have something deep in my heart for lonely people and He is bringing them right to us.
*Our topic last night was baptism, specifically water baptism. You should've seen my notes earlier last week. I had papers piled everywhere and I spider-webbed in about 25 different directions. By Friday I felt like the Lord was trimming it down and by last night we looked at baptism as an act of obedience, symbolism, testimony and love. Our launchpad passage was Matthew 3. We then went into Acts 2, 4 and 8.
*We ended with partnering people up to pray for each other. I will put out a separate post later today about that. I really feel like the Lord will move through these prayer partnerships.
*Next week Pastor Mike will be baptizing believers at the beginning of our service and our topic will be communion. Baptism and Communion in the same service? We are kickin' it old school next week. I can't wait.