Sunday, April 18, 2010

     We had wonderful church services Sunday!  Andy Hoffecker and the worship team led praise and worship.  Then, Valerie Sands blessed the congregation with the song “I Wish I’d Done More.”  Next, Pastor Roger recognized the accomplishments of three young men in the church who have recently completed all the requirements for the Royal Ranger “Gold Medal of Achievement” Award.  The boys are Jacob Bellis, Jordan Guilkey, and Zac Emry.  Similar to the Boy Scouts’ “Eagle Scout” award, only 1 boy out of 1,000 achieves this prestigious honor among Royal Rangers nationwide.  All three boys received letters of commendation from various local, state, and national leaders, including letters from Missouri Senators Bond and McCaskill. State Representative Bob Nance came in person to offer his congratulations.  We are so proud of these teenagers and share with them high hopes for their futures!

      Pastor Roger’s message this morning centered on the life of Daniel in the Old Testament.  Taking his text from Daniel chapter one, Pastor explained that just as Daniel had a “non-negotiable faith,” we must be equally committed to our faith in Christ.  Just as Daniel did not compromise when the king said he could no longer pray to his God, Daniel continued to pray just as he had always done.  Daniel was persecuted for his faith, but God protected him.  Daniel remained righteous, holy, and pure in his attitude and behavior, for which God rewarded Daniel.  In the same way, if we remain steadfast and sure in our faith, God will reward us.

      In the evening service, Andy Hoffecker and the youth worship band led the congregation in praise and worship.  Ashley Bell and Makinzie Shockley sang solos, and Ashley Hoffecker presented an inspiring monologue about the importance of passing one’s faith from generation to generation. Youth Pastor Josh Brewer brought the evening message, challenging both young and old to avoid waiting “until later” to draw close to God in devotion and prayer.