An Artist Among Us

Last night, several of my girlfriends and I went to our friend Melinda's Art Show at Wright Place in downtown Pensacola. Oh, what a treat! Melinda is such a gifted artist! Her paintings were just GORGEOUS! God has certainly blessed her with an AMAZING talent! Several of her pieces sold last night while we were there!

Seeing her wonderful works reminded me that we, too, are great works of art...God's art. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, "For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Each and every single one of us are God's great masterpiece! When we accept Christ, we are created ANEW so that we can do GOOD THINGS that HE PLANNED for us to do...from the beginning of time! You, friends, are God's Great Masterpiece! Claim it and live it!

Congratulations, Melinda! You are certainly doing the good things that God planned for you to do! We are so thrilled for you and are so glad God has blessed us with your friendship! You are an amazing woman, God's masterpiece, with a tremendous testimony for Christ! We love you, girl!

Check out Melinda's art online at her website: http://www.melindagiron.com/

In His Love, Cathy

It's FRIIIIIDDDDAAAAYYYY!!!

Sunday's coming!

" I was glad when they said to me,“Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1

Shout out to my friend Jodi,

Hope you are feeling better today! I love you, girl!

In His Love, Cathy

Words to Live By - Romans 12

I came across this passage in my personal Bible Study. It really jumped off the page at me. Take your time, read through it thoroughly, asking God to show you areas and people you need to apply this too.

9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. 15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,
“I will take revenge;
I will pay them back,” says the Lord.
20 Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.
If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap
burning coals of shame on their heads.”
21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Romans 12:9-21

In His Love, Cathy

The Facebook Fast

Here's a very interesting article on one author's reasons for giving up her 'online life' for lent. Check out her blog for her reasons why. Although I love my fb friends, I'm pondering the author's thoughts on the subject. She's an experienced pro on the topic. I, like her, am wondering if my 'online life' is detrimental to my 'offline life'. I love the connections I've made with my friends and finding old friends online. However, is it really a sense of community, or are these just plain connections? Is my time spent on these sites pulling me away from my family, my friends, and my responsibilities, or are they building and adding to the relationships I already have? I can also see online social networking as a means of sharing Christ with others through my own life experiences. But then on the flip side how effective is such a tool in doing so? Is fb too 'sterile' or 'removed' of an environment to use in such a way. I'll keep you posted, but I'm considering a Facebook fast myself - just to see. I'd like to encourage you to read her article and then share with me your thoughts on the matter. Post your comments to my blog. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Grace and peace, friends!

http://blog.christianitytoday.com/outofur/archives/2009/02/the_social_netw.html

In His Love, Cathy

A Few of My Favorite Proverbs

"Too much talk leads to sin.

Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." Proverbs 10:19

"Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut,
and you will stay out of trouble." Proverbs 21:23

"Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent;
with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent."
Proverbs 17:28

"Lazy people irritate their employers,

like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes." Proverbs 10:26

"To learn, you must love discipline;

it is stupid to hate correction." Proverbs 12:1

"Lazy people want much but get little,

but those who work hard will prosper." Proverbs 13:4

"Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty." Proverbs 21:5

"Mockers hate to be corrected,

so they stay away from the wise." Proverbs 15:12

"It is senseless to pay tuition to educate a fool,

since he has no heart for learning." Proverbs 17:16

"The lazy person claims, "There is a lion out there!

If I go outside, I might be killed!" Proverbs 22:13
And again we see

"The lazy person claims, "There's a lion on the road!

Yes, I'm sure there's a lion out there!" Proverbs 26:13

Why are these some of my favorites? Because they are so full of TRUTH! Not only that, I find their wording amusing and some are even down right humorous! There are some poor souls out there who need a little of this wisdom, including me, Amen?

In His Love,

Cathy

PCC Children's Activities - Week of Feb 23

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS R 4 KIDS!

Dinner - 6-6:30 in Room 1 (We are asking for donations to help with the expense of the meal.)

Bible Study - 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (NEW breakout)
- NEW!!! PK/KG Class Hands On Bible Study- 3 yrs & potty trained through KG meets in Room 1
- 1st - 4th Grade Class Discovering Our Awesome God - meets in Room 2

Outreach/Worship - 7:30 to 8:00 p.m. Room 1

Corporate Worship with Youth - 8:00 to 8:30 p.m. Room 3 (Optional)


ATTENTION PARENTS!

Due to the WONDERFUL growth and POPULARITY of the Wednesday night Children's Bible Study, we find ourselves in need of additional help! Praise God!

1. WE ARE IN NEED OF TEACHERS on WEDNESDAY NIGHTS. We are looking for at least two people to teach one night per month. I absolutely CAN NOT keep teaching EVERY Wednesday night (in addition to Sunday mornings) with my current schedule and responsibilities. My efforts and attention must start shifting to Easter/VBS planning that must be seen to. Let me know ASAP if you can plug in to teach. Please don't assume that someone will step up and you won't have to. Be willing to get up to your eyeballs in the precious work of our God! God is blessing the Wednesday night Bible Study BIG TIME and we want to keep it GROWING and GOING! However, it will require ALL OF US OBEDIENTLY stepping up and doing our part. Thank you.

2. WE MUST HAVE TWO ADULT HELPERS EVERY WEEK for the Wednesday night classes. Please sign up to help on the calendar by the classroom doors.

3. PLEASE PICK UP YOUR CHILD BY 8 p.m. Adult supervision (by children's workers) of children end at that time. If your child is attending the corporate worship with the youth at 8 p.m., please let us know. At least one parent or older sibling must be in corporate worship to supervise them.

If you can help, email me at aumathchick@mchsi.com.

God is doing some pretty amazing work in children's ministry! He is faithful! God bless you and your family!

Grace and peace, friends!
In His Love, Cathy

Rock Solid: What Your Child Learned in Church Today (Feb 22)

TODAY'S ELEMENTARY LESSON (KG through 4th grades)
Unit: To the Depths: An In-Depth Study of James
(Posting a day early due to special Sunday lunch with our extended family)

Bible Lesson: Today's lesson was was the Salvation Story (James 1:12, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.)

Main Point: I Can Look Forward to Heaven Because Jesus Forgives Me!

Memory Verse: "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Bible Readings at Home: Please read through the Book of James with your child through the months of January and February. James is so rich with messages from God on how to live the Christian Life.

Today we learned the ABC's of becoming a Christian.

A - Admit that you are a sinner and ask God to forgive you of your sin.

B - Believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He was without sin, that He died on the cross for our sins, and rose again on the third day.

C - Choose to follow Jesus Christ, asking Him to come into your life and Lord and Savior.

Children were given a decision card and asked to share their response to the message of salvation with their parents. Please talk with your child about their response to the message of salvation. If you would like for me to talk with your child about salvation, please call the church office (located at the bottom of the decision card). I'll be happy to help!

TRAINING UP A CHILD HOMEWORK:
1. Help your child memorize John 3:16 and be able to recite it to me next Sunday.
2. Keep reading through the Book of James with your child for the months of January and February.

Grace and Peace!
In His Love, Cathy

PACE WINS!

Pace Boys Varsity Basketball beat Chiles (Tallahassee) 55 to 34! WOO-HOO!

They are moving up to the next rung in the playoffs! Go PACE!

In the words of my husband, Scott, (a former Pace Patriot Basketball player waaaayyy back in the day - '80 to '83), "Pace gave Chiles an education...Pace looked like a college team exploding on the court!"

Great job, guys! We're behind you all the way!

In His Love, Cathy

Wednesday Night Wrap Up Feb 18: Talk About a Full House!

Both the youth and children's groups were PACKED OUT tonight! The youth kicked off their SURVIVOR series tonight. It's pretty exciting! The youth wing was full of activity. I bet there were 50-60 there tonight, but I'll let Renae talk about that!

I'm here to talk about the AWESOME CHILDREN'S GROUP we had tonight! We ROCKED, BABY! At first, I didn't think we'd have that many attend due to the weather. But before I knew it, we had a packed house as well! About 25-28 children came out tonight, despite the threatening weather! AMEN!

Our lesson tonight was EXCELLENT. Check it out below. If your child attended, ask them what they remembered most about tonight's lesson.

Bible Lesson: Genesis 22 Abraham's Faith is Tested by God
Main Point: God is loving and showed us His Love by sending His Son to die for our sins. (John 3:16)

Lesson Summary: We made 'rocks' out of small brown paper bags. We used these rocks to build an altar as we told the story of God testing Abraham's faith by sacrificing his only son Isaac. Each child got to place the rock of their choice on the altar. We talked about how much Abraham loved his only son Isaac . But when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham showed his faith in and love for God through obedience. We saw how, at the very last minute, God provided a ram for the sacrifice, in place of Isaac, showing God's love for Abraham and his son Isaac. We talked about the parallels this story has with God and His Only Son Jesus Christ.

1. Abraham had only one son, Isaac (by his wife Sarah), whom he loved very much.
God has only one son, Jesus Christ, whom He loves very much.
2. Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son for God.
God sacrificed His One and Only Son for us, to save us from our sins. (John 3:16)
3. God provided a lamb for Abraham to sacrifice in Isaac's place.
God provided His Own Son as the sacrificial lamb who died in our place.
4. Abraham descendedents were numerous as the stars and became a great nation, just as God
promised.
Through Jesus Christ, millions of believers are now members of the family of God, the Body
of Christ!

The children came up with over 30 qualities of God that shows His love for us. Each child then took a rock and wrote the one quality we listed that meant the most to them. Ask them what their rock says and use that as a jump off point for a great discussion about God's love for us.

A COUPLE OF IMPORTANT ISSUES
1. If we are to continue our successful Wednesday night program, we have got to have at least 2 people helping during the Bible lesson - every week. Parents, please sign up to help on the calendar that I will have posted next Wednesday night. IDEALLY, we need additional teachers as the class has grown. Thank you.

2. Please be sure to pick your child up by 8 p.m. if they are not staying for the corporate worship time. Children's workers only supervise children until 8 p.m. Thank you for your help!

SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO MY LIFESAVERS!!!
Thanks to these wonderful people - you guys saw needs tonight and you were willing to jump right in and help. You are AWESOME - Lisa, Jay, Lorraine, Terri, Evelyn, Sidney, Christy, Jodi, Barbara! (Hope I didn't leave anyone out...I apologize if I did!) Love ya'll so much!

A BIG THANK YOU to God who is able to do immeasureably more than we can ever imagine! He answered prayers in a mighty way tonight! Thanks, friends, for your prayers!

In His Love, Cathy

Wednesday Night Children's Activities

6:00 p.m. Dinner in Room 1 - Speghetti (Please bring a donation to help with the meal)

6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Children's Bible Study

NEW!!! PREK/KG Class Hands On Bible Study (Meet in Room 1)

1st through 4th Grades Discovering Our Awesome God (Meet in Room 2)

7:30 - 8:00 p.m. Outreach/Worship

In His Love, Cathy

Hard Times

Check out this video! Be sure to mute my music player:-)


I'm not an economic expert and I really don't know all of the complexities of the economic crisis that is being felt throughout the world. However, I do have a hunch that all of the economic problems our country faces boils down to this...greed. The economic crisis didn't just happen overnight. It has been building up for years. Subprime mortgages are considered to be a major player in this most recent crisis. Banks and lenders offered people loans that they could not afford. Predatory lending practices were common and didn't end with home mortgages. Credit card companies flooded American mailboxes with offers. And we Americans gladly accepted. The crisis was also fueled by mismanagement of company resources by CEOs. Huge bonuses and the upkeep of their expensive lifestyle was their motivation. Even after the first round of the government bailout, many bank CEOs didn't want to change their wasteful management habits. Of those who did, some did so relunctantly only after facing media scrutiny and public outcry. The intention of the bailouts were to help the banks so they in turn would help the American taxpayer who funded their bailout. They were to help homeowner's who faced foreclosure due to loss or reduction in their income, which was due to the economic crisis generated in part by the bad leadership and lending practices of these very same banks! However, it was discovered, that these institutions were not using the money as intended. No surprise there! Word got out that many of the CEOs on Wall Street had received multimillion dollar bonuses in December at a time that the economy was in shambles and businesses were crying for government bailout! President Obama scolded them for their excessive greed, and rightly so! And what about Madoff? He cheated many an investor for YEARS in the biggest, longest running Ponzi scheme in American History. He would probably have continued successfully if it had it not been for the economic crisis.

The video clip above is kind of hilarious but it does hit on a point that many Americans don't realize. I watched a documentary the other night about the lifestyle shared by many of these high powered CEOs. The main point of the documentary was that many of these CEOs operate in a different world than the rest of us. They are so far removed from what is normal that they don't even think twice about their lifestyle. For them to give up their private leer jet that can shoot them across the country in a heartbeat and instead ride 1st class on a commercial liner that will take hours is just unthinkable! It's a waste of their valuable time. They can not relate AT ALL to the life that the rest of us live. It's the same mentality that Marie Antionette had when she said of the starving masses, "Let them eat cake!" Many of these CEOs also feel that they have worked hard, long hours to get to where they are today. Therefore they should reap the benefits of their labor. Though I am in agreement that they do and should be rewarded for their hard work, I personally have a hard time understanding the excessiveness of their greed. In addition, should they be rewarded if their decisions led to their company's current financial troubles? Many CEOs simply do not understand the problems of the rest of the world and yet their mismanagement and bad decisions affect the lives of so many.

"Look here you rich people: Weep and groan with anguish because of all the troubles ahead of you. Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags. Your gold and silver have become worthless. The very wealth you were counting on will eat away your flesh like fire. This treasure you have accumulated will stand as evidence against you on the day of judgment. For listen! Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven's Armies.

You have spent your years on earth in luxury, satisfying your every desires. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. You have condemened and killed innocent people, who do not resist you." James 5:1-5

James is warning those who are wealthy to take heed. Those who use their wealth and power for their own selfish gain will suffer the consequences of their greedy lifestyle. There are wealthy believers who use the resources God has blessed them with to further His Kingdom's work. There are CEO's out there who have made solid, wise business decisions and who haven't succombed to the greed of their counterparts. However, their companies might be suffering as well from the economic downturn. What James is pointing out is that those who have allowed their greed for power and wealth rule their lives, satisfying their every desire at the cost of others, will be judged accordingly.

As I said earlier, I believe greed is the cause for the financial crisis that we are facing. And though I'd like to lay all of the blame on those CEOs whose mismanagement and greed contributed to this mess, I can not. We must also look to ourselves, the American people. No one twisted our arms to accept these subprime mortgages, credit cards, and made us live beyond our means. Yet at the same time, many Americans accepted such loans in good faith, not realizing the terms spelled out in the fine print. Many of us were naive but should have known better. And now that we know, we must learn from our mistakes and teach our children so they will not fall victim.

Despite how it happened, all of us are facing the consequences of a bad economy. Some have lost our jobs and have no source of income in the near future. Some of us have suffered a lesser fate of a reduction in income. The unemployment rate is at an all time high. Some of our own bad financial decisions have jeapordized our financial stability. Some of us are in financial trouble due to no fault of our own. In these uncertain times there are some actions we can take.

• Pray. Trust God with your future and in your circumstances. "For I know the plans I have for you." Says the Lord, "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you," says the Lord. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land." Jeremiah 29:10-14
• Be thankful to God in your circumstances. Make a list of God's blessings and thank Him for each one. "Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
• Honor God financially to the best of your abilities and in giving him the best of what you do have (time, talents, service). He doesn't want it all, just a portion. "Honor God with your wealth and with the best of everything you produce." Proverbs 3:9
• Be faithful to God with what you do have - no matter how little. Then watch for how He uses it! Read Luke 16:10-12
• Make a budget plan for your circumstances. Ask for God's wisdom and help to stick by it. Be sure to plan for unknown expenses. Be realistic. CrownFinancial.org and Dave Ramsey't Financial Peace University are excellent resources.
• Do not worry or be anxious. God will provide for your needs. Read Matthew 6: 25-34

Whether you are a CEO or just plain old Joe the Plumber, you can place your trust in a God who is merciful and forgiving. Praying for you to find His grace and peace in your circumstances!

In His Love, Cathy

No Compromise

In mid December, 1944, the US 101st Airborne Division arrived in the town of Bastogne, Luxemburg. Their mission was to stop the German advancement through Belgium. They were to hold Bastogne, to not allow the enemy to advance. The weather was miserable - it was terribly cold, there was a heavy blanket of snow, and there were no signs of relief. In addition, the troops were lacking cold weather gear. Then things went from bad to worse. They found themselves completely surrounded in this town by the German 5th Panzer Army, cut off from Allied forces. There they were, surrounded, out manned, out supplied, and out gunned. Due to the weather, air-dropped supplies and Allied forces were unable to reach them. The Germans were so assured of their impending victory that they offered the 101st an opportunity to surrender. Brigadier General McAullife, acting commander of the 101st Airborne, received the German's request for the 101st's surrender. His reply - "NUTS!"

You see, the general had absolutely NO INTENTION on COMPROMISING with the enemy on any grounds. The 101st Airborne stood ready to fight what seemed to be a loosing battle. I admire the strength, courage, and bravery these men had in the face of overwhelming odds.

Joyful are those who obey his laws

and search for him with all their hearts.

3 They do not compromise with evil,

and they walk only in his paths.

4 You have charged us

to keep your commandments carefully.

Psalm 119:2-4

General McAullife and the 101st faced a powerful enemy. But he and his men were soldiers. They followed orders. They did what they were commanded to do. They held their ground and they did not compromise. As believers, we also face a powerful enemy. We too must not compromise on our faith and our freedom in Christ. However, there are times that so many of us do. You see, the enemy isn't always so easily identifiable. There are not always clear lines drawn in the snow. There are no uniforms and markings that clearly identifies who is on which side. No, the enemy we face is cunning, diabolical, and cleverly disguises himself. Before we know it, he's behind our lines and we've compromised our position.

Mission Drift. It's how we believers can fall into the trap of compromise with the world. Hebrews 2:1 warns us of such, "So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it." According to Dr. Charles Stanley, "Drifting begins subtly and usually includes compromising the principles found in God's Word. The movies you attend, the way you dress, the friends you associate with, or any number of other things could be a source of compromise." (Dr. Charles Stanley - INTO HIS PRESENCE ) It is so easy for us to drift away from God's Word and righteous living. It just takes us drifting away once to lay the groundwork for continued compromise - and sin. Once we compromise on one point, we are more easily suaded to compromise again. Once these start adding up, it doesn't take long for us to be up to our eyeballs in sin. Just one compromise, just one wrong choice, can have a snowball effect.

For me, the temptation to compromise seems to strike on days that I do not spend time with God like I should - time in prayer, reading His Word, seeking Him. When I compromise on my devotional time with Him, I am setting myself up for attack. The enemy knows this, too. Like a seasoned general, his attacks are timed for when I am weakest- when my spiritual TANK is running on empty. He knows when my supplies are down, when I have little or no ammunition to fight back. So I drift. I stray from God's Word. I compromise with the World. Mission drift sets in.

None of us are immune to mission drift. None of us are immune to compromising with the world. We all feel the temptations and the pressures of the world all around us. However, the choice is ours. In order to overcome mission drift, we must remain steadfast in our devotion to the LORD. We must seek after Him with our WHOLE HEARTS DAILY! We must "listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it."

So what happened to General McAullife and the 101st surrounded in Bastogne? A miracle happened. General George S Patton knew the only way American forces and air support could relieve the 101st in Bastogne was if the weather cleared. Since he had no control over the weather, he went straight to The ONE who did.

"Needing just one full day (24 hours) of good weather, Patton ordered the Third Army Chaplain, (COL) James O'Neill, to come up with a prayer beseeching God to grant this. The weather did clear soon after the prayer was recited, and Patton decorated O'Neill with the Bronze Star Medal. The Bronze Star Medal is a United States Armed Forces individual military decoration and is the fourth-highest award for bravery... on the spot." (AbsoluteAstronomy.com)

Now armed with good weather and air support, Patton turned the US Third Army from the front lines to relieve the embattled 101st Airborne at Bastogne. The logistics of turning his army around was considered a major feat, another miracle perhaps overlooked by or not known to many. The German 5th Panzer Army was defeated. The Battle of the Bulge was won! Now I don't know if General Patton was a Christian or not, that is not for me to decide. But he did know who to turn to when he needed victory!

Christ has the VICTORY. He has ALREADY defeated the enemy. In the eloquent words of Dr. Charles Stanley, "...Jesus gave up everything to come to earth and die in our place. We have eternal life because He took the principles of His Father seriously. By His grace, we are saved and set free from sin. Once realized, this should be enough to curb any notion of drifting. Anchor YOUR life to the Word of God and you will never drift."

AMEN!

In His Love, Cathy

To read the prayer written by Third Army Chaplain James O'Neill click on http://www.generalpatton.com/prayer.html

ROCK SOLID: What Your Child Learned in Church Today (Feb 15)

TODAY'S PRE-K LESSON - Unit: Yippee Ti Yi Yo - Jesus can do anything!

Bible Lesson: Jesus Gives Sight to Blind Bartemaeus (Matthew 20:30-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-42)

Main Point: Jesus can do anything! I can trust Him when I'm afraid.

Bible Verse: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart." Proverbs 3:5a

TODAY'S ELEMENTARY LESSON (KG through 4th grades)
Unit: To the Depths: An In-Depth Study of James

Bible Lesson: Today's lesson was about The Poor Widow's Offering (Mark 12:41-44)

Main Point: I will give my best to God!

Memory Verse: "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce." Proverbs 3:9

Bible Readings at Home: Please read through the Book of James with your child through the months of January and February. James is so rich with messages from God on how to live the Christian Life. Today's lesson focused on James 5:1-6, Warning to the Rich.

Today we learned that we are to give our best to God. What does that mean? It means to give Him the best of everything - our time, our talents & gifts, our money (tithes & offerings), and ourselves. Sometimes our best may seem insignificant in the eyes of the world. Sometimes our best may never be noticed by others. However, in both of these cases, God notices and blesses those who honor Him in this way! Giving of our best to God honors Him. Doing our best for God in all circumstances honors Him. To do otherwise dishonors Him.

Encourage your child to give God their best and do their best for Him. Help them to understand that all that we have (gifts, talents, material items, friends, family, homes, etc..) are FROM HIM! Therefore, we should be willing to return a portion of what He has given to us back to Him! We should bring tithe's & offerings to the church to be used to reach others for Christ and help those in need. We should use the gifts and abilities He's given us to point others to Jesus Christ. We should use our time to serve Him in the ways He has called each of us - serving in church, volunteering in a soup kitchen, telling others about Jesus Christ...just to name a few.

God gave His very best to us - His VERY OWN Son, Jesus Christ, SUFFERED, BLED, and DIED for YOU. How are YOU giving YOUR BEST back to HIM?

TRAINING UP A CHILD HOMEWORK:
1. Help your child memorize Proverbs 3:9 and be able to recite it to me next Sunday.
2. Keep reading through the Book of James with your child for the months of January and February.
3. Encourage your child to give their very best everyday - do their best at being a son/daughter, friend, student, athlete, or whatever (we touched on cleaning our rooms to the best of our abilities! Hope that helps some of ya'll out:-) ) Show them that by giving and doing our best honors God. God will take notice even if no one else does. Help them to understand that true character is how they act when no one is around. Do they still give their best when no one is looking? Should they give there best even when there is no reward or prize? So what does that mean about memorizing verses each week, reading our Bibles, and praying everyday? These are just some of the questions that can lead into a great discussion for you and your child.

In His Love, Cathy

Happy Valentine's Day!

Wishing all a wonderful day with your loved ones!

In His Love, Cathy

My Cancer Testimony

You made all the delicate inner parts of my body

and knit me together in my mother's womb.

Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex.

Your workmanship is marvelous, how well I know it.

You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,

as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.

You saw me before I was borm.

Every day of my life was recorded in Your book.

Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.

Psalm 139: 13-16

I don't know how many times I've read this passage throughout my life. However, as I read through this passage last night, I broke down in tears. I realized for the first time, despite all the times I've heard this before, that I was fearfully and wonderfully made - health problems, cancer, migraines and all! I was wonderfully made.

You see, in the late spring of 1999 I was diagnosed with cancer. I had struggled with some strange symptoms for years, but it all culminated in the Spring of 1999. I couldn't focus or concentrate. I was exhausted and fatigued all of the time. I couldn't sleep. Random thoughts zig-zagged through my head. Clumps of my hair was coming out. I lost 8 pounds in two weeks time - without trying! Those of you who know me understand that I'm already small and 8 pounds was a lot for me to lose. So, I went to see my general practitioner. As I described the symptoms, I summed it up with one statement. "I feel like I'm going crazy!" I told him. He just grinned and replied, "You are crazy!" But then, as he was checking my neck, his lighthearded expression changed to one of concern. "It may be nothing, but you have a nodule on your thyroid. I'm going to set up a referral to an endocrinologist and run some tests."

Within a week's time, I went for a scan on my neck. The scan confirmed what my doctor had already found. I did have nodule on my thyroid. So, I set up an appointment with an endocrinologist. I went to my first appointment not really knowing what to expect. He explained that I had a growth on my thyroid gland, but there was no need to worry. Only 5% of such growths were malignant. My mind raced, "Malignant, you mean as in cancer?" I thought. WHOA! CANCER??? That wasn't in the deal! I had to return the following week for him to perform a five needle biopsy. Then we waited for the results. Within a couple of days, the nurse called to say that test results were in and the doctor wanted to see my husband and I. I knew at this point the news wasn't good.

Scott and I went to the appointment. I was very anxious about the results. The doctor explained that indeed my nodule was malignant. What's more, I was the lucky 1% of the 5% of thyroid cancer patients that had this type of cancer. My thyroid would have to be completely removed and they would have to check my lymph nodes to ensure it had not spread. I was numb. It was like I was in a bad dream. Nothing could have prepared me for what the doctor told me that day. The good news? The doctor said I had the best kind of cancer! Best kind of cancer? No cancer is good in my eyes! Now our thyroid is one of the glands that helps to regulate our body - temperature, metabolism, and heart rate, just to name a few. As a result of my cancer, I am thyroidless and have to take a synthetic hormone replacement - which has it's own issues but which I'm more than happy to deal with.

I was 32 years old when I was diagnosed with cancer. Our children were ages 10, 7, and 2 (I think.) I just couldn't believe what was happening. My husband and children needed me! They needed me at my best, too! What was God doing?

I remember the weeks I awaited my surgery. I distinctly remember coming home from work everyday and just floating in the pool by myself. I'd look up at the sky and wonder what was going to happen. What would happen to my children? What would my life be like after the surgery? How long would I live? Would the cancer ever come back? What if this cancer was only the tip of the iceburg? What if I developed another type of cancer from the treatment I would have to go through? I felt as though my life was in limbo. I can't say that I was depressed, but I felt as if the huge cloud of uncertainty had settled over my life. Then came the day of the surgery. Would it work? Would they be able to get it all? Had it spread into my lymph nodes? It didn't help that I saw a documentary about a little boy who died from thyroid cancer. It had spread to his heart. Would that be me?

My husband, parents, in-laws, and aunts were with me the day of the surgery. I remember checking into the oncology ward. I looked at the other patients and thought, "This isn't real! This isn't who I am supposed to be!" As we waited to be checked in, an elderly lady asked my mother-in-law what kind of cancer did she have. UGGGHHH!!! Even the other patients didn't think I was a cancer patient! I just wanted to run out of that room after this. But I couldn't run away. I had cancer and that was that!

My surgery went very well. The cancer had not spread. It was strictly isolated to my thyroid. Praise God! I went back two months after the surgery for radioactive iodine treatment. I had to be hospitalized and quarantined during the treatment because of the radioative levels I would emit. I was one hot mama! The day I was admitted for treatment was Scott's first day teaching at Pace High. I knew that it killed him not to be with me, but he couldn't be in the room with me anyway:-) Nowadays, I just struggle with health issues related to balancing my medication. Yes, there are side effects but I am blessed to be healed. Despite my complete healing, there is always that fear that the cancer will return. We had a scare a few years ago in which my bloodwork indicated such. However, the body scan showed no signs of the cancer. Hallelujah!

I've always been one whose health has not always been the best. I've had a total of 8 surgeries for various things. I've had my gallbladder removed, appendix removed, & thyroid removed. I've had a hysterectomy, exploratory surgery, and a cyst taken out of my hand. My immune system is weaker and I catch every virus that makes it's debut in my classroom. I struggle with migraines and the side effects of living on sythroid. Scott said if I have another surgery that he'll have to hire a taxidermist to stuff me. He said I'm half the woman he married. I told him that's okay, he's twice the man I married!

I've had people in my life tell me to slow down, to rest up so that I can go to work and take care of my family. I've had family members tell me that it was ok if I missed church and didn't serve because of my health. God would understand. Despite this, God put a burning desire in my heart to serve Him to the best of my abilities. Despite my health, I felt I could give Him what I have. But I have wondered why my body was so unhealthy. Why it seemed to be my own worst enemy! Why did He make me this way? He answered that last night when I read Psalm 139. Then He also reminded me of this verse:

My health may fail

and my Spirit may grown weak

but God remains the strength of my heart;

He is mine forever!

Psalm 73:26

I am fearfully and wonderfully made! My weakness is HIS GLORY! Thank you God for making me just like I am according to YOUR PERFECTION! You knitted me together with Your own hands! You made me wonderfully complex. Thank You, LORD!

Friends, I know that there are others who are struggling with greater health issues than what I have. My health problems are nothing when compared to what others are experiencing. My heart and prayers are for you! For those who are going through a health crisis, I want to encourage you in that YOU are wonderfully made as well. Your body is HIS WORKMANSHIP! You are HIS wonderfully complex work. He loves you so very much! Trust in Him and HIS perfect will! YOU are HIS PRECIOUS (Psalm 139:17)

In His Love, Cathy

A Verse of Encouragement

"How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.

They cannot be numbered!

I can't even count them;

they outnumber the grains of sand!

And when I wake up,

you are still with me!"

Psalm 139:17-18

Did you know that God thinks about you...so often that His thoughts about you can not even be numbered! Yes, YOU! He thinks about YOU so often that we can't even count the number of thoughts. Not only that, His thoughts about YOU are PRECIOUS to HIM! YOU are PRECIOUS to HIM! But you say, 'You don't know me, you don't know what I've done.' Well, maybe not, but HE does and HE still thinks PRECIOUS THOUGHTS about YOU! So, how often do you think about HIM? Are your thoughts about Him precious, too?

Friends, YOU are God's PRECIOUS! He loves YOU no matter what!

In His Love, Cathy

Pleading for Salvation?

Salvation is a free gift. We need only ask and believe. However, so often we feel that we are so laden with sin that we must do something to even be worthy of salvation. We feel that we must clean up ourselves first before we can ask for salvation, that we are not 'good enough' the way we are. We avoid church, we avoid our Christian family and friends. We avoid that small voice inside our heads that keeps pleading 'This is the way, follow it!" We're so ashamed of what we've done or we're too scared to set foot in a church, feeling as though we don't belong. But don't be intimidated! Churches are just filled with forgiven people, not perfect people!

Friends, it doesn't matter who you are or what you have done, just come to Christ just as you are. He'll take care of the rest! There is NOTHING we can do to earn the free gift of salvation. So quit beating yourself up and just ask. It's just that simple. Please go to the link below and read 'Pleading for Salvation' by Luann Prater. Whether you are a believer, a seeker, or just checking out this 'Jesus thing', her article applies. Luann reminds us that ALL of us were once prodigal sons and daughters, in need of a Savior. We must be sensitive to others who are hurting and seeking Him as well. Pray for those who don't know Christ. Pray for God to show you how to respond in love to them.

http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2009/02/pleading-for-salvation.html

In His Love, Cathy

Rock Solid! What Your Child Learned in Church Today (Feb 8)

VALENTINE PARTY THIS WEDNESDAY, FEB 11

6:00 p.m. Dinner in room 1

6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Valentine Party in room 2

TODAY'S PRE-K LESSON - Unit: Yippee Ti Yi Yo - Jesus can do anything!
Bible Lesson: Jesus Stops the Wind and the Waves (Matthew 8:23-37; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25)
Main Point: Jesus can do anything! I can trust Him when I'm afraid.
Bible Verse: "Don not be afraid, for I am with you." Genesis 26:24b

TODAY'S ELEMENTARY LESSON (KG through 4th grades)
Unit: To the Depths: An In-Depth Study of James

Bible Lesson: Today's lesson was about King Asa, (2 Chronicles 14, 15, & 16)

Main Point: I will pray to God about everything!

Memory Verse: "Never stop praying." 2 Thessalonians 5:17

Bible Readings at Home: Please read through the Book of James with your child through the months of January and February. James is so rich with messages from God on how to live the Christian Life. Today's lesson focused on James 5:13-18, The Power of Prayer.

Children learned that prayer is very important. Not only should we pray EVERYDAY, but we should pray throughout the day. To pray doesn't mean that we have to get down on our knees with our hands folded and our eyes closed. We can pray to God anytime, anywhere, and in any way that we can. Our God is so wonderful that we can simply talk to Him about ANYTHING! To pray without ceasing means to speak to Him throughout our day. Our prayers may be full-fledged, down on our knees kind of prayers, they may be quiet prayers we say silently in our thoughts, or they can be one liners that send up praise for something good. The bottom line is that God loves for us to talk with Him! He makes Himself available for us to do so.

We can go to God in prayer in good times and in bad. He promises to hear us and answer our prayers. We talked about how sometimes people don't have time to hear us, like when our teachers or parents are busy or at work. However, God is never too busy to hear our prayers. He hears each and every single one of them. What's more, he answers every single one of them, as well! He may not always answer our prayers according to our desires, but like a good parent who knows what is best, He answers them according to His Great Plan!

The children also learned about 5 things we can pray - to give thanks, for forgiveness, for others, for protection, and to ask (petition) for needs to be met. We drew our hands on paper and labeled each of our fingers with these five types of prayer. The children gave wonderful examples of each kind of prayer. We also saw what could happen if we don't pray. We studied the story of King Asa, who started out following God in the early years of his reign, to turning away from God at the end of his reign.

Encourage your child to pray and to pray often. Pray often yourself, living out your faith in front of your child. God has all the time in eternity to hear us...if only we would pray.

TRAINING UP A CHILD HOMEWORK:
1. Help your child memorize 2 Thessalonians 5:17 and be able to recite it to me next Sunday.
2. Keep reading through the Book of James with your child for the months of January and February.
3. Encourage your child to 'pray without ceasing' throughout their day.

In His Love, Cathy

Happy Birthday to Our Firstborn

Our firstborn turns 19 this weekend, Sunday, February 8. I'm still pinching myself, thinking that I'm in a dream. I can't believe my little 'strong man' is now a fine young adult man, making his own way in the world. Once upon a time, he had tiny little fat feet that I loved to sqeeze and cover with kisses. Now he has big ole size 12 wides and though I love him so very much, I ain't kissing no feet! I remember the little cottonhead boy who would laugh the heartiest laugh at the drop of a hat. He's smile so big and laugh so hard it looked as if his little jaw would fall off! I remember the little baby boy who would wrap his tiny fingers around a strand of my hair when he slept, snuggled safely in my arms. He was and still is our first born, the one who trained us as parents, who has brought and continues to bring us joy in life. He is our reward from the Lord!

Our firstborn is a unique mix of his father and I. We've always said he is exaclty half Scott and half me...even down to those big ole feet:-) Though he does favor his father so very much, as he's gotten older friends and family say he's beginning to favor me as well. I don't know if that is good or bad, but despite us, he's a very handsome guy! His quiet demeaner and sweet spirit are his trademarks. He is a deep thinker and feeler, though you may not know what he's thinking or feeling because of his quiet, shy nature. He cares and loves deeply, too. He's a man of few words, but when he does speak, it often is something that is highly profound, funny, or intelligent. He doesn't mince words, yet he is respectful. He has a sarcastic sense of humor and really cracks us up! His quick wit and humor catches people off guard because of his quiet nature, and yet his humor is always right on target. It's so neat to see him get tickled at the littlest things. He'll get this big grin and a little michevious glean in his eye.

Some things many people may not know about our son: He's a hard worker; he never, ever, ever complains - not ever; he will do anything you ask, again without complaint; he takes great joy in helping others; he gets a glean in his eye when he shares something God has revealed to him in his Bible study; he's very smart; he loves science; he's technologically gifted; he plays trombone - but it's been awhile; he helped set up and break down Freedom Hall AND the children's area when PCC was at Pace High (7th grade through 11th grade); he loves cheesecake; he is very caring; he's great with kids and served as a volunteer in children's ministry; he LOVES history (wonder where he gets that from) but hates math (what???); he's a creature of habit, which is good; he LOVES his XBox 360 - what young man doesn't?

Mathew has been such a wonderful joy in our lives. He continues to amaze us as his parents. He's a wonderful big brother. He really does love his sister and little brother, despite what they say. He is "The Monitor," ensuring Brittany and Michael do the right thing. He is very happy to point out to them when they are not. He always has looked out for their best interests and has been their protector all of there lives, whether they liked it or not. Mathew has protected them from bullies at school, (yes, quiet, shy Mathew has stood up on behalf of his sister on more than one occassion), and watched out for their well being. He has always been their 'go to guy' -the one they turn to when they need help or something fixed. And yes, it is his official duty as big brother to aggravate and pick on the younger siblings. This is a duty he has faithfully fulfilled and derives much joy from, not to mention become an expert at. He also spends quite a bit of time with his little brother. He is so patient and kind with him, though Michael fears for his life if he is ever caught in Mathew's stuff! In fact, Mathew let's little Michael hang out with him in his room whenever he's home. It's neat to see him take time with Michael.

Yes, our firstborn is now a very fine young man. He has done well in college and is beginning to branch out more. He is coming out of his shell, making new friends, and attending a new church while away at school. He's the happiest that I've ever known him to be. College is agreeing with him! I'm thankful for the relationship he has with Christ. I pray that each year, he is drawn closer to our Lord. I'm thankful for our family, friends, church, and the people who've shaped his life. Thank you, friends, for you played a major role in his life. I'm thankful to God for the young man who is our son.

Happy Birthday, Son! We love you and are honored that God chose us to be your parents. Follow Christ, love Him, seek Him first, and serve Him wholeheartedly so that you may enjoy long life. Our prayer for you is for a lifetime of joy, peace, and for you to be successful everywhere, so that an entire generation of godly people will be blessed!

Praise the Lord!

How joyful are those who fear the Lord

and delight in obeying his commands.

2 Their children will be successful everywhere;

an entire generation of godly people will be blessed.

3 They themselves will be wealthy,

and their good deeds will last forever.

Psalm 112:1-3

In His Love, Cathy

Art Show

"EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN"

Presented by fine artist Melinda Giron

February 17th - March 18th

Gallery open 9-5

At the Wright Place Gallery

80 East Wright St., Pensacola.

OPEN RECEPTION

Friday 27th February 6 -8pm

This is my wonderful friend Melinda who decorated the children's ministry with our new cool undersea adventure. Melinda is such a wonderful friend and has such a loving, caring heart. She does so much for others and for our church. Melinda, we are so proud of you!

In His Love, Cathy

Spiritual Fortitude

Living the life of a believer is tough sometimes. The world is in constant conflict with our faith. Sometimes our faith even puts us at odds with family, friends, coworkers, and others in our lives. Sometimes we avoid bringing up our faith to avoid conflict with others. Sometimes we are too scared to say anything at all about our faith. Yet other times even the most innocent and factual statements about our faith can cause a negative reaction in others that seems ridiculous to us. For example, a simple statement such as "I love my church!" can cause others to cringe and react in a negative way. Why is this so? Because the world hates Christ and because of that, they hate us.

"But wait," you say, "I have friends and family who are unbelievers and they don't hate me." Maybe so, but what about if you talk with them about your faith. How do they react? Do they react in a positive manner or seem interested? If so, perhaps the Holy Spirit is already working on their heart. Or does the very subject of Jesus Christ cause a negative or stone cold reaction in them? They may love you, but they don't love Christ and the faith you have in Him. It's a point at which you are at odds. Whether it's spoken or left unspoken, it's a point of contention between you and them. There are others who aren't so nice about their aversion to our Lord and our faith. They have no qualms about expressing this sentiment in no uncertain terms. Christ said, “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first." John 15:18

So, what are we to do? We are to have spiritual fortitude. Ground yourself in Christ. He is our rock, our redeemer, our friend. He will never forsake you. You, the believer have the Holy Spirit with you at all times. You are never alone, even in these precarious situations where your faith is being attacked, belittled, or persecuted. Pray, seek God first, and rely on Him. Study His Word, meditating on it and engraining it in your heart. Don't fear criticism for your faith. Be strong in the Lord, "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 God will prepare the way for us to witness to others about our faith. We must anticipate and watch for His perfect timing. Trust in Him to provide the who, why, when, and where. Our part is to always be ready to respond when the situation arises.

Second, don't give up on others who are not believers. Pray for them, for God to open their hearts and draw them to Christ. Don't force God on them because that's not the way to witness to them. Wait on God's timing. We must be careful with our words to those who don't believe so as not to purposefully debate our faith just for the sake of proving them wrong. "Don’t waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don’t throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you." Matthew 7:6 But don't avoid living your faith around them either. Show them Christ not only in your loving words but in your deeds as well. Love them, show them true friendship, and be a real friend to them. Then allow God to do a work in them, asking Him to use you. You know, sometimes it's hardest to witness to those we love the most.

Who are the people in your life that you avoid speaking or living your faith around? Perhaps we need not be so spiritually timid around them. We can ask for God's wisdom, strength, and courage to help us develop spiritual fortitude. Grace and peace, friends!

In His Love, Cathy

Amazing

I always stand amazed at the great works of our God. Last night was no exception. It was a downright cold, miserable night. Many people were sick, had children who were sick, or were just getting over being sick. Despite all of this, we had a significant turn out at church last night. Our parent and volunteer meeting was so much fun. So many people turned out. It was just great! God has sent some pretty amazing people to PCC. They came out last night despite the cold, despite the illnesses plaguing them and their families, and we were able to do God's business.

Thank you God, you're amazing! Thank you friends, you're pretty amazing too!


In His Love, Cathy

Important Meeting This Wednesday Night

Meeting THIS WEDNESDAY NIGHT, FEB 4 at 6:30 p.m.

for Parents, Volunteers, and anyone interested

Join us as we chart out PCC Children's Ministry 2009!

Valentine Party

Easter Sunday

Easter Egg Hunt

Vacation Bible School

Children's Community Outreach to Berryhill Manor

Children's Worship Team Church Performances

Christmas

Wednesday Night Bible Study

Sunday Morning Programs

Safety & Discipline Policy

Plus much more!

PARENTS + PCC CHILDREN'S MINISTRY = DOING MINISTRY TOGETHER

In His Love, Cathy

A Picture of Authentic Worship

"The trumpeters and singers performed together in unison to praise and give thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and other instruments, they raised their voices and praised the LORD with these words: 'He is good! His faithful love endures forever!'At that moment a thick cloud filled the Temple of the LORD. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of God."—2 Chronicles 5:13–14

Encouragement for Today
"Here's a wonderful picture of worship. As the people and priests praised God, the cloud signifying the presence of the Lord filled the Temple. And the priests could not continue their work. They had to stop their work because God's presence was overwhelming. God's presence doesn't have a physical manifestation for us today, but he is present nonetheless. Perhaps we would be wise to occasionally stop our work and allow ourselves to be awed by his presence." —Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

How awesome it must have been to experience God like this in the midst of worship! Have you ever had an experience in church, in a Bible Study, or in your home in which as you worshipped God, His mighty presence just seemed to thicken the atmosphere? You know, where you actually sense the movement of His Holy Spirit? God promises that where two or three are gathered in His Name, He will be there! (Matthew 18:20)

We can also experience the presence of God in our daily lives, at any time. His Holy Spirit is always present in us and with us. We need only to stop in the busyness of our day and tune in to Him! Pray without ceasing! Look for Him throughout your day. Don't allow the hectic schedule of life cause interference in your connection and worship with God throughout your day. Don't let the dead zone of life drop calls between you and your Creator! He always has four bars, what about you?

In His Love, Cathy

Check out My Playlist

I'm really excited that I was finally able to install a playlist gadget with some of my favorite tunes on it. It's a mix of different spectrums of the contemporary music scene - Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Toby Mac, Dc Talk and Skillet. These songs range from heartfelt worship to songs that boost your energy! Hope you enjoy them.

However, if the music gets to much, you can pause it, turn it down, or mute it. Scroll down and look for My Playlist on the right of the screen.

Have a blessed week!

In His Love, Cathy