At Disney World in Florida, there’s a ride though exhibit called “It’s a Small World!” As you might guess or know if you’ve been there, everything is in small portions. No “Supersizing” allowed! I wouldn’t encourage you to ride it too many times, because the trademark song, “It’s a Small World” can lead to temporary insanity! My point is this: small can be beautiful, when it refers to a Small Group of the First Church Family!

In January, we unveiled our new Mission –Vision-Process statement of First Church:

MISSION
First Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!

VISION
We are disciples who are: Connecting with God (Thru Worship and Prayer)
Growing in Faith (Thru Small Groups and Personal Devotion)
Serving with Love (Thru regular Ministry teams and Missions)

PROCESS
1. Worshipping God weekly. (Heb. 10;25)
2. Growing in our faith regularly. (Acts 2:42)
3. Developing spiritual maturity daily. (Mark 1:35)
4. Serving others willingly. (Ephs. 6:7)
5. Sharing our faith passionately. (Philemon 1:6)

Our emphasis is on Small Groups for spiritual growth. Are you in one? Are you experiencing spiritual growth in your life as you’re getting to know others more personally? We all know you can’t get to know people very well in a Worship Service.  To grow, you must invest yourself! The greater investment, the greater return!

We currently have 14 First Church Small Groups meeting at the church and in homes with about 140 people involved. You can check out Small Groups information in the plaza. This weekend our Student Ministry will also be officially launching Student Small Groups in three homes too!

Last night, I realized how small the world is really becoming as I greeted Harold and Mary Greenwood as they left our Small Group gathering. We realized I had taught both their grandchildren in a Student Bible Study at Asbury Church in Tulsa; I had been involved in their grandson Braden’s Eagle Scout ceremony and Harold was raised in Spiro, OK where I “pastored” my first congregation (bless their gracious souls!). What a blessing it is to share life together! That’s a key benefit and joy of the First Church family! Have a great day! I’ll see you Sunday or maybe Saturday. All who can, we’re meeting at 8:30am to drive to Kevin and Lisa Collier’s place to do tornado clean-up. We’d love to have you!

Yours In Christ,
Mark