Have you been surprised by God lately?! Has He shown up and invaded your life in a fresh way? I sure hope so! He is always doing a new thing. Yes - The Word reminds us that “He is the same, yesterday, today and forever;” but that doesn’t mean He’s static. He’s dynamic –always seeking to engage us in a life-giving relationship with Him! He is the Initiator; we are the responders. Even prayer is initiated by Him! Who puts it in your mind and heart to pray? It’s certainly not the Enemy. He will do everything to prevent you from spending time in prayer because he knows where the power comes from. The Holy Spirit calls us to a relationship with Jesus – He calls us to prayer!

Have you been surprised by God lately? I sure hope so. Sunday Worship was a surprise for most of you. We didn’t announce a Day of Prayer and Worship, but what a wonderful day it was! It was my privilege and blessing to anoint many of you with oil and pray for your needs, assisted by Cyvil, my beloved bride Robin and others. It is such a joy to be your pastor and to see the Holy Spirit at work in your lives individually and ours together. Did you know we’ve grown 15% in Worship attendance since January? God is up to something and I’m so glad to be a part of it; aren’t you? More exciting ministry is on the way and The Marathon is just two weeks away!

Do you life with an expectation to see God at work in your day? Some days I do; others days I find myself too occupied concerning the next thing on my list or agenda. As the simple worship chorus says, “Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart.” Sometimes I just need by physical eyes opened first! God is at work! Surprises are in store!

Frank and Donna Sisson’s son Tim had a big surprise this week. He and his wife Alison own and operate The Buzz –a great coffee shop in The Underground by BancFirst. Wednesday an attractive lady came into the shop and asked for a latte. Tim asked her,”How many times a day do people tell you look like Laura Bush?” She replied, “Quite often- because I am Laura Bush!” He then noticed the three Secret Service men with her!
That was quite a surprise!

Where have you seen God work in your life this week?! Holy Week begins this Sunday with Palm Sunday. Come join us as we baptize several students by immersion and welcome the largest Confirmation Class we’ve had in years at First Church. God is good!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

PS –We’ll be hosting a Reception for our newest members right after worship! Blessings!