I’m so thankful it’s November! It’s one of my all time favorite months as the fall arrives in Oklahoma. It always begins with "ALL Saint’s Day” and crescendos to Thanksgiving Day and the beginning of Advent! It’s also the time of the year we consider our commitment to Christ through First Church for the New Year. I ask that you prayerfully watch the testimony videos in worship each Sunday and read carefully the letters from T.J. Austin, Chair of our Finance Committee, and the letter from me. God has great and greater things in store for First Church and the First Church family, as we act on our faith in 2010! Remember the words of Hebrews 11:6: “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” I received this e-mail last week and wanted to share it with you today.

Pastor McAdow,

This needed to be done in April, but my praise remains strong yet today in October. Last April I came to Oklahoma City to run in my 4th OKC 1/2 Marathon. I grew up in Fairview and now live just outside of Chicago. I've always tried to take part in many of the activities leading up to the morning of the race. The race, community support, and surrounding activities get bigger and better each year. My wife, mother, a family friend, and I came to your church on Saturday night before the race. We arrived a little after the service had started and came in to take part in the service. We weren't sure if this would be a big pep rally, a memorial service, or something else. It didn't take long for me to notice that everyone had their shoes off and many shoes were in front of the stage. After some singing and a video, you began a message centered around running and feet with references to various verses in the Bible. At the conclusion of the message, I along with others who would run the next morning were called to the stage to receive a blessing. After the service I talked with the gentleman sitting next to me and he said that he would be a course marshal at the final turn as the runners turned south down Broadway toward the Finish Line. I saw that gentleman as I made this final turn and acknowledged him by saying something like "last night, at the church service!" as I continued my pace toward the finish. I think he recognized me. After having said all that, I just want to say "Thank-You" to you and your church for being involved with the OKC Marathon. Your Saturday evening service, Sunday morning breakfast, and volunteers from the congregation help make the weekend an event to brag about. (I'm sure that I am inadvertently overlooking other areas of your church's involvement.) I look forward to returning next year and many years beyond. Again, "Thank-You" for a job well done!

Sincerely, Dale Shewey

What a blessing you are First Church! I am very pleased to be your Senior Pastor and to serve Christ with you!

Looking forward to worshipping with you this Sunday! Blessings!

In Christ,
Mark