We’ve had calls from our family in New York and North Carolina checking on us again following Tuesday’s tornadoes in Oklahoma. They always ask how we are and when we’re moving out of Oklahoma. I remind them, “Oklahoma is the only state with “home” right in it!” As best I can tell; all of our First Church Family were spared in this most recent outbreak of tornadoes. Thank God. With the horrific tornado in Joplin on Sunday; I think we currently have a heightened respect once again for these powerful and destructive forces of nature. Our family of five and two “four legged friends” spent some “quality time” with each other in the laundry room, along with a couple of mattresses and couch cushions. I certainly appreciate the excellent forewarning and coverage all our local stations give us in terms of weather updates and warnings. We are blessed to be well informed and better prepared for weather emergencies.

We are of course deeply saddened by the loss of life on Tuesday and the incredible loss of property. We had put on our church marquee Monday morning to “Pray for the People of Joplin.” Little did we know we could be adding the next day the people of “Newcastle, Piedmont, Guthrie, Chickasaw, etc.” Life if fragile; handle with prayer.

We have made contact with First UMC in Joplin, MO to see what we may be able to do to assist them in their recovery. More information will be available on Sunday.

Our own Mark Boyle is in Joplin with Allstate Insurance assessing damage and assisting their clients and their agents on the ground. Please keep him in prayer as he witnesses the terrible losses of life and property and cares for the survivors, as an ambassador of First Church as well. I gave him this scripture before he left..

“Do not fear for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will help you, I will strengthen you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10. It’s a good reminder to us all. God is with us and He will help us!

I love you and wish you a Blessed and Safe Memorial Day weekend. Look forward to seeing you here this Sunday!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

PS Annual Conference begins this Sunday afternoon here in OKC. Please keep Bill Mullins and myself in your prayers, as we represent you at Annual Conference. Blessings!