Good Moanin’ Springfieldians,

Ah! The start of another school year.  Kids are filled with a mix of emotions.  Excited to see old friends; fearful of new teachers. Thrilled by new clothes; scared by coming tests. Hopeful for good days, dreading bad days.  Parents, too, of course are filled with a mixed bag of emotions as they watch their little ones leave for that first day of another school year – elation, joy, delight, euphoria, jubilation, ecstasy, glee, merriment- need I go on?

I’ve told you before the first day of school was always a special day in the Prince home when our kids were in elementary school.  Teri would dress them in their new school clothes; backpacks would be packed with the recently purchased school supplies; lunchboxes were filled with goodies and a note of love and encouragement from Mom. And then kiss on the cheek from Mom as they left to walk the quarter mile to their school.

And where was I?

Standing on the front porch, with my trumpet in hand ready to play “Taps” as the three walked down the street to start their first day of school. (How they are were not scarred for life I’ll never know.)

I also have a very vivid memory of my first day of school in second grade.  Marquette Elementary School was eight or ten blocks from our home and we not only walked to school, rain or shine, snow or ice – we also had to walk home for lunch and back to school.  And while that first day in second grade was memorable to me, I’m sure it caused nightmares for poor Mrs. Merring. In fact, I think that was her last year at Marquette Elementary.

Mrs. Merring, as I remember, was young, pretty – and the kind of teacher that all second grade boys soon developed a crush on.  I sat in my assigned seat mesmerized by the sweetest sounding voice I had ever heard.  But even her melodic voice didn’t ease the apprehension I was experiencing on that first day of class.  And while I had friends from my first grade class, and friends from the street I lived on who helped to make up my second grade class – still I was nervous.

Nervous is probably not the best word to use.  It’s not nearly strong enough to describe what I was experiencing that day.  I wasn’t just worried, or a bit tense, or a little uneasy – typical emotions for a child walking into uncharted territory.  No, it was more like being on the ocean in a little dinghy, and being tossed back and forth by the crashing waves.  First you’re afraid that you might die, but then as the storm rages on and you start to get seasick from angry sea, you then begin to pray that you would die.

Well, that’s where I was, praying that I would just die. The longer I sat in my chair at my assigned spot, and the more the rolling waves of emotions swept over me, the sicker to my stomach I became.

Now, while we did have individualized desks, they were arranged in four rows, with no space in between the desks in each row.  So each row appeared to be one very long table, and our chairs were just a few feet a part from each other.  My assigned seat was back row, middle of the row.  On either side of me I had girls who were all decked out in their brand-new-first-day-school clothes.  Sitting next to two girls didn’t not help my situation; in fact, it only added to my fear, apprehension, and churning stomach.

As beads of sweat began to form on my forehead, and a salty taste filtered into my mouth I knew I was seconds away from a disaster I might never recover from.  I knew drastic measures were called for, so without permission from beautiful Mrs. Merring, I walked up to her desk and asked for permission to go to the bathroom.

She told me we’d all be lining up in just a matter of minutes to go to the bathroom before lunch and I could wait for a few minutes, and I should go back to my seat.  Trying to be the obedient boy my parents had trained me to be, I didn’t argue or try to explain my dilemma; rather, with rumbling stomach, I made my way to the back row, middle seat, sat down between the two girls all dressed up in their brand-new-first-day-school clothes, and promptly tossed my cookies, all over me, my desk, and those two girls in their brand-new-first-day-school clothes, and of course the boy in third row, middle seat.

And now I really, really wanted to die.

The only good thing to result was that one act gave me a free pass the rest of the year.  Anytime I wanted to use the restroom all I had to do was ask, and never again did Mrs. Merring deny my request.

Have you ever been in a place or a situation where you really wished you could just die?  Elijah was.  In fact, as he ran from the wicked queen, Jezebel, who had spewed her murderous threats, he said to the Lord, “I have had enough Lord. Take my life…” (I Kings 194 NIV)

Well, this Sunday we’ll look again at Elijah and see not only did he have a purpose and a place and that God had a great plan for him, in spite of what he felt; but we’ll also see God has a purpose and plan for each one of us, and we can’t allow the emotion of the moment to stop us from fulfilling what God has planned for us.

DID YOU KNOW?????

Hettie Kinman, who is caretaker for her brother and adult daughter, Barbara, fell and broke her wrist – if you will pray, send her a note of encouragement, (509 Tecumseh Trail, Springfield, IL 62707) and see if there are other ways you could help out, it would be greatly appreciated.  Here is another opportunity to fulfill our purpose of Loving God, Loving Others in the Body of Believers, and Serving our World.

Caravan Team Meeting – anyone interested in helping with our Caravan Ministry (Scouting) is invited to pick up their dinner in the gym and come to room #105 at 5:30 p.m. this Wednesday, September 1srt.    Caravan will begin September 8^th.

Don’t forget what happens on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary helps to determine what happens on Sundays from 10:30 – 12:00 noon in the sanctuary.  Will you be there to join with us others in prayer?

Anyone interested in expressing their faith by baptism contact the pastor.  We will be celebrating this new faith in the near future.

Lee School Supply List - please continue to bring in needed items.  We will continue to collect them throughout the school year. See Dara Voss for more information.

Friday Fish Fry – September 10 Mark your calendar to come to the first ever fish fry on a Friday.  Invite your friends and neighbors for a night out.  $7 adults, $3 children under 10.  Eat in or take out from 4:30-7:00 p.m.  Plate includes fish, potato, slaw, bread, dessert and beverage.

Ladies Craft Connection - September 11 will be their 2^nd Annual All Day Craft Event from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Cost is $20 before August 31^st, $25 after August 31^st.  Lunch and dinner provided.  Door prizes! Special guest speaker from radio station WIBI.  Stay all day or just a few hours.  If you have questions call Deb Crawford at 341-0163.

Spiritual Leadership for Men- All men are invited! Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Connection, The Prayer Gathering, Velocity, and Kidz Ministry will meet at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday.  From 5:00-6:00 is family dinner. The menu this week is: Poor Boys, Pasta Salad, Chips, and Dessert.

This coming Sunday, September 5^th our wonderful nursery volunteers are Susie Jaynes with the infants, and Tracy Burger and Connor Burger with toddlers and Cassie Bott is the floater. This Wednesday, September 1^st, our nursery will be staffed by Brian Palmer and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

Church Board will meet on Tuesday, September 7, 7:00 p.m. in room #4 next to Pastor’s office.

KUDOS

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

Kidz’ Christmas Musical Kick-Off Party – Sunday September 12^th. All Children are invited to attend the Kick-Off Party in Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 12^th.  “The Best Christmas Ever”

program will be previewed and games will be played.  Parents will meet in the Kinderchurch room after the morning worship gathering for a brief meeting, Children’s Quizzing will meet at a new time this year.  Beginning September 5^th, the children will meet every other Sunday from noon – 2 PM (immediately following morning worship).  Pack a sack lunch for your little quizzer as the kids will eat first and then begin their quizzing activities.  Children should be picked up no later than 2 PM.

TEEN MINISTRY

Teen Car Wash – this Saturday, September 4^th from 10:00- 3:00 at One Stop Auto in Chatham.

Desserts by Donation – September 12 Back by popular demand, the teens will be offering a wide array of delicious desserts for a donation.  Stop in the foyer after Morning Worship and choose a dessert to take home.  This helps to fund our youth ministries.

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin

• Hettie Kinman
• Barb Kinman
• Norm Castleman
• Kay Gottrich
• Trudy Tucker

Podcasting Instructions:

1. Open iTunes
2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

http://www.springfieldfirst.com/?feed=podcast

4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

To Download and Save to Your Computer:

Right click here and choose “save target as”  or “save link as”, depending on your browser.

To Listen Right Now:

Press the “play” button below.

They have to be related.  With a name like that how could they not be a part of the same family?

Joyce Workman gave me a book she picked up that was a compilation of what Amish writers had written about themselves.  It gave a history of the Amish, their views on many different subjects, and why they maintain the lifestyle they live.  I found the book informative, but also fascinating.

The story I found most fascinating was about the Hochstetler family.  (That’s right, the Hochstetlers – as in Larry, Kathleen, and Heidi  – the name was spelled the same as our very own Hochstetlers – so it had to be a relative of Larry’s.  I mean how many Hochstetlers can there be?)

The story told took place in 1754 when the French and Indian War broke out in our country. The once quiet and peaceful frontier of Pennsylvania became the scene of violent raids, bloodshed, death, and terror.  All summer there were reports of raids and unrest.  Because of this the Amish families did not risk having many gatherings.  As fall came tension seemed to lessen and so Jacob Hochstetler invited the young people from their community for an apple-schnitzing and evening of fellowship.  It was a pleasant evening.

As the Hochstetlers said good-bye to their friends, little did they know that tragedy and death stalked the woods about them.

The family was awakened in the night, first by Jacob’s wife, and then by the dog barking suddenly and strangely.  Soon the entire family was up and they realized they were under attack.  A shot rang out.  The two boys grabbed their guns to protect their family.  It was in that moment that Joseph, the oldest son, felt a restraining hand on his shoulder.

“No boys.  It’s wrong to kill. We cannot do that.” Jacob Hochstetler warned.

“But if we don’t shoot, they will kill us.  Our brother is already wounded.”

“No, no,” replied the older man firmly.  “You know it’s not right to harm another, even to protect ourselves.”

“But think, Father, we have plenty of powder and shot here.  We could hold them off until day light, and then they will leave.”

“No, we will not shoot.  We will trust God, boys.”

The story went on and told how their house was set on fire while they were in it.  And how the family hid in the cellar. Silently they prayed and waited while the fire raged above them.  Finally, with the floor crashing about them they escaped through a window not knowing what they would face.

At first it seemed that their attackers had retreated to the woods with the coming of daylight, but that was not the case.  They were soon surrounded and tragically the mother, the youngest son, Jake, and the only daughter were killed.

Dazed and in shock the survivors were marched away. They were constantly guarded so there was no possibility of escape.  They were marched many weary miles to a village where torture of the worse kind began.

A few days later Jacob, concerned that they would separate him from his two surviving boys, told his sons, “No matter what happens, be kind to the Indians.  Don’t try to resist them…act as if you are content, but never give up that you may someday escape.  Even if you forget everything else try to remember your name and the Lord’s Prayer.”

The anxious father had guessed correctly.  With a heavy heart, he was led away to another village.

More torture followed.

Three years he was held captive and finally an opportunity for escape happened and Jacob took it. Floating down a river on a crude raft he had built with his bare hands, he was rescued.

(I’m only giving a very brief sketch of the story. Here’s the ending…)

“Jacob was rescued and given food and kind care.  That night in the soft bed at the fort, Jacob closed his eyes and slept the slumber of a grateful man.  While others stood in awe and marveled at the hardship he had endured, the worn man rested, secure in the knowledge that his faith in God brought him back.

“Sometime later, a cool summer breeze was blowing as Jacob sat in his cabin, eating his noon meal.  He glanced up, slightly startled as a shadow darkened the open doorway.”

A tall Indian stood there, silent and straight.  He didn’t say a word.  His glance went all around the cabin, resting briefly on Jacob.  Then turning, he made his way to a stump in the small clearing and sat down.

All the while Jacob was eating, he sat there, patiently waiting.”

“I wonder what he wants?” Jacob mused, finishing his meal and rising from the table. “I guess I had better go out and see.”

“The tall Indian arose as Jacob approached him.  He stood there, eyeing the man before him for a long moment.  He stepped closer searching every line in Jacob’s wrinkled face. Then he stepped back.  Slowly he said in broken German, “I am Christian, Hochstetler.”

You see, we just never know how our life lived for Christ will impact another, even those who have caused us harm.  When we follow the example of Christ especially in the face of hardship or persecution, “When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when he suffered He made no threats. Instead He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” (I Peter 2:23 NIV) When we follow His example our impact will be great.

Well, obviously, our Hochstetlers have a rich heritage.  What kind of legacy are you creating by the life you’re living?

DID YOU KNOW?????

Don’t forget what happens on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary helps to determine

what happens on Sundays from 10:30 – 12:00 noon in the sanctuary.  Will you be there to join with us others in prayer?

Anyone interested in expressing their faith by baptism contact the pastor.  We will be celebrating this new faith in the near future.

This coming Sunday, August 29th, we will be celebrating communion together.

Lee School Supply List and Volunteer Sign-Up – Please help the students of our “adopted” school with needed school supplies.  Boxes will be in the foyer to accept your donations. Also, please consider being a volunteer by signing the bottom of the insert and turning it into the office, dropping it in the offering plate, or dropping it off at the Information Center.  Just one hour a week will make a huge difference in a child’s life and education…and you will in turn be blessed also.  See Dara Voss for more information.

Angel Food Pick up has changed their hours of pick up to 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. because it is now arriving earlier at the distribution site. Next pick-up is Saturday, August 28th.  We have now completed one year of this important ministry to our community.  There will be an Appreciation Luncheon for all volunteers after the next distribution day, this Saturday August 28th, let Joyce Workman know if you’ll be able to stay and enjoy the fellowship.

Friday Fish Fry – September 10  Mark your calendar to come to the first ever fish fry on a Friday.  Invite your friends and neighbors for a night out.  $7 adults, $3 children under 10.  Eat in or take out from 4:30-7:00 p.m.  Plate includes fish, potato, slaw, bread, dessert and beverage.

Ladies Craft Connection – September 11 will be their 2nd Annual All Day Craft Event from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Cost is $20 before August 31st, $25 after August 31st.  Lunch and dinner provided.  Door prizes! Special guest speaker from radio station WIBI.  Stay all day or just a few hours.  If you have questions call Deb Crawford at 341-0163.

All Church Picnic, sponsored by the Small Group Ministries, will be this Sunday August 29th at 5:00 p.m. at Lake Park Shelter #6.  Come and enjoy a great evening of fellowship.  If your last name begins with A-I, please bring a dessert; J-Q bring a veggie dish or casserole; R-Z bring a salad (lettuce, fruit, pasta).  Bring lawn chairs for your family.  Table service and beverages provided.

Spiritual Leadership for Men- All men are invited! Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Connection, The Prayer Gathering, Velocity, and Kidz Ministry will meet at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday.  From 5:00-6:00 is family dinner. The menu this week is: Baked Potato Bar, Tossed Salad and dessert.

This coming Sunday, August 29th our wonderful nursery volunteers are Joyce Workman with the infants, and Heather Bladen and Kaleb Buchanan with toddlers and Brytani Young is the floater. This Wednesday, August 25th, our nursery will be staffed by Heidi Hochstetler and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

Church Board will meet on Tuesday, September 7, 7:00 p.m. in room #4 next to Pastor’s office.

KUDOS

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

Children’s Quizzing will meet at a new time this year.  Beginning September 5th, the children will meet every other Sunday from noon – 2 PM (immediately following morning worship).  Pack a sack lunch for your little quizzer as the kids will eat first and then begin their quizzing activities.  Children should be picked up no later than 2 PM.

TEEN MINISTRY

2011 NYC Parents/Teens Informational Meeting – Wednesday, August 25th    Get your dinner in the gym and come into Room #106 at 5:30 p.m. for an informational meeting with Pastor Jay regarding 2011 Nazarene Youth Convention.

Desserts by Donation – September 12  Back by popular demand, the teens will be offering a wide array of delicious desserts for a donation.  Stop in the foyer after Morning Worship and choose a dessert to take home.  This helps to fund our youth ministries.

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin

Barb Kinman

Norm Castleman

Kay Gottrich

Trudy Tucker

Vicky Gates

Podcasting Instructions:

1. Open iTunes
2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

http://www.springfieldfirst.com/?feed=podcast

4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

To Download and Save to Your Computer:

Right click here and choose “save target as”  or “save link as”, depending on your browser.

To Listen Right Now:

Press the “play” button below.

Have you ever made a list of those things that irritate you? I think if I started a list I might not ever stop writing – but that’s just me. Here’s a partial list of things that has irritated me recently:

Traffic jams.

Long lines.

Misplaced keys.

Broken promises.

People who hurt other people.

Forgetting something at the store and having to go back.

Dropping food on my clean shirt.

Interruptions.

Being late.

Kids fighting with each other. (Especially when those kids are adults.)

Weeds.

Being forgotten.

Not being able to do anything to help someone who really is in need.

Deadlines.

Inconsiderate people.

Gas jumping $.25 at a time.

The store being out of what I went there for.

Incompetence.

The Detroit Tigers.

The Detroit Lions.

The Detroit Pistons.

The Detroit Red Wings.

The U of M Wolverines.

When I open my mouth and put my size 10 firmly in it.

Dropped cell calls.

Most technology at some time.

Someone’s lack of planning thinking that constitutes a crisis for me.

Cheaters.

Liars.

Sinus infections.

Bathroom scales.

Etc.

Etc.

Etc.

If it weren’t for irritations I’d be very patient, loving and kind. If it wasn’t for irritations I think I could be nice and not so irritating to others. If it wasn’t for irritations I could wade through life’s placid sea and never encounter a ripple.

Could it really be that God wants to use those things, which irritate me, as a tool to help me develop an inner character and outward actions, which are more like Christ?

You know the illustration of the oyster and the pearl. Pearls are a product of pain. For some unknown reason, the shell of the oyster gets pierced and an alien substance – a grain of sand – slips inside. On the entry of the foreign irritant, all the resources within the tiny sensitive oyster rushes to the spot and begins to release healing fluids that otherwise would have remained dormant. By and by the irritant is covered and the wound is healed – and what results, of course, is a precious pearl.

No other gem has such a fascinating beginning. It really is a symbol of stress, irritations handled the right way…a precious, tiny jewel conceived through irritation, born of adversity, nursed by adjustments. Had there been no wounding, no irritating interruption, there could have been no pearl. Some oysters are never wounded…and those who seek gems toss them aside because they’re only fit for stew.

No wonder our heavenly home has as its entrance “pearly gates!” Those who go through them need no explanation. They are the ones who have been wounded, bruised, and have responded to the string of irritations with the pearl of adjustment.

J.B. Phillips must have realized this when he paraphrased James 1:2-4:

“When all kinds of trials come into our lives, my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they have come to test your endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed, and you will find you have become men (and women) of mature character…”

Next time I’m irritated (which will probably be in the next five minutes) I am really going to try to ask the Lord, “What do you want me to get out of this,” rather than my usual prayer, “Lord, get me out of this.”

DID YOU KNOW?????

Anyone interested in expressing their faith by baptism contact the pastor. We will be celebrating this new faith in the near future.

Lee School Supply List and Volunteer Sign-Up – Please help the students of our “adopted” school with needed school supplies. Boxes will be in the foyer to accept your donations. (There was a list in last week’s bulletins of needed items.) Up until August 15th you can purchase school supplies at a 5% sale tax reduction! Also, please consider being a volunteer by signing the bottom of the insert and turning it into the office, dropping it in the offering plate, or dropping it off at the Information Center. Just one hour a week will make a huge difference in a child’s life and education…and you will in turn be blessed also. See Dara Voss for more information.

Angel Food Pick up has changed their hours of pick up to 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. because it is now arriving earlier at the distribution site. Next pick-up is Saturday, August 28th. We have now completed one year of this important ministry to our community. There will be an Appreciation Luncheon for all volunteers after the next distribution day, August 28th, let Joyce Workman know if you’ll be able to stay and enjoy the fellowship.

Ladies Craft Connection – September 11 will be their 2nd Annual All Day Craft Event from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost is $20 before August 31st, $25 after August 31st. Lunch and dinner provided. Door prizes! Stay all day or just a few hours. If you have questions call Deb Crawford at 341-0163.

Children’s Bible Quizzing Kick-Off Party –Sunday, August 22, from 12:00-1:30 p.m. in the quiz room. This

is for all boys and girls in Grades 2 though 6th. Bring a sack lunch and enjoy games with quiz directors Geoff and Jody Sarginson. If your child is interested in joining the Bible Quiz team please call Geoff or Jody at 824-6968 so materials can be ordered,

All Church Picnic, sponsored by the Small Group Ministries, will be Sunday August 29th at 5:00 p.m. at Lake Park Shelter #6. Come and enjoy a great evening of fellowship. If the first letter of your last name begins with A-I, please bring a dessert. J-Q should bring a veggie dish or casserole; R-Z please bring a salad (lettuce, fruit, pasta). Meat and table service will be provided. Bring lawn chairs.

Spiritual Leadership for Men- All men are invited! Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Connection, The Prayer Gathering, Velocity, and Kidz Ministry will meet at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday. From 5:00-6:00 is family dinner. The menu this week is: Barbeque, Pasta Salad, Potato chips and dessert.

This coming Sunday, August 22nd our wonderful nursery volunteers are Kathleen Hochstetler with the infants, and Robin Buchanan and Logan Sarginson with toddlers and Delaney Workman is the floater. This Wednesday, August 11th, our nursery will be staffed by Pat Fowler and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

KUDOS

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

Quiz Kick-off Party August 22nd following Morning Worship

TEEN MINISTRY

2011 NYC Parents/Teens Informational Meeting – Wednesday, August 25th Get your dinner in the gym and come into Room #106 at 5:30 p.m. for an informational meeting with Pastor Jay regarding 2011 Nazarene Youth Convention.

The Junior High Small Group will be meeting on Thursday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the home of Carl and Elizabeth McCoy, 1609 Westchester, Apt 5 – Springfield.

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin

Barb Kinman

Norm Castleman

Sharon Hiatt’s parents – mom is hospitalized

Mindy Palmer’s dad is hospitalized

Eula Huffman recovering from surgical procedure

Larry Hochstetler recovering from surgical procedure

Kay Gottrich

Vicky Gates

Podcasting Instructions:

1. Open iTunes
2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

http://www.springfieldfirst.com/?feed=podcast

4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

To Download and Save to Your Computer:

Right click here and choose “save target as”  or “save link as”, depending on your browser.

To Listen Right Now:

Press the “play” button below.

Podcasting Instructions:

1. Open iTunes
2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

http://www.springfieldfirst.com/?feed=podcast

4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

To Download and Save to Your Computer:

Right click here and choose “save target as”  or “save link as”, depending on your browser.

To Listen Right Now:

Press the “play” button below.

I haven’t been able to confirm the truth of this story, but if it is true, it’s amusing and interesting. In the year 2008 and the University of Glasgow Press celebrated 500 years of publishing and printing books. Johannes Gutenberg perfected the art of printing by moveable type in the middle of the 15^th century.  Slowly, this new technology for the mass manufacture of books spread throughout Europe.  A printing press was not actually established in Glasgow, Scotland until the beginning of the 17^th century.

In the early days of printing books they were filled with many mistakes and inaccuracies.  In fact, the books published during the first 100 years of the University press were marred by poor workmanship.  They have been generally derided for their inaccuracies and bad presswork.

So, in an attempt to change their reputation they set out to publish a book that was completely error free.  The developed a rather rigorous process.  It began by having six different proofreaders, who used their experience to check and recheck every page for mistakes.  Next, each page of the book was publically posted at the University, and a reward was offered to students or faculty members who could find any errors.  After two weeks and many corrections, the publishers were sure they were ready to bring the perfect book to press. They were feeling fairly confident that they had reached their goal of producing the perfect book.

But as soon as the book hit the market they quickly found out they were wrong, the flawless book had in fact many flaws.  Several errors appeared in the finished book.  In fact, according to the story I read, the first error was spotted on the first page in the first sentence.

I don’t know how that’s possible.  I don’t know if the one working the printing press that day had a grudge he was trying to settle; or if it was meant to be a practical joke and so just before they began printing he changed a letter or a punctuation mark.  I don’t know how it happened. All I know is the perfect book wasn’t perfect.

Maybe you know the feelings all too well of striving for perfection only to be reminded how far from perfect you really are.  You wanted the perfect job, and you thought you had it – but then you had to deal with co-workers, or a boss, or an employee that just irritated the tar out of you.

You wanted the perfect marriage – you worked hard at it, you sacrificed, you compromised, you did all you knew to do – but then you realized it takes two to make a marriage work.

You wanted the perfect family – but then you couldn’t have children, or tragedy struck, or financial pressures took their toll, or the child rebelled – and you were left in confusion.

You wanted to be a part of the perfect church – but then someone did something or said something that hurt and confused you.  How could a Christian do that?

You wanted to be dressed perfectly for the job interview and you were until just before you walked into the office you spilled coffee all over yourself.

You wanted to make the perfect first impression, but then the alarm didn’t go off, and you ran into road construction that you didn’t know about and you showed up late.

And so it seems our desire to have the perfect life so often is filled with flaws and hurts and disappointments.

But the truth is while the University of Glasgow might not have been able to print the perfect book, there is a perfect book that tells us everything we need to know about God, salvation, life, and how to handle the disappointments and hurts that come into our far from perfect lives, marriages, families, churches.

Paul first reminded Timothy and now us when he wrote,  “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV)

And David challenges us when he wrote, “Blessed are they who keep His statutes and seek Him with all their heart. They do nothing wrong; they walk in His ways.  You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed.” (Psalm 119:2-4 NIV)

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NIV)

“I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.” (Psalm 119:32 NIV)

And then one passage from that 119 Psalm:

“Teach me, O Lord, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end.  Give me understanding,

and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart.  Direct me in the path of your commands for there I find delight.  Turn my heart toward your statues and not toward selfish gain.  Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.” (Psalm 119:33-37 NIV)

If you and I would really make it our practice to go to the “perfect book” we would find absolutely everything we need for our imperfect lives.

I’m going to spend some time this week in Psalm 119. Why not join me in being reminded of the power of God’s Word and His promises to those who follow it.

DID YOU KNOW?????

Blood Drive –this Wednesday, August 11, 3:00-7:00 p.m. See Pat fowler for an appointment or just drop in.

Work and Witness Team meeting will be held this Sunday, August 15, right after the morning worship gathering.  Lunch will be served.  This is for all who have an interest in being a part of the team either by going, staying here and praying, and helping in the organizing of the trip.  The trip will now take place in February of 2011 and confirmation of going will be necessary by October 1.  There is a sign up sheet at the Information/Welcome Center for those who plan to attend the first meeting.  Monthly team meetings will take place on the third Sunday of the month after our worship gathering.

Anyone interested in expressing their faith by baptism contact the pastor.  We will be celebrating this new faith in the near future.

A special thank you to all who helped raise monies for our teen ministry and the NYC, in particular, by enjoying a meal at Bob Evans last Friday.  We Nazarenes sure know how to have fun when food is involved.

Lee School Supply List and Volunteer Sign-Up – Please help the students of our “adopted” school with needed school supplies.  Boxes will be in the foyer to accept your donations.  (There was a list in last week’s bulletins of needed items.)  Up until August 15^th you can purchase school supplies at a 5% sale tax reduction! Also, please consider being a volunteer by signing the bottom of the insert and turning it into the office, dropping it in the offering plate, or dropping it off at the Information Center.  Just one hour a week will make a huge difference in a child’s life and education…and you will in turn be blessed also.  See Dara Voss for more information.

Angel Food Pick up has changed their hours of pick up to 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. because it is now arriving earlier at the distribution site. Next pick-up is Saturday, August 28^th.  We have now completed one year of this important ministry to our community.  There will be an Appreciation Luncheon for all volunteers after the next distribution day, August 28^th, let Joyce Workman know if you’ll be able to stay and enjoy the fellowship.

Ladies Craft Connection September 11 will be their 2^nd Annual All Day Craft Event from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m..  Cost is $20 before August 31^st, $25 after August 31^st.  Lunch and dinner provided.  Door prizes!  Stay all day or just a few hours.  If you have questions call Deb Crawford at 341-0163.

Children’s Bible Quizzing Kick-Off Party –Sunday, August 22, from 12:00-1:30 p.m. in the quiz room. This

Is for all boys and girls in Grades 2 though 6^th.  Bring a sack lunch and enjoy games with quiz directors Geoff and Jody Sarginson.  If your child is interested in joining the Bible Quiz team please call Geoff or Jody at 824-6968 so materials can be ordered,

All Church Picnic, sponsored by the Small Group Ministries, will be Sunday August 29^th at 5:00 p.m. at Lake Park Shelter #6.  Come and enjoy a great evening of fellowship.

Spiritual Leadership for Men- All men are invited! Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Connection, The Prayer Gathering, Velocity, and Kidz Ministry will meet at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday, July 28^th.  From 5:00-6:00 is family dinner. The menu this week is: Taco salad with tortilla chips and dessert.

This coming Sunday, August 15^th our wonderful nursery volunteers are Darin and Adora Burdinsky with the infants, and Amy Wubker and Cassie Bott with toddlers and Anna Hiatt is the floater. This Wednesday, August 11^th, our nursery will be staffed by Lisa Willoughby and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

KUDOS

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

Quiz Kick-off Party August 22^nd following Morning Worship

TEEN MINISTRY

2011 NYC Parents/Teens Informational Meeting – Wednesday, August 25^th Get your dinner in the gym and come into Room #106 at 5:30 p.m. for an informational meeting with Pastor Jay regarding 2011 Nazarene Youth Convention.

Youth Summer of Joy – Plan on bringing a friend to the final Summer of Joy, Movie Night, at the church from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 11^th. You can also give blood on that day if you’d like to be a part of the Blood Drive.

The last Lunch Club Fridays for the summer will be this Friday, August 13^th at 11:30 a.m. Bring lunch and money and see where you’ll end up this week.  Bring a friend! See Pastor Jay or Kyle Shaughnessy for more details.

The Junior High Small Group will be meeting on Thursday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the home of Carl and Elizabeth McCoy, 1609 Westchester, Apt 5 – Springfield.

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin

Barb Kinman

Norm Castleman

Trudy Tucker’s niece, Megan Fleming

Hettie Kinman’s nephew – Michael

Kay Gottrich

Vicky Gates

August 3, 2010

Good Moanin’ Springfieldians,

For months I tried to convince my parents that as a seven year old I was old enough to have a pet.  I mean a real pet – not a hamster, not a fish, but a real pet – a dog.  I tried to talk them into it.  It didn’t work.  I left notes in unsuspecting places -in the refrigerator, under their pillow, in the silverware draw.

“Fred needs a dog.”

“Give a puppy a home.”

“Please! Please! Please!”

This went on for months.  They’d open the refrigerator door and find a note.  They’d unmake their bed and find a note.  My mother would reach into her purse, and my father would reach into his pants pocket and they’d find notes.  But all of my efforts were for naught.

Until February 14^th, 1963.

I was sick, and not just a little.  I was missing my school’s Valentine Party because I was so sick.  Now, for a second grader that really wasn’t so bad.  I mean, if you’re going to miss any school party – that’s the one to miss, with all the talking about Cupid and kissing and love and all that other gross stuff.

I was home sick with scarlet fever and evidently my Dad was feeling sorry for me.  He got home from work that day a little later that usual; he walked into where I was lying on the couch, and underneath his coat I saw something squirm, and all of a sudden the cutest, little, brown and white head popped out.

It was love at first sight.  That which I had craved and desired for so long I finally had.  I snuggled him all day long.  His floppy, soft ears fascinated me.  His wet, black nose intrigued me.  I even took him to bed with me.  So what if he smelled like a dog.  I liked it.  So what if he whimpered and whined.  I thought it was cute.  So what if he did his business where he had no business being.  I can’t say I thought it was cute, but I didn’t mind one little bit.

Mom and Dad made it clear in our “prenuptial” agreement that I was Chester’s caretaker. (His mother’s name was Dillon – as in Marshall Dillon – hence the name Chester.)  It was my responsibility to clean his little dog dish.  The minute he lapped up some water I was Johnny on the spot – right there ready to replenish it.  I kept his coat brushed and his tail wagging.

Within a few months, however, my feelings changed a bit.  Oh, Chester was still my dog and I was still his friend, but I started growing weary of his barking.  And he sure seemed hungry a lot.  And the more he ate, the more I had to clean up, which by now I really didn’t enjoy even a little bit.

In fact, the older Chester got the more crazy he became.  I mean if a dog can be mentally challenged, Chester was.  He was an outside dog and we had a pen for him.  And he, literally for hours, would run the perimeter of the pen, until he got to the southwest corner, he would then jump up on the fence, bark a couple of times, and then run the perimeter again, I’m not exaggerating when I say he would do this for hours and hours.  And I couldn’t get him to stop.  He didn’t just drive me crazy but all of our good neighbors.  The inside of his pen was actually banked by his constant running.  Ole’ Chester was absolutely muscle bound from all of his running.

And heaven help me, if I opened up the gate to his pen without being extremely careful, he would bolt from the pen and start running at a dead heat.  And then I would have to spend hours trying to catch him and bring him back to his pen.  You see, he thought it was a great game.  He run, stop, wait for me to catch up, and as soon I got near him he would take off running again.

Let me tell you I was getting sick and tired of Chester and his games.  I especially didn’t like to be reminded by my parents that he was my dog, and I had agreed to take care of him, and clean up after him, and to feed him.

It was right about then that it occurred to me that I was stuck with Chester.  The courtship was over.  The infatuation was long past.  The honeymoon had ended.  We were mutually leashed.  And Chester went from an option to an obligation, from a pet to a chore, from someone to play with to someone to care for.

Maybe you can relate.  Chances are you have experienced at some time the claustrophobia that comes with commitment.  Only instead of being reminded, “He’s your dog,” you’re told, “He’s your husband,” or “She’s your wife,” or he’s your kid, parent, employee, or boss.

What do you do when you feel stuck?

Life will tell you there are three ways to cope.  You can flee, fight, or forgive.

There are those who opt to flee.  We all know them.  They get out of the relationship and start somewhere new.  Others fight.  Homes become battles zones, and offices become boxing rings, and constant tension becomes a way of life.  Or you can forgive – forgive the offender and realize we are called to servanthood.  We are called to extend mercy and grace to others, even those we feel stuck with.  This isn’t something we are obligated to do – except to realize that what Paul told the Romans, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.” (Romans 13:8 NIV)

This isn’t duty, obligation or have to – this is a choice we make.  And it’s when we realize it’s a choice we’re making that all of a sudden the feelings of being stuck seem to evaporate.

DID YOU KNOW?????

Did you see Fran Herwehe’s letter to the editor in last Saturday’s State-Journal Register?  She expressed beautifully her gratitude for being a part of the Honor Flight to Washington D.C.  It was a time to honor our World War II veterans, which Fran is one of the many brave women and men who served our country.

Anyone interested in expressing his/her faith by baptism contact the pastor.  We will be celebrating this new faith in the near future.

Board Meeting tonight in Room #4 – by the church offices at 7:00 p.m.

Bob Evans Community Fun Night – this Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Bob Evans will donate 15% of all sales this day for those who turn in the coupon in Sunday’s bulletin, to our youth department as they raise monies for NYC next summer in Louisville, KY.  NYC is a gathering of nearly 10,000 Nazarene teens from across the country.  It happens once every four years and is a time of great inspiration and challenge to change our world for Christ.  Remember, for us to get 15% that day, you MUST use the coupon.

Lee School Supply List and Volunteer Sign-Up – Please help the students of our “adopted” school with needed school supplies.  Boxes will be in the foyer to accept your donations.  (There was a list in last week’s bulletins of needed items.)  Also, please consider being a volunteer by signing the bottom of the insert and turning it into the office, dropping it in the offering plate, or dropping it off at the Information Center.  Just one hour a week will make a huge difference in a child’s life and education…and you will in turn be blessed also.  See Dara Voss for more information.

Angel Food Pick up has changed their hours of pick up to 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. because it is now arriving earlier at the distribution site. Next pick-up is Saturday, August 28^th.  We have now completed one year of this important ministry to our community.  There will be an Appreciation Luncheon for all volunteers after the next distribution day, August 28^th, let Joyce Workman know if you’ll be able to stay and enjoy the fellowship.

Ladies Craft Connection will be this Saturday, August 7^th from 5:00-11:00 p.m. in room #106.  Bring a snack to share, a friend, and your favorite hobby and drop in any time for the fun and fellowship.

Blood Drive – Wednesday, August 11, 3:00-7:00 p.m. See Pat fowler for an appointment or just drop in.

Work and Witness Team meeting will be held Sunday, August 15, right after the morning worship gathering.  Lunch will be served. There is a sign up sheet at the Information/Welcome Center for those who plan to attend the first meeting.   This is for all who have an interest in being a part of the team either by going, staying here and praying, and helping in the organizing of the trip.  The trip will now take place in February of 2011 and confirmation of going will be necessary by October 1. Monthly team meetings will take place on the third Sunday of the month after our worship gathering.

Children’s Bible Quizzing Kick-Off Party –Sunday, August 22, from 12:00-1:30 p.m. in the quiz room. This

Is for all boys and girls in Grades 2 though 6^th.  Bring a sack lunch and enjoy games with quiz directors Geoff and Jody Sarginson.  If your child is interested in joining the Bible Quiz team please call Geoff or Joy at 824-6968 so materials can be ordered.

All Church Picnic, sponsored by the Small Group Ministries, will be Sunday August 29^th at 5:00 p.m. at Lake Park Shelter #6.  Come and enjoy a great evening of fellowship.

Spiritual Leadership for Men- All men are invited! Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. 

Wednesday Night Connection, The Prayer Gathering, Velocity, and Kidz Ministry will meet at 6:30 p.m. this Wednesday, August 4^th.  From 5:00-6:00 is family dinner. The menu this week is: Grilled Burgers and Dogs, Coleslaw, Potato Chips, and Dessert.

This coming Sunday, August 8^th our wonderful nursery volunteers are LaVon Nelson with the infants, and Julie Bott and Nicole Montalbano with toddlers. This Wednesday, August 4^th, our nursery will be staffed by Brenda Harris and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

KUDOS

CHILDREN MINISTrIES

Children’s Quiz Kic-off Party, August 22, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Bring a sack lunch.

TEEN MINISTRY

Youth Summer of Joy – Plan on bringing a friend to the final Summer of Joy, Movie Night, at the church from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 11^th. You can also give blood on that day if you’d like to be a part of the Blood Drive.

Open Gym Monday, August 9th from 10-12:00 noon. This is the last open gym day!

Also we will meet at 11:30 a.m. at the church next Friday for the final Lunch Club Friday. See Pastor Jay or Kyle Shaughnessy for more details.

NYC Informational Meeting for Parents/Teens on Wednesday,m August 25, 5:30

The Junior High Small Group will be meeting on Thursday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the home of Carl and Elizabeth McCoy, 1609 Westchester, Apt 5 – Springfield.

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin

Barb Kinman

Norm Castleman

Vicky Gates

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