by Chris Steele

June 10, 2007

It is good to get away and refresh ourselves both physically and spiritually. Our spirit will always need the refreshment that comes only from God and the study of His Word. No matter where we are, it is very rewarding to be able to gather with other Christians and be built up in the faith.

Carrie and I are thankful to the elders for allowing us this opportunity to attend the Bellview Lectures in Pensacola this week. This lectureship has been very solid through the years, dealing with pertinent issues facing the church today. This year’s theme is “A Time to Build.” Titles for many of the lessons begin with, “Building Better…” We will hear lessons on building better homes, congregations, worship, givers, leaders, elders, deacons, preachers, members, attitudes, and discipline. If you are interested in watching what we are experiencing in person, you can go to their website at http://www.bellviewcoc.com/ and click on the Live Broadcast button. Times are Central Standard Time.

I appreciate Chad Tagtow for coming over and filling in for me while we are in Pensacola. Chad presented some great lessons the last time he was here. The elders invited him back. I am confident that he will do a wonderful job once again.

I appreciate Chad, and his wife Sabrina, for another reason. They are responsible for asking Erin to go with them on this mission trip to Ghana. Chad made his first trip to West Africa last year. Needless to say, their plans changed when they found out that they were going to be parents this summer instead. Even so, they have been very supportive of Erin. I am glad that they encouraged her to go on without them.

There is more in my appreciation folder. Any congregation is fortunate to have brethren who can preach and teach in times when the preacher is away. Bob Sneve has always been willing to use his talents in this regard. I am grateful to him this week. Gary York is a seasoned and able teacher as well. He continues to step up to the plate when I am gone. Through the years I have learned to appreciated both of these men for their willingness to do whatever they can to help.