Marcellus and Odessa probably had no idea that when their boy was born in 1942, he would become a world renown figure. But over the years their little boy grew up to become one of the most legendary athletic figures in modern day history. His name was Muhammad Ali. The gold medalist of Olympic boxing would go on to become the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. He would even be known by the nickname the greatest!

Today, we have an acronym that is synonymous with greatness, we simply call them the GOAT! (greatest of all time) Who is the GOAT of this group of musicians, who is the GOAT of these movie stars, who is the GOAT of … fill in the blank.  Still today we live in a world that is enamored with who is the greatest.

 I am fascinated that even in the gospels we find that Jesus had to deal with questions about greatness.  Last Sunday we read in Mark 12 where the question arose of what is the greatest commandment?  Even from the time Jesus was born there was conversation of greatness. The most famous story though is found in Mark 9 and Matthew 18, where the disciples were having a private debate concerning who is the greatest? The conversation may have started with which prophet of old was the greatest. Was it Moses or David or even Elijah?  Maybe that is where the debate started, we don’t know for sure, but we do know that it seemed to turn to the real question.  The root of the question seemed to be which one of the twelve would be seen as the greatest. Yes, even the disciples were sidetracked by the allure of greatness.

We should all strive to become our best at whatever talent God has given us.  Becoming great at something shows a desire to honor God with our talents. When the disciples were seeking greatness, Jesus knew they were seeking in the wrong manner. Jesus didn’t rebuke them for desiring to be great… he corrected them for the manner in which they seemed to seek greatness.  His reply to their debate was simple. “And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” 36 Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.” Mark 9:35-37.

Become like a child was the response of Jesus.  This was opposite of the world’s avenue to greatness. Greatness was not about power but rather serving.  Greatness is not found in magnificent works to behold by others. It is found in the unseen lowly times of service to God’s glory alone.

Do you know who gave Muhammad Ali his nickname? It was given to him by the one and only Muhammad Ali. Self-appointed greatness though does not equate in the Kingdom of God. The point is greatness in the world’s book and greatness in God’s eyes are on two different scales. I’d rather pursue the greatness of God by choosing the child like faith, servant’s heart and less of myself.  After all, the last shall be first. And when it’s all said and done, I’d rather be a sheep in God’s eyes than a GOAT to the world.

Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia make up what we often refer to as quad-cities.  Each one of these towns has a connection to the Tennessee River region of Northwest Alabama.  Like you, I am thankful to live in this beautiful part of the state of Alabama.  In the book of Mark, we read of Jesus entering a place that was known for ten cities. Here is Mark’s account of the end of this story.

18 “And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” 20 And he departed and began to proclaim in Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.”

Decapolis, a region of 10 cities, was a lavish area of that day. Today, you would find those cities in Jordan, Syria and Israel. You’ve probably heard of places today like Amman and Damascus, those were two of the cities within the ten cities conglomerate.  Decapolis was mainly made up of gentile people, who spoke the Greek language.  They were well educated, culturally rich and diverse people. Most of them would be referred to as Hellenistic people which point to their Greek heritage and culture. It was a major trade route location, with much influence and a melting pot of people which made the location diverse.

So, when Jesus healed this man of demon-possession, Jesus hurled the demons into the swine and the pigs leaped off a cliff and into the sea and drowned. This tortured man was set free. After Jesus performed this miracle, it says that the crowds pleaded with Jesus to leave the region.  They had never seen such power and it scared them to the point they didn’t know what to think of Jesus. Again, we are speaking of a region that is not necessarily the most religious place you would find.  Though the crowds wanted to get rid of Jesus, this man wanted to join Jesus!

Jesus told him, you can’t go with me, but you can go back to Decapolis and tell them what the Lord has done for you.  And we find that he did just that and his story made the people of Decapolis marvel.  It took amazing courage for this man to go back to his own town and tell his story… but he did. Remember Decapolis, located on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee, is filled with people from all over.  When Jesus performed miracles in this region it allowed the Gospel to spread at a faster pace to many more regions. Jesus strategically spent time here to show His power but to spread the Gospel at a faster pace throughout the world. Decapolis was a trading hub of many nationalities.  What a perfect place to bring the Good News of Jesus to than a highly traveled area called Decapolis.
 
Today, your story matters. It matters here in Florence and to whoever God places in your path. For me, I’ve shared the Gospel with people from numerous states that have entered our city.  I’ve told the Good News to people from around the world who I’ve encountered right here in Florence.   Your story matters because today you have a larger pool of people to reach.  May I encourage you, go into your city, your region, and tell how Jesus has changed your life! You never know where your story of Jesus may spread throughout the world!

Easter Sunday was fantastic at FBC.  Great worship, great crowd and most of all a GREAT GOD!!!  After the service, I joined my family for a lunch hosted by Bill and Karen. The food was outstanding with chicken and dressing and all the trimmings. It was more like a Thanksgiving meal than an Easter meal.  Then there were the desserts.  There were enough sweets to feed an army on the dessert table.  By the time I got my piece of Peanut Butter Pie, within one hour I was ready for a long Easter nap.  

Easter is an amazing day we have on our calendar.  A Christian holiday to commemorate and celebrate the Risen Savior…. Jesus Christ!  Churches are more full than usual; people are more excited than usual; and there is a great amount of joy amongst everyone on Easter.  But after Easter Sunday there can be a little bit of a letdown it seems.  It’s almost like coming off of a sugar high.  But unfortunately, it is an attitude that leads us back down the common path instead of the resurrection path.  Simon Peter is a perfect example of this attitude.  After the experience he had of that first ever Easter weekend he had some soul searching to do.  Eventually Simon Peter, still ridden with guilt from letting Jesus down before the cross, makes a business decision.  “Simon Peer said to the disciples, “I am going fishing” John 21:3.   It was the disciples way of saying, I am going back to my comfort zone!

Following Jesus is never done out of comfort or convenience.  To Follow Jesus one must do so out of conviction.  Conviction of our sins and the penalty paid for them. Conviction out of our love for the one who died in our place.  Conviction that we believe Jesus is the Risen Son of God.  To put it simply, our conviction about Easter must be greater than our comfort in our fishing boat.  The old ways of comfort are nothing compared to newness of life in Christ Jesus.

There seems to be a trend that we have a natural letdown after Easter Sunday.  But more than ever we need to wake up.  Surround yourselves with other believers and encourage one another. Stay in the Word of God and continue to sing song of praise to Him.  The Psalmist said it like this:

“O my soul, bless God.
From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name!
O my soul, bless God,
don’t forget a single blessing!” Psalm 103:1-2 (message version)

Sometimes we forget Easter too quickly.  We celebrate Him for a week, and we forget Him gradually for months to come.  May it not be that way this year! The more you and I embrace the Risen Savior the more Easter brings joy to our soul. Don’t take a spiritual nap in the next few days but instead celebrate the new life Christ has given you.  And as the psalmist says, “don’t forget a single blessing!”

A friend of mine called me and asked an unusual question.  He told me he was away on vacation with his family, and he wondered if I would go and double check to see if his house was locked up.  I obliged and checked the house for him, and all was good.  3 days later he called again and asked, would you mind checking the back door too?  I assured him again, the house was as secure as it was earlier.

My friend was not the first one to have this issue.  There is a story of a man who lived a long time ago.  He was a man of great power and fame.  Yet this man was very insecure about making sure things were secure as well.  His name was Pilate. After the death and burial of Jesus, we find some religious leaders confronted Pilate and said, remember this Jesus said in 3 days he would rise again. What are you doing to make sure there is no funny business happening with his followers?  The Book of Matthew gives us Pilate’s response, 65 “Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.”  Pilate was double checking the locks! He heard enough about the testimony of the things Jesus had said concerning rising from the dead. The fearless Pilate put things in motion, “make the tomb as secure as you know how.”  In that day, this meant putting a seal of the emperor on the stone and setting up around the clock protection unit of guards. In other words, the tomb was put on high alert!

I find it quite fascinating that the people who opposed Jesus remembered his promise of rising from the dead in three days. At this time the disciples were in grief and in hiding, after all their lives were threatened now as well.   But the people who felt the most threatened were the enemies of Jesus.  They remembered His words! Pilate knew enough of this man to know, just in case I better ask for a  double check of the locks and set up security. The death of Jesus had happened, but His words still haunted them.

72 hours can be a long weekend for some.  I wonder how much sleep Pilate and the Pharisees got that weekend?  Friday evening and nothing happened.  Saturday morning and the guards reported all was secure.  Saturday night and not a sight of any disciple near the grave. They had captured this teacher that drove them crazy. They had falsely accused Him, wrongly prosecuted Him and brutally beat Him. They shamed Him to the maximum, they mocked Him unmercifully, and they whipped him to the point of near death. The abuse shown toward Jesus leading up to the cross was beyond our comprehension.  And after all of that they ended it with the harshest of deaths, execution on a cross.  Yet for 72 hours following His crucifixion, they watched the grave of Jesus and worried themselves to death over a dead man who had already been buried.  Saturday night they triple-checked the facilities and there would be nothing or nobody that could get inside that grave.  Their biggest mistake was simple. They guarded people from getting inside the tomb but they had no power of who was already inside the tomb!

Two days had passed and the guards seemed to have done their job. For 48 hours they made it as secure as possible from the outside in, but they couldn’t help what was going to happen from the inside out!  But on the third day, security would give way to insecurity for the guards, the Pharisees and for Pilate, because …Sunday Morning had arrived.  Saturday night all seemed well but on Sunday Morning all of heaven broke loose! On that Sunday morning the earth was shaking, the guards were sleeping, the angels were waiting, the heavens rejoicing, the stone was rolling and Jesus is alive!  Even today, you can double check and triple check all you want but the message is still the same… He is not here, HE IS RISEN!

“And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” – Mark 14:36.


During the reading of scriptures concerning the passion week leading up to the death of Jesus on a cross, we find Jesus in the garden praying.  To most people this would seem like an innocent event, but it was one of the most important moments of His ministry.  It was here, In the garden, where Jesus in His prayer to the Father asked, ‘All things are possible for You, take this cup away from Me;” This passage has puzzled many believers over the years.  How could Jesus pray such a prayer? Was He giving up?  The short answer Is no. His humanity of anguish was not a conceding moment but rather the beginning of a confirmation moment.  Remember when Abraham was tested and was going to sacrifice his only son Isaac.  Isaac honestly asked his father, “where is the lamb?”  This was a foreshadowing of Jesus prayer concerning the cup that awaited Him. In this moment we see the humanity of Jesus and the deity of Jesus all at once. His request to the Heavenly Father was genuine and not out of line.
 
Many over the years have asked, how could Jesus ask such a question?  How could He have this moment of weakness?  But I believe we are asking the wrong question. The real question I ask is this, How could Jesus have the strength and courage to say Nevertheless after seeing what the cup would hold for Him? He would answer his own question with a surrender of, “Nevertheless, not what I will but what You will.” The most amazing part of the story isn’t that Jesus asked concerning the cup. The most amazing part of the story is that Jesus knowing what the cup held and He still said, nevertheless!  How could He? How could one man look into the cup that held the sins of the entire world, the wrath of God for those sins and willingly say, nevertheless, I’ll take this cup for all of the world!  Only because He was the only hope and answer for mankind’s sin.  The perfect sacrifice, the perfect lamb, the perfect Redeemer and Savior. He could have said never but instead he said NEVERTHELESS!

For years I have seen Gethsemane and this time of prayer by Jesus as one of his weakest moments. But the truth is it was one of the strongest moments of his entire life. The perfect lamb willingly became our sacrifice. To be able to see the entire picture, to understand what was about to happen and accept the cup laid before Him. Our sins were too much for us, our souls were helpless because of our sins. There was only one solution to the problem.  It would take a perfect sacrifice. How could Jesus say nevertheless?  My mind still can’t comprehend how incredible that moment was for Jesus to say, I’ll do it.  The garden of Gethsemane would be the starting point, but don’t worry my friends, there is still another garden to come around the corner.

When Storms Come: Finding Peace in the Midst of Life's Tempests

Life has a way of catching us off guard. One moment the skies are clear, the sun is shining, and everything seems to be going according to plan. The next moment, dark clouds gather, winds begin to howl, and we find ourselves in the middle of a storm we never saw coming.

The Sea of Galilee sits about 400 feet below sea level, surrounded by mountains with crevices that allow cold winds to rush down and meet the warm air below. In moments, a calm day can transform into a raging tempest. The disciples knew this reality well—many of them were experienced fishermen who had spent their lives on these waters. Yet even their expertise couldn't prevent the terror they felt when an unexpected storm threatened to capsize their boat.

The Promise of Storms

We often look at weather forecasts hoping for sunny days ahead. When meteorologists give us a "50% chance of rain," we smile at the ambiguity—it could go either way. But when it comes to the storms of life, Scripture doesn't deal in probabilities. It deals in promises.

James 1:2 tells us, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials." Not if, but when. Peter echoes this certainty: "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trials which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you" (1 Peter 4:12).

Storms aren't punishment for being a Christian. They're simply part of life in a broken world. Sometimes they're self-inflicted—consequences of our own poor choices, our rebellion, our running from God like Jonah. But often they come simply because we live in a world where unexpected things happen.

The good news? God has a plan and purpose for your life that includes these storms. He didn't create you and then abandon you to face the tempests alone. He made you with intention, with a specific purpose in mind, and He walks with you through every trial.

Preparation, Not Panic

Storms aren't meant to paralyze us with fear—they're meant to prepare us for what's ahead. There's a difference between paralyzing fear and empowering fear.

Paralyzing fear keeps us locked up, unable to enjoy the present because we're so worried about what might happen tomorrow. We check the forecast obsessively, we catastrophize every possibility, we miss the sunshine today because we're terrified of the rain that might come next week.

But empowering fear—the kind rooted in faith—says, "This storm is real, but I'm not going down without a fight." It's the adrenaline that kicks in when you realize you can either sit in the boat and let it fill with water, or you can grab a bucket and start bailing. It's the moment when faith transforms fear into action.

God doesn't want us living in dread of what might happen. He wants us living in the power, love, and sound mind that come from trusting Him completely.

The Wake-Up Call

In Mark 4, we find Jesus and His disciples crossing the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had been teaching all day, exhausted from the crowds that pressed in on every side. When He suggested they go to the other side, the disciples immediately took action—they didn't even give Him time to prepare. They took Him "as He was" and pushed off from shore.

Then the storm hit. Waves crashed over the sides of their small boat. Water poured in faster than they could bail it out. These experienced fishermen did everything they knew to do, using every skill they'd learned over years on the water. And still, they were sinking.

Then someone noticed: Jesus was asleep in the stern of the boat, His head on a pillow, completely undisturbed by the chaos around Him.

They shook Him awake with a desperate question: "Teacher, don't You care that we're perishing?"

Sometimes God allows storms specifically to drive us into His presence. We think we're close to Him because we go through the religious motions—we attend church, we read our Bibles occasionally, we call ourselves Christians. But when the storm hits, we realize how far we actually are from truly depending on Him.

The storm drives us to our knees. It pushes us to the back of the boat where Jesus rests, and we finally cry out in genuine desperation. And that's exactly where He wants us—not comfortable in our self-sufficiency, but desperate for His presence.

Power Over the Storm

What happened next revealed something the disciples had never seen before. They'd watched Jesus heal the sick, cast out demons, and teach with unmatched authority. But when He stood up in that boat and spoke to the storm, they witnessed power on an entirely different level.

"Peace, be still," He commanded.

The same word He used to rebuke demons, He now spoke to nature itself. And immediately—not gradually, but instantly—the hurricane-force winds stopped. The churning waves became glass-smooth. The storm that had threatened to kill them all simply ceased to exist at the sound of His voice.

Anyone who's been on the water knows that storms don't end like that. Even after the rain stops, the wind continues to blow. Even after the wind dies down, the waves keep rolling for hours. But when Jesus spoke, everything stopped at once.

The disciples were terrified—not of the storm anymore, but of the One who commanded it. "Who can this be," they asked one another, "that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"

The Other Side

Here's the beautiful conclusion to the story: Mark 5:1 simply says, "And when they had crossed over, they got out of the boat."

The same Jesus who was in the boat before the storm was still in the boat after the storm. The plan was always to get to the other side, and despite the terrifying journey, they arrived exactly where Jesus had said they would go.

When you start with Jesus, you finish with Jesus. The storms are real, but so is your Savior. And He's greater than any storm you'll ever face.

Not Alone

Helen Keller, deaf and blind from a young age, seemed destined for a life of isolation. But when her teacher Anne Sullivan finally found a way to communicate with her about God, Helen's response was profound: "I already knew about Him. I just didn't know His name."

Even in her storm of disability, even without anyone telling her, Helen Keller sensed the presence of God.

Whatever storm you're facing—whether you're in the middle of it right now, just coming out of one, or about to enter another—you are not alone. The same Jesus who calmed the Sea of Galilee is in your boat. He may seem to be sleeping while you're bailing water in a panic, but He's there. And when you cry out to Him, He has the power to speak peace into your chaos.

Storms are promised, but so is His presence. Trust Him in the tempest. He'll get you to the other side.

Like many of you, I have been praying for our country and especially our military personnel this week. I am praying for peace and a swift resolution to the conflict. I was asked what my response as a pastor to the church would be concerning the situation in the Middle East.  Here are my thoughts.

• As a Church, stay fervent. Our call is to pray.  We should pray that God’s will be done.  We pray for peace if it be His will but only God knows what the outcome will be.  We pray for safety of our soldiers and leaders. We pray for God’s protection upon the innocent, and we pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Our call is to pray in these situations. Read Philippians 4:6-7.
• As a Church, stay focused.  We must focus on the proper things.  It is so easy to be consumed by the details of the war. If we are not careful, we will find ourselves paralyzed by the fear of what might happen, and it can impact our spiritual journey.  Paul once said in the book of Colossians, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:1-2.  Paul reminds us that the things of this world are not comparable to the things of heaven.  Focus on those things which are eternal and not temporary.  Stay focused on God and be consumed in His glory.
• As a Church, stay faithful.  In this time that we live in more than ever the church needs to come together as one.  Remain faithful to the Lord and to one another. We need each other in days of uncertainty.  Read Hebrews 10:24-25.
• As a Church, stay fruitful.  Because of the times we live in more people are open to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Though many conversations may want to engage politics, we should use this as an opportunity to engage the spiritual need for God in your life. We must ask ourselves the question at times, what is more important our political views or a spiritual conversation? Though I may have my personal opinions concerning events around our world, my words will not change those events.  However, for the person I encounter in front of me, my words of sharing the gospel could help change that person’s world forever. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27.
• As a Church, stay filled.  It is in times of stress that we often become detached from that which we need most. More than ever abide in Christ daily as He abides in us.  Because of the world’s situation there are usually many opinions and disagreements. If we are not careful those things will creep into the church as well. But if we remain connected to the Holy Spirit daily, the more the fruit of the Spirit will be seen in us.  Read Galatians 5:22-23.
• As a Church, stay firm.  From the early church to today’s church, persecution has always followed. Jesus reminded us, if they hated Him, they in turn would hate us as well. In a day of high anxiety in our world, we must remain firm and steadfast. “but Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.” Hebrews 3:6.
• As a Church, stay forward.  This is not a time for retreat, nor is it a time to freeze up. As the old hymn stated, “Onward Christian soldiers…” it is a call to continue to move forward with the calling upon us as a church and as believers.  Don’t allow the things of this world which are out of our control keep us from continuing the mission of the church.  Do not be discouraged by the news but be encouraged by the Good News. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9.

When the World Thinks You're Crazy: Finding Clarity in a Delusional Age

We live in an era where people seem increasingly disconnected from reality. Turn on any news channel, scroll through social media, or listen to casual conversations, and you'll likely find yourself thinking, "That person has lost their mind." Political opinions, cultural trends, parenting philosophies, and yes, even religious beliefs—they all seem to be spiraling into territory that makes less and less sense.

But here's the uncomfortable truth: while we're busy pointing out everyone else's delusions, we might be missing our own.

The Family That Thought Jesus Was Crazy

In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter one of the most startling moments in Jesus' ministry. His popularity had exploded. Crowds pressed in so tightly that He and His disciples couldn't even stop to eat. The miracles were undeniable—demons cast out, blind eyes opened, lives transformed.

You'd think His family would be proud, right?

Instead, they showed up to stage an intervention. "He's out of His mind," they said. His own brothers—the ones who grew up with Him, shared meals with Him, knew Him better than almost anyone—thought He'd become a circus entertainer, an embarrassment to the family name.

Can you imagine? The Son of God, doing exactly what He came to earth to do, and His own family thought He needed to be reined in, brought back to reality, saved from Himself.

They misunderstood His popularity. They misjudged His purpose. They completely missed the mark.

When Intelligence Becomes Blindness

If the family's response was shocking, the religious leaders' reaction was even worse. The scribes—the scholars who had dedicated their lives to studying Scripture, who could recite passages backwards and forwards—looked at Jesus' miraculous works and concluded: "He must be possessed by Satan."

Think about that logic for a moment. Jesus was casting out demons, so they decided He must be working for the devil. It's like saying a firefighter must be an arsonist because he keeps showing up at fires.

Their intelligence had become their blindness. Their knowledge had made them deaf to the voice of God. They had studied the prophecies about the coming Messiah their entire lives, yet when He stood before them in flesh and blood, performing the very miracles foretold in Scripture, they couldn't—or wouldn't—recognize Him.

This is the danger of religious delusion: you can know all the right answers, quote all the right verses, attend all the right services, and still completely miss God.

The Unpardonable Sin

Jesus addressed the scribes' accusation with sobering words: "All sins will be forgiven the sons of man, and whatever blasphemies they may utter. But he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness."

These verses have troubled believers for centuries. What exactly is this unforgivable sin?

Consider this illustration: Imagine standing at the shore, calling out to someone on a pier. At first, they can hear you clearly. But as they walk farther and farther out, your voice grows fainter. Eventually, if they go far enough, they can no longer hear you at all—not because you've stopped calling, but because they've moved beyond the reach of your voice.

The unpardonable sin isn't a single blasphemous statement. It's the gradual hardening of the heart that moves so far from God that His voice can no longer be heard. It's spiritual deafness combined with spiritual blindness, leading ultimately to spiritual death.

The good news? If you're worried you've committed this sin, you haven't. The very fact that you're concerned about your relationship with God proves your heart is still responsive to His voice.

The Priority Problem

When Jesus' mother and brothers finally got His attention, expecting Him to drop everything and come outside, He responded with words that must have stung: "Who is My mother, or My brothers?" Then, looking at those gathered around Him, He said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother."

Was Jesus being disrespectful? Not at all. He was teaching a crucial lesson about priorities.

The vertical relationship with God must take precedence over even our most cherished horizontal relationships. This doesn't mean we neglect our families—God created the family unit and values it deeply. But it does mean that when push comes to shove, our commitment to God comes first.

How much do you love your family? Enough to sacrifice for them, protect them, provide for them? Jesus says your love for God should exceed even that profound love.

Are We Too Comfortable?

Theologian A.W. Tozer once observed, "The weakness of many modern Christians is that they feel too much at home in this world."

That statement should make us squirm a bit.

Have we become more comfortable with our possessions than with prayer? More excited about our hobbies than about holiness? More invested in our careers than in our calling?

For many believers, Sunday morning Christianity has become an insurance policy—something we maintain just in case we need it. We show up, check the box, and then live the rest of the week as though God were an optional add-on to our already full lives.

But Jesus didn't come to be our insurance. He came to be our assurance. Insurance is something you use when needed. Assurance is something you rest in constantly.

Heaven doesn't begin when you die. It begins the moment Jesus enters your life. The abundant life He promised isn't reserved for eternity—it's available right now, today, if we'll prioritize our relationship with Him.

The Body of Christ Needs You

There's something powerful about the family of God gathered together. When believers unite in worship, prayer, and fellowship, we become more than individuals—we become the body of Christ, functioning as He designed us to.

But when parts of the body are missing, we're incomplete. The empty seats in our churches on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights aren't just empty spaces—they represent missing members of the family, brothers and sisters whose presence we need and whose gifts we lack.

This world is not our home. We're citizens of another kingdom, and it's time we started acting like it.

Finding Our Way Back

If you've drifted, if you've become delusional about what really matters, if you've let the vertical relationship slip while maintaining the horizontal ones—there's a way back.

It starts with repentance. Not the groveling, shame-filled kind, but the honest, humble kind that says, "God, I want more of You and less of me. I've gotten my priorities mixed up. I need You to be first again."

Revival doesn't require a special service or a visiting evangelist. It happens when individual hearts turn back to God with sincerity and surrender.

The question isn't whether God is still calling. He is. He always has been. He always will be.

The question is: How far out on the pier have you walked? Can you still hear His voice? And if you can, will you turn around and come back?

Don't wait until you're so far out that the voice of God becomes inaudible. Don't let spiritual blindness and deafness rob you of the abundant life Christ offers.

The family of God is waiting. The arms of Jesus are open wide. And there's room at the foot of the cross for everyone willing to leave what's behind them and come home.

WWJD was a big hit years ago. The bracelets were a hit with Christians everywhere. The acronym stood for, what would Jesus do?  It was a great question to remind ourselves of daily, as we encountered real life situations.  Yet I wonder in 2026, if Jesus were to walk amongst us as Christians and as a Church, what would Jesus change?

In Mark 3 there is a story of Jesus entering the synagogue and it happened to be the Sabbath. The Jewish leaders of that day had over time turned the law into legalistic law in many ways. As Mark was trying to say throughout his gospel with no pun intended, you are missing the mark!  Here we find an encounter where Jesus had just rebuked the pharisees for misunderstanding the Sabbath as his disciples were pulling grains to eat. Now he enters the Synagogue and the pharisees followed Him closely to see if he would break the laws of the sabbath as they saw it.  There was a man with a withered hand in attendance that day. It was the perfect setup to publicly catch Jesus in a trap they thought.  Jesus called the man forward and said, “Then he spoke to the people: “What kind of action suits the Sabbath best? Doing good or doing evil? Helping people or leaving them helpless?” No one said a word.” Mark 4:4 (message version). When nobody responded, Jesus healed the man with the withered hand. That day the man's life was transformed as he put his hand in the hand of the Man who stilled the waters.
 
That day something happened more than just to the man. That day, Jesus changed the way things were being done because the people had lost sight of the purpose of the Sabbath and the laws.  Jesus would even say, “The Son of Man is also the Lord of the Sabbath.” Mark 2:28. They couldn’t fathom doing things differently but here is why… the Kingdom of God had slowly become their own personal kingdom.  They used the laws of the past as a controlling mechanism rather than a means to bring glory to God.  They were filled with information, but Jesus came to bring transformation! When Jesus arrived on the scene, He quickly showed them the Kingdom of God was above all else.

Still today, we as Christians at times fall into the same trap as the Pharisees of that day. We have done religion so long that we have turned it into our own personal kingdom instead of glorifying God. Kingdom of God above all else must be a calling card of every believer and church. Whenever our own personal kingdom is above that, we have crossed a dangerous line. This story in Mark chapter 3 reminds us that Jesus might have a different agenda than you and I at times. I have no doubt that if Jesus entered most any local church today that He would immediately make some changes. The same issues in different ways still abound. Jesus wasn’t changing just a man’s hand that day. Jesus was transforming lives and point people to the Kingdom of God. Still today we must ask honestly, what would Jesus change?

His nickname was Scooter.  His elusive quickness was evident in sports and the nickname stuck as he seemed to scoot around opponents. He ended up becoming a college football coach for several years with stops at Louisville and Indiana.  Lee Corso would later become best known for his role on ESPN and college football Gameday.  Whenever he disagreed with someone on live TV he came up with the famous line, “not so fast my friend.”  It was his way of disagreeing without arguing.

In the book of Mark chapter 2 there arose a question directly to Jesus and his disciples. “The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting. Then they came and said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” Mark 2:18. To be honest, it was a fair question and from all indications it seemed to be asked in a non-threatening manner.  Jesus would answer the question with a not so fast my friend illustration.

Jesus first referred to Himself as the Bridegroom.  His statement was, “As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. 20 But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” Mark 2:19-20.  The Lord’s emphasis was upon the purpose of fasting.  They had noticed that Jesus and his disciples didn’t fast like other religious people, including disciples of John the Baptist. It did not settle with their spirits very well. They had routinely practiced fasting as it was stated in the Old Testament. Fasting was done out of a demonstration of deep mourning or sorrow. Yet over time, it seemed that the practice of fasting had become routine and lost its meaning.  The point Jesus wished to make was that fasting was not a religious ritual but a matter of the heart. The purpose of fasting was to draw the believer back to God in a much more committed way. That is why Jesus stated that they had no need to fast while they were walking in His presence.  In other words. fasting is about returning to the presence of God.

Was our Lord against fasting? Absolutely not. He even states, a time would come that His disciples would need this in their journey. Jesus was against though, doing something just for the sake of doing it. When the practice of fasting was brought up, Jesus basically said, not so fast my friend. It was a teaching moment of the importance of fasting but also the purpose and timing of fasting.

In 2026 we still fall into the same trap as mentioned in the story above.  We also hold onto religious rituals that are being carried out but without any clear purpose.  The reason for fasting, or serving, witnessing or worship, or even praying, is to glorify God and draw near to Him.  We need to step back and ask some questions of ourselves, does my religious action truly glorify God and does it draw us closer to Him? In the question of fasting, Jesus wasn’t abolishing fasting but redirecting the focus on why! William McDonald said, “Christianity has always suffered from man’s attempt to mix it with legalism.” Over time, we often lose sight of what God intended.
 
It is still great to ask God questions today.  But don’t be offended when His reply is in the form of, not so fast my friend. Sometimes God still needs to remind us of His purpose and His plan.

Twenty young men would come together from all walks of life, form a team and in many ways change the attitude of a country.  They were the young men of the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team.  As you probably know, this group of college kids would shock the world with a gold medal performance and in turn give a country something to cheer for and be united. Still to this day it is probably the most famous Olympic moment in American history. Even 46 years later there have been numerous movies and documentaries made about this team. The lives of these twenty men would be changed forever.  Imagine putting on your résumé, member of the 1980 USA Hockey Team.

But there was also another side to the story. This side is about a man named Ralph Cox.  Ralph Cox was a tremendous hockey player for the University of New Hampshire.  He was invited to the try-outs for the Olympic Hockey team of 1980, but he ended up being the last player cut from the team. He was so close to being a part of one of the greatest Olympic teams and instead he was the last man out.  So, what happened to Ralph Cox?  The years following the 1980 Olympic were in his own words, “dark days.”  He felt he let so many people down and the magnitude of the moment grew.  But Mr. Cox had a moment where his attitude changed and he even would say to people, “This is not the last chapter of my life.”  Ralph Cox would have a short career in professional hockey and eventually become a very successful commercial real estate agent. He has a great family with 3 grown kids and admits today his response to being the last man cut changed his life in many ways.  (taken from Sports Illustrated article by Sam Weinman)

It reminds me of the story of Justus or Barsabas, or Joseph. Ok all three names are the same man, known by a trio of names according to Acts 1:23. This young man was selected as one of the finalists to become the 12th disciple replacing Judas. But after prayer and casting their lots, they decided upon Matthias. For the rest of his life, Joseph Barsabas Justus was the guy who got cut from the final 12.  How would he respond? From Scripture, we do not know exactly. We are sure he was one who had followed Jesus closely and unashamedly even knowing of His death and resurrection personally.  He was with the early church during this time which points to his faithfulness.  Just to be considered was quite the honor obviously. Known by three names this actually points to his notoriety amongst people of different backgrounds. He was well respected by those in the church and even those outside it seemed.  His response to not becoming disciple number 12?  There were no protests, recounts, or rebuttals.  He didn’t call a press conference, nor did he vent his frustration on social media.  What he didn’t do says a lot.  From historians we know that he remained faithful to the church and was most likely martyred for his faith in Christ.   From all indications Justus’s almost moment didn’t deter him from letting that become the last chapter in his life either.

Some of you have experienced those heartaches of almost or what if.  The job fell through, a relationship didn’t work out, our number wasn’t chosen.  The response to rejection can become your testimony of faith or your story of sorrow.  It’s your choice. The rejection is usually not in our control, but the response is in our hands.  The apostle Paul once said, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31. When we respond in a genuine trust and faith to God, the story often leads to redemption.  You may not understand why you experienced rejection at this time, but if you will just trust God, the final chapter is yet to be written.  After all, as people of faith in the one true God, we ask ourselves this question. Do you believe in Miracles? Yes, we still do!

Stephen Tobolowsky is a veteran actor who has appeared in several well-known movies over the years. His role in the movies is usually a behind the scenes character that has limited lines or a limited role. Yet I quote him all the time from one movie.  In the Bill Murray movie, Groundhog Day, there is a scene where Murray takes a bad step.  While stepping from sidewalk to street, he doesn’t realize he is stepping into a huge pothole filled with water. After plunging his right leg into the pothole, Tobolowsky's character of Ned Ryerson says, “Watch out for that first step, it’s a doozy.”

This past weekend I have found myself saying that to others who were brave enough to walk on the icy ground.  Each of us, no matter our age, slowed down a little bit to make sure of our footing.  If you have ever taken a tumble on the ice, you will always remember it’s a doozy!  All it takes is one fall and from then on you will carefully guard your steps.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the Lord upholds him with His hand.”  Psalm 37:23-24.  Throughout the Bible we often find reminders of guarding our steps. This passage from Psalm 37 is intriguing to me because it gives us a plan, a purpose and a back-up plan.  First it tells us that a good man’s steps are ordered by the Lord.  It is a reminder when we walk with the Lord, then He guides our steps.  I am reminded of the passage that says, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105. God has a plan for our steps daily.  Second, I find a purpose in that a good man finds delight in walking in God’s way. His purpose for our journey is more delightful than anything else I could think up.  Once again, God wants to bring delight to His people, He is not a kill joy God as some make Him out to be.  His purpose in our life brings a delight like no other.  Finally, in this passage, we find the back-up plan.  That is when you and I walk with God daily, even when our footing slips and we fall, we are reminded the Lord is holding us up. You may be that person that will over analyze, and you are always thinking the worst.  You are wondering what if I were to fall?  God is our safety net and then some. When we walk daily with God, our steps are planned out, there is a purpose in our steps and there is a safety net when we hit the ice.
 
We are to guard our steps as believers and the best place to start is in His Word. It’s referred to as a light and a lamp. A reminder that it not only guards our next step but future steps as well. The more we cling to His Word the more we discover who is holding us in those icy situations.

Life can be tricky at times.  Unexpected potholes filled with water are always close by. It is usually when we least expect it that we take that misstep in life because we let our guard down. Let me give you 5 different verses for the next 5 days to ponder.  Proverbs 20:24; Isaiah 30:21; Ecclesiastes 5:1; Psalm 25:4-5; and Proverbs 16:9. I encourage you to let these verses help guide your steps. This week as you rush back into the real life, I will give you a word of advice… “watch out for that first step, it’s a doozy!”

Happy 2026 FBC.  My prayer for you this year is that God would encourage you in your journey with Him and that you would take extra steps to worship Him like never before.  As we begin the new year I want to encourage you with this thought, God loves to use ordinary people. I’m reminded of the passage, “ But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.” I Corinthians 1:27. God has always been a big fan of the simple and ordinary person.

As we just finished celebrating Christmas, we are reminded of the choice of ordinary people to share in an extraordinary event. It wasn’t a Prince or Princess that were chosen to become the parents of the Savior of the world. Instead, it was a carpenter from a simple background and his wife to be, named Mary. Two teenagers that would not have made the cut if we were picking the future parents of Jesus. Lowly shepherds were the last to find out about the news of the day. After all they were always out in the fields keeping watch over the flock.  But God didn’t pick them last but instead first. The most ordinary of men would become some of the first to know of the birth of the Messiah.
 
The ministry of Jesus was for the most part turning the least likely into the lead of the story.  Disciples were not chosen on theological credentials or prior speaking engagements.  The choices were not based on merit or money but instead a mixture of the most common men you could imagine. A tax collector who was a note taker here, an outspoken fisherman was picked as well.  Some were quiet, some were older, all were different and yet Jesus used them to do the extraordinary.

Still today it is amazing to see how God chooses the ordinary to take up the story and carry it on. The church today is made up of people from all walks of life. The simple, the studious, the scientist and even the skeptics are just to name a few. But God still believes in using the ordinary person to tell of his extraordinary love. You may be wondering, what can God do through me?  Before you list your reasons for disqualifications allow me to give you a list of why God can use you… because you are an ordinary person.  Your age doesn’t matter nor do your skills and talents.  God wants you just the way you are, plain and simple.

Ben was my neighbor for several years. Ben, who was born with down syndrome is one of the sweetest souls I’ve ever met.  Our friendship grew over the years.  On Wednesday nights, I’d return home late from church. Without fail, my green trash container would be rolled out to the street every Wednesday. It was Ben who had taken on the task by himself to get my garbage out on time. After a few weeks I approached Ben and said, “Ben, I appreciate your help, but I can get my own garbage out to the street.” Ben seemed disappointed in my reply to his kind gesture.  Ben paused and then firmly looked at me and with much courage said, “I can’t do what you do Kevin, but I can take out the garbage can.” That night Ben taught me a great lesson.  God was still using ordinary men like a young preacher boy and his neighbor Ben to do extraordinary things for the Kingdom of God.  Aren’t you thankful that God takes the ordinary and adds something extra.

“But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart” Luke 2:19.

Teenage girl, humble upbringing, Jewish family, simple household, ordinary life, recently engaged to be married.  Angel appearing, Mary troubled, worlds colliding, hearts pounding, questions arise.  Angelic announcement made, blessed and highly favored, life changing news, favor with God, calm down, panic no more.  Pondering begins.

Now the news, baby to be born, you will be the child’s Mother and His name will be Jesus. He will be great, He will be Lord, He will be the Son of the Highest, He will be King! Holy Spirit upon you, Highest overshadowing you, do not be afraid, no need to panic. Faith of a teenager, let it be according to your word. Pondering continues.

Much to consider for a teenage girl, telling parents, telling my friends, oh and telling Joseph! Processing what might happen: Would Elizabeth be a source of strength to count on? Would family disown me? Would friends laugh at me? Would Joseph leave me? For a teenage girl this is a lot to grasp and much to ponder.

Conversations happen, family is at peace, friends are still friends. Joseph had a dream too. The Lord was one step ahead.  Still engaged, still in love, more now than ever before.  Elizabeth reaffirms, her baby jumps for joy, heart is overflowing, singing ensues, spirit rejoices, God is my Savior, more to ponder.

Months pass by, plans to be made, Joseph is such a leader, Mary is so strong, time is coming soon, trip to Bethlehem is essential, difficult journey, panic starts to return, Joseph is reassuring. Dangerous roads, longer than expected, lights are up ahead, city is nearing, little town, Bethlehem. Pains have started, Joseph is searching, rooms are full, panic returns, Joseph is resilient, barn will do, hay for a pillow, trough for a cradle, Star for some light, the time has come. Baby is born! Random cloths for clothes, random manger for bed, random couple for parents. Excited, relieved, thrilled, scared, remembering the angel’s words, ponder more.

Quiet night . . . almost silent, animals are asleep, so is the baby.  Voices heard, unfamiliar, growing closer, little nervous, Joseph encounters, just some shepherds, hopeful they will let us stay in barn, they heard a baby was born, how do they know? Joy filled the air, laughter and smiles, stories of angels, appearing to shepherds, Messiah news, Glory to God, Come and worship, newborn King. Shepherds go and tell, in the city, over the mountains, everywhere… So much to ponder.

Still today, culture has changed, world is different, globe is larger, life is faster. Bethlehem remembered, manger revisited, heart examined. Sinners needy, hope is fading, life is uncertain, answers are cloudy. Savior enters, life eternal, sin removing, hope abounding, love excelling, joy overwhelming, hearts transformed. World is big, life is rapid, but a manger changes everything. Little town, Bethlehem, young couple, unassuming, small manger not a palace, Savior is born, Noel, Messiah, still today, our hearts like Mary, continue to ponder.  

The following is a letter to our church from one of our international college students who is moving to the Montgomery area to start teaching.  This letter is a reminder to FBC of why we do what we do! For all of those college lunches served… Be encouraged!!

Dear First Baptist Church family,

Hello, this is John Kim. If you don’t remember me clearly, I’m the Korean student from UNA with short hair and glasses.

I want to sincerely thank you all for the past year. This church has been a place of warmth and care for me. When I first came to the U.S. in January 2025, the first few weeks were really difficult. I struggled to communicate, and Florence felt very unfamiliar to me.
During that time, this church welcomed me with warm meals, kindness, and a loving community, helping me adjust to life here.

I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about salvation and faith. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse reminds us that salvation comes through faith in Jesus. But I realized that simply knowing about His sacrifice and resurrection is not enough.

For example, we all know what money is and how it works. But just knowing it doesn’t mean we trust it. Only when we actually rely on it in important moments can we truly say we believe in it. Similarly, believing in Jesus means trusting Him in our daily lives and trying to live according to His teachings.

First Baptist Church has been a place where I could learn and experience this kind of faith. Your warmth and care have helped me go beyond knowledge and start living with trust in Jesus.

Finally, I want to thank all of you for welcoming me with love. The time I’ve spent with this church family has been a true blessing, and I will always cherish these memories.

Thank you.
John Kim

“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch,     a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” Jeremiah 23:5

I can still hear Mrs. Gloria playing the piano in my mind. For years she was our church pianist growing up. My favorite song she would play was The King is Coming. When it got to the line that said, “I can hear the chariots rumble…” Mrs. Gloria could make the piano rumble like chariots. The building of the song to the title of THE KING IS COMING, would crescendo to a point that people would stand to their feet and some would even shout. Of course, this song is referencing the second coming of Christ. But I also remember Mrs. Gloria playing another song that was just as powerful to me. She would play softly and slowly, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.”  As the song would progress, she would crescendo to this majestic part of, “Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.” Both songs still bring tears to my eyes.

The anticipation of Christ return one day is parallel to that of His first arrival in Bethlehem. It was a time in which the world had been downtrodden for years in darkness and despair. Could there be any hope for the future?  The prophets would prophesy that one day a Savior would be born, one day a Messiah would appear, and as the prophet Jeremiah said, one day a King is coming.

Most people of that time were looking for a powerful ruler, a strong presence, a mighty warrior who would be likened unto the days of King David. But God had a different plan. Instead of Jerusalem it would be Bethlehem; Instead of mighty warrior it would be a tiny baby; instead of a palace it would be by a pasture. The chariots would not be rumbling on His first arrival but instead it would be a silent night underneath the stars, especially one. The anticipation of this royal entourage would be replaced by the stillness of a donkey and a young couple.  The least likely entrance a King has ever made into this world was made by the King of Kings.

Still to this day, we anticipate that the King is coming! We know the story of Christmas and yet in our hearts each year we experience the joy of knowing what is to come. Better than that we know Who is to come.  As we start the advent season, will you open your heart and mind to a childlike faith and be thankful that The King is Coming!

As a teenager, I always enjoyed what is known today as Black Friday.  It wasn’t because I went shopping on that day or that I was pulling out Christmas decorations. The main reason I loved the Friday after Thanksgiving was the leftovers.  I can’t explain it but the leftovers from a Thanksgiving meal are different than any other leftover meals.  For me it was a turkey sandwich with a side of dressing while the decorating for Christmas was happening.  I’m already looking forward to my Friday turkey sandwich this year.

The transition of Thanksgiving to Christmas has always been a merger of pumpkin pie and candy lane. For many it’s a strict rule, no Christmas décor until after Thanksgiving Thursday.  There are others who may merge October 31st into December 25th. No matter your choice on the matter, I have come to realize that Thanksgiving and Christmas are intertwined forever. The more I look to Christmas the more thanksgiving comes from my heart.

Paul said it this way, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” II Corinthians 9:15. The apostle was writing of how rich and full God’s grace is for us to receive and in conclusion Paul ran out of words. All he could do was give God thanks for the greatest gift given to mankind.  The more I step back and realize just what Christmas truly means to me personally the more I return for some Thanksgiving leftovers.  I’ve often said, we should celebrate Christmas and Easter every single day for what it means to us as Christians.  Maybe we should add Thanksgiving to the list.  

I find the story of Christmas so intriguing and astonishing at the same time. I love that Mary was not left alone in her family as the only lady that was pregnant. Elizabeth would become a source of encouragement to young Mary.  I love that the song of Mary reveals her heart of thanksgiving even before this child would be born. John the Baptist leaped in Elizabeth's womb when the presence of the coming Christ was nearby.  Even in scriptures we see that Thanksgiving and Christmas are linked together.

This weekend as the two holidays collide may we realize that for believers the two are connected in our hearts.  May the spirit of thanksgiving continue as we are amazed at His indescribable gift of grace.  May we fill our minds with gratitude as we experience the hustle and bustle of the season to come and remember the true meaning of the season.  I pray that thanksgiving will grow in our hearts the more we take in the precious love of God who gave us His Son.
 
So, as we haul out the holly and decorate the tree, take time to make yourself a leftover turkey sandwich. This Christmas season, make sure you have a lot of thanksgiving leftovers in your heart daily.

Little is Much

I try and attend our CLBA Pastor’s conference as much as possible. The meeting is each Monday Morning and is a true time of encouragement and much needed fellowship.  This past week we were blessed to have Steve Anderson share about the mission work in the far East and it was so uplifting. But before he shared Donna Garner, who is one of our IMB Trustee, shared with us about the importance of the International Missions offering we collect each year known as the Lottie Moon Christmas offering.

Who is this woman Lottie Moon and why do we talk about her every Christmas?  In 1863, Lottie Moon was appointed as a missionary to China. Bold, feisty and deeply obedient to the Lord, she shared the Gospel to the people of China for the rest of her life when she passed away on Dec. 24, 1912.  She was a passionate letter writer to communicate with the churches in the USA about what God was doing across the world. Her story was so inspirational, that Southern Baptist decided to name the missions offering after her which send missionaries across the globe.
 
One thing that stands out about Lottie Moon to me was her physical size. Mrs. Garner brought a life size poster of Lottie Moon to our pastor’s conference.  Lottie Moon stood every bit of 4’3” tall.  The courage of this small framed young woman to pack up and go to an unknown land to share the Good News is incredible to grasp.  Charlotte Lottie Moon knew something that many of us forget.  She knew her size was small, but the size of her God was very big.  The diminutive young lady stood tall and courageous as she shared the greatest story ever told with the people of China. Today her testimony inspires many to hear the same call that she heard over 100 years ago.

The saying is that little is much when God is in it.  That is not a verse in the Bible but it is a overlying thought throughout scriptures. “So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.” Luke 17:6. There are many other examples of God using little to do much, from fishes and loaves stories to mustard seed parable.  God always loved to use the unexpected, the least of these to reemphasize that it was God who was in it all. Whether it is a small lady standing 4 foot tall or a young couple from Florence, Alabama who left it all to go to the Philippines, God continues to use the least to do the most.

This thanksgiving, be thankful for those little things, those little moments, those least known that God has used to show Himself big in our life.  Be thankful for how God works in our life in every aspect.  Give thanks today for Lottie Moon and all those like her who are sharing the gospel around the world.  Would you join me in a prayer of thanksgiving for our missionaries around the world!

Lottie Moon once said, “We have the words of eternal life and we must speak them…”  In this season of thanksgiving may we have the boldness to share those words with those around us!  Our mission field is right here in our backyard!

This week as I attended the Alabama Baptist Pastor’s Conference, I was truly encouraged by the wonderful messages of many preachers. The theme was the Preeminence of Christ. It was so refreshing to walk through scriptures as we were reminded that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ is all surpassing to everything and everyone.  Christ be magnified!

What is more important than Christ? It is a question we don’t like to ask because the conviction can become overwhelming. When we truly get honest and ask that question, we find ourselves looking inward and seeing where Christ truly ranks in our own personal life. Today’s Christian has started using a daily poll when it comes to where we truly rank our Lord.  On Sunday, we run him up to number one in the polls but by Thursday or Friday, we have often left Christ out of our personal top ten.  If He is preeminent then why is He not permanent at the top of our rankings?

“ And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” Colossians 1:18. There is so much to unpack in that one simple verse but it encapsulates the essence of who Jesus is in the big picture. He is the head of the church. We often forget who really is in charge of the church. We often forget why we are even here as a church. It is because of Christ and Christ alone.  Forgive us Father for spending way too much time on the things that do not matter and not enough time in magnifying our Lord Jesus!  We also see that Jesus has been at the top from the very beginning. He didn’t come along as an after-thought, He is God the creator Himself!  He also is the risen Savior, the proof of being God’s son, the only One who could defeat death is the One who gives life.  What Jesus did, no man has ever or will ever be able to do. Because of the resurrection, because He is God’s son, because He is the head of the Church, should he not have preeminence in our own personal life?

Pastor Dowand Malone stated, “we are servants and not celebrities…. A Christ-centered planter knows that the spotlight belongs on the Savior and not the servant.”  The preeminence of Christ is greater than any pastor, missionary or teacher. It is not about us it’s all about Him. Dare I say, “He must increase but I must decrease.” John 3:30.  We do not serve for the applause, but we serve to give the applause to the only One who deserves it. As we approach Thanksgiving Day may we pause and ask ourselves, who deserves to be number one in our life? Who deserves the applause?

Richard Blackaby said this week, “The Spirit of God is not our servant that we direct to work on our behalf.” When I give God instructions then I am saying Christ is not preeminent.  The quote by Blackaby in his sermon brought audible groans amongst the group of 500 plus pastors and staff. It was an audible groan that cried out, Lord forgive us! The conviction in my own heart was heavy as well as those around me. Could it be the first step in a renewal of a spirit, a renewal of even a church, is for Christ to be magnified above all else! Maybe if we just focused on Christ alone, how different would we be as a Church? In Christ alone!

I have been known to visit the local Chick Fil A restaurant a few times a week.  I have been enough that when I walk in my name is at times hollered out by employees but I digress.  One of my favorite things to do is to open the door for a chick fil a employee who is going through the door. They are so kind they always say thank you.  But my favorite part is to wait a second and then reply, “My pleasure.” It’s the signature motto they use when serving people.  Usually, the employee will chuckle or smile when I hit them with my own My pleasure response

In this season of giving thanks, I want to take my article to thank the good folks of FBC FLORENCE for many reasons.

Thank you to the men and ladies who served a meal to the Florence Gas Department. Early in 2025 we became good friends with the Gas Department as they took care of leak in our area.  The meal we served recently was our way of thanking them and a way of saying you are welcome at FBC. It was a great day. Thank you notes go out to Sheila Horton, Peggy Davidson, Suzette Hightower, Carol Hollandsworth, Gary Hollandsworth and Henry Kenned for the incredible meal and hospitality.

Serve Day was led by our deacons recently. We had several of our members and college students help with Porter Foundation, Trunk and Treat and giving out hot cocoa to Renaissance Farie folks. Great job by our chairman of deacons, Sam Mashburn for organizing.

Big thanks to the many people who helped with our Trunk and Treat. We had a great turnout despite the rain.  Thank you to each person who participated.  A special thank you to Lori Gren who once again did a great job.

Revival services with Morgan Bailey was a tremendous three-day event.  Thank you to Bro. Scott for leading our worship and many other things he did behind the scenes. We appreciate our musicians who all helped us out with a special shout out to Janie Wallace for playing for us each service.

The Men’s night was a blast. Great fellowship and what a meal.  Our cooks were Keith Williams, Gary Hollandsworth and on the grill was Josh Meza. Homerun by those men. Cameron Gren and Sammy Gren were setting up throughout the day as well.  Kudos to all of our men.

If I left someone off the list, please forgive me.  But the point of the article is in season of giving thanks why not recognize those who are serving in so many ways.  We should be thankful for one another and when the opportunity arises be an encourager by offering thanks to those around you.

Lots more to do in the weeks to come. Be in Sunday School, Be in Worship, Be here for midweek events, most of all be the church that God expects us to be!  I thank my God for FBC! I’ll see you in church on Sunday.

The Spanish Conquistador known as Herman Cortes brought his men to explore and obtain the land known as Mexico. In doing so to keep his men trained to look forward to the mission he gave the order, burn the boats.  It was an amazing order that would inspire his men that the mission must be accomplished. Still today you will hear the phrase that was uttered in 1519, Burn the Boats.

We don’t find the phrase, burn the boats in scripture, but there is a story that reminds me of the same commitment.  The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus have happened and now where are the remaining eleven disciples? They were hiding at times, searching and wondering.  Even to the point that Simon Peter said, let’s go back to fishing.  This was his comfort zone. He had grown up a fisherman. He knew the craft, he understood the assignment and after all he had experienced in the last few weeks, it seemed like a safe landing spot.
 
But something happened! While fishing all night on the sea, at the break of dawn they see a campfire on the shore.  There is man who asks, if they caught anything last night.  The answer is no. Then the man said, put the nets on the other side of the boat.  Though this made no sense to an experienced fisherman, in their frustration, they tried it.  Sure enough the nets were filled with fish like never before.  “Therefore, that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.” John 21:7. I have no doubt that when Simon Peter leaped into the chilly waters that morning it was a burn the boats moment in his life.

The song, I have Decided to Follow Jesus is said to have originated from an encounter of a converted family in India in the 1800’s. They were about to be put to death by the garo tribe who were known headhunters in north India. Before execution the man was asked to recount his faith and he replied, “though none go with me, still I will follow.”  When questioned again he replied, “no turning back.”  The account goes that this encounter changed the tribal chief to the point he said, then I must follow this Jesus as well.  (taken from Leon Steir, The story behind the song I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.)

Revival is a time for commitment, rededication and a time to refocus on our Lord.  But if you truly want a personal revival, how about leaving the boat behind? Could it be this weekend you could truly sing in your heart, “I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.”

We need to take you to the doctor’s office.  I dreaded going to see the doctor, but I knew it was the best thing for me.  My family physician was Dr. James Ashmore. Doc was one of the great figures in the Shoals area for many years. His bedside care was first class and he was very observant to every patient’s need.  As my father grew older, the roles reversed, and I had to take him to see Doc one day.  As the examination came to an end, Dr. Ashmore said, “Leroy the problem with all 3 of us is that we are sinners and the body pays for it.” My Dad gave a wry smile and nodded. Doc knew I was a young preacher, and he loved theology as well. His wisdom was truth straight from God’s Word.

“Because of your wrath there is no health in my body; there is no soundness in my bones because of my sin.” Psalm 38:3. King David knew as a shepherd that the sin of our life is why the body eventually dies. The bones wear out, the organs don’t function as well, the body is a clock ticking down with few timeouts. The reason is not cancer, or blood clots or whatever disease you want to name. The physical body declines because we are sinners.  Scripture says, “for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23. There is a penalty we must all pay because we are all sinners. The body will waste away.

Dr. Ashmore and Dr. Mitchell are the only 2 family physicians in my life. Talk about a lucky man, God blessed me with Godly men who served as my physician. I’m truly thankful for each one of our medical people who work to keep us as healthy as possible for as long as possible. It is truly amazing what medicine can do for the human body today. But one thing I know, medicine cannot heal sin.  That is why we must daily go to the Great Doctor’s Office.

The Great Physician is still working today. He will take on new patients anytime. His office hours are forever and ever. He never tires of us entering into His presence.  The results are usually a reminder that sin is the ultimate reason for our physical decline. Then the Lord will remind us BUT … the free gift of eternal life is on me.  Hallelujah!  What a Savior!
 
As we enter into a time of revival at FBC, would you join me in going to the Doctor’s office daily and seeking the Lord.  Even as the psalmist said, “examine my heart and see if there be any wicked way.”  Today, would you make a commitment to go see the Great Physician and get a thorough check up.

Growing up I would often go hear some of my favorite preachers as they held revival services in our area.  As a young man going into the ministry, I soaked up every sermon I could and attended many revival services in dozens of churches. I always left with a song in my heart and encouraged in my journey with the Lord!

FBC Florence is going to host a Sr. Adult Revival on November 2nd – 4th.   Does that mean it’s just for Senior Adults?  Absolutely not! It is for our entire church and anyone who will come and join us.  Then why have a “Senior Adults Revival”?  Great question!  As much as we focus upon reaching the next generation, which is very important, there is a field that is still wide open to be reached… older adults.  Gallup research found that Senior adults attending church dropped from 60% to 45% from 2000-2020. Though there is not  a specific research data available, many would say that there are more lost people that fit in this category than we realize.  Why?  There are more people in this age group than ever before!  There are many lost people of all ages within our city and that includes those in the second half of life.

There is an opportunity to invite our friends of all ages to join us for a few days of revival.  Sunday Morning worship as usual for our revival service at 10:30 a.m. The Monday and Tuesday revival service will be held in our chapel at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome to join us.  There will also be a Men’s Night on Sunday, November 2nd in the 2:18 building.  A great night to invite other men to a special event!

Our guest speaker is Bro. Morgan Bailey.  Morgan is a graduate of The Baptist College of Florida (85) and Luther Rice Seminary (90). Pastored 6 churches over 40 years in Alabama and Florida. Those churches have been leaders in church health and growth in their respective associations and state conventions. While serving at Santuck Baptist Church in Wetumpka we were recognized by the Billy Graham School of Evangelism and Ministry to be in the top 5% of growing churches in the nation. Enjoyed serving 9 years in leadership positions in the Alabama Baptist Convention (SBOM Chairman and 1st VP of the Convention). Frequent conference leader and preacher across the state. Currently writing a book, Canvas – Be a Portrait of God’s Grace to journal our 17-year journey with stage 4 pancreatic and liver cancer. Hopefully released this fall.

I hope you will begin to pray for this wonderful weekend and prepare your hearts for revival as well. This is going to be a great three days and I can’t wait to see the Lord work in our lives!
 
“Will You not revive us again. That your people may rejoice in you?” Psalm 85:6

During the 1984 Super Bowl a fast-food chain scored a touchdown with their advertisement. The commercial would become famous for the one question that was asked over and over.  The restaurant compared their burgers to other fast-food chains, and the elderly lady would simply ask, “Where’s the beef?”  Forty years later and that term is still used because it resonated so with the audience of that day.

In Luke 18 we read of the parable of the persistent widow.   At the end of the parable, Jesus asks an interesting question. “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8. Jesus in speaking to his disciples about how we should never doubt God when we pray. He concludes with this question of but in the end, where’s the faith?  Jesus asks, when the day comes for Him to return to this earth, what will he find? Will he see the faith of the persistent widow, or will he see the faith of a pessimistic worrier?

The question of Jesus to his disciples looms big the more I think of it.  He is emphasizing how much the Father longs for His children to persistently seek Him.  But it is also a call to be faithful in good times and bad. His parable of this desperate helpless lady emphasizes that many believers might find themselves in the same type of situation.  The emphasis is where’s your faith? Thankful to God for the meal you are going to have that day when there is no food in the pantry.  Thankful to God for the bills that will be paid though you have no money.  It’s the belief that despite your circumstances of what cannot be done, God can!

So the question today is, Where’s the faith? When the storm clouds roll in one after another it can beat you down rather quickly.  The widow didn’t hide and sulk. The widow never gave up.  I’ve seen many people face daunting tasks and their faith remained strong. I’ve also had times in my personal life where I did not respond in faith but fear or even frustration. I’m sure you’ve experienced both as well.

 I believe Jesus is teaching us all one of the biggest lessons we often forget as Christians. God is looking for our faith first and foremost.  Think about how many times Jesus had encounters and spoke of people having great faith or at times little faith.  His eyes are always looking to see where our faith stands!  As we close out 2025, may we become people of great faith. May it become more rea and vital in our personal life. I encourage you today to have faith in God even when you are scattered in life, knowing God is there for you.  Ask yourself today, Where’s my faith?

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
That I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13.

Have you ever just wanted to throw in the white towel? In recent years, I’ve noticed more people becoming overwhelmed to the point that they just want to give up. The task is too much, the bill is too high, the strain is engulfing, and life is hard.  We place our hands on our head and the surrender cobra signal says, I’m done.

It’s often been stated that life is a marathon not a sprint. Any long distance runner will tell you there are walls and hills that you hit in a marathon that test you whether you want to finish the race or not.  David had moments like this in his life where the enemies were overwhelming to his spirit. He had a decision to make; lean in or tap out?  He was honest in saying “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed…”   I greatly appreciate David’s candor in saying he would have given up.  But the situation was not greater than his faith.  He decided to lean in wholeheartedly to his relationship with God and to seek His face.  The inward change was solely based upon his faith.

The cancer patient hits a wall during treatment. The marriage of many years can hit a stalemate at the halfway point of life. The workplace becomes overwhelming, the world becomes toxic, the well becomes dry. The enemy whispers in your ear all that is wrong and heaps discouragement upon you at every turn.  The screams of quit surround you.  You are ready to lose heart… but because of your faith in Christ Jesus… YOU BELIEVE!

In the book of Romans, we are reminded of the great faith of Abraham. “who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, “So shall your descendants be.” Romans 4:18.   Beyond comprehension of the circumstances, old Abraham believed even when faint of heart. We found that inner ability to believe beyond the world’s hope because of the blessed hope of Jesus Christ.

Jesus once said to his twelve followers, 33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you [will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Aren’t you thankful today that In Christ we have peace even in our tribulation, for He has overcome the world.  This week don’t throw in the towel.  Lean into your faith and believe!  God is bigger than whatever your facing!