Chandler F.U.M.C.
by Linda G. Keeling

"...Jesus' mother was a guest at a wedding in the village of Cana in Galilee, and Jesus and his disciples were invited too. The wine supply ran out during the festivities, and Jesus' mother came to him with the problem. `I can't help you now,' he said. `It isn't yet my time for miracles.' But his mother told the servants, "Do whatever he tells you to." -John 2:1-5

One senses when reading the Bible that the relationship between Jesus and his Mother was one of love, obedience and true understanding. Little is said about his life as a young boy, but it was obvious from the few scriptures that while he was exceptional in many ways, his relationship with his mother was very typical. For example, the above verse. Mary knew Jesus could perform miracles, so he must have demonstrated such abilities as a child. When she came to him with the problem of the wine, he said, "I cannot help." I imagine this comment was said in a very teasing tone, as many young men might respond to their mothers today. What did Mary do? She knew her Son so well. Without saying another word to him, she simply turned to the servant and said, "Do whatever he tells you to." "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her." -Proverbs 31:26-28. May God bless all Mothers and Grandmothers each and every day.

Last Sunday Jerrod Thomas Barber, son of Stephen and Carrie Barber and brother of Kealy Barber, was baptized. The Barbars currently are living in Texarkana but returned to their home church for the christening. It was a pleasure to have them back.

The graduating seniors were recognized at Family Night last Wednesday. Personal photos, awards and a power point presentation of all their activities during the year were presented. The parents were noted for their glowing pride. The seniors are: Morgan McGill, Blake Richardson, Zach Shaffer, Daniel Herron, Callie Crossley, Carter Maddox, Ruben Watson, Katie Pirtle, and Jordan Magee. Remember, seniors, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." -Ecclesiastes 9:10

We have so much talent in our church and last Sunday was no exception. Megan Frederick and Danae Luckert presented a beautiful song, "I Am Nothing Without You," Taylor Cramer played the flute for the Choir "In Remembrance " and Cathy Luckert and Kim Pollard's song of praise was "Change My Heart, O God."

Have you noticed the neat coffee server in Fellowship Hall? Thank you, Rod Starnes. Rod also built the serving tables that decorate the Hall.

This Sunday the Youth will be responsible for the church service. Be sure to attend, as their programs are always uplifting and comforting in the knowledge that these young adults will become leaders in our church and communities. "Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you teach, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." - I Timothy 4:12

Remember that the "last luncheon" for Reverend David Luckert and family will be held after the 11 a.m. service, Sunday, May 27th. In Ephesians 4:11-13 it is God who gave our pastors and teachers to the church, and we have been truly blessed by having David with us for the last six years. The First Methodist Church of Richmond, Texas is receiving one of the very best. Thank you, David and Kathy for your teachings, fellowship, dedication, and Christian example.

Happy Anniversary: Bill and Zel Snow, sixty two years!!! "Talk with each other much about the Lord, making music in your hearts to the Lord." -Ephesians 5:19

Happy Birthday: Carey Crist, Freddie Cade, Mildred Raulerson, Martha Hemphill, Don Copeland, Nancy Kinch, Thurman Reed, Heather Stokke, Daniel Hays, Loren Parks, Andrew Pollard, Taylor Barnes, Austin Lackey, Camryn Johnston, Braden Reelfs, and Elise Grant. "Don't neglect your mother's teaching. What you learn from your parents will crown you with grace and clothe you with honor." -Proverbs 1:7-9

Thought for the Week: "Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near." -Heb 10:25