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

Sermon, Oct. 7th, "Are We Blessable?" Part 2. Scripture, Micah 3:8-12

". . . there is joy in the presence of the angels of God when one sinner repents." -Luke 15:10

Most of us today are fascinated by angels. There are pictures, figurines, all types of angel ornaments. I have a collection of the little chubby ones, that make me smile when I look at them. But angels have a much more important role in God's realm. ". . . the angels are spirit-messengers sent out to help and care for those who are to receive his salvation." (Hebrews 1:13) That is why we are cautioned to ". . . be kind to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" (Hebrews 13:2. They also are here to protect our children, (Matthew 18:10) and ourselves: "For he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go." (Psalms 91:10). All we have to do to receive a protecting angel is to believe, for as Jesus said: "And I assure you of this: I, the Messiah, will publicly honor you in the presence of God's angels if you publicly acknowledge me here on earth as your Friend." (Luke 12:8).

Reverend Munch's message this last Sunday was on how inability to forgive may handicap our ability to receive God's blessings. There is a determination in myself to hold a grudge, to want those that hurt to feel the same hurt they caused. It is one of many human weaknesses that God wants us to deal with because as Dr. Munch said, it prevents us from receiving God's blessings. His message reminded me of a prayer by Norman Vincent Peale: "Grant that I may know the incredible pleasure of reconciliation. Let the sweetness of forgiveness bring new joy into my life, through Jesus Christ. Amen."

The "Home Improvements Program" continues on Sunday afternoon and is a wonderful opportunity to continue your growth in Christianity. Bring a friend; the lessons are nondenominational. For couples "The Five Love Languages,"; for men or women, "That the World May Know" at 6pm, followed at 7pm by "The Prayer of Jabez" for men and "Get a Life" for women. Games and videos will be provided for the children, so come and join in Christian fellowship.

The Methodist Men's Association has elected new officers for the coming year. Dennis Murray was selected President; Tom Bradbeer, Vice President; John Adkins, Program Chairman; Allen Pollard, Treasurer; and Tom Jones as Secretary. One of the missions of the Methodist Men is working in support of the Boy Scouts and the Cub Scouts. They also distribute the lovely fruit baskets to the church widows during the Christmas season.

The Men's Breakfast was held at the Presley's Restaurant this Tuesday. The group meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30am, so if you have not attended before, put it on your calendar. Networking among Christians is as vital to a person's well-being as networking is important to one's source of business, and what a wonderful way of spreading Christian joy.

Wednesday, Oct. 3rd is Family Night. This week's hosts will be the Fountain class. So bring your favorite dish and your neighbors and come for a fun night out.

Thursday, Oct. 4 at 7pm is the Regional Conference meeting at Marvin United Methodist in Tyler. Remember this meeting includes workshops for lay leaders, as well as pastor and staff meetings. Everyone is invited, so if you would like to participate in more leadership roles in our church, either by teaching, or serving in any other capacity, please consider this meeting.

Happy Anniversary to: Tom and Kim Birdwell, and Charles and Juanita Price. "What know us of the Blest above? But that they sing, and that they love?" - Wordsworth

Happy Birthday to: M.G. Boehms, Edna Jo Welch, Bob Padgett, Bob Pyle, Glenn Ford, Karen O'Steen, Brittany Galloway, Timothy Williams, Ryan Smith, Morgan Barnes, Lexton Wilson, and Cadynce Duncan. "See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way." Exodus 23:20

Thought for the Week: "If anyone hears me and doesn't obey me, I am not his judge - for I have come to save the world and not to judge it. But all who reject me and my message will be judged at the Day of Judgment by the truths I have spoken." John 12:47,48