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

Sermon, March 9: Seven Deadly Sins #5. Scripture, James 3:9-18

"Learn to be wise, he said, and develop good judgment and common sense! I cannot overemphasize this point." Proverbs 4:5

Wisdom is spoken of often in the Bible and is presented as necessary to leading a successful and happy life. But how does one learn to be wise? Does wisdom come with education, experience, or maturity? Some say it is a combination of all three. Yet we all know individuals that live their whole life with little common sense or good judgment. Even education falls short in making one wise. So what is wisdom, such as Solomon was known for? Wisdom can be attained through the study of the Bible and through prayer. "If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, for he is always ready to give a bountiful supply of wisdom to all who ask him; he will not resent it." (James 1:5).

God also sent his son, as his "secret plan" for "In him lie hidden all the mighty, untapped treasures of wisdom and knowledge. " (Colossians 2:2, 3). So it is wise to remember as in Proverbs 9:10 "The reverence and fear of God are basic to all wisdom. Knowing God results in every other kind of understanding. " Thus wisdom can be obtained for all, through worship, study and prayer. How simple it can be to acquire true wisdom.

The "Cross-Training" program for young children, has really kept Wednesday nights at the church a happening place! There are now over thirty children regularly attending the program, which offers a free meal, crafts, story telling, music, and loads of fun while learning about Jesus. Kasey Oliver, coordinator is requesting help for "crowd control, " so come join them for an evening or two. You will have loads of fun working with these enthusiastic, happy youngsters, plus Polly and her crew will give you a free meal.

Have you seen that beautiful tapestry quilt currently on display in the church office? Nancy Martin is a true artist. The quilt is 35 inches by 46 inches and just fits over my couch! Tickets are one dollar for one or six tickets for five dollars. All proceeds go toward the mission trip to Kenya Methodist Hospital later this summer. The drawing for the lucky winner will be held on Easter Sunday. Tickets are now on sale at the church office at 507 N. Broad.

The "Jesus of Nazareth" film started last Sunday at 6 p.m. in

Heritage Hall and will continue over the next two Sundays. You may have missed the first couple of hours, but come this Sunday to see the remaining hours of this six-hour film. Others can always fill you in on the part you may have missed. It is well worth it.

Triple L meets Wednesday, March 12 at 10 a.m. in Heritage Hall. Come and join the fellowship, game and good food. Bring a friend.

For your calendar: March 20th Maundy Thursday service is 6:30 p.m.

March 21st: Good Friday service at noon.

March 23: Sunrise service, 7 a.m. at Lake Palestine UMC (breakfast served).

Happy Anniversary to: Randel Womack, Stephanie Womack, John and Casey Oliver, Joe and Linda McKeever, William and Jean Thatcher, and Nina and Bill Copeland.

Happy Birthday to: Austin Gregory, Terri York, Stacy Crist, Kenneth Parks, Jerry Starkey, Cecile Edwards, Lois Kidd, Daisy Young, Marita Boyd, Sara Hall, Marilyn Pollard, Ruthie Callaway, Shelia Grace, Darin Smith, Lauren Magee, Kate Griffin, Danielle Travis, Dean York, Ashley Gregory, Garrett Essary, and Luke Oliver.

Thought for the Week: An old Yiddish proverb: "Man plans - God laughs."