"Destruction is certain for those who say that evil is good and good is evil; that dark is light and light is dark; that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter." Isaiah 5:20

Time magazine's recent article on the status of Christians in our country indicated that those who profess a belief in God, has decreased by 11 percent in one generation. And of those, the numbers that do not attend church has doubled. An individual with no religion at all, has increased by eight percent. Think about the number of souls represented in this population . . . say to yourself "There is no God." Can you feel the utter despair this person must have? Life can only mean death. Good works without the love of God can have no real value. But God keeps calling, "Here I am," and he sent, for our salvation His Son, Jesus to be crucified for our sin, if we only answer his call. Always in our daily prayers, include those who have strayed or have never even known God. By example show God's love in our lives, so those who are lost may also desire his love.

It is so wonderful to see the young people of our church seek God's salvation. In the last two weeks we have had four teenagers join our family of Christ. In watching these young people one recalls the lesson written in Ecclesiastes: "Young man, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it." But beware, "Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor Him in your youth before you grow old and no longer enjoy living." (Chapters 11-12). That is what these young people are doing. Welcome, Ashley Janca, James Pace, Kristen Whitley and Joseph Gentz.

Ken Reid is developing an outstanding bell choir for the young people. They played four songs during the service and they were wonderful! The Joy Jinglers represent 2nd through the 5th grade. This year members are: Sarah Stokke, Jenny Burch, Kaylee Lambert, Camryn Johnston, Lyric Patterson, Joseph Cherry, Cub Griffin, and Tommy Pollard. Adult assistants were Dianne Johnston and Tina Burch.

Next Sunday, May 10th, the Chancel Choir will be given a break while the Friends in Faith Ringers, accompanied by flutes, will play. Come and share Mother's Day with your church family.

John Taylor announced that the youth participating in the 30-Hour Famine exceeded their goal by raising $3,240 for the World Vision organization. What a wonderful example of God working in our Youth.

This Thursday, May 7, is National Day of Prayer, a program of prayer led by leaders within the community and music by our Youth Director, Sean Little, will be at 12 noon.

Deadline for returning the Scholarship application is May 10th.

Happy Anniversary to Bill and Zel Snow.

Happy Birthday to Carey Crist, Mildred Raulerson, Matt Kyser, Kasey Garner, Heather Stokke, Daniel Hays, Loren Parks, Andrew Pollard, Taylor Barnes, Camryn Johnston, Braden Reelfs, and Elise Grant.

Thought for the Week: "I was ready to be sought out by those who did not ask, to one found by those who did not seek me. I said, `Here I am, here I am.' I held out my hands all day long to a rebellious people, who walk in a way that is not good, following their own devices. " Isaiah 65:1, 2