​The story of Esther in the bible is one of the most poignant sagas of all time. The Jews lived in exile because of their disobedience toward God. Persia had been assigned by God to chastise His people. In the midst of this saga we’re introduced to some key players: Esther, Mordecai, Haman and King Ahasuerus. Because Haman thinks more of himself than the furtherance of the Persian kingdom or the Hebrew slaves, he sets himself up for disaster. The king had promoted Haman and set his throne above all the officials who were with him. (Esther 3:1). Because Haman was promoted he felt little respect for his subordinates. One of the Jewish slaves, Mordecai had sworn that he would not bow to anyone but the Lord. Because of his resistance, Haman became incensed. He despised Mordecai so much that he set in order a plan to annihilate ALL the Jews! Little did Haman know that Mordecai was kin to one of Queen Vashti’s successors! Enter Esther: beautiful, smart, loyal and niece of Mordecai. Mordecai had been called to raise her after her father and mother had died. Once Mordecai learns of Haman’s plot to kill all the Jews, he summons his niece/daughter to help the Hebrew cause. Listen to his words in Esther 4: 13, “Do not think to yourself that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” We know how the story ends, don’t we? Esther does as her uncle instructed her and Haman ends up hanging on the gallows he had built for Mordecai. But the best part is when Esther wins the king’s favor and reverses the edict which Haman had instituted to kill all the Jews. Notice the reaction of the Jews when the learn that that a decree had been signed by the king to spare the Hebrew people. Chapter 8: 16, “The Jews had light and gladness and joy and honor. And in every province and in every city, wherever the king’s command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday.” Light, gladness, joy and honor. Can you picture it?? And yet, this was only temporary freedom. What is our reaction to our God knowing that we enjoy ETERNAL freedom through Christ Jesus? Jesus truly paid it all. All to HIM we owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. He washed it white as snow.
 
Have a blessed day and remember the One who gave it to you!                                                                          Kevin

​This past Tuesday was a day that started like many other days. I got up, made my coffee and went to the living room to do my morning devotional before heading to the office. I knew this day would be somewhat special because it was the first day our Nursery School students would be coming to school. I figured (rightfully so) that there would be some children who would struggle to release the grip around mommy or daddy’s neck. I also knew my nephew (Eli) would be coming to school for the first time and I made sure to greet him when he came through the door. But what I WASN’T expecting was a call from my uncle. You see, my uncle is 86 years old. My uncle is my father’s only brother. My uncle is one who was raised by grandfather and grandmother (Godly examples in the Lord’s church). And, my uncle was also one who had never made a commitment to Christ by putting Him on in baptism. So, I was a little shocked that he had called me. He asked how my schedule looked and I thought he was going to ask me to come to the convalescent home my aunt was in to pray with her or to help him with her in some way. Imagine my surprise when he told me he wanted to be baptized into Christ!  I was stunned! I had gone to talk to him numerous times about making a commitment to Christ in times past to no avail. My father had spoken to him many, many times on the phone and in person about the importance of accepting Jesus as his Savior. Add to that the fact that my uncle had been through open heart by-pass surgery in times past as well. We knew time was of the essence. And, then…my phone rang this morning. I know there are folks in your family who (for whatever reason) have never made a commitment to Jesus and I know some of you have all but given up hope. Can I encourage you to pray for them once again? Can I encourage you to lift them up to your heavenly Father one more time to turn their life over to Jesus? Who knows? You might receive a phone call just like I did. And, your day will certainly be filled with new hope!
 
Have a blessed day and remember the One who gave it to you!                                                   Kevin

​Recently, you were asked to participate in a survey to help you understand what spiritual gifts you possess. Paul reminded the Corinthians, “there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.” (1 Cor. 12: 4). He goes on to say in v. 7, “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” Any time I can use my God-given talents to help a fellow Christian, God is glorified. Not only is God glorified, the body of Christ is empowered to do greater things for the cause of Christ. You may or may not have chosen to take the Spiritual Gifts survey. While it’s true our works don’t save us, they do give God an indication as to how appreciative we are for all He’s done for us. Even if you chose not to take the survey (which you still have opportunity if you’ve changed your mind!) there are ALWAYS things you can do to build up the church. Helping out around the building, visiting the Nursery School to lend a hand, visiting folks in the hospital, sending cards of encouragement, helping teach a bible class, working with young people, volunteering to help with MOPS, delivering food to those who are shut in or ill, taking time to help in our Training for Worship program, etc. You see, there are always things needing done! Paul reminded those in Corinth, “The body doesn’t consist of one member, but MANY.” (1 Cor. 12: 14). The way Christ’s church has been designed to operate consists of ALL its members doing their part to the benefit of the whole. “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it…” Use your gifts to glorify God and serve those around you. By allowing yourself to become immersed in service, you have a tendency to forget your own troubles. It also makes the person you’re serving feel special. They need it…you need it and God expects it.
 
Have a blessed day and remember the One who gave it to you!                                                                   Kevin