For most of us, August is the eighth month of the year. The word can describe that which inspires awe or admiration. So this year, to say that today is the last Sunday of an “august” month is a double entendre. It has been a great month, one that deserves reflection.
We are focusing on roles this summer, particularly the unique contributions men and women should be making in the kingdom of God. On Wednesday nights, our men and women have been gathering in separate classes. In addition to these classes, we hosted a Ladies Day with Cindy and Hannah Colley, and the men had breakfast together one Saturday, an occasion for prayer and fellowship.
The young people have been busy, too. Neil capped the summer with some great opportunities for spiritual development. One weekend, our teenagers attended the Southern Evangelism Conference (SEC). Six hundred people in all were present on Saturday of the conference. It is wonderful to see so many young people studying to see what they can do to reach the lost. On top of SEC, there was a youth devotional, an area-wide event at the Shades Mountain congregation, and a rafting trip.
Our numbers have looked good this summer, despite family vacations, camp, and other events that usually take people away from home. One Sunday in August our attendance peaked at 255. Our building is getting full. New families continue to place membership, more are continuing to visit, and our core members are growing in their faith and knowledge.
The Young Adults got together for fellowship one evening, and today we are having our Fifth Sunday Fellowship, along with an early afternoon service at 1 p.m. The early church enjoyed one another’s company. That was part of the secret behind their endurance and growth. In following their example, we too can persevere.
To make things even better, this summer is ending with two weddings. Adam Lyons and Mauri Swanson were married yesterday, and Sarah Camp and Grant Dopson will be married this Saturday at the Decatur Highway Church of Christ. Our prayer is that God will bless these new families with many happy years.
Of course, there’s always room for improvement. Our contribution was low, probably due to school supplies and summer vacations. We can do better. Also, our hearts go out to two of our families who lost beloved parents and grandparents. We take the good with the bad, making improvements where we can. In everything, we must put our trust in God.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thes. 5:16-18).