On Friday, I spent the day at the Licking County YMCA golf outing. I did not play because that would be a waste of money and time. After doing devotions (turned out to be a prayer) I spent the day driving the beverage cart and interacting with those who were playing. In the spirit of community collaboration our church also sponsored a hole.

It was a beautiful day and I enjoyed hanging out with some new friends and some old acquaintances.

This morning I awoke and after a time of devotions I discovered a gift certificate in my email from the congregation at Newark Naz. What a great surprise. Even though I knew things were happening regarding staff and pastor appreciation month, I didn't expect anything today so it was a very cool feeling to find it in my email on Sunday Oct. 1. Being in Newark and leading this part of the Christ's body here on earth has been a joy and what I consider to be the defining moments of my life. My prayer is that God will continue to open doors that no man can shut and that He will keep His grace and mercy flowing through our church.

Today I will take a Sunday off and try to recover some energy by letting God use this day as a Sabbath or day of rest. Sometimes it is hard not to be at churc but I know I need the break.

Last evening I attended Real Life. Pastor Chris and those who are leading are doing so well. I just kept thinking about how dead and ineffective the church was for so long and now we are seeing people's lives changed. To attend a very credible worship service and listen to the pastor lay out the word with clarity is beyond rewarding for every dollar and effort made to rebirth this ministry. God is good. Very very good!