Dear Fellow Servant,

Today, I hope that you are preparing to spend time with the people in your life who bring you joy and remind you of all the things you are thankful for.  As you gather with relatives, friends and family over the holiday, set aside time for expressing thanks beyond the food, football and fun.  Many of us are going through some tougher times this holiday than we did the same time last year but we are still here.  And as long as we are here, there is hope.

Speaking of hope, I hope you heard the testimony this past Sunday from the young lady being helped by Hope House.  What a moving story of survival and strength overcoming many obstacles and finding her way home to THE BLVD.  If you didn’t hear the testimony live, get the CD or the DVD.  Then go a step further.  Don’t just be moved emotionally.  Be moved physically to enter the story of hope.  Last Friday, Joyce and I had the opportunity to go to Hope House and volunteer.  It was a memorable and moving experience.  In upcoming weeks, I am going to visit several organizations and charities to show you just how easy it is to enter the story and make a difference.  It’s time for us to reconnect with the servant part of our mission.

I also want to let you know that tomorrow night (Wednesday) also known as Thanksgiving Eve, we will not be holding our regular Wednesday night worship service at the church.  I have however, recorded a special message for you to view that is available in place of the live Wednesday service.  Click here to link to the message.  Technology now affords us the opportunity to reach out to you even when we can’t be together in one place.  Pastor Bell started the series last week on Entering the Story…the Gift of Hope, which follows the path of Advent Conspiracy.  I am bringing you the second installment via video Wednesday. View it with your family at home and then start the discussion on how you can change the way you do Christmas from consumption to relationships.

Finally, before I hit the road, I want to thank those of you who have committed to supporting our annual Christmas concert by buying and selling tickets.  I also want to encourage anyone who has not yet done so to please buy tickets.  I cannot stress how important it is that we have your support for this year’s concert.  With all of the activities happening in and around Memphis the week of the concert, please don’t let the one event with our name on it be less than a sellout crowd!  I believe in you. 

Have a wonderful holiday.  Don’t overindulge.  Remember your health!  See you Sunday!