Revitalize Your Church

My son, Ryan, found some poor, old abandoned hymnals looking for a home, and brought them to me for my birthday! Early this morning, during my devotions, I looked them over. One of them was a songbook used in Gipsy Smith's revival meetings. (Smith was one of the greatest evangelists at the turn of the 20th century.) When I opened the Smith songbook, and found this birthday greeting: A Year of Precious Blessing by Fanny J. Crosby A year of precious blessing and glorious vict'ries won Of earnest work progressing , it's onward course has run; To Thee, O God, our Refuge, whose goodness crowns our days Within Thy eathly temple. we lift our souls in praise. In a second hymnal, Songs for Service, I found another birthday message: Better Every Day By Alice Horton When the shadows dark and drear Tempt my sould to doubt and fear I will look to Jesus, for He knows the way. He has kept me through the years Wiped away my bitter tears. I love my Savior better every day. O how sweet the j...

Yesterday, my 46th Birthday, was filled with lots of special surprises. It was a splendid autumn day -- one of the most beautiful of the entire year! My "Backroads Coffee Card" had ten punches -- so I got a free coffee! My family turned my vehicle into a "Happy Birthday Car" and took me to Perkins for lunch. A group of ladies from the church was sitting in the booth next to us, and gave us nice discount coupon! Wayne, our plumber friend, came by the house for a repair -- and threw in a new water valve as a birthday gift. (His jingle is let Wayne-o clear your drain-o) I received an e-mail from a church planter in Swaziland, who heard an interview I did for pastors on a cd -- and wrote to say "thanks." That was amazing. A thank you note arrived in the mail from a man who received significant spiritual help this week. We're going to light the faith candle for him this Sunday. A lady I don't know stopped my on the street and thanked me for my newsp...