May Report

"....for I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

By James Gunter


Well, we're still trying to catch our breath from all of the activity in April. But, we're definitely not complaining. As a matter of fact, we would love to see every month....well, ok, maybe at least 10 months out of the year that busy. Sometimes we actually have to work at the office.

I couldn't help but notice that May 4th marked the second anniversary of when we began teaching Experiencing God at our home church. The classes are still going on, and there have probably been at least 100 people or more to go through this exciting study since it all began in 2005. I have been able to substitute for Russell (the present teacher) a couple of times, and this was really special for me.

You may have noticed that we began making plans for a fall leadership conference just last month. On the 9th of May, we were able to meet with Pastor Jake (our senior pastor) to share our vision for the conference. He is definitely excited about this opportunity and has even suggested that Life Community partner with us in promoting the conference. They will be providing the necessary space and helping us to promote the conference. In addition, Pastor Jake will be giving the initial challenge to the conference attendees before any of the breakout sessions. The conference will end with Pastor Jesse Wilson (Pastor of Assimilation) giving a tremendous message to challenge us as we leave the conference.

On May 10th, we met with Saul Contreras, a friend from our church, who has a background in filmmaking from his earlier years in Peru. He has expressed an interest in producing videos, so we are considering having him help us with some promotional videos in the very near future. God continues to bring very talented people into our path who have a heart to reach the lost with the message of the gospel.

I have already shared about May being special due to a couple of different events, but the most important event of the month was my daughter's wedding. I had the honor of walking Brandi (age 21) down the aisle on May 18th and handing her off to a wonderful gentleman (her modern-day knight) named Brad Terrell. My son Chris (age 19) was an usher and I was so proud of them both. They are incredible young adults (I have to get used to not calling them kids anymore) and I am truly blessed to have them in my life. I know Baptists aren't supposed to do this, and shhhhhhh....don't tell anyone, but I got to dance with Brandi. My wife Cindy and I also shared a very special dance before the evening was over. Treasure your children. They grow up quickly and some even move away.