I wrestled with this week’s message as much as any message I’ve ever done.  As of Thursday I had 7 or 8 different directions on my heart.  But one thing I’ve learned about wrestling through the message preparation process: often the more I wrestle, and the more uncertain I am going into the weekend, the bigger the opportunity for God to use it.  It reminds me that it’s all a God-thing anyway.  This weekend was certainly true of that as I felt very uncertain going into the weekend, yet God gave me very clear direction as I headed into the 2^nd message of the (ACT) series.  It really hit home as we all consider the impact we’re to have on the world around us for Jesus Christ.

Here are some other thoughts from the weekend:

• Danny Larsh did a great job leading worship. He’s a tremendously talented young guy, and I love having him visit us from time-to-time.
• I’m excited about the Route 66, One-Year-Through-the-Bible journey to begin January 1. It was cool to see so many people preparing in advance, and getting their One Year Bible on the patio this weekend. If you don’t yet have yours be sure to get one this weekend so we can all begin reading together at the first of the new year.
• I had some great opportunities to pray with people on the patio this weekend. It always impacts my heart when I get to pray with someone that’s hurting; to bring a little hope into their life and remind them that God can and will work in their lives. We are trusting Him when we pray together.
• Our staff Christmas Party Sunday night was incredible. We had an awesome dinner and a great time just hanging out together. I love the team I work with. What a blast to get some down time with them.
• Congratulations to Mark & Julie Gumm. Not only is Mark an incredible Executive Pastor, he’s also a huge devotee to living with financial peace. Just this month they paid off their home, which means they are completely and totally debt free. If you’re at Palm Valley and you’re struggling with debt, you need to get with Mark and get some help with how to arrange your finances to move to financial freedom.
• I love the song “For the 21^st Time” that the band did Sunday. It’s so very moving and meaningful, but also very challenging. We need to make sure we’re always looking for hurting people around us to show them Christ’s love.
• The pre-message video was awesome. Thanks to the Olson family for sharing their story with us, and to Michael for doing such a great job of telling that story in such an incredible way through video.
• Huge thanks to the set up and tear down teams who continually get the job done each weekend! Thanks also to Dennis Johnston for his great leadership in that area. If you’re looking for a place to serve at PVC, this is a terrific team to join.
• My Raiders were horrible. Enough said.
• My boys are a crack up; they keep me laughing all day long. However, my little baby girl has me wrapped around her little finger
• Daniel and the Compassions team are doing an amazing job of creating a caring network for the hurting in our church. Great job Daniel

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