Bundle Up...

Yesterday, Leigh-Ann and I watched Sophia and her University of Central Missouri soccer team compete in the NCAA National Tournament against the University of Mary from North Dakota and finish with a 5-0 win. Sophia and her teammates played great, and I think Leigh-Ann and I and the boys put in a pretty solid performance as fans, although our contribution involved a lot less running.

As Sophia's college soccer career winds down, we're trying to soak up every moment, even the freezing ones. And after years of watching soccer in every kind of weather, we've learned that November games require a strategy. I've perfected the art of layering. By the time I'm dressed, I look more prepared to survive a MN blizzard than watch a soccer game. Sitting down becomes a challenge, and tying my shoes is pretty much impossible.

Leigh-Ann, however, has discovered heated socks AND a heated vest. While I'm buried beneath seventeen layers trying to preserve body heat, she's sitting comfortably in her own climate-controlled environment trying to keep from getting overheated.

One thing I've learned from plenty of cold weather soccer games is that you never fully appreciate warm clothes until you've spent a game shivering without them.

It's interesting how we often fail to recognize the value of something until we realize how desperately we need it. This Sunday we continue our Everyday Disciples series in Luke 7:36–50, where Jesus attends a dinner at the home of Simon the Pharisee. A woman known for her sinful past approaches Him, washes His feet with her tears, and pours expensive perfume over them. Simon questions why Jesus would welcome someone like her, but Jesus reveals we will never fully value Him until we recognize how desperately we need Him.

When we recognize the seriousness of our sin, we begin to treasure His forgiveness. And when we understand what Jesus has done for us, our gratitude becomes worship. I'm looking forward to studying this remarkable encounter with you on Sunday. And I’m pretty sure the service will let out on time; we have to get ready for an afternoon soccer match.

Our services are at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available)…OR a service in Spanish at 1:00 pm. Otherwise, you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and subscribe) or on our New Life website at 9:15 am. Also, we would LOVE for you to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. 

See you soon,

Troy