Originally, when I discussed plans for my sabbatical with the elders, I had planned on continuing to attend EBBC during these three months. However, as we talked about it more, and I conferred with friends about their sabbaticals, I decided that we would visit area churches instead. I'm so glad we chose to do that for a variety of reasons. (I'll share those reasons in another post). Today's visit was the eighth church we have visited in as many weeks. Becky and I visited Christ Community Church in West Chester this morning.
Interestingly, Pastor Jim Stevens, who planted Christ Community Church years ago, and his lovely wife, Lil, have been attending EBBC over the past year. And, this morning, Adam Udinski, (Seth Udinski's older brother) brought a good message entitled, "Biblical examples of Prayer." I specifically enjoyed Adam's references to the prayers of the Apostle Paul in Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians. This was a continuation of a series of messages that lead pastor, Pastor Billy Burch, has been teaching called, "Pray Like This."
It was a real treat to be able to spend Thanksgiving with my in-laws (BTW, my father-in-law is recovering nicely from his open-heart surgery. Thanks for your prayers for him.) and my parents in SC. I don't get to see my parents very often. We had a sweet reunion!
Karyssa and I were able to run a fun, 8K "Turkey Trot" on Thanksgiving morning. We both ran a PR! That was fun!
We returned home last night. And, (exciting news!) we got to keep Brianna and Hudson for an extra week, before they return home! Brianna and Hudson, along with my other children, were at EBBC this morning for the 11am worship service. Thanks for welcoming my grandson to EBBC so warmly! :-) Here are some of my favorite Hudson pics from this week!
I mentioned last week that I was taking an online course on C.S. Lewis last week from Hillsdale College. The classes were informative and inspiring. Hearing the story of C.S. Lewis's conversion and how his friend J.R.R. Tolkien (Lord of the Rings) was instrumental in his salvation, was particularly fascinating.
I heard from a lot of you this week by note, texts and calls.
Every message was an encouragement. Thank you.
I'm looking forward to seeing you all soon.
Only 35 more days!
Much love,
PB
P.S. The Christmas decorations look great at EBBC! I'm looking forward to the Children's Christmas Program next Sunday evening.
Love the pics!! Thanks for sharing. Adele H.