Jim, Is Everything OK With You? How Can I Help?
Last month a Middle District friend made an extra effort to see me. It had been a long time since we had caught up with each others' ministries, so I did not think much of the request to get together. We talked about everything yet nothing in particular, and it was time to go. But my friend would not end the conversation. Finally he got to his point.
"Jim, I'm concerned. In your last Communicator article you seemed angry when you wrote about receiving the new churches into the Association. Your words sounded like you were trying to put out a fire that was flaring up. Is there a problem? Is someone causing trouble behind the scenes? I want to know so that I can help. Are you OK? Is there someone I can talk to privately to smooth things out for your sake and for the sake of Middle District?"
I assured him nothing could be further from the truth. My passionate words were meant to convey that I have never been prouder of Middle District because we went out on a limb for the sake of Kingdom. We honored our heritage and our values yet we went beyond our traditions. I am blessed and honored to lead a Baptist organization like Middle District that has a Kingdom vision.
As we closed our time together, I told him how much it meant to me personally that he would make an extra effort to check on how I was doing and that he was also willing to be pro-active to insure that Middle District maintained its unity and peace. The hour was late and we left.
I was so touched by this friend's show of love and concern that within the hour, I called him and told him I was blessed to have a friend like him. I also told him his actions reminded of Jesus' words: "Blessed are the peace-makers."
So, yes I am fine, very fine! And so is Middle District because we are an Association of people who truly care for each other and are willing to take Kingdom risks.
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June 17, 2009
Summer Planning
Hard to believe summer is finally here and schools are out! It's a time when some schedules slow down a bit, vacations take center stage and planning for fall or a new church year starts full force.
Here in the MDBA office we are making plans for the Annual Meeting. Once again this will be a very special service. (All the business will be done ahead of the 7:00 service.) This year we will celebrate Middle District's 225th anniversary; hear exciting stories of ministries that are being done in Middle District churches and through our association; and Charles Billingsley will be our invited worship leader. Soon you will hear more about this, but for now be sure and mark Tuesday,October 20, 2009 on your calendar. We appreciate Second Branch Church for hosting!
We don't have many meetings during the summer but we always look forward to having you stop by the office. Give us a call before you come. One of us is normally around, but at some point each of us will take time away to relax and visit friends and family.
Have a great summer!! - Brenda Green
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