Our Burning Bush...
The Castle's House on May 5, 2003
Moses encountered a burning bush and it changed his life. The Castles encountered a strike of lightning and house fire and it changed our lives. And honestly, for the better.
At 5:57 am, on Cinco de Mayo (May 5), 2003, a boisterous and turbulent crash of thunder echoed through Cottonwood, and the hottest bolt of lightning (that had been measured to that point) in Tennessee, struck right at the gutterline, above the Master Bedroom at 805 Shady Glen Court. A fire ignited and majestically spread quickly through the unfinished upstairs. The hot raging fire quickly consumed our house. But miraculously, no one, and there were eight of us in the house - our six and my Mom and Dad, even got a scratch. God used this "tragedy" for a lot of good. We found out that someone came to know Him in a personal way. And there is NO better gift than that!! Personally, we experienced incredible graciousness, generosity, and continuous love. We were literally cared for and "loved on" through this event. Our lives were changed, for the good, forever!
As we confront the challenges and even tragedies that life throws our way, let us remember that God is always present, will give us the strength to not only get through, but hopefully learn, grow, and even have our lives (or those around us) changed and for the better. In fact, some may experience "real life" for the first time. As we talked about last week...even during these times we should practice love and be genuinely joyful! We take these opportunities to Change the World!
This Sunday, those who are at FCC are in for a special treat. Michael Card, fresh off a month in England, will be speaking. Sadly, Patti and I will not be there Sunday. However, we will be enjoying being with many of my family, and in my happy place, the Smoky Mountains. Please be in prayer for Michael, Lee and the Team as they prepare and lead Sunday. And then support them with your presence, but more importantly - experience an incredible time of Worship.
And ALWAYS Remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie