Unexpected disasters?
Have you ever noticed that before beauty there is often confusion, frustration, and sometimes even darkness? It is so easy to get caught up in the negativity of situations and miss the joy of the outcomes and even the enjoyment and seeing how God works during the process. Several of you may be saying, what is Pastor Lonnie talking about? Has his brain been damaged so much that he is chasing rabbits and not making sense. Well, there is probably some truth in those thoughts, but I really love seeing how God uses some of the darkest moments to bring the brightest light.
Fernvale Community Church is a prime example of this. Our precious Church Family began 175 years ago, starting back in 1849. I believe we are the oldest neighbors in the Vale. There have been many special, loving, and extraordinary people who have been a part of our family. In 1885 the first house of worship was built and used (with a few revisions). The history of our FCC family is extremely interesting. However, seventeen years ago, during the day on February 5, 2008, a natural unusual disaster - a tornado - blew through the valley and totally destroyed the old historic church building. The only thing left was the concrete steps and the frame of the Church sign. Miraculously, though the building was gone, no one was even injured. Rebuilding quickly began. There were so many who helped in so many ways. Grace Church in Grassland was very generous in a gift and the current, beautiful facility was completed in December of 2009.
This past Wednesday was the seventeenth anniversary of the tornado.
Isn't it amazing and beautiful how God was able to take, and in so many ways, a negative situation and use it for so much good. There were so many incredible people and entire families who helped keep the family going and actually thriving. I know that our own Steve Turner was there right after the tornado and helped find some of the strewn items. The Lee family was extremely instrumental in the rebuilding of the facility. And the Cox family made such a huge impact in so many ways - their family, the energy, the music, the leadership, and the list goes on and on. And there were, and are, so many others. To each of you, I say "thank you"! There were many who we will never know that were generous in their gifts and helped to make our beautiful, functional, practical, and warm facility and property
a reality.
On a personal note, I thank our Church Family, now and those who have gone before us, for being faithful. Currently, I am recovering from my own unexpected "disaster.” But I am already seeing the beauty of God's hand at work. Thank you for your continued prayers, support, and encouragement. Fernvale Community Church is a very special family. God has done, will do, and is doing great and wonderful things through this beautiful family. And to God be the Glory as we thrive in 25!
Remember, it is Flannel February. This Sunday is our Chili Cook-off Potluck. And next Saturday is the Mobile Food Pantry at Fairview Middle School. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday. I am planning on sharing, so keep me in your prayers. I look forward to seeing you then. And remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
