Hello Folks,
     Well, Christmas Season will offically be here after this coming Thursday--Thanksgiving.  It seems to me that this year has been racing by and I am left in the gate trying to figure out how my life is going by so quickly.  While Christmas is obviously in the winter time of the year it seems to me to point to a time of life.  God sent His only begotten Son so you and I could have life.
     I have enjoyed the month of November in the life of our congregation.  It is during the month of November that I preach a series of sermons on the family.  It also appears that November is one of the best attended months of year in our congregation.  This past Sunday we had a child dedication for a baby and two wonderful 5 year old twin boys all from the same family.  You will never know how this thrills my heart when I see a couple that is dedicated to raising their children in a manner that is pleasing to God.  I pray that the sermons that I have presented were anointed by God and that they will be of real benefit to families.  If we can help families then we have a real opportunty to reach generations for God.
     I have been a book, Mosaic, by Patrick Nachtigall and it has been very interesting.  There are times where I question his conclusions, but it is very clear that he is speaking to Church of God pastors and leaders across the world and relating what he is hearing and seeing.  I would encourage all of you to get the book and read it.  You might come away like me feeling somewhat helpless or you might see it as indicating promise for the kingdom.  It will be very interesting to see what will happen in the years to come.
     As a pastor I often feel as if I am out of touch, or at least in the dark, where the future is concerned.  It makes me question my decisions as well as the things that I hold as important.  I for one think that is healthy as long as it does not move to a place of indecision.  May I be found in His service as my life in this world slips away.

Have a great day,

H. G. Rudd