Hello Folks,
     As a pastor it is very interesting to me to watch people as they begin to react to the challenges that revolve around the question of money.  In this building fund campaign we are not only asking people to pledge so much money to help us pay the monthly payment but we are asking them to look through their possessions and see what they could give the to the Lord in an attempt to retire the debt completely within the next 3 years.  One man in the congregation is going to sell a cow and give the proceeds.  I set aside 2 times when we began to first talk about this and have been fortunate enough to see them both so when March 3 comes around I will be able to make my donation immediately.  Over the next few weeks I will have the joy of watching as people in our congregation make their donations, as far as that goes if the Lord's wills it, I will be able to watch it for the next 3 years.  What an exciting time that promises to be.
     I made a decision this past week to attend the National Assn. Mid-Year Convention after an invitation came my way.  Ruth and I will go over to Hilton Head, we have never been there, and spend a couple days.  It just so happens that we will be celebrating our 42nd anniversary on one of those days.  I look forward to the conferences and preaching services and to get to fellowship with my brothers and sisters. 
      As I sit here at my desk I am thankful for the grace that God gives to me everyday of my life.  It seems to me that I have been blessed beyond measure and given opportunities that are beyond my wildest expectation.  At 61 years of age I can say that if I were to leave this world right now I am of all men most blessed.  Thanks be to the God who saved me and called me and has taken care of me for all of these years.

Have a blessed day,

HGRudd