LIFE Together

Summer Time Fun

2011-05-30T20:21:00.004-05:00

Every year Summer brings many changes. For many our schedules change; with students and teachers taking a break from school, the daylight hours growing longer creating more time in the evenings for outdoor work and activities, and three-day weekends and vacations offering some respite from the normal schedules. Summer changes often bring much good to our lives, a refreshing time for our families.

Summer brings other changes too, lots of busyness for many. Yes some are the same, with vacation and three-day weekends comes the need to work longer hours to get all our responsibilities finished in order to get the time off. And with others taking off for their vacations, it often increases our work loads. Thus, Summer often increases the workload and stress level for many.

Summer also brings changes to our finances. The price of gas, the cost of vacations and short trips, the increase in electric bills, and the many activities our children are involved in during the Summer, all put added stress on the finances of many people.

With all that Summer brings - I have been reminded this year to . . .

1. Spend as much time with my family as possible as these years in my children's lives are not lasting long.

2. Set priorities and operate according to values, thus not allowing the things that go undone to stress me more than they should. Do what I can, and trust the Lord to show me what to do, and then trust Him to do the work He calls us to.

3. Take opportunities to minister to those around me, as they too need time away with their families.

4. Make good financial plans, stay focused in my stewardship, trust the Lord to provide all that he leads us to do.

Summer brings many good things - as long as I stay focused on Christ through it all.

2010-05-19T23:36:00.003-05:00

One day recently, my youngest son saw a man getting out of his truck and was amazed at the "new" and "cool" thing he saw in the man's truck. He said he had a "cool" handle in the door of his truck that he could turn and the truck window would go up or down. I laughed so hard, as I realized my son had never been in a vehicle that did not have power windows.

My son is so accustomed to having power windows that he did not know how to live without it. I hope that as a he grows up, he will grow just as accustomed to the power of God in his life that he will not know how to live without it. May he always recognize the power of our living God at work in him and around him, and may he always live in the fullness of that power.

I also hope that every believer who has experienced the greatness of the power of God, would also live in the power of the Lord and never attempt to live in our own power. May it surprise us to see someone attempting to live without that power and may we always be grateful for the difference God's power makes in our lives each day.

Pastor Wade

Preparing for God to move

2010-03-12T22:17:00.003-06:00

As Spring Break week approaches, the anticipation and excitement are on the rise. There are already over 300 children (grades 1-6) pre-registered for Champs Camp and we are expecting many more to register on Monday. Tomorrow we will see college students from 6 universities from all over Texas arriving to begin their week in Harlingen. Sunday will be a day of training for all the college students and the many volunteers from FBC Harlingen. The weekend will be busy, preparing for a great week of ministry and evangelism.

This is our 12th year for Champs Camp at FBC Harlingen; a great sports camp that includes 12 sporting events (including bowling, gymnastics, karate, football, baseball, tennis, golf, etc.), as well as great worship, bible study, and craft times. Several churches, local businesses and the city of Harlingen partner with FBC Harlingen to care for the children of Harlingen, while many of their parents are working during Spring Break. It is one more way, we show our community how much we love them and love their children - sacrificially and passionately.

Please join us in praying for the many families that will be a part of this great event. Pray for the children and their parents. Pray for the college students and leaders as they travel and work long hours each day. Pray for the many volunteers who will sleep little, work hard, and love passionately - all week.

We are anticipating a great move of God and expecting many lives to be changed - if God's people pray.

Pastor Wade

Family Fiesta 2009

2009-10-31T21:55:00.003-06:00

We had prayed for God to give us great weather for the Family Fiesta; even mud from rain days before would cause great problems with our "block party" style event. We were more than blessed to not see a cloud all day, to have cool temperatures, and a gentle breeze (so as not to bother the upright plywood games and the inflatables). This is the second such event that the weather was extremely perfect for the event - so glad we serve a mighty, sovereign God.

We were so thankful for another opportunity to love our community and neighborhood with the grace and love of Jesus. So many thanked us for the free event, and shared how much it meant to them and their families. It was with great joy we shared with them how God had done the good work and that we only wanted them to know how much God loved them. The smiles in response were so bright and enthusiastic.

We were so blessed to serve together as the body of Christ. We saw many come together for the set up, the non-stop acts of service during the event, and the clean up following the event. I am so blessed to pastor the best church in the world, the best people in the world, and the most humble, serving church. God has brought us together for a reason and a season. I am so glad to see that during this season we are fulfilling that reason as we reach out to our community with his love. God bless each of you who served so powerfully today.

Thankful for all the changed lives today,

Bro. Wade

First Day of Vacation Bible School

2009-06-15T17:36:00.003-05:00

The church buildings were filled with lots of noise today, VBS has begun. The fun and the worship were very loud in the worship center (over 400 people, most children, can easily make a lot of noise in one room). The halls were filled with laughter and chatter as the kids moved from one activity to the next. The gym was packed with excited, screaming kids running and playing (praise God for an air conditioned gym).

But noise is not all the church was filled with today, the place was filled with love. The kids were all eager to give high-fives, hugs, or smiles as they passed you in the halls. They somehow know that when they come on to the property and enter the buildings that the halls and rooms are filled with the love of God - because the hearts of all the people are filled with God's love. I enjoyed watching the youth serve snacks, help with crafts, or carry a little one who just wanted someone to carry them (for many it was there first VBS, and their first time away from Mom in a new place).

I watched our leaders carefully teach the truth of God's word to the children, knowing that God's word would never return void - that it would change their lives. I saw the results of many hours of preparation, as the rooms were decorated with great imagery. I saw smiles on the faces of the adults as they willingly gave of their time, money, and love to care for these kids and hopefully make a difference in their lives, - - - if even for just one day.

I look forward to the rest of the week, to see what all God is going to fill this place with each day.

Adam's Surgery

2009-06-02T23:32:00.004-05:00

Adam will be having surgery on his eyes July 15th in Corpus Christi. He was born with a problem that causes his eyes to have tremors, a rather common health issue that most children outgrow by age 9. Adam is almost 12 and has not outgrown it, so the doctor plans to operate on both eyes to perform a procedure that usually helps to alleviate this problem.

The doctor will do the same procedure on both eyes in the same surgery. He will stretch the muscle on one side of the eye and will then cut the muscle on the other side of the eye and then sew it back together. Apparently severing the nerve often reduces the amount of tremors the nerve produces in the eye.

Adam will be under anesthesia for the operation that is suppose to take about 4 hours. We will be in Corpus for three days and will then return home. (day before surgery, day of, and day after). This is considered an out patient procedure, we will take him to the hotel room with us that evening, and we will return home the day after the procedure. The nurse said Adam should be ready for normal life (except swimming for two weeks) the day after surgery.

We appreciate all who will pray. Please know that Adam is not nervous at all, he is rather excited that his vision will hopefully improve. His faith in God is very strong, as he reminds us daily that God has this all under control.

Thank you for praying,

Bro. Wade (a thankful dad)

Block Party - Loving Harlingen

2009-06-02T22:59:00.004-05:00

Imagine with me . . . a city block covered in people from the community, drawn to this block by the Holy Spirit. The body of Christ finding ways to love the people who come by serving them in various ways, encouraging them, praying over them, and sharing the good news of Christ with them. This was the dream the Lord laid on my heart a few months ago and this past Sunday we saw the dream come true.

The Body of Christ went door to door Sunday morning in the downtown area of Harlingen, passing out fliers and personally inviting our neighbors to come to a block party. Several Christian friends from another church had gone around the neighborhood the evening before inviting all who were home to the block party as well - the body of Christ drawn together in unity as we love Harlingen together.

The set up went rather quickly as so many volunteers came to help. What a joy to watch so many servants from FBC Harlingen come together for a common purpose. They worked tirelessly, loved so passionately, stayed to clean up and spoke often of their desire to see this event happen again.

The large tent for eating (the 856 hot dogs, 800 bags of chips, and 1000 drinks were all consumed), the Edge (35 feet tall double slide) and the other inflatables were all visible draws for the crowd. The antique cars, motorcycles, and fire truck were all great conversation starters, allowing many witnessing opportunities. The dunking booth, fall festival games, and basketball hoops allowed the children to test their skills and have some athletic fun. The pony rides and hay ride were something out of the ordinary that the kids and parents all loved. The snow cone tent, the balloon animal tent, and the health fair tent were all widely attended and appreciated by all who participated. The fishing boat casting-center sponsored by the IronMen ministry developed the potential anglers in the crowd. Everything was a complete success!!!

We were blessed to prayer walk the block, to pray with many who shared their troubles with us, and to love on many. I remember the couple whose house is being condemned by the end of this month and who were looking for a new place to rent. I remember the autistic boy who did not speak, but who smiled big to have a cherry flavored snow cone to eat. I remember the families who came to thank us for a hot dog meal - that cost us a dollar (how humbling it was). I remember the smiles on the children's faces that seemed to never stop; that is until they had to leave for home.

The weather was suppose to be hot and humid, but God blessed us with cloud cover and a great breeze that made the day cool enjoyable. God kept the rain away all afternoon, but brought the temperature down for a day that would draw the crowds out of their homes.

The entire day was seen by all as a miraculous day where the Lord expressed his sovereignty, and revealed his love to the world through the church. Like many others, I am just thankful that the Lord used me in such a great endeavor.

Loving Harlingen every day,

Bro. Wade

Passion for Prayer

2009-05-03T22:29:00.005-05:00

T.W. Hunt has been such a blessing in my life over the years, but spending a weekend with him during our prayer conference was a wonderful highlight that I will cherish for many years. T.W. has a unique passion for the Lord that translates into his prayer life. While around him throughout a day, his passion and his prayer life are a contagious experience. I found myself wanting to stop and pray even more than usual. I was quicker to name the blessings of God, as they were like neon signs in front of me. I was also overwhelmed with the people the Lord put in our path, it was if evangelism was the obvious result of a life that was so focused on Christ. I must confess that I would only hope that one day I could be a person of influence like the man I was blessed to pray, worship, and witness alongside of this weekend.

The prayer conference was indeed life-changing for many and I rejoice with each one. I hope that the fellowship of First Baptist Church Harlingen will not lose the impact of this past weekend for many generations to come. We rejoice with the many who filled the altar during both services on Sunday morning following the challenge that God brought through T.W. Hunt. We believe that each person will continue their commitment to step forward in the battle and assume the role of intercessor and pray for the powerful moving of God in our nation and world.

God bless each one as we stay true to the commitment to pray daily in the power of the Holy Spirit; and may we all become people of great influence as we grow more passionately in love with God.

Praying passionately,

Bro. Wade

Not about politics

2009-03-09T10:32:00.004-06:00

One of the saddest comments I have read in a while was published in today's media. When the restriction on embryonic stem-cell research was lifted by the President, the scientific community responded by saying they are glad that "ideology" is no longer leading our decisions as a nation.

I was swept to my knees to pray for a nation that has clearly lost its way in the world and has taken the word of God and respect for God's creation out of our decisions. It is so alarming to know that those who reject God are celebrating the decisions of a president who professes Christ as Savior because he is not allowing Christian convictions to lead his decision making.

This is not a political statement, I am not a Republican or Democrat, my trust is not in men. I am just worried for our nation. Yes, I said worried. God has made it clear what will happen to a nation that ignores the word of God - and since I am part of that nation, the truth is clear, we will face the punishment.

Please join me in praying for a spiritual renewal to sweep our nation, for the church to rise up; not just in political circles, but to take the gospel to our nation. God's plan for the church in our nation has been for us to reach our nation with the gospel, not to simply take political stands. When we focus on politics, we appear to be against people. When we share the gospel we appear to be for people.

Rise Up, Oh Church of God!!!

fearful of the wrath of our living God,

Bro. Wade

Merida Missions

2009-03-01T19:09:00.002-06:00

The Merida, Mexico Mission Team experienced a great amount of love on our trip. We were blessed to be in Merida during Valentines Day and were asked to speak at the Valentine's banquets for two different churches. Sunday morning was a special opportunity to preach in the service and to teach about men's ministry during Sunday School. The evenings were spent leading a church leadership conference, one of the main reasons for the trip. Bro. Craig Blakeslee spoke each night to the leaders of children's ministry in the churches and then I spoke to the whole group about issues concerning vision, unity, values, discipleship, conflict resolution, and small groups. We appreciate the Lord's work in bringing us together with ministers from across Merida and allowing us a brief time to disciple them.

We also led in a few evangelistic services where we saw the Lord strengthen small churches and reach several who accepted the Lord as their Savior. Praise the Lord for each one and for the many who heard the word.

We were blessed with great weather, safe travel, and wonderful food. Thank you to all who prayed for us and for the Lord to work through us.

On Mission Daily,

Bro. Wade

FOCUS'09 - Reviving God's People

2009-01-22T22:24:00.005-06:00

God's abundant grace and power have been manifested in the people of First Baptist Church Harlingen.

During our week of meetings, God changed many lives. Many rededicated their lives to the Lord, several prayed to accept Christ in their lives and be saved from their sin and its consequences, others were freed from the bondage of doubt concerning their relationship with the Father, and many filled the aisles and alter area bowing before the Lord. It was an overwhelming experience each and every service.

Bro. Jon Randalls was such a blessing as he proclaimed the word of the Lord to us with passion and purpose. Jon was quick in his speech, bold in his tone, and caring in his agenda. He was the chosen vessel of the Lord for the season of revival meetings the Lord had planned for longer than a year.

Bro. David Whittington stood before us and the Lord at the same time, and as he worshipped the Lord with all his heart, he led us into the very presence of God so we too could worship God passionately. We appreciate how clearly his heart was turned toward God and how he was concerned about our engagement in praise and worship of the God who deserves the best in our hearts.

However, what we experienced during the week of FOCUS'09 was not the result of these men coming, nor was it the result of our efforts done this week. God moved as a clear result of His desire to do so (PERIOD) - so He receives all the praise and glory and honor. He was freed to move (or worded according to the Scripture, the Holy Spirit was not quenched) in our hearts, as a result of earnest prayer, brokenness in our attitudes, and the crucifixion of pride. We allowed God to do what he wanted to do (although I believe he has not even shown us all he wants to do, for not all of us have given Him the freedom He needs in our hearts). We gave Him the opportunity to change us and those around us, and He fulfilled His promises to us.

The revival, renewal, and refreshing we long for began many weeks, months, and years ago as the people of God fell to their knees to pray and seek God together. The results we have seen this week are the result of God's choice, and the prayers of God's people, a partnership that leads to blessing, healing, and an abundant power that changes lives.

So, don't stop praying just because the meetings stopped. Don't stop spending extra time with God, just because the meetings stopped. Don't stop passionately seeking and following God just because the meetings stopped. Don't stop now - too much is at stake, too much is needed.

Don't stop the revival in your heart - the four quarters ended on Wednesday - but overtime is up to you.

Amazed, Awed, and Anticipating,

Bro. Wade

The Future

2009-01-05T00:09:00.003-06:00

This morning I drove to church through a thick fog. The first Sunday of the new year, reflecting on the Sermon, and I could not see 50 yards in front of me. It was not a fun drive (only about 8 minutes), I had to stay focused, I had to be ready for whatever was in the road in front of me.

As I neared my destination, the thought of the spiritual comparison came clearly to my mind. I realized that as we start a new year there are many things in front of us, some familiar landmarks that will not change, and some things that will dart across our path without warning. I may not be able to see what is going to happen tomorrow, or next month, but I have not been called to deal with those days right now; just the day that I am in. The days will pass like the yellow stripes in the middle of the road this morning; quickly and with only a few in view.

For us to stay on the path of righteousness as we move into the future, we must remain focused - every day. We have an enemy who seeks to destroy us, who wants to harm us, so he distracts us in every way possible. But, our God loves us and seeks ways to keep us focused on Him and His chosen path for our lives. We are not told to seek the path, for we are to walk by faith and not by sight. We are not told to seek the removal of the fog, for the uncertainty of life creates the deep need for faith. We are not told to seek the removal of the obstacles, for they teach us the value of our relationship with the Father. We are simply told to seek His face, and in the fog, He is always right beside us holding our hands, guiding us through the future.

The road behind me was not important as I drove through the fog, likewise, my past may be relevant, but it is not near as important as how I will handle the next day.

Let us release the past to the Lord, praise Him for what He has carried us through, and let us take Him by the hand to lead us through the thick fog of the future. We will arrive safe, in spite of the obstacles that come our way, as long as we hold the hand of the one who can see clearly through the fog.

Walking by faith,

Bro. Wade

Life Changes in 2009

2009-01-04T23:31:00.004-06:00

The end of the year can bring a sense of regret and possibly failure as we look back at the events of 2008. Often there are things left undone from our lists formed 12 months earlier, and if we allow their completion or lack thereof to dictate how we evaluate the year, or ourselves for that matter, we can experience guilt. Guilt arises when we have made the plans for life change and have selected the goals ourselves. When this is the case, we then operate in our own strength, which always leads to failure.

Please be freed from the guilt that burdens us when we judge ourselves according to human expectations (which most resolutions are), and know that God evaluates you by His expectations, not your own. When God calls you to do something, He has committed to provide all you will need to see it through to completion.

Do not allow any unmet goals to make you feel less victorious than you are in Christ. Do not allow your expectations to suppress God's potential in your life. Do not allow your discouragement to keep you from following God passionately in every thing He calls you to do.

Remember Life Change is only possible through the power of God in your life. He alone can change us, He alone who saved us.

Move beyond '08, and know that we who are in Christ have been forgiven completely of every sin.

forgiven and freed,

Bro. Wade

Thankful - and I hope it shows

2008-11-24T21:37:00.004-06:00

Looking back over the past year, there is so much in my life for which I am thankful. Yes, there are many things that could have caused me to look back with a sense of agony, but God has taken that which was meant for evil and turned it all into something good (the testimony of Joseph in Genesis). He has worked all things together for good (Romans 8:28). I cannot help but praise the name of JESUS no matter what my circumstances are or will be; God is worthy of my praise.

As I prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I look forward to the splenda pumpkin pie, the world's best dressing and dumplings (my mouth is watering, how about yours); but the focus of my mind and heart right now is "what am I most thankful for this year?" This question stumps me every year, for my list is so long.

I have learned to take one day at a time and to never take any day for granted. I celebrate the year that God has given me with my family and friends. Following a life change experience like I had last January, I now desire for my life to have maximum impact every day, every month, every year. I cannot and will not take any time I have left for granted, but will treasure it all with the joy the Lord brings to my life.

I am thankful for my loving wife, my amazing children, and for the greatest church family in the whole world; but this year, I am most thankful for this moment of time, for this breath, for this thought, for . . . now!

And I give all my "nows" to the Lord for HIS glory. This is how I express my thankfulness, not just praying over a meal once a year, but all year long.

What are you doing with your "nows?"

Thankful for all the "nows" God gives me each day.

Bro. Wade

One Nation Under God

2008-11-04T22:44:00.008-06:00

Now we know WHO to pray for as our national leaders.

Following an historical vote, our nation once again expressed a division that runs through every community and state. However, once the vote is over, it is time for the people of our nation, especially the people of God, to come together and pray passionately for our leaders. We may or may not agree with who was elected, we may or may not agree with the direction they have declared for our nation, but we must unite in order to pray for our leaders.

I am so thankful that I serve a God who reigns over all of us; democrats, republican, independents, texans, americans, all of us. Now let us show it by our willingness to pray for our leaders as ONE NATION UNDER GOD.

Proverbs 29:25-26

²⁵ Fear of man will prove to be a snare,

but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.

²⁶ Many seek an audience with a ruler,

but it is from the LORD that man gets justice.

Revelation 1:4 -6

Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was,

and who is to come, and from the seven spiritsbefore

his throne, ⁵and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful

witness the firstborn from the dead,

and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

To him who loves us and has freed us from

our sins by his blood, ⁶and has made us to be a kingdom

and priests to serve his God and Father

—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

May we all pray for God to Bless America,

Bro. Wade

Fall Festival - Fun and Exciting

2008-11-01T13:37:00.002-06:00

Halloween may have been celebrated by many in our nation, but at First Baptist Church Harlingen, we were celebrating the love of God. On the night when many focus on evil, we were blessed to be a part of something great that focused on the love and grace of God as it is expressed in this world through the church.

It was so good to see several churches hosting special events to minister to our community. Every year the family at First Baptist Harlingen uses the evening of Halloween to host our Fall Festival for the families of our community. Our driving passion is to love the people of our community, and the Fall Festival was one of the many opportunities we have to show it.

I was so thankful to hear from so many who shared that they truly felt loved by God and the FBC family. So many were thankful for the event, for the church to offer something of such great quality for their children. From all that I heard, there is no doubt that the community saw and felt the real love of God through the family of First Baptist Church Harlingen.

Thank you - to all the leaders and servants who gave up so much time and who worked so hard to be sure Harlingen was loved.

a witness of God's love,

Bro. Wade

Safari - in the front yard

2008-10-17T23:51:00.003-05:00

One afternoon this week continued the "post-hurricane Dolly" saga around the house. I was attempting to remove some of the brush around my fence (that was finally being replaced), so the men working on it could get to it easier. I was trimming some of the large limbs that had broken during the high winds and I was cutting back the bushes that had grown tall, since I had not cut them early in the year due to my heart attack. All was going well . . .

I had finished with the shorter limbs and had moved on to the final large limbs and high limbs. So, I took my long pole gas powered chain saw and went to work. As I began to cut the largest limb, that I had just been shaking very hard to loosen with my bare hands, and which was only about three feet right above my head, I noticed a large brown snake going up the tree (from the spot that I had just been holding). Needless to say, I was spooked pretty good, so I began to do what any red (let's say blooded) man from the south would do; I chased the snake with my pole chain saw. Yes, he got away, but not for a short effort on my part, just look at the tree when you drive by and you can tell.

Following my failed attempt to chase down the snake that has been spooking all my neighbors by leaving his skin right outside each of our backdoors, I began to look over my new fence to see if he was in my neighbors yard. As I was leaning over the fence, a spider decided to bite me on the neck. Yes, a spider bite right at the base of my skull.

As my head was pounding and the pain was growing, a good friend who is a doctor, gave me great advice - which I followed passionately. The next morning when I awoke I was just fine.

However, I still believe that snake and that spider were in cahoots with each other. One to distract while the other struck. I am just thankful I got the bite from the spider and not the snake. Anyway, I have already had my snake bite for the year - children's camp - remember.

Life is fun each and every day, be sure to enjoy every step.

Bro. Wade

Midnight Run

2008-09-15T17:01:00.003-05:00

I had the privilege of spending most of the night cruising town with the lead officer of the "gang unit" of the Harlingen Police Department. These men risk their lives every day for the safety of the people in Harlingen. Their job is difficult, filled with long hours, and one that most would rather avoid thinking about. They are diligent in their efforts to make Harlingen a safe place for all.

One of the tasks that we have as believers in this city is to pray for the safety and protection of our many servants on the fire and police departments. The policemen who are on the front lines of the battles for the city need prayer warriors joining them; for we know that the battles we face in our cities is not against flesh and blood, but it is truly a spiritual war.

The young men and women caught up in these gangs need our prayer - - - they are not our enemy; rather, they have been captured by the enemy and we are to seek their rescue and release. Once again, these chains cannot be broken simply by warfare in the flesh, they must be broken through spiritual warfare. As believers, we need to passionately pray for these young people, for those that are being recruited, and for the many families affected.

Let us take back the city of Harlingen - by getting on our knees. Let us then seek out these young people who are at risk and who are being recruited by the gangs, and let us rescue them from the traps set before them.

Let us love and let us pray,

Bro. Wade

Praying in the Rain

2008-08-24T22:40:00.004-05:00

With the start of school comes our opportunity to prayer walk our school campuses. What a blessing to walk around the campuses of the schools in our communities; praying for the many needs during the school year. Each year our family prays together, but this is the first year that our children all seemed mature enough to prayer walk with Jennifer and I (at least for them to pray and walk at the same time).

Listening to our children pray for their teachers, their principal, the custodial staff, the kitchen workers, their fellow students, and the attitude of the parents was such a blessing to me and Jennifer. We pray that the prayers of our children will change their hearts and ultimately their actions as they have the opportunity to serve the people they have now prayed for today.

We are so excited to think of how our children will be lights in a dark world this year. We praise the Lord for the testimony of the many children in our church that love the Lord so much. We are also thankful for the testimony of the teachers and administrators in our schools that live for Christ each day. We pray that each one will be used by the Holy Spirit to touch many hearts and lives this year, thus impacting our community with the power of God.

Today may have been a rainy day, but it was a glorious day watching the people of God passionately pray for their community and to do so in a public way by prayer walking (some driving) around the schools. May God richly bless those who were servants through prayer.

Tomorrow (Monday - the first day of school) I plan to spend a lot of time at the schools greeting parents, praying quietly for many, encouraging the many servants, and loving the children with the love of God. I cannot think of a better way to spend the day, than to allow God to pour his life out through me in the context of our community.

Joining you in passionate prayer,

Bro. Wade

The silver lining

2008-08-09T15:05:00.002-05:00

While a storm can bring many terrible results, God is able to take that which was meant for bad and turn it for good. When life is turned up side down, the important things come to the top. It is during this time that many people begin to turn toward God or at least pray to, or open up to God. When the church recognizes such an opportunity, the community can be served and many lives can be changed for eternity. It is in such times that the community can clearly see the incarnate love of God expressed toward them. The church then becomes the embodiment of God's presence and love to the world.

These past few weeks have seen the body of Christ in First Baptist Harlingen be such an example to our community. We have not only housed mission and disaster relief teams in our buildings, served them meals, and cared for their needs; but we have served our community with our own hands. Our youth group (and others) filled sand bags alongside city employees before the storm hit. We worked in yards and homes around the city, having the privilege of leading some into a personal relationship with Christ. We have given out water, house supplies, and financial assistance to families in desperate need.

Thank you church family for being the body of Christ - the presence of God in this community. Thank God for being faithful to us in the midst of a storm, allowing us the privileges we still see in our community to serve others.

Thankful for every opportunity to love and serve,

Bro. Wade

Good-Bye Dolly

2008-08-09T14:29:00.002-05:00

What a horrible experience. No, I was out of town for the hurricane; the horrible part was being out town while my family was in Harlingen during the hurricane. Not being with those I love as they endured a frightening few days and then to live without electricity for several days following, was so difficult for me. I wanted to come home, and started to do so on many occasions, but my wife insisted that I stay and finish what I started in Dallas (doctoral seminar only offered once per year).

God taught me so much in my seclusion in Dallas. I learned so much about the priority and privilege of prayer. I re-learned that the most important thing I could do for anyone is to pray. Not the last thing to be done, but the first - and the most important. God allowed me to spend quality time throughout the days praying for my family, my church family, my friends, and for the lost in our communities.

I am so thankful to be in a church family that truly loves my family. They expressed their love so clearly as they took care of my family in my absence. The storm brought an opportunity for us to see God's love in such a visible way. The many visits, phone calls, meals, times of help on the house, and the constant encouragement offered to my family helped me in my absence. I learned to trust the body of Christ, even with my family. What a great lesson, not easily learned, but life-changing all the same.

Humbly thankful to be a member of the body of Christ.

Bro. Wade

Snake Bit and Bent Backwards

2008-07-09T23:09:00.004-05:00

We had a great Preteen Camp at Zephyr this week. The sponsors were great and the campers (kids) were exceptional this week. God blessed us with a lot of rain, at just the right time so as not to dampen our spirits by limiting our activities. We enjoyed fun and friendships every day.

The worship leaders and camp pastor passionately love Jesus and it was contagious. They led us closer to the Lord and we were all so thankful for them and the way they praised God and proclaimed His word every time we were together. They were available to the campers all during the week at meals and around the campus. What a joy to watch our young people spend time with adults who are in love with God.

There were many in the group who made decisions, some for salvation, some for rededication, and some just taking a giant step closer to God. As sponsors we were blessed to know that God was using every act of service on our part as a way of blessing so many young people.

The parents thanked us as a church and as sponsors for the blessing of camp for their children. But we need to thank the parents for sending their wonderful children with us to camp, for it was our blessing to spend that time with them.

By the way the title of the blog - - - during camp I was bit by a snake and hyper-extended my back in the inflatables. What a week to remember.

Church in the Park

2008-06-30T11:37:00.002-05:00

What a great fellowship in the Park!!!

It was so great to see so many come to Victor Park for our "Church in the Park." The games, sports, and swimming were fun for all. The food was great; we cannot go wrong with Fried Chicken. The worship was wonderful. We truly appreciate the praise team from New Wine Church leading us in worship with such great music and talent. We look forward to joining with them again.

Praise the Lord for the sweet fellowship we experience at FBC Harlingen.

Enjoying my church family,

Bro. Wade

Vacation Bible School

2008-06-30T11:27:00.004-05:00

This year had to be the best VBS that I have experienced in 25 years of ministry. There was a sweet spirit throughout the church, which I believe was due to the many who prayer walked the church campus early in the morning, late in the afternoon, and throughout the day. Thank you prayer walkers.

There were so many volunteers this year that people were not overwhelmed, so the stress level was down, the work load was manageable, and there were fewer problems to work through. We are so blessed to have the great volunteers in our children's ministry. Every need was met, every child was loved, every class was enjoyed, and every worker was blessed.

From the kitchen crew, to the office staff, from the youth group, to our eldest adults; we appreciate every person who served so selflessly. This past week was truly an amazing adventure as we saw every age group in the community come together to make VBS 08 a huge success.

Thankful for the servants of the Lord,

Bro. Wade

Standing on Holy Ground

2008-06-30T10:53:00.003-05:00

Partaking of communion together with our group at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem, while singing "Holy Ground" with groups from all around the world will be one of my most favorite memories of Israel. The different languages being sung to the same tune at the same time in such a beautiful place with such a great significance were a reminder of what the Body of Christ really is; a union of believers from all over the world who love and serve Christ.

The trip was filled with many special events and places, including my first time to baptize in the Jordan River. We enjoyed swimming (or actually just floating, since you cannot swim) in the Dead Sea. We walked the Cardo (main street) of the old city (Jerusalem) and the path down the Mount of Olives Jesus would have followed on his last trip to Jerusalem before his arrest. We walked through the garden of Gethsemane, down the ancient streets around the jail where he was imprisoned, and around the Temple Mount on the streets and steps where he walked.

We spent several days around the Sea of Galilee, visiting Jesus hometown of Nazareth, his ministry center of Capernaum, the place of the feeding of the five thousand, the sermon on the mount, the places he fished, and towns he visited. We travelled north to see a city gate that Abraham walked through and the place where Peter confessed that Jesus was the Messiah.

The journey was truly life-changing. Those who went now read the Bible with a new revelation of the geography and culture inherent within each story. It is like reading a new version of Scripture, as the words jump off the page with clearer definitions. It is truly something to be experienced, since it is impossible to put it into words.

Standing on Holy Ground in the Holy Land,

Bro. Wade

Following the Footprints

2008-05-30T01:04:00.002-05:00

As I prepare to leave for Israel soon, I am spending a lot of time researching the places we will visit. I am reading the biblical passages, reviewing the history books, memorizing the maps, and reminiscing over the photos taken on previous journeys to the Holy Land. While I pursue this endeavor, I grow more excited each day with the anticipation that I will once again be changed by the events of this journey.

Each trip to the Holy Land brings new insights regarding scripture, a greater appreciation to God for coming to this earth and living as he did for me, and a humbling of my spirit as I follow the footprints of Jesus and his followers. I am deeply changed by each journey to Israel and believe that this trip will bring the same results.

Every encounter with God is life-changing; I don't have to travel half-way around the world to experience the transformation that comes from the Holy Spirit. I appreciate the life-change found in the Holy Land, but oh, how I long for the life-change that comes from a great moving of the Holy Spirit in our church. Please pray for us to see the footprints of Jesus in the Rio Grande Valley and follow them with passion each day.

Praying for our daily journey,

Bro. Wade

Spiritual Renewal among Men

2008-05-16T22:28:00.003-05:00

This week was the last meeting for a discipleship group that I have been leading for over a year. Each time one of these groups ends, it is a sad time for me. I have invested a night each week into the lives of these men and I count them as not only friends but fellow journeymen on the path of righteousness. I have been sharpened as much as I have sharpened, and I have been loved as much as I have loved. These men have been my accountability group and my prayer partners and not meeting with them each week will create a longing in my heart.

However, as the group ends, I know that the Lord has already begun to prepare my heart to invest in another group of people that he has already chosen. I will soon join with another group for over a year and will be richly blessed by the journey the Lord will take us through together.

I also know that the men that I have met with this past year were being prepared by God to disciple others, now they will embark on their new journeys as well. What an exciting time in our church and community to see how the Lord will work through these men to change so many other lives.

The last three years have brought some great spiritual renewal among the men of FBC Harlingen. I am so excited about the beginning of the Rio Grande Valley IRONMEN. This ministry will only serve to enhance the great work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the men of Harlingen and the valley. So many men are ready to plug their lives into something that is filled with life-changing power and great potential. I believe IRONMEN will be the beginning of just such a movement.

Pray for God to continue to move in the men of FBC Harlingen and the valley. Pray for the Holy Spirit to move in the lives of the men involved in IRONMEN.

Bro. Wade

Last Day, Great Day

2008-03-22T15:10:00.004-06:00

Throughout the week at Champs Camp we have seen God work in the lives of so many children (and their parents). We have had the privilege of loving children who attend churches all over the valley and many children who do not attend any church. We had families from different religions and many denominations take part in Champs Camp. We are so thankful for the outreach to the community and for the opportunity for churches in Harlingen to come together.

We were blessed to see many children trust Christ as their Savior by the end of the week. Their lives have been changed forever as a result of all the love and labor poured into Champs Camp. One girl prayed to accept Christ as her savior on Thursday morning as her mother drove her to FBC; they prayed in the car and by the time she arrived, she was a new person in Christ. What a privilege to share Jesus with these great kids and their families.

Thursday night was a great and glorious night - a little LOUD, but it was great. We were in "standing room only" mode, but the many parents who attended were gracious and patient. The children revealed to us how much fun they have had this week, and our "Champions in Christ" were revealed to us as well. So many children dedicated their hearts and minds to Christ and will be his mighty champions at school and at home.

Please continue to pray for our "Champions" as they re-enter their schools this next week. Please pray for our volunteers, deacons and staff as the follow-up now begins. Please pray for the families that were challenged in their faith this past week. Pray that as they have been challenged and as the first Sunday after Champs Camp is Easter that God will bring many of those families into a closer walk with Christ during this time of year that we focus on Christ and God's love for us.

Thank you for serving in and praying for Champs Camp. It was a GREAT WEEK!

Challenged to be a Champion,
Bro. Wade

First Day - Great Day

2008-03-17T20:26:00.003-06:00

The first day of Champs Camp was great; a little windy, but great. We had a few hurdles on the first day, but over all it was a really good day. The numbers were good. 426 children and 0 trips to the hospital. We had to move some of the sports inside because of the high winds, but we were able to see the children enjoy themselves throughout the day.

We were able to see children who did not want to leave their parents tell us at the end of the day how they could not wait for tomorrow to come so they could return to Champs Camp. So many children experiencing the Love of God was quite an overwhelming vision. Seeing the lives of these children change so quickly is our goal; and our goal was truly met on the first day of Champs Camp.

We are so grateful for all the college students and leaders that God has sent as missionaries to the valley, they truly love the Lord and are vessels of his love and grace. Thank you for praying for them. Our many members and friends who are serving in Champs Camp are truly the light of the world. Watching our people hold the doors, direct traffic, cook, serve the meals, clean the rooms, and find ways to love the children in the midst of their busyness, are all ways that we can truly see God in our midst. Thank you for prayer walking and continuing to support our front line soldiers through prayer.

May God richly bless the remainder of the week of CHAMPS CAMP.

Grateful to all who serve,
Bro. Wade

Direction in Life

2008-03-12T21:42:00.004-06:00

My six year old son, Aaron, was riding in my truck recently. As we were driving down the road, Aaron made a strange statement to me. He said, "Dad, you and Mom need to get rid of those clickers." "What clickers?" He said, "You know the clickers in your truck and Mom's van." I had to think, what is he talking about? "What clickers?" I asked. His reply was confusing, "You know, those clickers that tell you which way you have to turn." I said, "do you mean the turn signal?" He said, that thing that clicks and tells you which way you have to turn. I then told him that the turn signal did not tell me which way to turn, but that I moved the lever to signal which way I had chose to go. He then looked at me a while and then said, "Naw, that's not right."

Aaron had wanted to go to McDonald's for lunch and when the "clicker" told us we had to go home, he was not happy. He was convinced that I would have taken him to McDonald's if I had control of the truck. It makes since, I love him and want the best for him and since he defined what was best for him as McDonald's then I surely would have taken him there if I could have. So, I must not really have control of the car, that clicker must be telling me what to do.

I believe that sometimes we portray this same image on God. We have decided what is best for us and then believe that God would have surely done for us what we wanted if he were in complete control of our situation. So when it does not work out the way we thought we begin to believe that our circumstances dictated what God could do, or we doubt that God really cares, or we just begin to worry and stress out because are not sure why it did not go as we expected.

Just like a six year old boy, we can sometimes develop a skewed way of thinking about things and then assume that we have to be right because of our opinion and logic. But, just like Aaron, we could be very wrong and refuse to believe the truth, because we already have it figured out.

Also, the question has to be asked; who is in control of your life? Does the Lord control your clicker, or do the circumstances of life dictate to you what you must do and where you must go? Who has control of your life?

May you never look at your "clicker" the same again.
Bro. Wade

Good friends and good fish

2008-02-29T15:22:00.003-06:00

Adam and Aaron recently went fishing with some of our good friends in the Arroyo Colorado. They were fishing in the evening off a dock and Aaron caught his first trout. He was so excited and I think the photo reflects that. He was a typical six year old boy who talked the whole time, but was faithful to shush the older boys when they whispered because they were "scaring the fish away with their noise."

The older boys set such a good example of sacrifice and love. They only had one pole on the dock (planned that way by the adult so to keep hooks out of the kids and only in the water and the fish), so they took turns casting and reeling. The older boys would sit back and allow Aaron to take multiple turns without complaining once. They knew that Aaron had never caught a trout and they had, so they allowed him to take many turns in hopes that he would catch a fish. This was probably easier because there were few bites on the line that night, but never the less, the boys were faithful friends.

Our friends, Bill and Randy, made a special effort to take our boys fishing when Jennifer and I could not go. They were faithful to us, to our kids, and to the Lord. True friends are great to have in this world. Jennifer and I are blessed to have many good friends and we are so thankful to those adults and children who are teaching our children what good friendship looks like. Sometimes it looks like a shiny silver fish, but it is always reflected in the smile of a child.

thankful for good friends,
Bro. Wade

Questions Kids will ask

2008-02-27T22:19:00.002-06:00

Tonight was a special night at First Baptist Harlingen as we held "Popcorn with the Pastor" during AWANA. I had the privilege of spending time with each of our three main groups of children. The Cubbies started the night of feasting on popcorn and questioning the pastor. These preschoolers were fun to visit with and had some good questions as our time wound down. They were interested in where their family members and pets went when they died. They were quick to tell me verses of scripture that were their favorites. They were also like vacuums sucking in the popcorn. They were such a joy and I was blessed to get to know these children even better.

The Sparks then came to the room and they were live wires. These younger children were quick to ask questions, some even had notebooks with the questions they had written down. They also wanted to know what happened after death, but they also asked many questions about my role as pastor. They wanted to know why I was called "Brother" Wade. They shared their favorite verses of scripture and asked many questions about things I had said in sermons and things they had heard about a pastor's life. It was a joy to share with these inquisitive children.

The TNT group was the last to meet with me, but they came loaded for bear. These older children offered some of the same questions as the earlier groups, but they went a little further. Such as: "Are there days that you do not like your job?" "Why are you a pastor?" "How can we hear God speak to us?" "Why should we love each other?" and many more great questions. It was fun to take time to answer all the questions they shared and it was rewarding to see how they made some great conclusions as a result.

Tonight taught me about the spiritual hunger that our children are experiencing in this world. I am drawn to ask the question "are we listening to the questions our children are asking, or are we always trying to give them answers to questions they are not even asking." Are we listening as much as we are talking?

Trying to be a better listener,
Bro. Wade

Great Morning!!!!

2008-02-17T16:07:00.002-06:00

What a joy it was to baptize my daughter Rachel today. She wanted everyone to see her testimony today so that someone might come to know Jesus as a result of her baptism. It was great to have her brothers sitting on a step in the baptistry and her mother on the other side; it truly was a family experience.

Now that my second child has accepted Christ, things change a little in our house. Adam and Rachel both need the constant discipleship for new Christians, and Aaron continues to need our counsel and guidance as he grows up to understand God's love to the fullest potential. We will have to be careful in how we keep Aaron from feeling left out during communion and other special events, but we will just have to rely on the Lord's leadership to help us through it. For now, we will continue to celebrate one of Rachel's most important days in her life.

We are so thankful for all who have partnered with our family to raise our children to love the Lord with all their hearts.

A thankful parent,
Bro. Wade

An Evening to Remember

2008-02-05T11:18:00.000-06:00

Last night (February 4) I was blessed to lead my daughter through her decision to accept Jesus as her personal Savior. Jennifer and I sat on each side of Rachel and Adam sat across from us as Rachel prayed and asked God to forgive her and to come into her heart. Her prayer was filled with so much thought, as she has been working through this for many months. It was amazing to see her finally come to understand how her sin had separated her from Jesus and how she desperately needed Jesus to restore that relationship for eternity. The tears in her eyes dropped to the deepest part of my heart as I saw the grace of God pouring over her.

She then called her family, her Sunday School teachers, her children's pastor and preschool pastor and her best friend. She then went to do something to help her older brother and on the way, she looked at me and said, "I can now do many good things to help others because the Holy Spirit is now in my heart." What a great theological statement from a 7 year old.

Thank the Lord for his saving grace. Thank the Lord for all the people he has used to teach Rachel about his love.

a very thankful dad,
Bro. Wade

Back in the Saddle

2008-01-28T11:03:00.000-06:00

It was so good to be back in worship with our church family yesterday. I was so blessed to join our friends and church family in praising the Lord. It seemed that the blood was not the only thing that seemed to flow easier since my heart cath. The praise in my heart seemed to flow unhindered as well. The words seemed to pour from my heart and not just my lips. I had many reasons to praise the Lord; one of which was the ability to quickly return to my wonderful, loving church family.

I also enjoyed being in the pulpit, preaching the word. It was as though God were showing me that he was going to continue to fulfill his calling on my life. When you go through a crisis, it is good to know that God is still waiting to use you for his glory on the other side of the crisis. Once again, God has shown himself faithful to me and my family. This past Sunday was filled with many evidences of his faithfulness, thus, it was easy to praise the Lord with all my heart.

With all my HEART,
Bro. Wade

First Day of Rehab

2008-01-23T11:22:00.000-06:00

Today was my first day to attend Cardiac Rehab at Valley Baptist Medical Center. The class starts at 7:45 a.m. where I have my blood pressure and sugar tested. It then put on my heart monitor and we start warm-ups. Today I began my exercise with a 20 minute ride on a stationary bike. It was a good feeling, as I have been wanting to get some exercise. I struggled to keep the pace down to the speed they wanted me at on my first day. I actually felt more comfortable going faster, but they were wanting to evaluate my heart rate at the lower speeds on the first few days. All my vital signs are looking great.

I will attend Cardiac Rehab 3 days each week. However, I am looking forward to my leisure bike ride with my kids in the neighborhood, it has become our quality family time as of late and we all enjoy it so much. Rachel asks each day when I can go for a bike ride. It tell her it won't be long.

I truly am enjoying be home with the family each afternoon and night. I told the kids that we are having "family night" for two weeks - they loved the idea.

Once again, thanks for the prayers,
Bro. Wade

Answer to Prayer

2008-01-20T21:41:00.000-06:00

I am truly a walking answer to prayer. I have fully experienced the power of God's people praying and believe I am healed today because of it. I have been grateful to be a prayer warrior for others in similar positions, but being on this side of the prayer equation reminds me just how powerful prayer can truly be.

Jennifer and I have been amazed at the number of people who have been praying for us. We wish we could say "thank you" to each person, but it is not physically possible. We were amazed to hear of the many churches in Harlingen, the valley, Texas, Arkansas, and around the world who took the time to pray for us this Sunday morning. The many pastors and teachers who took the time to lead their churches to pray for our family have humbled us by their compassion and love.

Sometimes we never know how much we are loved until we are in a time of need, and our family has truly felt loved. Thank you for loving us enough to pray for us. Thank you for caring enough to intercede for us with the heavenly father.

a Living Answer to Prayer,
Bro. Wade

Overwhelmed with Love

2008-01-20T21:19:00.000-06:00

Going through a crisis situation is so much easier if you don't go through it alone. This past week our family experienced this again. We were so blessed to see how the body of Christ responded to us in our time of need.

Many of our friends who are physicians and nurses came to our aid at the hospital in minutes of our arrival and they continued to care for me and my family through the days and nights that followed.

Many of our friends who work at the hospital came to check on us and they cared for Jennifer, which in turn helped me.

Our great and caring ministerial staff from First Baptist Harlingen proved once again that they really care about their church family, and this time it was expressed toward my family.

Many sent emails and text messages around the world in just a few hours, enlisting prayer warriors to stand in the gap for my family. We have heard from so many around the country who have shared their compassion with us.

Still others have provided tangible things, like child care, meals, cards, and plants. Each filling a different need in our lives at just the right time.
Needless to say, we have been overwhelmed with love and we are grateful to all.

Thank you for being Jesus to the Hood family,
Bro. Wade

Tough Day for the Hood Family

2008-01-20T20:59:00.000-06:00

Thursday (January 17) was not an easy day for the Hood family. After returning a few emails, eating breakfast, and taking a quick morning bike ride, I experienced a severe headache, some chest pain and tingling in the left arm. After taking some aspirin, Jennifer drove me to the Emergency Room where we began a long journey of discovering what had happened. After a few nitro pills and some other medications to relax my body and reduce my soaring blood pressure, I felt much better and we began to think that I had not had a heart attack. But as evening approached, the proverbial elephant on my chest grew heavier. I then received two more nitro pills and eventually a nitro IV drip was needed to remove the pain. The plan had been to take a stress test on Friday morning, however, the blood enzyme tests revealed that I had indeed experienced a heart attack and the pain revealed that I needed a heart cath by early morning at the latest.

The next morning, my cardiologist performed a heart cath on me and discovered that one of my main arteries was 100% closed. The other vessels were clear so he cleared the blockage and placed a stint. There did not seem to be much damage and the heart was recovering well. I recovered in CCU and then PCCU for two days and was released on Sunday morning.

I will be taking many new medications for the rest of my life, but I am expected to make a full recovery and lead a very normal life. I should be back to regular excercise in just a few weeks. I will take a few weeks off from work, continuing to preach on Sundays, and then adjust back to full time the following two weeks.

It was a tough day for the Hood family, but there was no fear in our hearts, it was just tough for each of us to watch the other having to go through it. God carried us through and he deserves the praise.

Saved by grace and ALIVE by grace,
Bro. Wade

Christ ~ humble enough to be a man

2007-12-11T22:27:00.000-06:00

Christmas brings to our minds many images of Christ coming to Earth. We often see him in the manger scene with people and animals adoring him. We picture him with a halo around his head and a "silent night" where everything is perfect and calm.

Yet, this year my thoughts have been led to a different image. I have been thinking of Christ's last thoughts before he left the throne of heaven. How he must have looked around at the glory of heaven, the place of no pain or sorrow or tears; and then to look at where he was going. We spend so much of our time living in this world and looking toward heaven with great anticipation, but Jesus was looking in the opposite direction.

Sometimes we comment about how he came to such a humble family, where life was difficult and most of earth's luxuries were missing. But if you consider that even the most luxurious homes, the greatest ruling families in the world, or even the wealthiest kingdoms, could not compare to what he left, then it is no suprise that he thought it no more humbling to enter the family his father had chosen for him.

I believe this is why it was so easy for Jesus to live as a servant in humble conditions, he knew what he left and he knew what he would eventually enjoy again. We too can live as servants when we take our eyes off the luxuries of this world and place our focus first on the kingdom of God and his glory.

sharing Christmas thoughts,
Bro. Wade

Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Sweet Fellowship - a little painful though

2007-11-27T10:44:00.000-06:00

This past weekend has been one that I have enjoyed greatly. The family of First Baptist Church Harlingen enjoyed some down time together. We spent Saturday morning at war with each other, a paintball war that is. We had so much fun plastering each other with different colors of paint. Some of us resembled Joseph and his coat of many colors by the time we were through. Some of us, especially the older guys, were a little sore the following day from all the diving and running, not to mention the whelps from the paintballs. Through it all, we laughed, played, and of course ate together. Once again, we experienced the family life found in FBC Harlingen.

On Sunday we enjoyed a special mission report from the Ackerman family about their work in Nepal. We worshipped the Lord together and were blessed to hear a great word from the Lord in our Life Groups and in our worship service.

During the afternoon hours, we participated in our second annual TURKEY BOWL. It was a great afternoon of flag football and hamburgers in Arroyo Park. The "Cogers" beat the "Whippersnappers" in a close game, but fun was had by all. One of the coggers actually had to have small shoulder surgery that night, but overall everything went great.

During all of these events, we saw our church having fun together. People of all ages coming together to love each other and spend quality time together.

Praise God for the sweet fellowship of First Baptist Church Harlingen.

sore but loving it,
Bro. Wade

Second Saturday - Mission Day

2007-11-10T18:43:00.000-06:00

What a blessing today was in my life. Our wonderful church family had the privilege of housing another mission group heading into Mexico. This group was special to me as they were from northeast Arkansas, the association where I first served as pastor. They were so appreciative of our church's desire to bless the many groups that travel through our town to obediently serve in God's kingdom work in the valley and in Mexico.

We also held our intial Second Saturday missions day and I was blessed to join with several members in our church and some who do attend our church to minister to the Warner family again. We continued the remodel process on their home. Allison is improving daily in the Cleveland Clinic. Please continue to pray for her improvement and healing. Please consider ministering to others by participating in the next Second Saturday. We believe this will be a strong ministry in our church for many years to come.

Blessed to be a servant,
Bro. Wade

Staff Appreciation Month

2007-11-02T17:23:00.000-06:00

I do not believe that I can express my gratitude enough to those who have loved on our wonderful staff this month (and of course all during the year). During this month, your staff members have experienced a great outpouring of God's love through the membership of First Baptist Church Harlingen. The letters, gifts, words of encouragment, and many other acts of love have touched our hearts and have served to once again remind us of how blessed we are to serve this great church.

Thank you for your love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Each of these gifts of the spirit have been shown to my family and to the staff. "Thank you" to our family at FBC Harlingen for allowing the Holy Spirit to live through you.

humbled by your love,
Bro. Wade

Amazing Servants at the Fall Family Festival

2007-11-02T16:38:00.000-06:00

Computer problems have kept me away for a while, but I seem to have access again; even if for a short time.

Wednesday evening was a clear evidence of how the Holy Spirit is working in and through First Baptist Church Harlingen. Our Fall Family Festival was such a great success. The wonderful volunteers of FBC once again stepped up to the plate and hit a smashing homerun. Everywhere you looked you could see the love of God evidenced in the lives of those who were serving with a smile. The wonderful people on mission with God volunteered to serve food and clean up in the kitchen, to run the many games, to oversee the bouncers and large games, to stand in the door or in the hall to greet people. Each of them were vessels of God's love and were blessed by how they saw God working through them.

I was overwhelmed with the comments I heard that night and since then. Many said things like, "everybody here is so friendly" or "we are so thankful that you do this each year" or "we have never been to your church, but we feel so welcome here" or "how can we be a part of what is going on here?" So many expressed appreciation and amazement at the kindness experessed to them.

Please allow me to add that I too was amazed once again and I am so thankful to be a part of what God is doing through our wonderful church family.

Please pray for those who made decisions at the festival and accepted Christ or rededicated their lives. Pray for those who will be coming to our church in the next few weeks, seeking the same love and grace they experienced at the Festival.

serving and loving together with you,
Bro. Wade

Reaching the World for Christ

2007-09-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

What a great night! I was so blessed tonight to be the vessel of God's love to a man who decided this was the night he would ask Christ into his heart. It was such a joy to watch Jesus come into his life and change him completely. Recently, his wife accepted Christ as her Savior and because of the power change that clearly happened in her life, her husband decided he also needed God. Nothing stands as a greater witness than a Changed Life.

In just a few weeks he and his wife will be baptized to testify to the life change that Christ has brought to them both. Please join me in praying for them in their new life.

When I asked about why he had not yet accepted Christ, he shared a common answer - he did not really know how to be saved. I am not sure about you, but I was overwhelmed with a sense of shame. Shame because the church is failing so many people around us every day. We hold the plan of salvation in our minds and hearts and we are blessed to have the privilege of sharing that truth. Remember, not everybody knows how to be saved, and some are simply waiting for us to go and share that truth with them. Will you tell them?

"14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"" Romans 10:14-15 (NIV)

"19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

Joining you in telling others the good news,
Bro. Wade

New Deacons

2007-09-16T12:33:00.000-05:00

Just as in Acts 13 our church expressed a clear mandate from God about the calling of God on the men presented to us for deacon candidates. Each man was affirmed with a very supportive vote from the congregation; nearly unanimous for each. These men will serve our church family for many years to come with a passion for Christ and a love for his people.

Please join me in praying for these men and their families (Ben Carter, Jim Coffman, Mike Davis, and Keith King). We will express our earliest support for them by our prayers and words of encouragement. They will most appreciate your prayers and words, but also remember that as servant leaders they will be thankful to serve alongside of you in ministry.

First Baptist Church Harlingen is blessed to have such godly leadership, especially in our deacons. May we always love and support those that God has placed in leadership in our wonderful church.

Serving the servants of Christ,
Bro. Wade

WOW Wednesday

2007-09-05T22:23:00.000-05:00

The first night of AWANA for the fall semester was great. We were blessed to see so many new faces in our church, both attending and serving. The parking lot filled up and the church was buzzing with the busyness of children, youth, and adults moving from room to room. We had 136 children enrolled in AWANA and we know there will be more to join us soon.

I enjoyed seeing so many volunteers, many of whom had worked hard all day and drove straight to the church to "work" again for hours before going home to rest. The servants at FBC Harlingen are such a great example of faithfulness and love. They embody the love of God for the children and their families every week, and often in times when they are busy, tired, and have concerns for the care of their own families. Yet, they never fail to bless those the Lord has called them to serve.

Please join me in praying for our faithful servants who volunteer their time and labor each week. Please join with me to pray for the children and their families, the word of God is spreading in their hearts and homes and we believe God's word never returns void.

Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)
"10 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."

Excited about the word spreading,
Bro. Wade

Praying for Students and Teachers

2007-08-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful day today! Rarely do I have the privilege of preaching a sermon and then offering immediate ways to respond to that message, but today was one of those days. Following the morning message that challenged us to pray passionately, we saw every name of our children (kindergarten through college) taken by families in our church. Those students will be lifted in prayer and supported throughout the school year. Some have already contacted their student to encourage them, to inform them of their prayer support, and to get to know the student. What a joy to watch these children and young adults enter their campuses tomorrow with the prayer support of so many in their church family. May God hear our prayers and bless those for whom we pray.

The second opportunity was of course our annual campus prayer walk. All day people gathered at the school campuses throughout the valley to prayer walk. Our family enjoys walking together (actually the children ride bikes or scooters). This year the Hood family prayer walked with the Blakeslee family. We took turns watching the children while others prayer walked. Church members, joined by other believers, prayed all day in response to the campus prayer walk. Thank you for your visible commitment to the Lord, and the community in which he has placed us.

If you have not yet participated in these great opportunities to pray, I encourage you to join us now, by praying alone and together with others for God to be glorified in the lives of his children.

Praying passionately and immediately,
Bro. Wade

Responding to Hurricane Dean

2007-08-19T00:18:00.000-05:00

Please join me in:

1. Praying for those who live in the path of the Hurricane. Their lives will be drastically changed. Let us pray for the Lord's protection of those who need it today and in the days soon coming.

2. Prepare to be used by God to minister to those in the path of the Hurricane. We are already preparing to go where needed. Please pray about how God will use you to bless those who will need our help.

3. Continuing to pray for the path of the hurricane to pass over the least populated areas and to cause less damage than expected. Remember God can do more than we can ask or imagine.

May God hear our concert of prayer,
Bro. Wade

Living by Faith, not Fear

2007-08-18T23:49:00.000-05:00

Our family has been in the valley for two years now and this is our first experience living as hurricane targets. With each day comes a new wave from the hurricane; either the media says it could come right at us, or they say it is probably going south of us. Only God knows where this hurricane will strike, the rest of us offer projections.

Through this process we all struggle with the need to prepare and plan, while fighting off the feelings caused by fear. The Lord knows exactly what is going to happen, while we live in the mystery. It is during times like this that we learn to walk by faith and trust the Lord to lead us, protect us, and work through us to help others.

It is important for us to prepare. Our family has made extra purchases in preparation for bad weather. It is important to plan. Our family is openly discussing various scenarios and what we would do in each. It is important to be patient. Our family is not allowing the media to dictate our feelings, emotions, or stress level. God knew long ago that this hurricane would be coming our way and as we continue to allow Him to lead us, we know that he will take care of each day as it comes.

Let us all respond to the storms of this life (no matter what name they may called) with faith in the Lord.

Trusting the Lord to lead and protect,
Bro. Wade

Not as young as I used to be

2007-07-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

After close to 30 church camps in my life, I still enjoy the time at camp with children and youth.
I spent the week with about 80 children plus sponsors from our church at camp Zephyr for Children's Camp. We had so much fun, played many games, enjoyed the recreation, and spent a lot of time in the word of God. I was blessed with an opportunity to spend quality time with so many great kids. My relationship with those kids has grown so much, I feel like I know them better and they seem to feel the same about me.
As I got to know the kids better, I was so encouraged by their love for God. They were great examples of Christ-followers all week. But what really encouraged me was how much time they wanted to spend reading the Bible (with flashlights at night, during breaks, in the mornings and evenings). The love our children have for God was evidenced in their lives each day of camp.
The way they served each other, the way they respected the sponsors, the way they helped people they did not know, were all ways in which Christ was seen in their lives. Their love for God was clearly seen in what they did. I believe Jesus said it this way; "If you love me, you will obey what I command." (John 14:15) The FBC Harlingen Children's Ministry is definitely being used by God to partner with parents to produce children of great character; the character of Christ.
I was truly challenged by our children this week. Their pure love for God, love for his word, and love for his people, really challenged all of the sponsors. Let us all come to the Lord with a child-like faith and love.

"2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. "
Matt 18:2-5 (NIV)

from one who is not as young as he used to be, but who needs to be youthful in his love for God,
Bro. Wade

Summer Family Vacation 2007

2007-07-04T23:48:00.000-05:00

Vacation - a term that formerly meant rest and relaxation in my vocabulary.

We have truly enjoyed our family trip to Arkansas to visit with friends and family. We enjoyed a reunion with some of Jennifer's family, many of whom we have not seen for many years and the younger ones (below the age of 15) we have never met. We ate meals with many good friends, laughed as we reflected on days gone bye, visited the church that Jennifer's father serves as Pastor (heard some great preaching), and simply enjoyed our family for a week.

While visiting with my brother and his family, Adam enjoyed the thrill of driving a four wheeler. Adam also discovered the pain of falling off a four wheeler (he is fine and will love to tell you the story).

While visiting my father, stepmom, and grandfather; we wondered if this might be the last time with my grandfather. We have watched his health deteriorate over last few years, but he seems to be better than we expected. We pray for his health, but treat each visit with careful deliberation and lots of love.

While visiting with Jennifer's sisters, we rediscovered the joys of having children that are no longer in diapers, cribs, and bottles. Jennifer's younger sister has three girls (ages 4, 2, 1). We also visited her older sisters new house while in construction. I discovered a two-by-four sticking out of the house, it was nose high to me, I have the scar to prove it. After hours spent getting a new prescription and new glasses we were able to continue our journey.

While visiting Jennifer's parents, we taught our children how to shuck, silk, and put-up corn. It was great working together under the shade tree and in the shed as a family. Jennifer and I are glad to see our children learning the work that it takes to make life better. We also enjoyed being back in the church where Jennifer attended as a child. It was great to hear Jennifer sing with her mom, our children sing with the children's choir, and Jennifer's dad preach a wonderful message from God's word.

The only thing missing from the vacation was rest. We usually have some down time to rest, but this trip was so fast and we travelled the entire state of Arkansas, so rest was a luxury left to the next vacation. Tonight, as I type these words, I find myself looking forward to the 12 hour drive home to Harlingen. We look forward to being "home." Home with our church family, our friends, and our own beds.

God bless from one who finds his rest in God alone,
Bro. Wade

VBS 2007

2007-06-22T21:54:00.000-05:00

WOW! It is always overwhelming to see God changing lives, especially the lives of children who have so many years to give to the Lord. The Vacation Bible School held this week at First Baptist Church Harlingen was truly used by God to change the lives of so many children and the their families.

There were of course the children who accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord. Their testimonies are so precious. One young lady I had the privilege of praying with as she accepted Christ attended one day of VBS, the very day that we shared the gospel individually with students. I am so glad that life is not a matter of chance; God is sovereign over all.

There were also students who had already accepted Christ, but they came to VBS with life problems that seemed far more advanced than their years should allow. The boy whose father had died recently, the child who is dealing with bullies, the children whose parents are divorcing, the children who are soon moving to a new place and those who recently moved to the valley; all of these and many more found love, peace, acceptance, and strength while at FBC Harlingen. What a privilege to serve these children this week.

There were also many other children who are too young to understand the gospel and their need for salvation. We had the privilege of helping those children to learn more and experience more of God's love. They took another step on their journey of faith and we were excited to help them make that step.

In every way, we are thankful that God chose to use us for His work in the lives of these children and their families. We pray that we are not finished, that we will have more opportunities to serve these families.

from one who had the joy of living and loving like a child for a week at VBS,
Bro. Wade

Lifelong Memories - look at bottom of page

2007-06-16T18:33:00.001-05:00

I love being a dad!!! (The three exclamation marks are for each of my children.) It excites me when those special times come around with each of my children that I know will be lifelong memories. When something happens that I know they will always remember, I am so thankful that my face will be a part of that memory.

Today was one of those days. As I saw my son, Adam, reel in a 30 inch Redfish in the bay near South Padre Island. It was one of those great times, shared by father and son (and friends). As I watched him smile and tell every person he met what a great day he had with his dad, I could not help but think of how our heavenly father feels when he watches his children enjoy their time with him. I know that God must be so excited each time he shares a special moment with us, a moment that we cannot wait to share with others.

My prayer is that I will not take the moments with my heavenly father for granted, that I will never stop telling others the joy of knowing God, and that I will always rejoice in great days with my dad.

enjoying lifelong memories with my family and with my heavenly father,
Bro. Wade

Welcome to the Blakeslee family

2007-06-10T14:14:00.000-05:00

Craig Blakeslee was called by FBC Harlingen this morning (with a 98.7% vote) to serve as our Minister of Children and Discipleship. What a blessing Craig and his family will be to our church family. We pray that we will be a great blessing to their family as well.

The Blakeslee family has travelled to San Antonio to attend the Southern Baptist Convention this week. They will continue to serve our mission church in Arroyo City through July 1 and will begin full time status at FBC on July 8. Craig will be leading music during Vacation Bible School (something planned before he was considered for our position) and he will be joining our children's ministry activities for some of our local events before July 8.

Please being praying for the Blakeslee family as they purchase a house and begin their transition.

Thankful for a great staff,
Bro. Wade

Prayer Walking

2007-06-09T19:02:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful view last Sunday morning! I was so blessed this past Sunday to walk through our buildings at FBC Harlingen and see hundreds of people praying. They were praying over the pews, praying in the hallways, praying with hands laid on the baptistry and pulpit and musical instruments. They prayed in the worship center, the chapel, the Kid's Worship room, and the Brady room (youth worship center). They prayed in the classes, in the Christian Life Center, in the dining rooms, and in the offices. They prayed while walking in the halls as they went to the next place to pray. People prayed alone, as a family, and some gathered in groups. It was amazing to see parents teaching children how to pray for their pastor, their Sunday School teacher, and the lost in the community. FBC Harlingen was truly a POWER HOUSE as it became a house of prayer.

I cannot imagine the full impact of all those prayers, but I can try. As I have walked the same halls during the week, I have imagined many things. I have imagined the guests that will come to join us for worship, and not really know why they have come to First Baptist Church. I have imagined the sincerity of worship to be offered this week, and those who will not know what was different this week. I have imagined the power of God's word moving through so many Sunday School teachers in the next few weeks, and those who will wonder why today is somehow different. I have imagined those whose lives will be changed, and I have imagined all those who prayed and walked through the halls of FBC Harlingen who WILL understand what has happened and why.

Thank you for praying with such passion and purpose and please pray without ceasing!!!

Praying with great expectations,
Bro. Wade

Remembering

2007-05-25T21:48:00.000-05:00

Every year I am thankful for the time we spend remembering those who have gone before us; those who have won and preserved our freedoms. I have three uncles who each served for over 20 years in the military, and I am thankful for their service that continues to bless my family. I remember having such a high respect for my grandfather as he reflected on his service during WWII. I grew up admiring and appreciating our soldiers who sacrificed so much for me and others. I know that my maternal grandmother's first husband, and the father of my eldest uncle, gave his life during WWII. This truth has never left me when I reflect on those who are serving our nation so faithfully now.

Let us remember to praise the Lord for those who have served and sacrificed so much for us. And let us remember to pray for those who are making the same commitment to us today.

During this time of remembering those who stand as soldiers for our nation, I must also remember those who stand as soldiers for the kingdom of God. I appreciate the many missionaries and ministers who have gone before us. I am thankful for those who carried the gospel into all the world years before I was born. I appreciate those who served as ministers, laboring for years in anonymity. (Not everyone is named Billy Graham)

I remember the Sunday School teachers, the Vacation Bible School leaders, the van drivers, the Children's Church workers, and of course the Pastors I have been blessed with during my life. I am so thankful for each of them. I must admit the names are getting harder to remember as I get older, but I know the Lord knows their names (He has already called some of them to be at home with Him). Those who shared Jesus with us are some of the most important people in our lives. Please join me in praising the Lord for those who have stood in the gap for us and share Christ with us.
Let us pray for those who labor in the harvest today. Let us pray for the missionaries and ministers who have given their lives to the Lord for His ministry in this world. Let us join them in sharing Christ with the world around us daily.

Let us remember, praise the Lord, and pray for those who give of themselves today.

"Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you." Hebrews 13:7 (NIV)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

Remembering thankfully,
Bro. Wade

Planting God's Word in the Next Generation

2007-05-17T23:35:00.000-05:00

Wednesday evening's AWANA Award Night was so great to watch. I enjoyed hearing the names of so many children called as they were acknowledged for their efforts in memorizing and learning the Word of God this past year. It was great to think about how many lives and families will be changed for years to come by the word that was planted in this young generation. Knowing that somehow we had a part in what God was doing this year to change the lives of these young people (and their parents) was so humbling and yet amazing at the same time. Our church is blessed to have this opportunity - each year!

When we recognized all the volunteers who serve so faithfully in AWANAs, I found my heart filled with so much appreciation. My three children take part in this wonderful ministry each week and my family is blessed by these volunteers. So many of them work hard all day and rush to the church to make Wednesday happen at FBC Harlingen. I could never begin to thank them enough for what they do for the Lord, for so many children, and for my family.

I look forward to a great Summer of ministry to children and youth. I find myself praying for the leaders, volunteers, students, and their families. I can only imagine all that God is going to do.

Planting the Word with you,
Bro. Wade

P.S. Just to let you know, we will be presenting a minister to the church as a candidate for our Children and Discipleship Minister on June 10. We will vote during both services. Be praying.

IMAGINE - a great team

2007-05-11T00:31:00.000-05:00

IMAGINE: The Power of Everyone - the name of our capital campaign; it says more than it first seems. We look forward to the future as we attempt to imagine all that God can do through his people when we are united in spirit and purpose. During the initial stages of the campaign, we have formed a leadership team that is working diligently. Their labor, the quality of their work, their unified spirit, and the joy in the service are proof that the name of the campaign is more than a slogan, it is a reality in First Baptist Church Harlingen.

I am so excited about the campaign, and that is very much due to the excitement and passion of the leadership team. Each week we meet and hear how God has spoken to members of the group and how everything is coming together in ways that are beyond our control. The team is a small example of what we hope to see in the church as a whole. People who are praying passionately, who are sacrficing for a great goal, who are in love with a great God, and who are united in heart and mind.

Please join me in praying for this wonderful adventure that lies ahead of FBC Harlingen.

Imagining,
Bro. Wade

People on Mission

2007-05-04T23:17:00.000-05:00

When a church is on mission with God, you can see it in many little ways. This past week there were so many ways FBC Harlingen evidenced it is on mission with God.

Four men travelled through Mexico for a week, three of them riding motorcycles, and they were used by God to travel over 1,200 miles to see 50 people come to know Jesus as their personal Savior. This was a great trip and I look forward to our church hearing about it this Sunday in the morning services; pray for Randy Rister as he shares this great testimony.

Randy also did a chalk drawing on Wednesday evening for our AWANA ministry. During this service God shared the gospel through Randy and 3 children accepted Christ as Savior and 3 others committed to be baptized. This Sunday morning we will see the testimony of some of those children and celebrate with their families. One of these children is celebrating her birthday this Sunday and she looks forward to being baptized on that special day.

Bro. Frank shared with our church the opportunity we had to minister to those in Eagle Pass whose lives had been changed by the tornadoes. We have seen our church family respond in love by purchasing items and giving financially to see these families cared for during this difficult time. The group leaves Saturday morning to carry the items to Eagle Pass, we pray for their safe travel.

This next week we have the privilege of helping a new family to our church to load their belongings into a moving van and head for Colorado. We will help them load, send them off with prayer and thank the Lord for the short time we had them in our earthly family, and praise the Lord we will see them again some day.

What a great week!!! What a great Lord!!!!! What a privilege to see him serve through us!!!

"Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'" Matthew 9:37-38

Calling all to the Mission,
Bro. Wade

Appreciating my wife

2007-04-28T11:57:00.000-05:00

This is the second weekend in a row that Jennifer has been away from the family. Last week she ministered and spoke at a Walk to Emmaus women's retreat, and this week she is participating in the FBC Harlingen women's retreat in Corpus Christi. I had the privilege of spending three days with my children last week and now two days this weekend in intensive "daddy time." I am loving it.

In Jennifer's absence, I find myself recognizing how much she does for our family. I mean, I see it all the time, but when she is not here, there are so many things that are missing. I hope you understand that I am not talking about housework. I have three children and when I am listening to one, who is going to listen to another child? When two children run into each other and both are crying, who holds one while I hold the other? When they each need attention and my eyes cannot cross any farther; who is going to watch their next learned trick?

My wife brings a great deal of love into our home as a vessel of God's love. She pours His love into each of us and does it so often without notice or even a thanks. The Hood family is blessed indeed to have a great wife and mother in Jennifer.

During our current sermon series, so many families have discovered the treasures in their families; we too have found ours. Praise the Lord for our Jennifer.

Proverbs 18:22 (NIV)
"He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD."

humbled by God's love,
Wade

Changed Lives

2007-04-25T22:52:00.000-05:00

Changed Lives is more than just a phrase or logo that we use at First Baptist Church Harlingen. It is the purpose of our existence, the goal of everything we do, and the joy of God's heart. I have the special privilege of serving a great church that experiences the testimony of changed lives each week. I love to hear the stories from so many of how God has intervened in their lives and changed them through his grace.

I love to hear our children laugh and share "high-fives" and hugs as they move through the halls of our church buildings. I love to see our youth pray together in their small groups and worship the Lord with a new song during their group times. I love to see our adults encourage each other through prayer and fellowship. I grow excited when I hear of how God has used the Sunday School lesson, or a 5:14 Home Group session, or a sermon, or song to change someone's life.

This week we have heard of marriages that have been healed, adults who have been saved, children who have shared their faith, and others who have found a new "family" at FBC Harlingen. There have been so many testimonies lately and with great joy I know there will be many more to come. So join me in praying for God to continue to use us to change the lives of those around us.

"And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

From one whose life has been changed,
Wade

Labor prompted by love

2007-04-24T21:25:00.000-05:00

I find it quite appropriate that my first words on this blog are in reference to the unheralded servants who assist me daily. I have the distinct privilege to serve alongside of some of the best people in the kingdom of God, and our church family is blessed to be served by these special ladies. I am thankful for those who serve First Baptist Church Harlingen as secretaries. Kathy, Alice, Emily, Melaney, and Sally are each such a blessing to our church and the many people who come to our office each week. They are servants, who help us all to do the work God has called us to do. They are examples of Christ in their commitment, love, and attitudes.

If you are a part of FBC Harlingen, please help me to express to these special people how much we love and appreciate them. Join me in praying for them, encouraging them when possible, and serving them as the opportunity arises.

On this national Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day we remember the words Paul shared with the church in Thessalonica and make them our own as we remember those who serve us out of love.

"2 We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. 3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 (NIV)

Laboring in Love,
Bro. Wade