Kneemail Update June 2021

Dear Prayer Partner,

“How Are You?” As we struggle as a world, nation, and individuals to return to a “normal,” this simple question can have a complicated response. Our first response is to just say “fine” or “good” and move along. Especially when the asker doesn’t seem to want to wait for or care to know the answer.  For years I was always mindful of answering that question with a very positive response.  Another reply has become quite popular: Dave Ramsey’s truthful quip,  “Better than I deserve.” 

Today, when I am asked, “How are you?” I tend to pause for just a moment and think, “How am I at this moment? Right now?”  For there have been many moments in the last year where I was doing really good—and other moments where I was just plain ‘ole worn out, tired, mentally drained, or so scatter-brained I couldn’t think.  But, in going deeper with that thought—even in the midst of all of those moments—I have been Joyful. Really. Even in challenging moments, deep down, I have Joy. Not just happiness—but Joy.  And, in considering Joy, I then continue to realize I have so much to be Joyful for. 

As a Christ-follower, I have a greater Joy than a deeper sorrow. Even though I can be sad, down, angry, frustrated—all those emotions that we share as humans—I also know that Psalm 30 (as David wrote at the temple’s dedication) contains a profound truth. As verses 11 & 12 proclaim: 

The Bible contains over 200 verses concerning Joy. As we move into this season of healing, allowing each of us to share Christ with words and deeds; be reminded that we share His love because He first loved us. 

We can have deep Joy because of the profound truth that has taken root in our hearts.

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A few quick updates: WOW! VBS launches this month! At the time of this note to you, we have over 150 churches in 18 countries participating! So be sure to tell your church leaders about WOW! It can be used in various ways—in person, small groups, online, etc. Out FaithKidz director Steve Pennington has done a fantastic job of again creating this excellent resource for churches/groups. 

You can help! Our funding for FaithKidz was reduced again, and we require additional funding for the remainder of 2021.  We need an additional $25,000 to cover the need.

Through FaithKidz, we offer WOW! completely FREE to churches & individuals. At this time, we are about $5,000 underfunded for this project. You can donate to WOW here.

If you would prayerfully ask God how you can help, I would be most appreciative.

You can make online donations for WOW!VBS! at wowvbs.live. 

Pray that WOW! VBS will reach at least 500 churches (25,000 people!) this season.

Please be praying as I attend the Southern Baptist Convention in Nashville next week. Pray that I will make many great contacts and that pastors & leaders will be receptive to live events and the other resources we make available.

Pray that churches & schools will want to re-connect with their communities!

Pray that our online “Sharing Jesus With Children” teaching program can be completed this Summer.

I am so thankful for your continued prayers and support of this work over this last year! You are loved.

Sharing His Wonder,