We Should Ask The Lord For Help To Follow Him

The congregation and guests were welcomed for worship by Liturgist Robert Stauber. Birthdays were celebrated for Caleb Thornton, James King and G.W. Tompkins. Dakota Stead and Zoe Thornton lit the altar candles as Patti Carroll played "Crucified" for the prelude to worship.

The congregation sang "His Name Is Wonderful" and "Great Is Thy Faithfulness," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.

Joys were shared by Sandra Christian for the recovery and healing of her ex-husband. Ruby Flynn shared joy for time spent with her daughter Paula and Doris Fields shared joy for a visit from her brother Jerry. Faye Davis shared joy for their recent time spent with family. Kelsey Thornton was recognized for her second place entry in the Congressional Art Show. Pastor Mary Lou Toft shared joy for the wedding of Josh and Sherrie Smith, married on April 18. Janet Britton shared joy for the upcoming wedding of her son, Shane Scott. Prayer was requested for Donnie and Janet Britton requested prayer for upcoming medical test. Mary Lou led the congregation in prayer.

Robert read the scripture lesson, from Jonah 1: 5-17.

Steve Powell sang, "The Wind Beneath My Wings" for the music special.

Mary Lou's children's message was about Jonah running away from God's call and how he caused problems for everyone around him. We should follow God's call and ask the Lord for help to follow Him.

Mary Lou's message to the congregation continued with the scripture lesson from Jonah. Jonah had disobeyed God. While he was running away, he stopped and finally submitted to God. God brought a terrible storm to the ship he was on. Jonah admitted to the crew he was the cause of the storm and told them to throw him overboard. When the crew saw the power of God stopping the storm, they began to worship God and vowed to serve Him. God is able to use even our mistakes to make others come to know Him. It may be painful, but admitting our sins can be a powerful example to those who don't know God.

The congregation sang "Blessed Assurance," followed by Mary Lou's benediction to close the worship service.

You are welcome at worship services, Sunday's at Pineville UMC, 9:30 a.m., Noel UMC 11 a.m., and at Southwest City UMC at 1:30 p.m. Pastor Mary Lou Toft can be reached at 816-729-6767, email [email protected] or visit Noel MO United Methodist Church on Facebook.

Religion on 04/23/2015