The Importance Of Determination

The congregation and guests were welcomed for worship by Robert Stauber, liturgist. A birthday was celebrated for Lin Stuart and announcements were made for Lenten Bible studies and the upcoming church directory update. The congregation shared in a time of fellowship, followed by Zoe Parish and John Parish lighting the altar candles. Patti Carroll played "In Christ Alone" for the prelude to worship.

The congregation sang the hymns "Seek Ye First" and "I Stand Amazed in the Presence," accompanied by Patti on the clavinova and the orchestra.

With Pastor Mary Lou Toft away, Casey Stanley led the congregation in the sharing of joys and concerns. Joys were shared by Parker Owens for advancing to state competition and A.B. Abercrombie shared thanks for help for his sister Lana and family. Prayer was requested for Ann Harmon, Butch and Marilee Todd, Marilyn Moritz and Janet Britton. Casey led the congregation in prayer.

Robert read the scripture lesson, from Nehemiah 6:9-13.

The music special was Mozart's "Ave Verum Corpus," played by the orchestra.

Casey's message to the congregation used the Old Testament lessons from Nehemiah to demonstrate the importance of determination. Nehemiah was determined to follow God regardless of the obstacles that came to him. We can be sidetracked from God when we have a crisis in our lives. Nehemiah's faith in God gave him a willingness to overcome obstacles. It is important to keep our eyes on God regardless of what comes our way. When we spend time with God, others will help us. We need to have the will to always walk with God.

The congregation sang "I Need Thee Every Hour" and Casey gave the 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 or by email at [email protected]. Visit Noel MO United Methodist Church on Facebook.

Religion on 02/19/2015