This is what the LORD says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel:  "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go."  Isaiah 48:17

Last Wednesday our church hosted the Ladies' Lenten Fellowship Breakfast in which women from many local churches come together for fellowship and worship.  It was a very special time with beautiful decorations, delicious food, wonderful music, and an amazing speaker, Audrey Clay. Audrey is well known in this community since she has ministered here for many years. Sharing with the ladies, she pointed out seven things you should not give up for Lent. We would like to share encourage you with those at this time:

                Audrey Clay with Jill Breckel at the Ladies' Lenten Breakfast


1)   Don't give up the gift of laughter.  Eccl. 3:4, Prov. 17:22

2)   Don't give up thinking and talking about the good things that our happening.  Phil. 4:9,
Rom. 12:1-2

3)   Don't give up worshipping and praising the Lord.  Ps. 8:2,  Ps. 50:23

4)   Don't give up reminding yourself how much Jesus loves us. Eph. 3:18

5)   Don't give up sharing the love of Jesus.  II Cor. 2:14

6)   Don't give up reading God's Word every day. I Sam. 9:27

7)   Don't give up praying.  James 5:16

It's hard to believe that Easter is less than two weeks away.  May the above seven points be a reminder of what not to do in preparation for that holy day.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny