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Dear Parents,
Well, we’re deep into week two and settling into a new rhythm. My dog Jude is loving it. I’ve been taking him for much longer walks than normal each day, and I’ve noticed that each day more and more people are out walking. I haven’t seen this many kids on bicycles since the 80’s. It’s a definite throwback to a more innocent age. I’m convinced that we are going to come back a little different, a little better when this is all over.
My sister in Fort Worth called me last week and asked Debbie and me to join them in a daily prayer routine. She and her husband had committed with several other couples to set their phone alarms to go off every evening at 9:00 for prayer. We did that, and it’s pretty special. I would like to invite all of you to join in this 9:00PM prayer time. It’s pretty simple – when your alarm goes off, stop whatever you’re doing, find a quiet place and pray. Pray for your kids, for our community and schools, for our church, our country and the world. As my sister put it, “Our collective prayers will be a beautiful offering to our Father who loves us so dearly.” If you’re inclined, spread this idea. Can you imagine what would happen if hundreds of parents around our community were united in prayer each evening at 9:00? One result might be that more kids will see their parents praying together, and that would be awesome.
On another note, I would like to encourage all parents to join together with their families at 10:30 on Sunday mornings to participate in our church’s worship service. In Hebrews we are reminded that we should not neglect meeting together, as is the habit of some. Fortunately, we have the technology to be able to join together for worship. Try singing along with the songs. It actually works, and you will stop just watching a screen and begin participating in the time of worship. I like the visual of families sitting together in their living room each Sunday at 10:30. I don’t care for the image of everyone going off to their own rooms with their devices to watch the service or whatever. We need worship in a big way during this time.
We are continuing to use available resources to maintain a ministry during these interesting days, including 7:37 groups on Sunday nights, our Senior Sunday morning study at 9:00, and Daily Devos posted each day on Instagram. Check out the stuff below to see what all is happening and available to help serve you and your kids.
In addition, Ronny Higgins, our young adult minister, is putting together a parenting seminar that will start on Wednesday, April 1. It will be another one of those Zoom meetings. (Man, I love Zoom – wish I had bought stock in that company about three weeks ago.) It’s based on a book by Jonathan McKee who many of you heard speak on our Care Day on March 1. (That feels like 3 months ago, doesn’t it?) You can see all the details below. I would encourage you to check it out.
That’s all for now. Please let me know if we can do anything to serve you and your family during these days. I’m really concerned with the mental health of many of our students who already struggle with anxiety and depression. As always, please let us know if you can help in any way. Stay safe.
Deo volente,
Bob Johns
Youth Pastor
bjohns@firstwoodway.org
First Woodway
101 Ritchie Rd
Waco, TX 76712
254-722-9696
www.firstwoodway.org
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