Date: 5/26/2007
<br>Author: Devin Pickard
<br>Title: May 23, 2007
<br><br>I think most of  you look forward to Sundays as much as I do.  Let me tell you how I have come to this conclusion.  Though it may be frustrating to some, especially those who are extremely time conscious, I enjoy hearing the announcement maker having to clear his throat or take his shoe off to tap on the podium (not that this has happened as of yet)  to call us to order because it’s time to start worship.  I am sure some see this as a form of disrespect, but I choose to see our pre-worship fellowship as a blessing.  I have been in church services in other places where it quieted down 10 minutes before the first word was uttered from the pulpit.  I assumed these folks just didn’t like to talk to each other that much.   After pondering the situation a little longer,  I thought  that maybe it was because they either didn’t care much for their pew partner or they just didn’t like being in church….both may have very well been true.  The end of those same church services were even worse.  As soon as the final “amen” was said, it was as if though a fire alarm had gone off.  There was a mad rush for the nearest exit.  It was every man, woman, and child for himself.  I was glad I made it out alive to tell the story.<br><br>I am so thankful that Fairfield is not that way.  I am glad that you enjoy one another’s company.  I am glad that you always want to take a few minutes to catch up on what has transpired since the last time you were together.  This is not just a Sunday morning phenomenon either.  It’s Sunday night, Wednesday night, and every other time we are gathered.  Now that warm weather is here, it will not be uncommon to see folks sitting on the front porch of the church watching the kids play and just shootin’ the breeze with the other tire kickers.  Norman Rockwell could not have painted a more heartwarming scene than a pleasant evening on Fairfield’s front porch.  Join us sometime....there room on the steps for plenty more!<br><br>Congratulations to the Class of 2007!!   Our graduates were honored Sunday evening with finger foods, slide show, and a new Bible.  Thanks to all who stayed, brought food, and had encouraging words for these who are embarking on the next phase of their lives.  As someone once said, “The tassel is worth the hassle!”  I wish our relationships with God could transform, grow and flourish as much as the marital relationships have in our Family Dynamic classes for this session.  You need to make it a priority to be here on the Sunday night that we ask the class participants to share whatever they would like about their 8-week experiences together.  Besides the blessings of a better marriage, many new friendships and support contacts have been formed that will last a lifetime.  We would encourage those of you who have been a little hesitant about taking the class to begin  now considering the fall session.  As you will hear in a few weeks, with a little effort, your marriage can be better than you ever dreamed.  Before you know it, people are liable to start calling you June and Ward Cleaver!<br><br>Please be safe if you are traveling this Memorial Day Weekend.  Find a veteran somewhere and give them a pat on the back and a hug.  They deserve it.<br>                                                                                                                                   <center>Go the extra mile - Devin</center><br>