Date: 9/16/2008
<br>Author: Devin Pickard
<br>Title: Positivity
<br><br>Joel Osteen has been called by CNN.....“Evangelism's Rising Star”.  Mr. Osteen is the minister of the Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, which is currently considered the largest megachurch in the United States with a weekly attendance of more than 40,000.  Osteen says his preaching style is one that chooses to focus on the goodness of God rather than sin.  Instead of being a “book, chapter, and verse” preacher, Mr. Osteen says he would rather teach Biblical principles in a simple way by emphasizing the power of love and a positive attitude.  Joel Osteen, the author of two best-selling books, has been coined by some as the “Most Influential Christian in America”....and do you know why?  Because he smiles....a lot.  Because he is optimistic....a lot.  Because he sees the glass not just half-full, but all the way to the rim...a lot.  He just oozes self value, self esteem and self worth....gosh, I just keep waiting for somebody to put him on a Pepsodent tooth paste commercial.  <br><br>I must say, I have some different views from Mr. Osteen on the interpretation of God's Word and His plan for salvation.  I do believe the Bible is very plain about the reality of sin and the transgressions of man-kind, and that we as ministers are obligated to make listeners aware of such (Acts 20:27).  But in spite of our differences, I do agree with Joel Osteen's desire to be a positive influence in the lives of those around him, as I think we all should be.  Sure, we need to occasionally focus on the negative things in life....for if we sweep them under the rug one minute, it's an almost surety that they will still be there the following minute.  But, I do believe we should spend far more time  building others up rather than tearing them down.  We should look for every chance to pat someone on the back rather than kicking them in the same place....so let me start doing it. <br><br>Put at the top of your “pat on the back list” the “Wednesday Morning Provider Folding Crew”....Elsie Lancaster, Joyce Cayce, Retha Duncan, Elizabeth Springer, Mary Carolyn McClanahan, Sarah Brown, Claudine Haynes, and Ms. Carolyn.  These ladies show up bright and early each Wednesday morning to fold, affix, and label the over 600 bulletins that go out from this church weekly.  The library is the scene of this folding frenzy and is always full of laughter and smiles...and of course you might even be able to find a hot cup of coffee and a cookie or two!  If you ever need a Wednesday morning “boost”, just stop by some time....these ladies are better than a B12 shot!<br><br>Congratulations to Mike Breece, son of Mack and Sherry Breece, who recently won an Emmy Award for his camera work on the Grammy Awards Show.  Mike has been the camera man on a long list of high profile television and award shows over the last several years.  Just  ask Mack and Sherry about it the next time you see them....you might be able to drag a little info. out of them about it!<br><br>Kudos to Michael Harrison, Chris Wright, and Lafayette Spears on the good job they are doing on the grid-iron this year as coaches....Michael as coach at Perry County High School, Chris at Hickman Middle, and “Coach Laff”  at Hickman High.  As important as winning is to these guys, they all also place a high priority on being a good influence in the lives of these young men....for without them, some of these football players would have none.  Thank you coaches....remember, all of life's victories aren't necessarily found in the “W” column.<br><br>Of course, I could go on and on if time and space would allow about all of the good things that Fairfield's folks are doing on a daily basis.  Tell you what, why don't you just come out here some Sunday and see what all the excitement is about and meet these good folks for yourself....of course you might not be in the midst of 40,000 people....at least not yet  :)<br>                                                          <br>Go the extra mile - Devin<br>