In Stephen Covey's popular book "7 Habits of Highly Effective Families," he points out some very interesting observations that easily fit the church, our spiritual family. Covey helps us understand that no family is ever on track 100% of the time. Even the very best of families will have their moments when they stray from the healthy ideal into dangerous or harmful territory. The key is not to expect or demand perfection, but to be careful that enough adjustments are made along the way so that you are always "en route." No church is perfect. When imperfect individuals gather in a group setting, there will be differences of opinion, conflicts, misunderstandings, and hurt feelings. The key is to be careful and sensitive to make the necessary adjustments so family life and the spirit of unity in Christ is not paralyzed or destroyed. Accept the fact that perfection comes later when we no longer look through a glass darkly from a world swimming in sin, self-service, and small mindedness. No one is exempt from falling in the blink of an eye. We are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God, and praise His name, in spite of our sin God has shown His love for us by allowing Christ to die for us!
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Larry Ross Evangelistic Ministries is planning a mission trip to Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, May 6-13, 2006, and is looking for volunteers to help. Larry will preach in a revival meeting each night in addition to replacing the roof on First Baptist Church during the day. The church has been praying for over 5 years for someone to come and help them with this project. They will furnish all materials and some tools. Their fellowship hall is available for sleeping, and a full kitchen and showers are also available. Larry is also checking out motels and RV parking. This is in cooperation with Appalachian Regional Ministry an organization that helps needy churches and ministries of Appalachia.

If you can volunteer, please contact Larry at 540-587-8962 or edrynn@juno.com. As the Lord leads, please share this information with your church. Larry is a carpenter with over 10 years of experience. One unique aspect of Larry Ross Evangelistic Ministries is The "Carpenter's" Evangelist. This is part of Larry's vision to use his skills and experience in construction combined with his call to preach the Gospel. The objective is to minister to churches and lead others to know Christ, the Carpenter from Nazareth. Please pray for LREM and this aspect of ministry. Visit his website at http://LarryRoss.org.

"Last Flight Out," from the film ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, is an explosive tale of sacrifice and international rescue. Dan Hogan is a washed-up pilot stuck repossessing private jets. That is, until Dan's former boss hires him to rescue his missionary daughter Dr. Ann Williams—who happens to be Dan's ex-girlfriend—from the drug runner terrorizing her remote village.

More details will come later, but mark your calendars & plan to attend this association-wide event.

The Southwest Virginia Christian Leadership Network announces a workshop entitled "The Time of Your Life."

Facilitated by Bob and Judy Hetherington from the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association, persons can learn practical keys for using time wisely in order to minimize stress.

Cost for the workshop is only $5 for materials and snacks. Pre-register by calling the Network (866-223-9344) or by e-mail at info@vachristianleadership.net. Persons may also register the day of the workshop.

Women on Mission: Radford will lead devotionals at Oakwood Manor in January, February, and March. Bethlehem will host the January birthday party for residents of Bedford County Nursing Home; Mount Olivet will host it in February.

If you would be interested in going with a group from Strawberry, contact Lois Stevens by Wednesday, March 1.

Bedford collected 142 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child (not 42 as reported in last month's newsletter).

Mentow is searching for a part-time Music Minister. Send resume to Mentow Baptist Church, 3282 Mentow Drive, Huddleston, VA 24104.

North Bedford recently voted to call Dr. Tim Mink as their transitional pastor. He will begin his ministry with the church on January 1, 2006, and will serve an indefinite period of time while the church continues to search for a permanent pastor. Please pray for this church and the Pastor Search committee as they seek to do the Lord's will in finding a permanent replacement.

Norwood prepared 79 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.

Due to health concerns, Dr. John G. Napier has retired as pastor at Timber Ridge, effective December 1, 2005.

Trinity is looking for a part-time Minister of Music and a full-time Associate Pastor of Youth and Children.

Trinity's Women's Ministry shipped 58 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.

Purpose: To instill in young people an appreciation for Baptist history and heritage and to offer promising young Baptist scholars an opportunity to research & write creatively on a topic related to Baptist history and heritage.

Eligibility: Open to all 11th and 12th grade high school students (public, private, or home school) who attend a Baptist church in Virginia.

Awards: All entries will be judged by a jury. Three cash awards of $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place. Up to three honorable mention awards may be given.

Length of essay: No fewer than 1,000 words and no more than 1,200.

Entries must be postmarked no later than February 1. Complete guidelines can be found at www.essay.baptistheritage.org.

For more information call the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association at 540-366-7631 or e-mail to rvbassn@aol.com.