Dear Members and Friends of the Dalton First United Methodist Church -
 
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

I give thanks to my God always as I remember you in my prayers.  I especially remember your love for each other.  I am heartened when I hear one say how much she or he is praying for another.  My heart is warmed as we live out what it means to be connected in the United Methodist Church.  I give thanks to God for your love for each other.

William Barclay (1907-1978) was born in Scotland and ordained in the Church of Scotland in 1933.  He was Chair of Divinity at the University of Glasgow.  His most famous publication is his "Daily Study Bible" which I consult religiously.  I graduated seminary the year that Dr. Barclay died.  This man was no simple academic with a head knowledge of Christ, but was a deeply committed Christian who knew Jesus as his Lord!  I have quoted from him often in my ministry because he has inspired me often. 

 
The challenging quote from Dr. Barclay today is, "That crowd of Jews would have followed Christ at that moment because He was giving them what they wanted [bread], and they wished to use Him for their plans and dreams and purposes. That attitude to Christ still lingers in men's minds. We would like Christ's gifts without Christ's Cross; we would like to use Christ instead of allowing Him to use us."

O Lord, how many times have I tried to use you instead of allowing you to use me?  Forgive me, precious Lord, and grant me new life and another chance.  I make myself available to you, Lord.  Use me as you see fit.  I simply want to live for Christ, but I know I cannot live that life without the constant activity of your Holy Spirit encouraging, enabling and reminding me.  In Jesus' name, I am yours.  Amen.

What prayer do you need to pray this day?  Are you available to Christ? 
I am excited that I will be holding services at Royal Oaks this Sunday at 6:00pm.  I have had to miss the ones in July and August, but I am glad this one works out. 

Worship continues to amaze me at Dalton First United Methodist Church.  Also, if you missed the Smiley Gregg Concert, you missed a deep and powerful experience.  However, you can still donate.  I am sure they will gladly accept your donation on behalf of the Habitat for Humanity and the Big Sister/Big Brother charities.

I continue to be excited about the ministries of Dalton First UMC.  As I learn more about missions, men's and women's ministries, youth and children, I realize I do not fully comprehend all the great stuff that is going on around me.  I'll get there, however.  I thoroughly enjoyed watching the children come in for their first day of preschool yesterday morning.  They are so beautiful and full of life.  That child like quality is one of the reasons Jesus said we must enter the Kingdom of God as a child. 

Our first Neighborhood Meeting was last night at Jackie Pope's home.  We had a great turnout and a wonderful discussion.  Kathy and I look forward to each and every one.  These conversations are important to us and to the church.  Hope to see you at one.

God bless.

See you Sunday!

In Christ,
Dr. Robin L Lindsey
Dalton First United Methodist Church
706-278-8494 (Office)