We had record numbers of people attend one of our 10 services! We had an amazing number of people give their lives to the Lord. My boys looked so cute. My husband looked hot. And our team pulled off an amazing service each time.
The weekend started out with a Saturday evening service that was so packed we had to turn people away. The message was awesome, all FIVE times that I heard it. My husband preached 6 times this weekend. I have no idea how he did that. Each time the passion and intensity was the same, as if it was his first time preaching it.
He spoke from Isaiah 53:1-6. He preached that you do not believe Jesus if you do not esteem his death in your life. It was powerful. I unashamedly peaked (ok, I craned my neck to I look around) every time he gave an invitation and was amazed at all the people who gave their lives to the Lord each time. You can watch the message here later today.
Its 10 after 8 and Elijah is snoozing the day away. He had a great weekend too. Check back later this week for pictures.
Holly, I peeked too! It never gets old to see Jesus really get hold of someone's heart! Very amazing weekend!! Can't wait to see pictures of your boys!
Posted by: wendi | April 13, 2009 at 01:09 PM
WOW AND WOW again, what an awesome and indescribably way is it that God is working through you two, and your husband preaching 6 times! May he continue to bless your ministry and may he continue to inspire us that are just beginning...
Posted by: Erika | April 13, 2009 at 01:09 PM
Thanks so much for the memories! My mom was a busy career wife, which caused my parents to divorce so we did Easter in both places and I don't have too many memories of either. Now I am a Youth Pastor's Wife with no prior experience and trying to do the best with my kids. I love the part about your mom dressing you and your sisters up to the T with your mom showing up gorgeous herself! That was my goal this year and I felt great about it! I got all three of my boys dressed in matching gingham shirts with cute little vests and khakis. Even my husband and I matched in color. We got so many complements and in my opinion we were the best dressed family!
Posted by: Ashley Vogel | April 13, 2009 at 01:02 PM
I have been waiting for your "Monday Morning Commentary" since 6:30 am!! I remember during the confusion of all the preparation prior to church that familiar prompting(for me anyway) about the 40 min. drive to get to church and a moment of "All that way for such a familiar message,I mean what could he say that could possibly be different?"A thought process totally opposite of my 6:00 am awakening of pure excitement for the service!! Re-reading Isaiah chapter 53. I wished the whole world could have been blessed by the words dropped from our Pastors mouth. I thought last years message was powerful,I still feel humbled,challenged,changed and asking myself," Do I esteem him in ALL my ways." I just have to hear the message again-I think my jaw is still dropped open at what God had to tell us!! I just can't believe that God loves me so much he put me under the leadership of Pastor Furtick. I am grateful for all that this ministry encompasses-I know "to much is given much is required", people like me who need Jesus,daily, need the Pastor and all of Elevation Staff, to challenge me so I can live VICTORIOUS!! I am grateful for all the obedient decisions that make this church what it is.
For the Pastors wives that I am sure our on their knees praying for the strength to be leaders wives and the life that comes with it. Thank You
Posted by: ginamarie | April 13, 2009 at 12:38 PM
If I were financially able, I'd send you two to the Grove Park Inn :) Saying "Thank You" to you and Pastor doesn't seem sufficient. Truly the impact of this ministry will not fully be known until we get to heaven. I wouldn't have my teenage daughter anywhere but Elevation! I do hope you and Pastor will take time for some R & R!
Posted by: Kelly Brown | April 13, 2009 at 09:30 AM