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A Note from the Preacher…Larry Sweeney

        It gave me great joy to recently witness the baptism of Lexie Blackwell. We appreciate the decision Lexie has made and pray for her continued spiritual growth. The words of the wise man Solomon come to mind:

Remember now your Creator
in the days of your youth,
Before the difficult days come,
And the years draw near when you say,
I have no pleasure in them. (Eccl. 12:1)
        Yes, serving the Lord in our youth is a wonderful experience. The days of youth are days of energy, zeal, and strength. Our minds are sharp, and our bodies fit and healthy. Please pray for all of our young people that they will serve the Lord in their youth and that the years of youth will serve as a foundation for a lifetime of godly service.

The following article is based on a recent movie that Emily and I had the privilege of seeing. Given that we “go to the movies” about every two years, we thought this movie would be something special. It was! (Also, there was nothing offensive) The details, as described in the article, are accurate, and I appreciate the application to the creative design of God.

GOD'S GREAT DESIGN

        Would you as a young mother entrust your newborn with your young inexperienced husband while you took a 4-month trip far away? Could he handle the situation? What if he was in a dangerous situation all that time which endangered the child's life, and a mere slip could result in its death. You would think twice wouldn't you?
        The movie, “March of the Penguins” is wonderful. In Antarctica, these birds walk 70 miles inland to thicker ice and mate. The male then holds the single egg on his feet for 4 months in temperatures as low as minus 80 degrees F. Add to that a 100 mph wind in some winter storms and the egg, if moved off his feet and warm body for more than a few seconds, freezes and cracks. Mother bird walks back 70 miles for food, diving to 1700 feet below the surface if necessary. She then returns just in time to feed the hatched baby by regurgitation. Dad then walks 70 miles to dive in the sea to feed himself.
        The Emperor Penguins do this every year, returning to the place they were born. The 70-mile trip is completed about 4 times every cycle by male and female. They survive the harshest place on the planet. God's design is incredible. The Lord equipped these cute, comical birds to survive in the most difficult place on earth, and reveals His creative brilliance in their design. God has also equipped us to live in harsh conditions through faith in Him. (Phil. 4:13)
        Praise God for His power and wisdom.
--Rick Laing Highland Village Church of Christ