March 14 – “Sunday Report”

We had a great worship service yesterday.  The 35 or so extra people from Austin didn't hurt any, but the singing was fabulous.  We did a Body Life service.  Numerous people shared testimonies and scripture.  One girl from the Austin group even sang a song totally acapella.  Very nice.    After worship we hosted a Community party outside on the church grounds.  There were two bounce houses, a face painting booth (very popular with the kids who came), popcorn (Chris' favorite), sno cones (killer lemon-lime), games (I got into a horseshoes game with a new guy who just moved to Jamaica Beach last month.  He had a beautiful Irish Setter with him named Bear.  Seems that he had looked for a church in Galveston that morning but wasn't able to find it), hot dogs (those big fat ones), hamburgers, cookies, chips of all kinds, and some great baked beans ala Chris' kitchen.  I had several queries about Seaside Christian Academy that seemed serious.  At least two grandmothers were trying to get their grandchildren into a Christian school.  One of the Seaside kids went back through the neighborhood to roust some of his buddies out of bed and get them to come.  They eventually showed up on their really long skateboards.  Way to go, Casey.  All in all it was a highly positive experience for Seaside, and I think for the students from Austin as well.   Speaking of the Austin connection, they will be doing at least two more block parties as part of their mission trip to Galveston.  Tonight they will be at the Captain's Landing apartment complex right around the corner from our house.  Then tomorrow they will set up across the street at Ashton Place apartments.  They plan to be here until Thursday, but I'm not sure what else they have planned.   It is supposed to rain today.  At least over in Texas.  It might make it over the causeway this time, though.  there is a cold front headed this way.  Supposed to get back down into the high 40's again at night.  But it'll still be in the 70's during the day.  Ah, Spring on Galveston Island.    Isaiah 53:5 says, "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."   Father, thank you for the peace that was so costly to you.  Amen.