Thursday, September 4, 2008

My preaching husband

You might have a few questions from the title, especially if you know that Brian hasn't attended seminary or been ordained. This was a unique opportunity that arose. An older couple from our church vacations in the Poconos for the summer. And, the area in the Poconos is really a summer-vacationing town. Very few people live there year-round. That being the case, the small chapel in the town is only open during the summer. And, recently (and unfortunately) the pastor's wife has become ill, and the pastor decided to step down to care for her. Needless to say, they needed to fill the pulpit for the summer. The couple from our church, particularly the wife has gotten to know Brian well this summer through another ministry. Well, the wife asked if Brian would preach one Sunday, specifically last Sunday. And, Brian was more than happy to. Brian actually has given many "talks" and "sermons" for various church ministries (i.e. at nursing homes, at our homeless ministry dinners, youth retreats). He really enjoys it, and I must say he is captivating. Brian spoke on the unchanging character of God, and how that is the foundational for our trust and reliance on God. He looked a bit at culture and how it is constantly changing, especially in today's post-modernism. I was reminded again that God is the Creator and I am the creature . . . and His sovereignty and love are most beautiful when we learn to trust and realize He is in control.

The church was on this lake

It was gorgeous

Walking back up to the church

Because Brian was preaching (more than an hour away from home), we decided to make a weekend of it in the Poconos area. We stayed at a Bed & Breakfast, which we loved. (See the pictures below). It was a very unexpected fun get-away!

The B&B: The Hillard House

The front porch

Swinging and reading the newspaper

The vintage elevator that carried our luggage

Afternoon refreshments

In the music room

Our room

The flowers at our incredible breakfast . . . I will spare you all the food pics :)

4 comments:

The Riggalls said...

It's good that he had that opportunity to expand his skill in public speaking. It would be neat to hear him sometime. Good for you guys getting away and making a weekend of it. I usually always enjoy B&B's.

Mid-Life Mother said...

Nice! I can imagine Brian doing a wonderful job:)

Mid-Life Mother said...

Oh- I tagged you for 6 random things about yourself. Check it out on my blog.

Mozi Esme said...

What a gorgeous spot - looks like a fun getaway!

And that's cool that your husband had the call to give a sermon. The study and prep are always a great benefit!