Life’s lessons can very often come your way when you least expect them. Unfortunately, they can be missed because we are not listening or paying attention. God’s classroom is big and school is in session 24/7. I was reminded of this recently as I participated in a graveside service for a veteran. I had done my part and two young cadets had stepped up to fold the flag in preparation for presenting it to the family. Not far from the scene, a third cadet stood ready to play taps. I have witnessed this scenario many times, but it still moves me. The problem this particular day was that some guys were cleaning up a parking lot adjacent to the cemetery. They were using industrial blowers and the noise was overpowering. I watched as the funeral director edged his way toward the lot trying to get their attention. They were not trying to be disrespectful; they just were unaware of what was going on. Finally, they looked up and shut their machines off just in time for taps to fill the air. As the notes faded, I was reminded that the world does not stop or sometimes even take notice of death. In contrast, I thought about the Lord who knows when even a sparrow falls. He says in His word that “Precious in the eyes of the Lord are the death of his saints” Psalm 116:15. Today, no one may know or even seem to care about what you are going through, but be assured as the noise of life goes on all around you that the Lord knows right where you are. He can hear a pin drop and a heart ache.

“Time seems to fly, especially when you’re having fun” is the well worn, but true clique that fills my thoughts this morning as I prepare to start my 11^th year of ministry in Southaven.  Some of you have been on this journey with me from day one, while others have joined along the way.  For such a time as this, I am convinced that the Lord has brought us all together at 4680 Getwell Road to be a church truly committed to kingdom work, not just in word, but deed.  Together, through His grace, we CAN BE that church.  As I ponder a decade of ministry here, I am THANKFUL for the love and support I have been shown.  From my first encounter with the family that would become DeSoto Hills, I knew this was going to be a great ride. I am also CAREFUL to not take any of this for granted.  The Lord’s hand has been on us.  May it ever be so.  After so many years of ministry, I am still NEEDFUL.  Now, more than ever, I need insight and strength as your pastor to keep this growing church on the right path.  But most of all, I am still HOPEFUL. The best is yet to come.  He is just getting started.

Bro. James

P.S. Thanks so much for the anniversary gift.

For weeks now we have been debuting our new bulletin shell. As I often say, I believe that “for such a time as this” the new shell portrays the perfect challenge for the DeSoto Hills family. We need to “take the next step”. For our family, that includes stepping up the pace in several areas, including missions and discipleship. We are working to better coordinate and concentrate our volunteer mission efforts, allowing all who can to have an up close and hands on experience with missions. We have a rich history of “giving”, but I want to add more “going” to our agenda. This is not a new concept for our church family. Many of you have been involved in this type of thing literally all over the world. Our goal now is to have an on going and long range relationship with some mission points, in addition to our giving to missions through the Cooperative Program. Discipleship also continues to be a top priority among the staff. Our mid week activities have reflected this from the very beginning and we want to see that grow even more. In addition, we are looking at other avenues of discipleship for children and youth. But that is enough about us for now. What about you? What “next step” is the Lord waiting for you to take? Just beyond your obedience is a world of opportunity.

“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew Come, follow me. Jesus said… At once they left their nets and followed Him”. Matthew 4:18-20

Bro. James

It was a Saturday to remember.  The weather was unusually nice, even for the first of March.  We opened up the doors,pulled out the chair cushions for the screen porch, got out the yard tools, cranked up the music, and went to work.We clipped, trimmed and in general had a wonderful time enjoying the great outdoors.  The sunshine was good for body and soul.  We knew that it was too early in the season to expect or enjoy these temperatures daily.This only motivated us to soak up all we could while it was with us.  It was a wise decision.  By Monday, it was raining heavily.  Now, today as I write this article, it is spitting snow.  The seven day forecast on the local news channel got this one right.  They said it was going to change, and change it did.  Unfortunately,there are no long range forecast for how life is going to turn out.  Things can change suddenly without warning.  My advice is to enjoy the sun while it is shining and give thanks for it.  The seasons of life are unpredictable, but the Lord of the seasons has promised He would never leave us or forsake us.

Springing Forward,

Bro.  James

Wild Game Supper tonight!

6:30 to 8:30pm