God at Work

God is truly at work at APBC. As the day progressed the spirit was wonderful and the true Spirit moved in ways no one could have planned. One by one individuals shared that various aspects of the services touched them in personal, meaningful ways. Only God can move simultaneously in such different ways.

Today we experienced the exact reason for the need for the new Worship Center being constructed. With standing room only services it should not surprise anyone why God has directed us to build. But what does surprise me at times is why He uses us to lead His people to His throne. I don't know about you but there are times that I feel so inadequate to lead but with His love and support I have the strength to step out. Likewise each one of you have shown the same love and commitment for our Father.

As Christmas rushes upon us let me encourage you to slow down and enjoy family, friends and even yourself. After all, God made you the way you are so celebrate all you have to give back to God. Then ask God to prepare you for the year ahead. Look at the crowds and the excitement - it is obvious that this year will hold the unexpected. Let us all look for what God will do "with" us.

God Bless each one of you and have a great Christmas. See you next Sunday.
Bro. Tom

The best Worship Choir around!
Posted by Tom

What a Musical!

Aspen Park Worship Arts Ministry you outdid yourselves again. This past weekend was an unbelievable worship experience and showed again why it is my pleasure to serve our Lord with you. As we go into the new year keep your focus on Him and we will continue to see amazing things.

Tom

Another Great Day

Today was another great day in God's house. The people came and you all gave. When the choir and orchestra warmed up this morning it was evident something special was going to happen. But noone could have predicted what was to follow. As the song started it was good but as it continued it became a song that will stand the test of time as one of the best.

The question we need to ask and answer is "What was different today?" That answer is a total reliance on God. Yes months of work is in the background and years of talent and rehearsals play a part but what it comes down to is a total reliance and a concept that we cannot do it without God. You all obviously stepped out and risked your talent to see what God could do with you and WOW He worked up an amzaing special.

As we go into this week we must not sit back and smile at this morning but rather enjoy how God used you but now look at what God can do with you Saturday and Sunday. Plan now to experience God in a new and fresh way as we present "The Gift of Heaven" to APBC, Broken Arrow and the surrounding communities. This morning the building was packed, almost SRO, and this weekend we expect just as many.

Truly God is getting the blessing,
Tom

40 Days Week 2

As we enter week 2 of the 40 Days journey it strikes me as interesting some of the dynamics of our services. Let me point out a few of my observations.

1. The services are considerably longer but noone's complaining - Why?

2. The music is quite varied in style and very different for our people but noone's complaining - Why?

3. The energy level and commitment level is rising - Why?

These three questions conclude with one answer. This is a God blessed and directed journey. When God guides us all other things fall into line. But sadly, there might be a few that have chosen not to be involved in this journey. I would encourage you to pray for them and invite them to join with you as you learn from God's Word.

From this point on I will attempt to share things with you weekly. Every Sunday I will write in this journal so I invite you to check back each Monday or whenever to see some of my thoughts and things God is showing me. But I would also like to hear from you. Respond to a journal posting so we can learn from each other. We are stronger when we team up and strengthen each other through our thoughts and prayers. So check back often and give your thoughts and ideas.

See all of you Wednesday,
Bro. Tom

If It Weren't For Grace

This morning the choir special was extremely moving not only because of your musical talent but also because of the message. Who can walk away from a service where we are reminded who we are without grace and not be moved? Noone in actuality. If they aren't moved it's because they aren't listening or are purposefully closing their spiritual ears. This does them damage but also hurts us. By one of our own not listening to God and growing we are obligated to bring them along and teach them. This causes a slowing down or using of manpower and resources to do what should have already been done.

With that said let me set before you a challenge. As we prepare for 40 Days of Purpose are your spiritual ears open? Are you listening and even more important do you want to listen? If God says something, which He will, will you know His voice?

If you answered yes to those questions praise God and let's see where God leads us. If, however, you answered no or I don't know then pray about it or come talk to me. We can seek God together on this journey. Don't miss out on what God is doing and don't slow up your church by having them slow up to wait for you.

God Bless all of you and I will see you Wednesday,
Bro. Tom

Stay the Course

For the past few weeks our Pastor has reminded us and challenged us to stay the course. The powerful messages he has shared are truly from the Lord because of the relevance and alignment with Scriptures. The litmus test is the Word and his sermons have passed. But the real question is:

We may have heard but will we obey?

This question must be asked by us all because as a family satan will try any means to get in. Let's all make sure we are not the weak link in the body.

Now for the future. God has a lot for us and I will be challenging all of you to rise to the challenge. I know you can do it or I wouldn't be asking. But in some cases God will be providing the know-how and strength. For example, we have a team going on a mission trip in September and just tonight the Youth asked about a mission trip in October. Then you mix in 40 Days music and Christmas - we have our hands full. But under God's strength and direction it can and should be done.

I am praying for you all,
Bro. Tom

A Powerful Day

July 18th could go down in months to come as one of the most powerful days for Aspen Park. From spirit-filled music to strong, Biblically based preaching it was a day where God arrived in force and anyone who didn't experience Him wasn't seeking Him.

As a Music Ministry you shown through your music as only God can shine. The sound was tremendous but the spirit is what was noticeably different. All music aside the service flowed with the blessings of the One who ordains and guides His own worship. Then as we led the congregation to the throne it was equaled only by the power and conviction of a spirit-filled man that preaches from the abundance.

Bro. David exemplified what it means when we say preach with conviction and passion. Bro. David is truly a man that cares for the lost and Sunday he challenged us from the Father to care for the dying and go out to win them. Church if we don't it is not because we weren't told. I want to go on record as saying "thank you" Bro David for the challenge and the example you set daily
for us.

May we all have the passion that our spiritual leader preached about,
Bro. Tom

July 4th Service

This morning was an experience of a lifetime. Wow - when Bro David started calling our veterans to the front by decade it was a moving moment but then when the choir and orchestra started playing and singing "We Say Thank You" wow! There weren't too many dry eyes in the place. As we proceeded through the song it was evident that the length of thanking them would outlast the song. So when we made the jump back into the middle of the song you all did it like seasoned professionals.

This was one of those days that will go down in the hearts and minds of all in attendance. So on behalf of the whole congregation - thank you musicians for a job well done that obviously came from the heart.

Now onto other things. With last months wild ride behind us it is time to look at what God has for us. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing with you what the fall has in store. It will challenge and please you while at the same time provide worship experiences like the one we had today. So be prepared to work but also be prepared to experience a new and fresh walk with the Father.

See you all Wednesday,
Tom

What's Ahead

Well we are back from Falls Creek and just finished rehearsing for 4th of July services. It is only right for satan to be mad and cause confusion in God's house. After all, we are doing what God wants so he will try to derail us.

To the Youth - I am so proud of last week and the great time we had worshipping, studying and just being in God's presence together. You are by far the best youth around and it reminds me why Steve and Terri love working with you. Keep up the good work and this year will be better than the last.

To the Music Ministry - You never cease to amaze me how you are there when I need you and hopefully I am there for you when needed. Tonight I was attacked in ways I couldn't explain and probably won't ever be able to explain but I know you are there for me. Denise and I love you guys and we will persevere one way or another. Remember this, what God has joined together let no man put asunder. I know He was talking about marriage but I also feel that is appropriate for us. God put us together and I refuse to let man tear it apart. I will stand as firm with you during these times as you have with me.

To Bro. David - There is only one thing I can say - You are the best!!! That includes Spirit-led, God-ordained, and my personal friend. Preach it the way it is and God will reward in ways sometimes we can see but also in ways we may not see. Remember what Jana said about your last sermon - WOW!

I love you all and look forward to Sunday,
Tom

We're All Back

What a great day in the house of the Lord today! With the majority of us back from trips it was great to be at full strength. And then to walk into a standing room only worship center in the middle of summer was an additional great surprise. As we went through the service I also realized we had many that were in vacation and to see SRO I wondered where would we put everyone in the fall. But I guess we will cross that bridge when we get to it.

At the time of writing this it is 9:15 PM on Sunday June 20th and I am going to bed soon because a few of us are leaving at 4:00 am to go to Falls Creek. We will have the greatest year ever at Falls Creek not because of the numbers but because of the great sponsors and youth. When you here from me again I will be sharing with you the great things God showed us throughout the week. Check back on Saturday evening the 26th of June for a preview of what will be shared on Sunday.

As the summer progresses enjoy the vacations when you can get them but don't forget the business of the church goes on whether you are there or not. So that's right keep tithing and cover your teaching positions.

Have a great week and I will talk to you next weekend.
Tom

Another Year Is Over

As I sit and think back on this year's VBS a few things hit me. How is it that Aspen Park is so blessed to have the committed workers we have for VBS? Did we do all we could to plant seeds of faith and water them as the week developed? These questions and others ring through my ears as I think about the week.

I would like to thank a few people in particular for a job well done.

To Tami Dobbs - Thank you for your leadership and example of servant heart as you truly gave your all for the kids.

To Renee McCormick - Thank you for literally all you did. From teaching to shifting classes to help stall when class schedules were off. You were truly what I call velcro. Strong but flexible.

To All the Directors for persevering under changes and large classes you were great.
And a special thank you to Tina Brodie in how she guided the K - class. One 5 year old told his mother that this was the best time he has ever had and he was upset that it was over. Tina you are the best. Keep up the good work for our Lord.

Thank you Aspen Park on behalf of myself and BRo. David for your hard work and sacrifice as we attempt to raise this generation in the nurturing of the Word. May God richly bless all we do.

Bro. Tom

It's Wednesday

Are you all at church? It's now 6:20 pm your time on Wednesday May 26th. God brought you all to mind so I thought I would check on you. With a great Bible Study teacher (Bro. David) and a creative musical leader (Dan) there are a number of reasons why you should be at church. Don't pass up an opportunity to be in God's house.

We are in Michigan at Denise's parents house and having a great time. We are struggling through 60 degree weather and relaxing with nothing to do but eat, sleep and read. This is rough. pray that all of you will take time to get away. We all need it at different times.

As God takes us on this journey just remember that satan will try to derail us as often as possible. Keep your eyes on the Father and He will direct our path. You notice I said "our" and "path" singular. We are one as a team and as a body of believers. We are in this together so enjoy each other.

Have a great week and I will write again when possible. I love you guys and look forward to being back with you on June 6th.

Bro. Tom