Area Director Dale Coad

The Midnight ride of William Dawes.   On April 18, 1775 two men were sent on a dangerous mission to warn of the impending British invasion of the American Colonies.  Longfellow immortalizes only Paul Revere while William Dawes fades into obscurity.  Incensed by the injustice, Helen Moore wrote a poem on behalf of Dawes: “I am a wandering, bitter shade, never of me was a hero made…this all very well for the children to hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere; but why should my name be quite forgot….why should I ask?   The reason is clear—My name was Dawes and his Revere.”  Perhaps you identify with Dawes.  Some of you labor in obscure fields where your names won’t make the history books.   I want to encourage you.    God knows your heart and sees your labor.  “Therefore, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”  I Cor. 15:58 NIV

News from the Coads

Patti and I were at a church recently that had reached a point of real stagnation.     The new pastor was trying to inspire the congregation to start dreaming again to not just maintain the status quo but to grow.    Two ceiling to floor banners declared: “Thrive!”    During the service, I had this thought.    2012 is going to be a banner year.    If I am alive, I want to do more than just survive.    I want to thrive.   For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.  2 Timothy 1:6  NIV