What a blessing this past Sunday to finish Ephesians with Paul’s powerful section on spiritual warfare.  Let’s stay “armored up!” It has been a rich experience to walk through this incredible letter with you over these past few months.  May the Lord bless it with fruit that remains in our lives.  

Beginning October 10th, we will spend six weeks in the exciting book of Esther.  We are calling this series, “For Such A Time As This,” based on one of the key passages in the book.  Let me encourage you to be reading Esther.  It is a literary masterpiece – full of intrigue, with shocking twists and turns.  As you read, ask yourself, “What is this telling me about the character of God?”  “What does this teach about His providence and promises?”  

Like all the Old Testament books, Esther is paving the way for the Messiah.  This is why I enjoy doing an Old Testament series in the Fall – it is the time of year when we are looking forward to Christmas, when we celebrate the birth of Christ.  The Old Testament is right in line with that…it is pointing to the coming of Christ.  How does the book of Esther do this?  That’s what we will see as we walk through it.  Like every book of the Bible, it is pointing to Jesus.  The palace intrigue of Esther is pointing to the King of kings and Lord of lords!  

What a joy this past Sunday to celebrate a baby dedication with Alex and Angela Sari, as they presented their precious Harper Grace.  Let’s pray for this little girl as she grows, and for her parents as they raise her to love Jesus.  

Also it was such a wonderful blessing to welcome Brad and Shawn Vierkant home to FBC.  The Navy took them to the West Coast for the past few years, and it is great to have them back, along with their children, Felix and Adelaide.  Let’s welcome them in love! 

Pray for me this week as I’ll be in IMB Trustee meetings, in Richmond.  Pray for the new missionaries who will be commissioned this week to go to the nations.  They could not be sent without your giving.  Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!  

By His Grace, For His Glory, To The Nations, 

Dr. Thurman Hayes, Jr.