For the past two Sundays, temperatures have climbed to their highest levels here in Rhode Island. In our third floor perch of the non air-conditioned French American School, there was a lot of high heat flowing for our July 19th “The Mission” service.

Several guests and some special families showed up for this summer spectacular. First, Roger and Marcia Lamb came through while away for the weekend from their usual Boston church home. Roger was able to share briefly about the amazing kingdom of God prior to his opening prayer. A little later, a majority of the Morales family (also from Boston) – Hector, Sr.; Miriam; and Hector, Jr. – shared prior to communion about the full life found in Jesus. From different age perspectives, they spoke of persevering with Christ no matter the challenges and temptations that come your way. As the trays were passed, Hartford church disciple – Susan Parra (who attended along with her husband, Frank, and physical brother) – played beautifully on the piano.

For week #4 of our study of the Joel Nagel book, “Passport to the Land of Enough, the shorter sermon of the day focused on “Mission.” Through the life of Shamgar (Judges 3:31), we learned to do what we can, with what we have, when we can, where we are.

As the penultimate moment approached – Murvi Babalola, Daniel Gifford, Malcolm Fisher and Jeffrey Scholtz (from New York) took to the front microphone for some sharing. Afterward, Hakeen Jacobs spoke and was then immersed for the forgiveness of his sins. His emotions overflowed as he rose from the watery grave to hug his uncle and many others. Our closing song, “I Have Decided To Follow Jesus,” said it all.

A great time of fellowship concluded our steamy afternoon. God’s Spirit is alive and well and changing lives as we go about His mission.