April 10, 2000 HERE'S MY HEART... For so many people, Spring is the favorite season of the year, and with good reason. Everything about Spring speaks of "newness", "freshness", and "awakening". We watch the grass and the leaves on the trees turn from their lifeless browns to hues of deep green. We hear the singing of the birds, we see the blooming of the flowers. It is as if the whole world awakens and says, "Welcome!" It reminds us of the newness of life that is found in coming to know Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord. His presence brings a "newness", a "freshness", and an "awakening" in the heart that nothing in this world can give. He brings a cleansing forgiveness like a Spring shower cleanses the earth. The difference, of course, is that His presence lasts an eternity, rather than for a mere season. Is it "Springtime" in your life today? It can be, you know. In John 10:10, Jesus said, "The thief (Satan) has come to kill, steal, and destroy; but, I (Jesus) have come that you might have LIFE, and have it more abundantly." It is my prayer that if you do not know Jesus, that you will discover the joy, peace, cleansing, and forgiveness that only He can give. And, if you do know Him, that every day will be like a Spring day in your walk with Him. We will celebrate Easter Sunday, April 23rd, in both Morning Worship Services, 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with special music and a message about the resurrection from the Word of God. If you live in the west Knoxville, east Loudon County, or Lenoir City area, and you do not have a church home, visit with us on Easter Sunday. We'd love to have you. God bless you. - Jim Clayton, Pastor