There once was a bunch of tiny frogs who arranged a running competition.  The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower.  A big crowd had gathered around the tower to see the race and cheer on the contestants.

The race began.  Honestly, no one in the crowd really believed the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower.  You heard statements such as: "Oh, WAY too difficult!!"  "They will NEVER make it to the top!!"

The tiny frogs began collapsing except for ONE who continued higher and higher.  At the end, everyone else had given up climbing the tower except the tiny frog who, after a big effort, was the only one who reached the top.  Everyone wanted to know how he managed to do it.  It turned out the winner was deaf and did not hear their negative remarks.

When children attempt to try things that we are timid about, we tend to hold them back and warn them of the dangers.  The ones who seem to "have no fear" don't pay attention.  They press on and achieve their goals.

There's a lesson we can learn from a tiny frog or a child's enthusiastic optimism in reaching out for the future.  Like the frog and a child, Woodlawn is small compared to other congregations.  Let us be deaf to negative or pessimistic thoughts and work toward our goal to grow again.

We made a start up the hill with VBS and have gained young lives that are truly interested in learning about God's love.  Let's keep encouraging them and their families to come grow with us.  The children are coming.  Let's get ready Woodlawn!

In Him for the Children,
Karen & Kathy

There will be a Deacon's Meeting today at 3:30 p.m. in the deacon's office.

TONIGHT we will honor Rhett & Tina Herron and children who are moving to Waco.  We will have refreshments and present them with a money tree in the Fellowship Hall after our evening worship service.  Please give your money tree gifts to Abby or Julie this morning.  (The Herrons still have 2 dogs to give away.)

REMINDER:
Beginning at 5 o'clock today, Sunday evening services will be held in the Fellowship Hall for the remainder of the summer months.

There will not always be a meal.  If you would like to take the responsibility for planning (even sandwiches/finger food meals or potluck-type meals or brown bag, etc.) and cleaning up afterwards on any given Sunday evening, just call the office before Friday two weeks ahead, so it can be announced.

STATISTICS FOR JULY 4, 2004