This Picture

 In this picture of me, there is a 

necklace around my neck. It is a cross necklace that I got for my 17th birthday. However, the cross on this necklace means more to me than anything else that I have jewelry wise. Some would say that it's just for decoration or just a symbol. Some would say that it doesn't mean a thing to anyone. They couldn't be more wrong.........the necklace shows me everyday what Jesus did for me and for everyone on earth. He died for ME and MY SINS!!!!!!!!! He hung on that cross in pain for everyone even the worst of people. I never take this necklace off (except for a few times) because it gives me hope and reminds me of what God did. 

I receive many compliments on it most of the time, but that is beside the point. The point is that I am a Christian. I strive EVERYDAY to be better and better. This necklace that my parents gave me shows me that everyday, every afternoon, and every night. The cross isn't just for decoration or just a plain symbol. It is a sign of love, sacrifice, and a loving Heavenly Father. Without Jesus dying for my sins I would not have a relationship with God at all. None of us would actually if you sit and think about it. God is fair and shows justice to everyone, but because He loved us that much He sent His only son to die for us. *John 3:16* 

I feel like this picture shows off my necklace very well because you can really see the cross. I've had people tell me that it does not really mean much in our society today, and they're right in a way, but also wrong. It means something to me and it means something to my eternal life with Jesus Christ. I literally love my necklace and the fact that it reminds me daily. This is one piece of jewelry that has a deeper meaning than anything else in any stores or on any kind of online shopping. 

Vacation Bible School 2014

My church just recently had VBS last week. The theme was RISE and SHINE!!!!!!! 

                             This little light of mine I'm ganna let it shine 

                              This little light of mine I'm ganna let it shine let it shine let it shine let it shine. 

Sorry, I couldn't resist. Haha!! They talked about different types of "crowns"................ 

• Crown of Life 
• Crown of Righteousness
• Crown of Glory 
• Crown of Rejoicing 
• Crown of Victory 

That's all five of the crowns. Anyway.......they talked about how when Jesus calls us to meet Him, He will give us our "Crowns." Man, seeing all those little kids worshiping our Lord and Savior gives me such an incredible and humble feeling. Even at the age of 4, when they have no care in the world they worship, pray, and listen. It was amazing! My group was 5th-6th grade, and they were amazing! I loved my group to death. They have such big hearts and love their Lord. 

 This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

I'm gonna take this light around the world and I'm gonna
let it shine.
I'm gonna take this light around the world and I'm gonna
let it shine.
I'm gonna take this light around the world and I'm gonna

let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

I won't let anyone blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
I won't let anyone blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
I won't let anyone blow it out, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Every day, every day, I'm going to let my little light
shine.                                                    (http://www.lyrics.net/lyric/13924379)- source for the lyrics.

Keep SHINING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

    -Lecie  

What Is A Family?

        A family is more than blood related. A family is those in your lives who help you through the hard times and laugh during the good times. That is what this church has done for me. FUMC is my family, my support system, my rock when things get hard. 

       I remember as a kid sitting at Children's church saying the most random things. Then Vacation Bible School with all the laughs and lessons. Who could forget having Mrs. Judy Reddick for Sunday school, having to memorize the books of the Bible and learning my very first verse John 3:16. Nursery time with Mrs. Joyce were the best. All those little field trips, to the "snack time". Also seeing the children in this church grow up to love the Lord shows me that even at the youngest age you can make a difference. So many memories I could go on and on about. However, the most important part is how I have grown in my faith. Through all the trials and troubles, and all the good times I have gone through my church family is right there to help. 

       During my high school career I have learned so much through example and Mr. Mike's highly interesting sermons. I would not have been able to be who I am without my FAMILY!!!! My Lord has been right there every step of the way. So has this church, and when I go off to college I will always remember my family. Thank you for teaching me, helping me, and guiding me. 

       One verse that I learned during my growth here is Proverbs 3:5-6. " Trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight." I have come to better understand what this verse really means, especially this year. If we trust God then we will succeed. No matter what is going on around us if we put our focus to God we can not fail.