Early in the day people were already singing the much loved Lee Greenwood song , God Bless the USA.
“And I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free, and I won’t forget the men who died and gave that right to me, so I’ll gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today, cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA.”
The rest of the day musicians, singers, speakers, dancers, human videos, and recorded tracks filled the air with sounds of celebration. Evangelist and Jesus follower, Chris, presented a powerful message. “Don’t get saved just to miss hell, although that is good to do. Don’t get saved just to go to heaven, although that is good. Get saved to participate in everything God is building on the earth today. Participate with the Lord who builds the house.”
Over one thousand people joined together in three of our west side parking lots for the celebration. The games were well loved, the cotton candy and snow cones a hit, the pork, beef, hamburgers, hot dogs, and fried chicken were tasty, and the pony rides and petting zoo were fantastic.
Red, White, and Blue were everywhere.
Additionally we are celebrating Pastor Dick and Martina Carlson’s upcoming retirement. Today was the first celebration of three. Tomorrow, Saturday at 1 PM we will join together at Goose Lake for a smaller friendship gathering. Dick planned to have the military personnel in attendance to present their military flags. Knowing of Dick’s great love for the US military, I surprised him and asked him to present the American flag just in front of the military flags. It was momentous. The military flags and the personnel dressed in the finest, Pastor Carlson presenting the American flag, and Erin singing the National Anthem. Wow. I can still feel the buzz.
Special guests coordinated by Judy Tanavasu present a lively worship selection. The crowd shot is about 1/2 of one parking lot.
This is a view of the audience in the first parking lot facing the other way.
Chris calling the audience to follow Christ and to participate in the Kingdom He is building.
Tim singing, “American Soldier” in front of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine flags.