The Washington Post published a survey of what makes a successful home. There were six things that stood out in that survey. Notice as I list these six principles with supporting scripture showing how they also apply to the church.

Successful families show appreciation for each other.
Paul to the Philippians, "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you" (Philippians 1:3).

They have the ability to deal with a crisis in a positive manner; a mutual support system.
When James was put to death and Peter was in prison, the church gathered in Mary's house to pray on Peter's behalf (Acts 12). The Bible says we are to "bear each other's burdens" (Galatians 6:2). When a crisis comes we are to be positive because God said "all things work together for good to them that love Him ..." (Romans 8:28).

They spend time together.
"Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another" (Romans 12:10). "They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship" (Acts 2:42).

A strong commitment to each other.
"Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another" (1 John 4:11).

Good communication.
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath" (James 1:19).

"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man" (Colossians 4:6).

A high degree of religious orientation.
"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:23-25).

Let each of us make sure we are practicing these things, not only in our homes but here at Orange Street.

Response
Ervin Eubanks came forward last Sunday morning asking for forgiveness and the prayers of the congregation. Keep Ervin and the family in your prayers in the recent loss of his wife Alma.

You Are Invited...
The children of Carl & Nancy Chambers wish to invite you to a reception honoring their parents Silver Wedding Anniversary, today (Sunday), May 18th, 2003, from 3:30 until 5:30 pm in the annex.

Home Devotional
Due to several conflicts, the regular monthly home devotional and Bible study that was scheduled on the calendar for last night (17th) has been moved to this coming Saturday evening (24th) at 6:00 pm, in the home of Gaylon and Mary Lou West. Put your name on the list in the foyer if you plan to attend.

VBS is Coming...
This year’s Vacation Bible School is scheduled for June 2nd -5th from 6 - 7:30 pm each evening. There will be guest speakers in the auditorium for the adults each evening. Mark your calendars and watch for more details.

Thank You!
The Mt. Dora “Change for Children” was counted this past Thursday evening and a total of $800.00 in change was contributed for the Children’s Home. Thanks for your participation.

Upcoming Area Events

May 25th - One Day Gospel Meeting
  Springhead church of Christ - Plant City
  Speaker: Maury Deaton
May 25th - Family & Friends Day
  Preston Street church of Christ
  Various speakers - See bulletin board for details
May 27-30 - “Vacation Bible School”
  7:00 – 9:00 Nightly
  N Jackson Avenue coC - Bartow
May 31 - Fund-Raiser Fish Fry
  Central Florida Bible Camp
June 2-5 - “Vacation Bible School”
  Here at Orange Street - 6:00 -7:30 nightly
  A Guest Speaker in the Adult class each night
June 14 - “Vacation Bible School”
  9:00 am to 1:30 pm - Eagle Lake coC
  Theme: Great Influences of the BIBLE