Azotus Baptist Church - Azotus Community

Well, the old Maple tree (I had called it an Oak tree previously) in the yard of Azotus Baptist Church survived last winter's ice storm. Like a lot of us, it's a little worse for wear, but still providing shade for dinner on the grounds and afternoon Gospel singing.

Twila's husband, Pastor Mark Staton of Calvary Baptist at New Liberty, IL, brought the morning message at the once-a-year service. Then, the congregation moved to the row of tables set up outside the church. All kinds of food began to appear, from catfish, to barbecue and fried chicken, along with potato salad, baked beans, corn -- and, of course, a great variety of desserts.

After being tempted by all of that (and eating a good portion of it), it was perhaps a little more difficult for the Echoes to sing some of those up-tempo good foot-stompin' hand clappin' songs. But we did our best, along with those slower ones to provide a well-rounded presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Echoes have been coming to Azotus each year since 1972 or 1973, and in that entire time, the message of Jesus Christ has not changed one bit.

And you know the best thing? It will never change.

Will the old Maple tree survive what's in store for it in the coming year? Will each of us? I don't know about the old Maple tree, but for those who have Jesus, we may not know what the future holds, but we know Who holds the future.