J.A.M.

Dear Second Family,
In 1967, Louis Armstrong recorded one of my favorite songs, “What a Wonderful World.” The song set records, sold millions and provided the soundtrack to movies, weddings, anniversaries, and more. Lyrics like, “I see skies of blue and clouds of white. The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night, and I think to myself, what a wonderful world,” pull at the heartstrings of every age and every walk of life.

Interestingly, making the song was less than “wonderful.” Armstrong finished performing a late show and arrived at the studio to begin recording around 2.a.m. The record label president arrived at the studio and immediately tried to shut down the session when he heard the slow, emotional sound of the song! “Hello Dolly” had just become a national hit, and the studio exec wanted a fun, boisterous number like that. Armstrong had him locked out. Louis began to record again, but two freight trains started to rumble past the studio, back-to-back. As the story goes, Armstrong never lost his cool and kept a smile on his face throughout the night. He walked out of the studio as the sun came up, still smiling. He believed in the song. He believed the lyrics.

This week I have been watching videos our staff has posted from 6th Grade Camp. Seeing kids of every size, shape, and color walking arm and arm, laughing, worshiping, and loving each other reaffirms to me that it really is a wonderful world. The news outlets would have us believe all is lost. The faces of our children tell a different story. The Message translates Psalm 104:24 this way, “What a wildly wonderful world, God! You made it all, with Wisdom at your side, made earth overflow with your wonderful creations!”

Your continued giving throughout the summer has made all of our wonderful kids’ programs and mission projects possible. Thank you for your continued stewardship. This week, let’s give thanks for God’s Wonderful World. Bring friends and family with you to Worship and Bible Study to experience the fellowship and fun of worshiping together at your church home!

In His Will,
H. Edwin Young

The best is yet to be!