I grew up in a Christian home and attended church on weekends. My mother’s folks lived about an hour’s drive from our house, and we would usually visit them very other weekend. Since attending Sunday school required a suit and tie, to say I dragged my feet would be an understatement. During my adult life, my wife Jill took our kids to Sunday school and church services, but I always had more important things to do—or so I thought.
After retiring, we started spending more time in Southwest Florida and attending First Church. I heard meaningful messages and attended weekly Bible study classes led by Pastor Doug Pratt. I discovered that Bible study and learning about God could be interesting! In 2011, I attended the Great Banquet, and at its conclusion I committed to active church membership. I asked Jesus to move from the back seat of my life to the front seat and to be my Driver.
Now we have even more ways to study God’s Word and draw closer to Him, which include meaningful worship, insightful D.I.G. classes, and Life Academy. At First Church, I continue to experience high-caliber biblical teaching that encourages me to grow in my relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
by Elder Lynn Heinold
