Bro. Bud Painter at "I Love America" Sunday 2012

My Father went home to be with the Lord this morning around 6 a.m. Unfortunately, he never fully recovered from the ventricular arrest he suffered in January 2013. He had some other health problems that arose over the last seven months and had been in a hospice unit since June 26th. I want to thank everyone for all of the prayers that were made for us. My dad was a faithful church member to our church. He was more than just a father to me, but also a great friend. Though he will be greatly missed, he is in glory from now on and forever more!

Today's services were good. Although in my grief I struggled inside, I was able to teach my class and preach this morning. In all honesty I do not think most could tell the great grief or sadness that I was suffering from. I am a very duty driven person which I get from both my father and my mother. For example, mom called me at 6:10 a.m. to tell me about dad, then she asked if she could teach her class today. I told her she could if she felt up to it. She said there is no place she would rather be. I felt the same way. Our lives revolve around church and we feel it is our duty to be in our places. My father was the same way!

In our services today we had 8 first time visitors and 3 of those trusted Christ as their Saviour with two following the Lord in baptism. I was excited about it and it felt good having something to do to distract me. I pray that tonight's service will be something special. Thank God for heaven!