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Around the House of the Lord

By: Marc Ridenour

(Vol 9)

Do you know what is AWESOME?

Realizing that what you have been telling the congregation about the Downtown Building Restoration is finally going to happen! Starting this Monday 8-26-19, the long awaited restoration and replacement of the two towers slate roofs will begin, followed directly by the masonry work in mid September.

Along with the excitement and gratitude comes a bit of discomfort, access to the building as well as the parking around it will be compromised. All of the work will involve some risk of falling debris thereby forcing the closure of the sidewalks and parking spaces under the work areas. We will be open for business! God doesn’t ever turn his back or closes his door on us and neither will this House of the Lord. I will make sure the sidewalks are open on Sundays for services, but the parking may be limited up against the building. During the work week access may have to be diverted to alternate entrances from time to time.

Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Ecclesiastes 5:1

Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 ESV

This restoration work is based on a 100 year plan and is needed to ensure the building’s integrity for the next several generations. It will take everyone’s cooperation, patience, and tolerance as well as everyone’s support, prayers, and enthusiasm. Let us not get caught up in the inconvenience the work may cause, but the enjoyment of realizing what we are doing as servants of the Lord to improve and preserve His house.

“Thus they answered us, saying, ‘We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth and are rebuilding the temple that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and finished. Ezra 5:11

“Go up to the mountains, bring wood and rebuild the temple, that I may be pleased with it and be glorified,” says the LORD. Haggai 1:8

“Again I will build you and you will be rebuilt, O virgin of Israel! Again you will take up your tambourines, And go forth to the dances of the merrymakers. Jeremiah 31:4

The Bible verses above show us that not only does God want us to build His house, just as in Matthew when Jesus told Peter that he would build his church in him, but that he is pleased and rejoices when we keep it rebuilt. We can all rejoice and be glad that this time has come. Take pride that we are keeping this House of the Lord, our Historic Downtown church, in good shape for our children’s grandchildren to worship in. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Blessings to all,
Marc Ridenour
Facilities Manager

Lawrence Journal World Article on the Tower Project

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/general-news/2019/aug/28/restoration-begins-on-historic-church-bell-tower-in-downtown-lawrence/

Marc Ridenour
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