Here's to you, Pastor Klaus

Our church had the privilege of hosting the Rev. Klaus from Lutheran Hour Ministries on March 29th. You see, Wyoming is not the most desirable location to visit, especially during our spring weather. We can have beautiful weather, but we can also have absolutely horrible weather (see my previous post). To have one come out during this time does take some courage and we appreciate the willingness Pastor Klaus and Pam, his wife, showed to make this trip. Our members were so excited for this event. A lot of hard work and preparations were made to accommodate our honored guest. As the service approached excitement filled the air. The kids and I sat in an unusual spot. We normally are up front so that we can feel somewhat like a family. Even though dad is not with us we are relatively close to him and the kids get to observe what he does throughout the service. Well, knowing this was our second service of the day, the extra amount of people, and the fact that hand chimes would be playing, we sat up in the choir loft. This was an adventure for the kids - a new spot! We got to church about 45 min. prior to the service, so they were able to practice their people watching skills, from above. They enjoyed having a different perspective and time went rather quickly.

Usually I don't allow toys out the door when we are on our way to church, but these two sneaky little boys got them past me. Well, they turned out to be just the thing to keep "Joe Cool" aka Nathaniel and "chattering" Luke content while we waited for service to begin.

Pastor Klaus was very happy to mingle with members before service began. He was a very approachable person, with the love of Christ shining through his very being.

Our members decided to give Pastor Klaus a little something to remember his Wyoming visit. A little "birdie" told us that he was very fond of crosses. A few members made it their goal to find a cross to that was made in Wyoming. Not only did they find one, they found one made with Wyoming Jade. What a fantastic gift!

The choir did an amazing job! They sounded beautiful!

Pastor Klaus delivered an exceptional sermon!

After the service, we had a cookie social. I have never seen so many cookies in my life. The ladies truly out did themselves on this one. I love the expression on this man's face. You can see the little boy inside of him just pushing his way out at the sight of all these delicious treats.

Last, but not least, even the dog got to enjoy pleasures from this occasion. We had Pastor Klaus and his lovely wife, Pam, over for dinner after the service and social hour. I made a homemade vegetable beef soup. After I was done making the broth, I gave the soup bone to Allie, our dog. This was a dream come true for her. She is accustomed to store bought raw hides, but this was the real thing. She finally felt like a real dog! Her disappointment rose when we would not allow her to bring her treasured bone inside. She is now looking forward to some warm spring weather so that she can chomp away at her prized possession - her soup bone!

All said and done, what a wonderful Sunday afternoon/evening. We were humbled by Pastor Klaus's gratitude. It was very apparent that he and his wife were truly appreciative at all the preparations made in their honor. Christ shone through Pastor Klaus and Pam. They are being used as a vessel to further spread the saving gospel of our Lord and Savior. What a blessed gift!