I HAD TWO REMINDERS TO LAUGH today as my day was just beginning. It did not take me long to consider this "task." A civil game of musical chairs with preschoolers (sometimes can be drama-filled) brought back other robust games at church picnics from years' past. My dear husband, Sam, and the then pastor's wife, Cyndi Cima-Lewis, would vie competitively (I wanted to say ferociously, but that doesn't sound very Christian) for the coveted golden chair trophy award. When the senior ladies, (some of the bravest persons I knew for a myriad of reasons) Helen Penrod and Edna Bowers, would still be in the game because they shared the same drive as their younger competitors, the game would almost have to come to a halt to avoid broken bones. Remembering these times always makes me smile. Today a youngster said in regards to our musical chairs, "this is boring" - to which I controlled myself from saying the first things on my mind such as: "Don't you know how exciting this game can be?" And "don't let my husband hear you say that!" Sam would say - and our children heard it a thousand times, "I am never bored." He banned them from even using the word.

As I sit here looking out at the blanket of snow that's kept us from gathering in person today, I can't help but reflect on how life sometimes hems us in with unexpected challenges. Whether it's a winter storm stranding us at home or deeper struggles like financial worries, relationship strains, or health issues, we've all been there. Recently, during a live stream to our church family near Scott Air Force Base and beyond, I shared from Romans 5:3-5—a passage that's been a lifeline for my wife Carrie and me through many tough seasons. Today, let's dive into this Scripture together and uncover how troubles can lead to passionate patience, forged virtue, and an alert expectancy for God's generous outpouring. As we explore this, remember: we're committed to walking alongside one another, growing in faith, and sharing Christ's love—no matter the weather.

Hello, dear church family and visitors! I'm Ronnie Tabor, Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church Mascoutah, Illinois. In our "Seven" series on daily rhythms for Christ followers, we've hit the second: talking to God. Last week was about opening the Bible; this week, let's focus on bold prayer. Picture a little boy persistently asking his mom for water, even when threatened with a spanking—he says, "When you come up, bring me a drink!" That's the persistence Jesus calls us to in Matthew 7. At our Southern Baptist church in Mascoutah, near Scott Air Force Base, we're inviting you to pray boldly for transformation in our lives and city.

Picture a little boy persistently asking his mom for water, even when threatened with a spanking—he says, "When you come up, bring me a drink!" That's the persistence Jesus calls us to in Matthew 7. At First Baptist church in Mascoutah, near Scott Air Force Base, we're inviting you to pray boldly for transformation in our lives and city.

Imagine being trapped in a burning building with a cell phone in hand, yet choosing to scroll social media instead of calling for help. That's often how we treat prayer—we have direct access to the Creator, but we neglect it. At First Baptist Church Mascoutah, a welcoming Baptist congregation near Scott Air Force Base, we're committed to changing that. Let's discover how prayer can lead us to the abundant life Jesus promises in John 10:10.

When the wise men arrived in Jerusalem they asked, “Where is He who has been born king of the Jews?” Take note of their words born king. They did not say born to be king… but born king. In his gospel prologue John describes the Lord with these words: “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.” Life was present in Jesus from the beginning of His earthly ministry. When John the Baptist saw Jesus he proclaimed, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” He did not say He will become the lamb but that He was the lamb.

Something amazing took place February 9, 1964, ten days before my twelfth birthday. It was the first appearance of the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan TV show (For those unfamiliar with the Ed Sullivan show, it was a variety show that spanned 23 years!) Anyone seeking fame and fortune wanted to get a chance to be on the Ed Sullivan show! Many believe that first Beatles appearance changed music culture and catapulted Rock N’ Roll to greatness. By my fourteenth year I had my first drum set and had become an avid Beach Boy fan. My dream and goal was to become a Rock Star! But then pretty girls entered my life.

I delved into the short but powerful book of Philemon as a case study for daily devotion. Imagine a runaway slave finding forgiveness and becoming a church leader—that's the gospel at work! In our world, with losses like those we recently grieved in our community, Scripture offers hope through stories of reconciliation. Whether you're at our preschool First Baptist Mascoutah or a military family near Scott AFB, let's see how opening the Book restores relationships.

I recently shared a story from my life—like nearly causing a car accident due to a loose hood—to illustrate how ignorance or stubbornness can lead to trouble. But God's Word offers a better way! If you've ever felt intimidated by the Bible, thinking it's too complex or boring, you're not alone. This post explores practical rhythms to make Scripture a joyful part of your day, especially for families at our Christian preschool Mascoutah IL or those serving near Scott Air Force Base.

Reflecting on our "Seven Rhythms Every Christian Should Practice Daily" series. It reminded us that the Bible isn't just a book—it's the oxygen of our Christian life. In a world full of distractions and uncertainties, especially for our military families near Scott Air Force Base, turning to Scripture daily can ground us in God's unchanging truth. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life's challenges, wondering where to find real hope? Let's explore how opening the Book can transform our days and deepen our faith.

As we step into a new year, I can't help but reflect on how quickly time flies. Just last year, in 2025, many of us made resolutions to grow closer to God. But let's be honest—life gets busy with work, family, and everything in between. Have you ever felt like your prayer life is more of a quick whisper than a deep conversation? I know I have. Yet, Scripture reminds us that prayer is our lifeline to the Father, a way to experience His peace and guidance. In Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV), Paul encourages us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Let's explore how we can build a strong prayer life this year, drawing from God's Word and practical steps that fit into our everyday routines.

Hey there, church family and friends! This is Ronnie Tabor, your Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church Mascoutah in Illinois. As we kick off our "Back to the Basics" series, I'm thrilled to start with the rhythm of Bible Study—or as we call it, Daily Devotion. In a noisy world full of opinions and distractions, God's Word is our steady anchor. Remember how the early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching in Acts 2:42? That's the heart of it. Whether you're a busy parent connected to Lighthouse Preschool Mascoutah or a service member near Scott Air Force Base, carving out time for Scripture can change everything. Let's explore how this rhythm draws us closer to Jesus at our Baptist church in Mascoutah, IL.

In a world buzzing with notifications, deadlines, and endless to-do lists, finding peace feels impossible. But here's the game-changer: Just 10-15 minutes a day can anchor your soul, build resilience, and spark real joy. Enter daily devotion – your personal time with Scripture and God. Inspired by Eric Geiger's Rooted Bible Study, this isn't duty; it's spiritual nourishment.

In our fast-paced world, where happiness often feels fleeting—like chasing after the wind—it's easy to wonder where true joy comes from. Maybe you've had one of those days where everything seems overwhelming, and you're searching for something deeper than temporary smiles. As part of our church family at First Baptist Church Mascoutah, we've been exploring how Scripture points us to a joy that's rooted in God's unchanging love. Today, let's dive into some powerful Bible verses about joy and how they guide us toward finding true happiness, not in circumstances, but in our relationship with Jesus. Whether you're a longtime believer or just curious about faith, I pray this encourages your heart.

As we step into 2026, I can't help but pause and reflect on yesterday's message from our Sunday service. Titled "Looking Back, Looking Forward," it was a heartfelt reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness in our past and His exciting call for our future. Whether you're a longtime member, a military family stationed at Scott AFB, or someone searching for a church near Mascoutah, IL, this sermon encouraged us all to celebrate where we've been while pressing on toward what God has ahead. Let's dive in together, drawing from Scripture to see how this applies to our everyday lives as part of our church family.

As a dad and grandfather myself, I've had those late-night moments wondering if I'm doing this parenting thing right. In a world full of distractions and pressures—especially for our military families near Scott Air Force Base—raising children can feel overwhelming. But what if we turned to God's timeless wisdom? Ephesians 6:4 (ESV) tells us, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This verse isn't just for dads; it's a call for all of us to nurture our kids in God's love. Today, let's explore how we can do that together as a church family, drawing from Scripture to build strong, faith-filled homes.

Hello, friends and church family! I'm Ronnie Tabor, Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church Mascoutah, Illinois. As we step into 2026, I've been reflecting on how life can get so cluttered—schedules packed, distractions everywhere, and sometimes our faith feels more like a checklist than a lifeline. But what if we stripped it all back to the essentials? That's exactly what our new series at First Baptist Church Mascoutah is all about: "Back to the Basics." Drawing from the early church in Acts 2, we're exploring seven simple, biblical rhythms that can transform ordinary lives into something extraordinary. These aren't new ideas; they're the habits that turned fishermen into world-changers. Whether you're a longtime believer, a seeker, or a military family stationed near Scott Air Force Base looking for a spiritual home away from home, these rhythms—Bible Study, Prayer, Confession, Generosity, Serving, Telling Your Story, and Worship—are for you. Join us as we dive in together at our Baptist church in Mascoutah, IL.

As Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Mascoutah (FBCM), I'm thrilled to share this vision for our church's bright future. Located in Mascoutah, Illinois, near Scott Air Force Base, FBCM is a welcoming Baptist church dedicated to helping families find and follow Jesus. If you're searching for a "church near Scott Air Force Base" or a "military family ministry in Mascoutah," you've found a spiritual home port where faith grows and communities thrive. Drawing from Ephesians 3:20-21, where God promises to do far more abundantly than we can ask or imagine, let's explore how we're dreaming bigger with God during this exciting season of church revitalization.