Unity

Unity, what a word. Have you ever really thought on it? Today in our small group we saw a version of it I'd love to see throughout all the Church's who serve the Lord. We saw Chonda Pearce share her testimony about her season of depression and how the group she attend just simply thanked her for sharing. They didn't tell her to get connected, read one more scripture, or tell her to go worship. They simply said thank you and next. WOW what a revelation. How many times have you just wanted someone to LISTEN? I know for myself, last spring was that time for me. I didn't end up in a rehab but, I can surely relate to the awakening to the "dark" everyday and wondering when it will pass. Thank God for Medical Doctors that listen and believe!!!! My doctor suggested meds and when that wasn't working and I sought a herbal solution, he trusted me and supported me! My husband, God love him, heard the medical terms, sought prayer and just trusted I would be okay and jumped in to help with the kids. You know, that is about the time the Lord lead us to Celebration. Praise God. Fatigue filled body and all, I worshiped and slowly the pain would subside, song by song! I'd wonder why I couldn't make my bed or vacuum without having to stop or catch my breathe. Now looking back, well, you get the picture, we are to praise Him no matter what! That was my source of healing and praise God my husband LOVES music and we have lots to choose from. Okay, the unity part. Well, we have a burden, something we seem to be dealing with or have recently and WHO might you know going through the same or about to? Could/should we not come along side them and present a unified front to those that come against us/them. The Bible tells us where two or more are gathered in His name, there He is also. What more could you ask for. We are but to seek His face and know that......we are never alone!

Settling In

It is amazing the things we find when we move! Not only the items but also the memories. As we settle into our new house, I am reminded of Jeremiah 29:11-13 that tells us "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord, "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me." We fervently prayed about where God would have us to move for several months. We saw God open doors that would then close and wonder "Why?" only to see another. God brought to use these scriptures as well Psalm 121 and 127. Knowing that all things work together for good for those who believe in Him! We continued to press forward knowing that God would see us through. Now I can see where our belongings "fit" so well into our house and will soon become our home. I invite you to look around your dwelling and see what may be there that just doesn't fit. Something that could cause you not to see God's plan for you, your family, your life as a whole. God moves us daily into perfection through Him, if we but yield to Him.
As we see our new semester for Small Groups draw near, excitement arises! An eagerness to see change and growth. To see people set free! I invite you to check out the Spot on www.celebration.org and see what might minister to you. We will be introducing several new Life Builders groups, but personally I am excited about the new Mom's group. My vision is big and know that God is even Bigger. Eager to see the direction that God takes us in. So glad to be a part of such a cutting edge Church that sees a need for a group of people and allows it to work into the fabric of the Church. Be on the lookout for more info around the OP campus! And here!
Please keep all the children we help feed in Africa in your prayers this week! I truly believe that we can make a difference in our world through prayer. God bless and keep each of you and know that God is always by your side protecting you and never sleeps! (Ps. 121)