Outcast

Have you ever let a person’s outer appearance determine whether or not you speak or love on them? As sad as it may seem, I know I have been guilty of this and God dealt with me big time on it. I’ve even said to God at times “there are some crazy people out there and I don’t want to get caught up in any mess.” It was like I was trying to find any little reason to back out of stuff. I do believe God gives us wisdom and the Holy Spirit will compel us to approach those that are in need. But sometimes God may make us do something out of the ordinary. 

In todays society there are so many people dealing with AIDS, addictions, prostitution, colts and all sorts of other problems. It is sad to know that some people, even believers have rejected these people. 

In Mark 1:40-41 it reads; A man with a skin desease came to Jesus. He fell to his knees and begged Jesus, “You can heal me if you will.” Jesus felt sorry for the man so he reached out his hand and touched him and said, “I will. Be healed.” NCV

A simple touched from Jesus made a world of a difference in that man’s life. Jesus was not concerned by the man’s apperance, character, sickness or anything. He just saw a man in need who was depending and believing in Him. 

We have the opportunity to make a huge difference in our community if not the world! But as Jesus did, to make a differnce we have to be willing to be different and do things that may take us out of our comfort zone. Let’s be filled with the same compassion Jesus had. We have to do things with the love of God. Without God’s love we are nothing (1 Corinthians 13: 1-2).

Let’s Love everybody and not shy away from those in need!

Peace!

Random

Some of the things Ripka talks about in his book, “God Out of The Box” definitely parallels to some things I’ve gone through and am currently going through; especially patience and being obedient. God will not just give us patience or obedience but he will create opportunities for us to face the situations and learn to develop these characteristics in our lives. That can be a challenge.

Sometimes I also struggle with making decisions. I can be very indecisive at times. I also like things to be in order and all mapped out. When it seems like things are off course or going in a totally different direction my mind can get all jacked up. That’s why it’s so important to just stay focused on God and the word. Applying these principles will always bring clarity to what God is directing anyone to do. In Proberbs 3: 5-6 it reads, ” Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. We just have to let go and let God do His thing.

Ripka also mentions in his book that when God opens a door it is our job to walk through it. God knows the correct path for our lives. He knows which doors to open and which doors needed to be closed. Ask, Seek, Knock — Matthew 7:7 says “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

I am learning that following the Lord’s path can sometimes take me to a place I’ve never expected or imagined. It can also force me out of my comfort zone. Being uncomfortable doing things for God is one way to know I am growing in Him and that God is trying to do something fresh in my life. It also allows me to put my faith into action like never before.

As long as we follow God, we can never go wrong.

Wednesday Night

Pastor Troy you ROCK! Great message tonight. It is so true that the more we seek and follow God the more clear everything will get. Each day I realize more and more how important it is to ask God for his desires and not my own. You also hit home with me when you spoke about prayer. In dance rehearsal last week we were discussing how it is important for us to listen to God when we pray. Understanding that Prayer is communicating with God not just to God.

Thanks!

Out Reach!

What an incredible day so far! Today the Shine Team and many other volunteers gathered together in the Calvary Gymnaisum. We were celebrating the Back to School Bash! Hundreds of kids were bused in from different neighborhoods. As they made their entrance into the gym, they were welcomed with cheers, screams, and excitement from the Shine Team and Leaders. This particular Outreach event gives kids the opportunity to come to know God if they don’t already have a relationship with Him. The event is full of Praise and Worship, Games, Dancing and just lots of fun with jesus. At the end of the service the kids are equipped with backpacks and supplies and most importantly, Jesus Christ. What an awesome way to start off the school year. This event gets Larger and Larger every year. God is so awesome!

Shout out to Pastor Jennifer and everyone who was involved!

Peace!

The Vacuum Man…

Peace!