I am reading a book with this very same title. Many times in my life with Christ, God has brought me to this point; the point in which you step forward to a new chapter in life where you've never been before, and certainly can't go without God's prompting or miraculous help and divine intervention. You are required to jump far out of your comfort zone, and once again rely wholeheartedly on Him. We had many more people this week visit the pantry than we did last, and many requests for both prayer and a place to worship, so here we go. The 9,000 sq. ft. building is now Glades Area Pantries, G.A.P. (Gods Anointed Place) Community Center, and Church of the Harvest. The pantry gave away over 100 bags of food this week (we're only open Monday and Tuesday), the thrift store is up and running, and the room for the furniture and appliance part of our thrift store is painted as well as receiving many donations (much of it we picked up over the weekend). We have had drum sets donated for the church, people volunteering, and the opportunity to present our vision at a local monthly luncheon which had quite a good turnout.
We are now working on the sanctuary and planning our first service. This is in a very poor area, and despite having quite a few local churches, we believe our ministry focuses on reaching the community first, and the church will follow naturally; we simply show the love of Christ and God will do the rest. We have tried to connect with many of the local churches to help us reach the community, and other than a few showing interest, we are unsuccessful. So please be in prayer for this as well as for Jason Repsher, who is still working on organizing a missions team to come help us in April. The primary focus for this team is to help repair the building's interior. Please pray for workers, materials, and perseverance for Jason as he works full time, and also is working in missions with "His Kids," an organization involved with orphanages in America and around the world.
In addition to that, Barbara and Rich have heard from a missionary who wants to bring short-term missions teams to help with outreach into this community through much of the summer. This is in the works and we need you to be praying for wisdom on how to have the most impact and bring the most glory to God with His volunteers. We still have much to do in all that's going on - the building is only fractionally ready for all the things God has laid on our hearts. So prayer is greatly needed for guidance, wisdom, and perseverance for Barbara, Rich, Carol, and I as we move through another 'point of no return.' It's scary yet awesome and we can't wait to see God's glorious wonders as He works in this city.
Peace through Grace,
Doug & Family
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I speak to you often brother but when I read your blog it tells me alot. God has brought you to a place where he knows you will serve him well. God promises to send a spirit of ministry to our lives and a reality of his presence if we trust and follow him. Jesus did most of his teaching answering the questions of those who wondered why he was doing the things he was doing. Touching the lepers, talking to a samaritan woman, reaching out to the poor and needy, and showing love to all. Many will ask you why it is you do the things you do. To the glory of God and He works in us and through us to make a difference in the world for Christ. This gives unique purpose to our lives and turns life into an exciting adventure with God.
I'm not sure who said "By whichever means possible spread the word of Jesus, if you must, perhaps even use words". What he is saying is that we show people Gods glory and what Jesus is about through our witness and His spirit working in us. Not merely words of the salvation of Christ in itself.
I pray always for your ministry and look foward to God moving us to a mission in helping you.
Blessed are those who serve the Lord and His Kingdom.
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