Sorry about being gone for a while, but I have so many blessings to share since my last post. First off, I wanted to say THANK YOU for joining me in prayer about finding a church home. My husband and I have been planted at church less than 5 minutes away from where we live! The house of God was right up the street and we didn't even know! What a blessing!!! Also, we've already connected with much of the members and have joined a "life group" where people of the church connect and support each other in life and faith in small groups. Regardless of how tired we are from work, school or just life, it appears we all eagerly wait to connect with each other. It truly is a safe place to reflect and share our journeys together.
Ok, so I've really been sensitive to something lately and that is, there is so much pain/struggle/battles going on with the people that surround you, so do not give up on prayer and do not give up on humanity. People are going through so much but are too hurt to talk about it.
I suggest praying for the people in your life, whether you know whats going on or not. People feel so alone sometimes but when you pray for others, God will show up in ways that they need the most. Growing up, I had no idea that a family was praying over me. I never asked them to and at the time I probably felt like I didn't need prayer. First of all, my relationship with Jesus was practically non-existent. I met this family during my middle school years and it wasn't until my first year of college, when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior and announcing my baptism on Facebook. There, I received a comment from one of the family members saying, "this is a long awaited and answered prayer." I cannot express the gratitude and the surprise I felt because they prayed for me. This family watched me grow up so misguided, but I remember how loving and open they were to listening to me during hard times. They were ever loving, never forcing me to change or push Jesus on me. They were patient while walking with me through life. I feel their prayers were the most loving act someone has ever done for me. Although quiet and unannounced, their prayers were fueled by love and very effective towards my good.
Here is my prayer for you. It might not make sense, but when I read Ephesians 1 it reminded me that people need prayer. People need it to grow, to heal, to prosper in the goodness God plans for all of us. Pray for the people you encounter. It is a great tool in deepening your love for others (enemies and loved ones). Prayer is God's way of "letting you in" on his love for others and that's what living is meant for, loving God and loving others. I pray God shows up in your prayer life in ways you never imagined. May you grow in love. God bless.
Your sister,
C
*image found on pinterest ;)
