November 2025

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

Dear Ones,

     The only reason free will works for us and others is because it was given by the God of the universe.  Adam and Eve chose to use their free will to rebel against their God who gave them everything conceivable for their sustenance and pleasure.  After they willfully walked away from Him, God met them in the garden with love and mercy, He gave them free will to continue their lives.        Everyone has the right to choose.  Everyone has options.  No one inherently has a pure heart that finds its way into the choices they make on a consistent basis…even those of us who purport to know the God of all truth Free will is tainted.

     Why?  Jeremiah says in chapter 17:9, “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.  Who can know it?”  Even our best intentions can be wrong.  Our noblest actions can be self-centered.  We are not left to ourselves to bulldoze our way through life doing “what’s best for us” as the world would like to advise.  How about “do what’s good for you?”  

      After 82 years of mistakes, disobedience and tainted motives mixed in with anything I’ve done right, my only recourse has been to run back to the Lord, hear Him, obey Him and want what He wants for me, my life, my choices and my free will.  His Word is a storehouse of instruction and wealth of information how to use my free will. 

Hebrews 12:2…”Looking unto Jesus, the author and perfecter of  faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (ASV)

     Where and how do we start?  Prostrating ourselves before this God of the universe who will then mercifully lift our faces up, take us by the hand and help us use free will for our benefit, those around us and for Him.

     Jesus left us an advocate, the Holy Spirit, living inside of us who points the way and nudges us on.  Yes, nudges us.  His voice is so soft.

     Let’s stay so close to Jesus so that we hear his voice.  It is exhilarating to think of the creative, loving, life He has for us as we live for His smile.  

 
With you all on this amazing journey,

Sharon

P.S. …and dancing! Everyone, 🌹

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

Dear Ones,

     The only reason free will works for us and others is because it was given by the God of the universe.  Adam and Eve chose to use their free will to rebel against their God who gave them everything conceivable for their sustenance and pleasure.  After they willfully walked away from Him, God met them in the garden with love and mercy, He gave them free will to continue their lives.        Everyone has the right to choose.  Everyone has options.  No one inherently has a pure heart that finds its way into the choices they make on a consistent basis…even those of us who purport to know the God of all truth Free will is tainted.

     Why?  Jeremiah says in chapter 17:9, “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.  Who can know it?”  Even our best intentions can be wrong.  Our noblest actions can be self-centered.  We are not left to ourselves to bulldoze our way through life doing “what’s best for us” as the world would like to advise.  How about “do what’s good for you?”  

      After 82 years of mistakes, disobedience and tainted motives mixed in with anything I’ve done right, my only recourse has been to run back to the Lord, hear Him, obey Him and want what He wants for me, my life, my choices and my free will.  His Word is a storehouse of instruction and wealth of information how to use my free will. 

Hebrews 12:2…”Looking unto Jesus, the author and perfecter of  faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (ASV)

     Where and how do we start?  Prostrating ourselves before this God of the universe who will then mercifully lift our faces up, take us by the hand and help us use free will for our benefit, those around us and for Him.

     Jesus left us an advocate, the Holy Spirit, living inside of us who points the way and nudges us on.  Yes, nudges us.  His voice is so soft.

     Let’s stay so close to Jesus so that we hear his voice.  It is exhilarating to think of the creative, loving, life He has for us as we live for His smile.  

 
With you all on this amazing journey,

Sharon

P.S. …and dancing! Everyone, 🌹

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

Everyone, 

     I listen to Rick Warren at least five days a week and find that God uses him in the “everydayness” of my life.  Here are a few gems from him.

An impulsive vow is a trap.

It’s always easier to get into a relationship than out of a relationship.

It’s easier to fill your schedule than to fulfill your schedule.

It’s easier to gain weight, than it is to lose weight.☺️

Ponder before promising.

Deliberate before deciding.

Reflect before you select.

Consider your commitments prayerfully and carefully.

Zeal without knowledge is not good, and he who acts hastily sins.

Proverbs 19:2

Don’t trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost.

Proverbs 20:25

     We could save ourselves a lot of trouble if we listened to Rick.

Prayerfully,

Sharon

     A Soft Place for Women to Fall

     P.S. - Dancing helps.  It clears the mind!!! 🌹

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

  Good afternoon,
    I have heard often over the years, “I do not need to go to church to be a Christian.”  Of course not.  Scripture is clear that salvation is by grace alone and not works.  However, scripture also reminds us to “not forsake the assembling of yourselves together.”  Why?  God knows what He is doing.  Christianity is a relational experience.  We are not sovereigns in and of ourselves.  We are given gifts to serve the body.  How do we do that if we stay home?  “Iron sharpens iron” is a principle found in Proverbs, which means people can improve each other through collaboration, feedback, and challenges.  The local church is just the place for this to happen…that is if we are willing to be honest with each other.  Also, how can we be united if we are not around each other?  It warms God’s heart when we are one in Him.   

     The community in which we associate at our church is an age group fraught with illness, aging, and pain of various kinds.  This past Sunday was an example to me of those who we have the privilege to know and care about.  A parishioner I had not seen in a very long time was there in a friend’s wheelchair, who I lost on December 24.  Then, a couple who seemed to have aged behind my back came in.  It hurt me to see their decline.  Then, I almost had to stand in line to greet another dear friend who was struggling with illness. 

     By the time I sat down, my back pain really kicked in.  A friend got me some water so I could take a painkiller. This means I was hugged and helped last Sunday. 

     When I saw the wheelchair of my friend that I sat next to week after week, I lost it.  The tears streamed down my cheeks.  As hard as I tried, they would not stop, so I used all my tissues and my friend’s tissues as well.  I was embarrassed by my tears, but by their very nature, my friends did not care.  Eventually, the tears stopped.  

     So why am I telling you this?   God knows what he is saying when he tells us to go to church, associate with each other, serve Him and others, praise Him in song, listen to His Word, reach out to the hurting, and hug and love each other.

      I was very aware of the love and care demonstrated throughout that sanctuary on Sunday…and that was only on one Sunday.  It softened and warmed my heart that God loves us through each other.  I was overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness of my friends as I sat there.  That was probably one of the reasons I couldn’t stop the tears.  

     “Jesus said unto him, thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like unto it, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”  Matthew 22:37-39 (KJV)  

     We cannot do that when we choose to stay away from His children and place of worship.  You are all a blessing to me, and I am so grateful.

            Love, Sharon

P.S.  – Yes, I can still dance…if only in my heart and chair.  Dance with me. 

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

 Good afternoon,

     God says to his people in Zachariah 8:3…This is what the LORD says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the holy mountain.”  

    And then verses 23 and 24 says, "This is what the LORD Almighty says: In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold on one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’”

     It stopped me cold…and it warmed my heart.  When strangers and friends watch us as we work, play, laugh, and go about our days, I pray fervently that people will say of us, “Let us go with them, because we have heard that God is with them.” 

     Lord Jesus, please let it be so.

Affectionately,

         Sharon 

P.S. Dancing is fun!  Even if it is chair dancing.  

Dance with me!

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

PART 2

Good afternoon,

     Ericka Loynes spoke to me this morning…”Like the disciple Peter, I can come back from a setback.  Peter failed in his resolve to acknowledge Christ at all costs, but he returned to Jesus even more committed than before (John 21:15-19).  I, too, through the help of Jesus can persevere and do the same in in this new year.”

     Oh, how refreshing…yes, I’ve made my mistakes.  At times I’ve been downright disobedient and did not listen to the Holy Spirit…thankfully, He is relentless.  Jesus is the Author and Finisher of my faith.  He brings me back every time.  

     I have read the One Year bible since 2008.  It is falling apart and has my history written all over it as I have dated the passages that spoke to me.  This year especially, I am reminded that God uses broken people.  Let’s face it we all have feet of clay.  It can be discouraging and downright disappointing at times.  

     Let’s remember Abram (Genesis 20:2,4,11) who asked his beautiful wife Sarah to say she was his sister “lest the Egyptians kill him.”  Abimelech was not happy and “did not touch her once he found out she was Abram’s wife.  Abram’s son Isaac did the same thing. (Genesis 26:7).  Jacob had a long history of lying.  He faced a wicked deceiver in his uncle Laban, who deceived him into marrying Leah instead of Rachel.  Unfortunately (or fortunately), there is a long list of broken people used by God, so why can’t He use us?  He can and does.  Let’s not forget there were consequences for all those lies and brokenness.  That in itself is a deterrent if we would just stop and listen to the Holy Spirit.

     Have you seen the consequences of your poor choices?  I have.  Quick to be angry and have regretted it.  Lost patience to find out just a little bit more would’ve saved the moment.  Do I need to say more?  The Word is full of promises to help us stay the course.

     Here’s the good news.  Our gracious all loving God of compassion is quick to forgive and help us persevere as we travel the rest of our lives, may it be a month, year or ten years.  Yes, we are getting up there.  I can look back and see God’s hand in my life to bring me where I am today.  That same God will help me finish well…and He will do the same for you.  I am with the author Ericka Loynes…”through the help of Jesus, I am resolved to acknowledge Christ at all costs and be returned to Jesus even more committed than before.”  

Grow old with me…

            Love, Sharon

P.  S.  And yes, let’s dance

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

PART 1

 Good morning, Everyone,

     I have used the same “One Year Bible” since 2008.  You know the one.  You read the Old Testament, New Testament, part of Proverbs and part of Psalms.  I have written 2010, 2011, 2018 and 2023 next to Isaiah 46:4.   Little did I know at the time how important this verse would become to me in 2010.

     This is what I read this morning when I was sitting with my coffee in my son’s home in San Diego while everyone slept.

     Isaiah 46:4 says…”Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he. I am he who will sustain you.  I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”  Did you notice he said he would “sustain” us twice?  We need to know that.

     I fit right into this passage.  I am definitely “seasoned.”  I refuse to call myself old.  I have gray hair.  (Boy do I!)  He has made me which I cannot say I completely comprehend, nevertheless it is true.   Oh, yes, he has carried me and there are times I feel him doing that, although he’s been behind the scenes carrying me when I haven’t realized it.  He has sustained me in ways I’m sure I’m totally unaware of and very grateful for.  And he has and will continue to rescue me.  What a wonder! What joy!  What hope.  What peace this gives me.  

     I have rebelled against “getting older in my heart and mind.”  It hasn’t gotten me anywhere.  My body has blissfully ignored me.  I’ve hurt for those around me who are going through the aging process with terminal illnesses, medical and chronic pain.  I need to pay more attention to this scripture and remember our precious Lord sees us all, loves us more and has a plan for us as “we age.”

     Jeremiah 29:11-13 becomes more and more meaningful for me as my journey takes me closer and closer to the day I see Him face to face. 

Grow old with me…the best is “still” yet to be.

With great affection,

      Sharon

P.S.  Don’t forget to dance…even if you can only chair dance, and when you do, please think of me.

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

Good Morning,
    Recently I had company for lunch when my son and his wife stopped by to fix my Alexa.  As we chatted with company, my son said, “Dad would take us for Chinese food when mom was occupied because she was allergic to MSG.”  My friend was surprised and said, “You’ve never told me that.”  No, I hadn’t.  There is so much in our stories we don’t think to share or wouldn’t risk sharing.

     Yesterday I was with a group of women discussing the Christian life.  One said, “We don’t really know each other.”  Another shared two painful experiences that devastated her.  It was a sacred time of listening, sharing and comforting.

     God commands us to be salt and light.  As David Jeremiah would say in “Everything We Need,” we are conduits for the Holy Spirit to live out the life of Jesus Christ.  Are we?  Do we look people in the eye when talking to them?  Are we preoccupied with our agendas when someone is talking to us?  Can we put down our defenses long enough to really hear behind the words?  Are we being robotic as we walk through life giving an “appearance of godliness but denying the power thereof?” (2 Timothy 3:5).  The Holy Spirit is the One Who does the connecting.  Do we let Him.

     Let’s really “be” with people we are privileged to know and spend time with so the salt and light that resides in us can find its way into the souls of others to love and encourage them…and look behind their eyes.

Love, 

     Sharon  

By Sharon La Rose, Contributing Writer

     I’m sure you’ve heard of “recovering alcoholics.”  Some of these dear ones say they will always be alcoholics; however, they are in recovery.  This addiction may never show up in alcoholism again but may manifest itself in eating, smoking, watching television or in other ways…or even “controlling.”

     I am Sharon La Rose, a “recovering controller.”   I know, I know, that sounds a bit strange, but it is not.  I would say I am not alone. There are many like me.  I developed this attitude in childhood when I needed it.  It has outlived its usefulness.

      I took it right into adulthood.  Eventually, the hard truth came to me, there is no controlling life.  You learn to live “in it.”  You become flexible or you would break.  You are often blindsided, overwhelmed, hurt, angered, betrayed, abandoned, ignored, and many other things you had not planned for.

     No one totally understands the chaos and unravels it. But I know Someone Who does.  We need to stay close to Him...while He does.   Job 23:10..."but He knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold."

     Paul began his Christian life on the road to Damascus in a shocking experience with the Lord. (Acts 27:1-20).   He became an ardent follower of Jesus Christ.  This brilliant and well-educated Pharisee thought he was in complete control of his life.  When he became a believer, that was over.  He lived a life of uncertainty, danger, beatings, blessing, developed lifelong friendships that served his needs as he sat in prison and waited to die.  He was called to share Christ to the gentiles.  He took three missionary journeys to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.  He was articulate and wrote letters from prison sharing Jesus Christ to the churches.  The only control he had was over his attitude which of course, effected his circumstances which ultimately effected his peace.

     Paul’s life was a life of uncertainty.  He never professed to be perfect, so he was much like you and me…but he stayed with it, so much so he died on behalf of his faith in Jesus Christ.

     “Lord, let it be so of us." Whoever we are, wherever we are, give us the desire to follow you as Paul did…even when things do not go as planned.

By Geoffrey Goddard Contributing Writer

1 John 3:14 NIV14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. 

    Introduction: At first glance, expressing love towards fellow Christians may seem simple, yet its intricacies delve far beneath the surface. Guided by biblical teachings, we embark on a journey to unravel the profound dimensions of love and its transformative power. 

     Understanding Biblical Perspectives on Love: In the tapestry of biblical narratives, two fundamental forms of love, philia and agape, emerge, each with its unique essence and significance. While storge and eros subtly weave through the Scriptures, it is agape, the epitome of sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ, that resonates as the noblest expression of divine affection.

     Philia Love: A Testament to Brotherhood: Philia, or brotherly love, finds resonance in intimate friendships and shared bonds, exemplified in the enduring companionship of David and Jonathan. Yet, while philia emanates warmth and affection, the commandment to extend agape love towards all challenges us to transcend personal biases and extend compassion even to adversaries

      Personal Evolution of Love: Through a lifetime of experiences, my perception of love has evolved, guided by divine revelation and introspection. As I have grown in understanding, the light of God's love has illuminated my path, fostering compassion and deepening my awareness of sin's presence in the world. 

     The Gift of Discernment: Blessed with the ability to discern the nuances of human interaction, I've come to recognize the scarcity of genuine love in our interactions, both within the Christian community and beyond. Despite outward appearances, the absence of authentic love underscores the need for spiritual introspection and growth. 

     Cultivating Love through Devotion: As I reflect upon my relationship with Christ, I am reminded of the transformative power of genuine devotion. By embracing the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice and nurturing a fervent commitment to His teachings, our capacity to love expands, permeating every aspect of our lives.

      Self-Reflection and Renewal: In moments of introspection, I confront the sincerity of my gratitude and devotion to Christ, acknowledging moments of faltering faith and misplaced priorities. Yet, through honest self-examination, I renew my commitment to cultivate a love that mirrors His divine compassion.
    In the finite span of our earthly existence, our imperative is clear: to radiate love unabashedly, illuminating the world with the brilliance of Christ's compassion. This mandate extends beyond the confines of our Christian family, encompassing all humanity under the broad canopy of God's love.     As we traverse the terrain of human interaction, let us transcend superficiality, delving into the depths of each individual's soul to unveil the reservoirs of love concealed within. Whether within the cherished bonds of our Christian brethren or amidst the broader tapestry of humanity, let love be our guiding light.

Romans 8:36 NIV36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 

     Echoing the sentiment articulated by the apostle Paul in Romans 8:36, we recognize the sacrificial nature of love, embodied in Christ's ultimate act of redemption on the cross. Embracing this profound truth, we navigate life's trials and tribulations with unwavering faith, knowing that our steadfast love reflects the very essence of our Savior's divine love.     So let us, as ambassadors of Christ, shine brightly with love, bearing witness to the transformative power of His grace. Let us forge deep connections, extending kindness and compassion to all, and thereby exemplifying the boundless love of our Heavenly Father. For in the family of God, and indeed throughout the world, love remains the enduring testament of our faith and the cornerstone of our existence. 

     Conclusion: In the tapestry of Christian love, we uncover a profound truth: that genuine compassion transcends superficiality, emanating from a heart transformed by the grace of God. As we navigate the complexities of human interaction, may we strive to embody the selfless love exemplified by Christ, illuminating the world with the radiant light of His divine love. 

By Geoffrey Goddard Contributing Writer

1 John 3:3 NIV

 3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. 

     In the journey of faith, the pursuit of purity stands as a cornerstone. The words of 1 John 3:3 echo through the corridors of time, reminding believers of their call to purity: "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

     For many, including myself, comprehending the depth of this verse can be a process. Initially, it might seem natural to interpret it as a constant striving for perfection, a never-ending battle against sin. Yet, as we delve deeper, a profound truth emerges—one that offers solace amidst our human frailties.

     The realization dawns that our hope lies not in our ability to attain perfection in our earthly bodies but in the promise of redemption and transformation in our heavenly state. This understanding doesn't absolve us of our responsibility to strive for righteousness. Instead, it illuminates the nature of our journey—a journey marked by both victories and defeats. Yet it is anchored in the hope of ultimate restoration.

     Reflecting on personal experiences, it becomes evident how easily we can lapse in our pursuit of purity. Sometimes, moments of sin are recognized only in hindsight. This is a stark reminder of our fallibility.

     Yet, in acknowledging these lapses, we find gratitude for a merciful God who instills within us a spirit that yearns for righteousness.

     Indeed, without this innate desire for purity, the danger of complacency looms large. Without striving for righteousness, sin would inevitably entrench itself in our lives, dictating our actions and overshadowing our existence.

     But what is this hope that drives us towards purification? It transcends mere wishful thinking; it embodies a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God. This hope finds its fulfillment in Christ, the embodiment of divine salvation, and is sustained by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

     Christian hope encompasses the assurance of resurrection, redemption, eternal glory, and the return of Christ. It is the impetus behind endurance in the face of suffering and the source of joy and peace amidst life's trials.

     In this context, the call to purify ourselves takes on new meaning. It is a response to the hope that resides within us—a hope that propels us towards likeness with Christ and empowers us to navigate the complexities of life with boldness and faith.

     As we journey onward, let us cling to this hope with unwavering trust, knowing that it is the bedrock of our purification. May it spur us on to greater heights of righteousness, secure in the knowledge that our ultimate destiny is bound up in the promises of a faithful God.

Next: Observing a decreasing pattern of sin (1 John 3:5-6, 5:18).

     There are no perfect missionaries. The answer to these questions, I hope, in all your hearts was something like this: “Yes, inasmuch as I know my own heart, that’s my longing. That’s my commitment. There are folds and contours of my heart where hidden things lie, I know. Cleanse me from hidden faults. But because I know my own heart, yes to those questions. Help me to love you more than money. Help me to be real and sincere. Help me to speak your word. Help me to fear no man. Help me to get all I need from being in Christ.”

     Exert: Sufficient Only in Christ, from an interview with John Piper.

     Twenty-two years ago, a lovely friend and Bible Teacher asked me to teach a senior ladies' bible class at our church in Harvester, Mo. It was the beginning of my call to minister the word of God. 

     The call to minister is exciting, wonderful, and frightening, all experienced simultaneously. It is an honor to know someone like my Christian friend Earlene believed that I could make the scriptures come alive in everyday ways that the ladies of our church could understand.

     Our Bible has survived thousands of years and is still the number one best-selling book in the world.

    I believe its survival is twofold, #1, because the words and message are as relevant today as they were when they were written thousands of years ago, and #2, It is the inspired Word of God and will never be abolished by satan or man.

     To me, our Bible is a book of instruction on the perfect way to live our lives. However, being human, we can only ask God to lead us as we live, learn, and experience each day the “how” of being called to minister God's word as His child. 

     James 3:1 shows that this call is a grave responsibility and should not be taken lightly, while 2 Timothy shows that this calling to teach requires much study and preparation.

James 3:1-2 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. 2 For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.

2 Timothy 2:15  Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

     There is no rhyme or reason as to whom God chooses to use as His minister to a lost and dying world. From the day we became a speck in our mother’s womb God has formed our spiritual personalities. This is despite Satan’s misleading us at every turn.

     I thank God that He continued to pursue me when I turned from Him and fled into a world of sin and denied my adoption into His family. To this day I remember how that pursuit almost cost me my sanity. Yet, praise God, He healed and forgave me and put me on the path where He could use me to teach others of His marvelous grace.

Amen and Amen 

Part 2

Psalm 23:1 ESV

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.

     David described the Lord as a shepherd from his experience caring for sheep. Sheep depend entirely on the shepherd for provision, guidance, and protection. We are His sheep…not frightened, passive animals, but obedient followers of one who will lead us in the right places and right ways.

     When The Lord has plans for us, His Holy Spirit leads and guides us, sometimes despite our humanness.

     Since the COVID-19 epidemic, I have been without a church home. My previous home for years was with a beautiful congregation in Glendale, Arizona. What a blessing those years were to me. A minister and his family with more than 25 years’ experience at the church and a choir director with the same passion for serving our Lord who had been there for the same number of years.

     I was delighted to be part of a choir and orchestra that praised Our Lord weekly and provided special cantata music for the Christian Holidays. I never dreamed of experiencing the incredible thrill of a rising crescendo of worshiping God in spirit and song as I had during those years in Glendale.

     Living 30 miles away and driving heavily traveled interstates became a bit much after Covid-19, so I sought a church closer to my home in the western suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona. I still participated in choirs with several local churches during Holiday celebrations and was part of two ladies' Bible study groups. But I felt a strong need to be part of “the family of God” in a local church body.

     A longtime member of one of the Wednesday Bible study groups invited me to a church she and her husband had recently discovered that was practically in their backyard! They were encouraged by the warm, loving care of the pastor and church family and asked me to check it out. 

     Arriving at a “coffee and cookie” time between Sunday Morning Bible Study and Sunday Service, I was greeted by many friendly, smiling members who welcomed me as though they’d known me for years. I decided the fellowship they extended was the warmest I’d know at any church I’d ever attended. So, I kept going back to learn more about the church and hear messages from their pastor.

     As the months passed, I decided there were two church families I was considering for my new home. That was the easy part. Knowing where I wanted to serve was a more difficult thing. LC’s church had so many activities I could probably spend 24-7 being involved in God’s work. At my age, there weren’t enough hours in a day for that intensity of serving. It was, however, food for thought.

     Sunday, October 8th, 2023, was like any other Sunday. Pastor Kirby’s message was titled “Trust Jesus When the Trials of Life Come,” based on Hebrews 2:17-18 and Hebrews 4:15-16. Having gone through a year that could only be described as "Job-like,” his message resonated with me.

     Pastor Kirby always gives an altar call at the end of his message for those who wish to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ or want to join the congregation. Like every Sunday I had attended, I stood to sing the closing hymn and suddenly felt compelled to join this body of believers. It was as if my body was on remote control, and I had no choice but to obey.

     This being “moved by the Spirit” the first time resulted in 12 beautiful years serving Him at a local assisted living center. I have no idea what The Lord has in store for me at FBCSCW, but just as I followed the Holy Spirit’s request to ask about a Bible study more than 12 years ago. I know He has plans for this next step in my Christian experience.

     Something beautiful, something good, all my confusion, He understood. All I had to offer Him was loneliness and strife, but He made something beautiful of my life.

Bill Gaither

Amen and Amen