Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Day 1: "And He did it all for me..."

In our Sunday Ladies Life Group class, we went through an exercise that involved reading Genesis 1:1-8.  These scriptures covered the first two days of creation.  The exercise included a discussion on what we thought the scriptures were saying to us personally.  The discussion was vibrant, inspiring, and uplifting in detailing the wonder of God’s magnificent creation.  As the discussion continued, one member of the class brought it all into perspective when she said, “And He did it all for me.”  I believe that statement was a defining moment for the class – “And He did it all for me.”   Yes, the Lord Jesus did it all for us……………….

Creation of the universe, wide, vast, powerful and beautiful… “And He did it all for me…”

Created man and woman in His own image… “And He did it all for me…”

Gave up His throne, royalty and became a man, humble and poor… “And He did it all for me…”

Was led to the cross like a sheep for slaughter; nailed to a cross; took on all of our sins so we could be saved… “And He did it all for me…”

Rose again, sat as a mediator for us; sent the Holy Spirit so we would not be left on our own… “And He did it all for me…”

Is coming again to take us to live with Him and see the heavenly Father… “And He did it all for me…”

Covers us with grace upon grace upon grace upon grace with love so infinite… “And He did it all for me…”

Therefore, beloved, be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10) and offer thanksgiving and praise believing that “He did it all for me.”

Grow in His grace; Live in His love; Pray in His power; Stand in His strength!

~Gwyn Ensley

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

You Are Invited...

You are invited to join us in a transforming journey that leads to a life fully devoted to Jesus, every day!  Join us these next 40 days as we face lifestyle issues of sin and complacency, as we spend more time in prayer and Bible reading, as we engage in authentic worship.  You are invited to be intentional... intentional about a season of prayer and spiritual awakening.

"Connect. Grow. Serve."  We believe these three actions begin to describe what an intentional Christ follower looks like.  The goal for personal renewal and spiritual awakening is a life that is fully engaged in the mission of Jesus.  He gave His life in exchange for the broken and sinful lives of the whole world.  His resurrection from the dead guaranteed that we are eternal people sent to share that good news with every person.  When we are sincerely connected, growing and serving, we are participating in His command to make disciples.  If one of the three actions is missing in our lives, we are out of balance and not fully engaged.  To say it another way: life is too short and too precious for us to waste a single day, a single conversation.

The rush of daily life interrupts our spiritual focus.  Many of us lack a simple plan to bow our heads and hearts each morning or evening.  We hope that this 40 day devotional will be used as a tool to help initiate a plan... a spiritual renewal in our heads, in our hearts, in our church.  The goal is for us to be encouraged by the thoughts and insights of our brothers and sisters who share our desire to have more intimacy with Christ.

Our challenge to you is that you would take advantage of the morning, the evening, or lunch time to read the devotion of the day.  Pick a time that fits your schedule and be intentional about your spiritual connection to Jesus.

Let's do this together!  Join us as we take these steps toward a deeper relationship with our Creator!