Community

Until the last few months, I had forgotten one of the wonderful ways God has blessed me. Since I first began my intimate relationship with Him, I have been blessed with a wonderful church family. Some will call it community. I've always had a pastor who was a true shepherd. I've always been involved in small groups. My favorite is prayer, praise and worship. Spending time with God is THE BEST!

Then, I moved to Sanford. God allowed me to "make the rounds" going from one body to the next. I always left feeling empty. Praise & Worship was often a time to put on a show or just plain show off. I felt prayer was a time to use catchy phrases rather than a heartfelt cry or joyful praise to my Father. Very few times I was welcomed by an individual member. Even fewer times I was contacted by an individual member.

Then, when I was finished wandering, God brought me to Rise. I have felt welcome from the first moment I stepped through the door. That very day I was invited to a gathering. Since then, I've been honored and blessed to get to know and love become a part of the Risers! Tuesday evening prayer has been such a blessing. A wonderful time to get to know my church family, their needs and desires and their joys and praise reports. I've been honored to grow with these brothers and sisters.

More recently, Derek and I have hosted some Sunday afternoons of Praise, Worship and Prayer. The origin of this group of brothers and sisters is the core of Distributed Rock an outreach to Scotland and hopefully places beyond.

These afternoons have reminded me how very important family is. Family is who lifts up our heads when we feel defeated. They are the ones who hold our hands when we feel we can't take another step. Family prays for me, encourages me, loves me when I'm unlovable and reminds me that God loves me no matter what!

If you aren't part of a church family and/or small group, I urge you to ask God about it. Tuesday evenings and especially the two Sunday afternoons a month, we really "have church"!! I believe we experience what the early church experienced. I know I get to experience God and the Holy Spirit in a way I had forgotten. I am so very grateful to be in community with my church family! You will be too!! If you would like more information about either of these, please do not hesitate to ask me. Or, you may contact Derek, Roddy or Connie.
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