Joy in the Journey

Yesterday I shared the celebration of The Crossing's 10-year anniversary.  As the Women's Ministries launched the Lord brought precious cohorts to help me.  One of the first and sweetest was my friend, Joy.  We met shortly before the first Sunday service at a women's Bible study. Joy volunteered to help in anyway I needed, but she wanted to always be behind the scenes.  Ha!  Jesus so had different plans for Joy.

We started the women's ministries with a Bible study. Then to welcome women who were new to the church we  held a newcomer's coffee--Mugs and Muffins.  (Of course, we were all new.  It was a church plant.)  I will never forget that I asked Joy to read a devotional. Her hands were shaking so hard that she could barely read it.

Alas, her husband switched jobs and moved my friend to Phoenix after only six months.  I was heartbroken and a bit angry at God and her husband.  But God saw a bigger vision than what I did.  Joy was only in Phoenix about a month before she became the Women's Ministries director of a new large church plant.  As an obedient servant to the Most High God Joy stepped out in faith.  She led Bible studies. Joy spoke at retreats.  Everything that she feared she faced. 

That was 10 years ago.  Our friendship has endured the time and the distance.  Joy has brought joy to my journey.  I can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for the two of us during the next 10 years.

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27:9 NIV)

 
Travel Mercies,

The Journey Began

Ten years ago, I began a new journey.  Mark and I were part of a church plant called  The Crossing here in Las Vegas.  It's hard to believe that it was 10-years ago, but this past Sunday we celebrated our 10-year anniversary.  (I guess we can't even be called a "church plant" any longer.)

I was on staff for several years as the Women's Ministries director.  I have fond memories of launching Bible studies and MOPs.  We held retreats, teas, and even a Valentine Spa.  Fun stuff.  Jesus showed up and did some amazing things in women's life--miracles actually.

The Lord gave me two Scriptures when we began.

Then will all your people be righteous and they will possess the land forever. They are the shoot I have planted, the work of my hands, for the display of my splendor. (Isaiah 60:21 NIV)
 
My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ,
in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:2-3 NIV)
 
On Sunday I watched women, whose lives have been transformed, worship the Lord God Almighty. He had fulfilled these words of promise, hope, and redemption.  His daughters rejoiced in His faithfulness.


Today I thank God for having had the privilege to journey along side of my pastors, Shane and Scott. Along with my dear friend, Connie and the other women who served on the women's leadership team.
 
Rejoicing,

And God Shows Up

God cares about His girls.  This past weekend God showed up for His 400 girls in Williams, Arizona.  The retreat was held at the Young Life Camp.   The facility is absolutely amazing. 

Lots of girls means lots of laughter.  The shrieks that issued from the zipline and the swinging chair made me crack-up.  (I have to admit I wasn't brave enough to attempt either.) 
Then the music...how do I even begin to describe Hosanna.  Five women who can sing like angels and with the ability to bring women right to the throne room of God.  And God looked down and smiled on us. His Holy Presence enveloped us.

Even in our laughter, especially when I said, "thong of women" instead of  "throng of women" I believe every woman was touched in some new and personal way by Jesus.  He challenged us in so many ways, but especially to go out and share our personal stories, so that others can learn of the grace and mercy of Jesus.  Each of our lives are miracles.  Can I hear an amen?

Women of Arizona you blessed my Vegas heart!