Focused on the Big Picture

So many times, I am so focused on the now that I can't possibly concentrate on the direction God is leading for the future. I am realizing that I have been in just such a mode. Just as in any incorrect thinking, realizing I have a problem is the first step toward heading in the right direction.

Our new Leadership Team is taking some things off of me that will give me more time to focus on the big picture... direction for Riverside in the future. God is moving in so many wonderful ways. He is changing lives all around.

God is stirring up some things in my heart that I know will not be easy to achieve. But when God leads us to do something, there sometimes is no "easy button." Although sometimes difficult because we have to change, God's way is the way to go every time. That's where we are headed!

Sad Week

This last week has been hard. One of my good friends and neighbor, Terry Terranova, passed away. He was 92 years old so he had a good, long life. Ms. Gerry, his wife, is left to navigate life without him. They had been married 59 years. That is a long time! Pray for the Terranova family and Ms. Gerry in particular. Pray for opportunities for us to minister to her and the rest of our neighbors.

God just keeps opening up great things at Riverside. Though I have not been an active participant, groups of Riversideians are going to the highways and byways to take blankets and other warm essentials to our city's homeless. It's a great time for it considering the freezing temperatures at night these days.

God continues to bring many new families to Riverside through relationships. What a great way to grow the Kingdom. God's way. Time to go.... Have a great week!

I'm Lovin it!

I love what I do. It's sometimes hard, sometimes frustrating, and sometimes I want to quit but I love it. When you are doing exactly what God has prepared for you, you can't help but love it! Even though much of it is hard, most of it is fulfilling and rewarding. When God is living through you as you, you get to see God do a lot of great stuff.

Point: This week I've had to have a hard discussion with someone.
Counterpoint: This week I was there when God brought two children into His Kingdom
Point: We've recently had to make some tough financial decisions that affect people.
Counterpoint: I was able to meet with our two newest members, Mike and Jackie, and enjoy sharing the mission and vision God has given us. And I just enjoyed talking to them.

You see, it's not all fun and games but it is an exciting life! I'm lovin it!

Happy New Year (How Original!)

Everyone is wishing each other a "Happy New Year." In general, people are wishing each other well for the new year. At this time of year, I get very reflective. I look back on what God has done in the past year and look ahead to what He has in store for 2009.

2008 was a year of great transition for Riverside. God's mission and vision are piercing the hearts of members. God is using the body at Riverside to reach out to a hurting world.

One big challenge that was accomplished in 2008 was the passage of our new constitution and bylaws. These changes will free us to do ministry in a more productive and efficient manner.

The US (and world) economy tanked in 2008. This provides challenges for God's people as we remain faithful in hard economic times. 2009 will be full of challenges.

2009 promises to be a year of faith and great challenges. God is showing me that we need to effectively keep our focus on Him and allow Him to use us to reach others. 2009 is going to be great! Are you part of the uprising of God's people? if not, why not?