Saturday morning update: OH MY WORD, YOU GUYS! THIS TURNED OUT TO BE ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS EVER ON THIS BLOG! SO MUCH FUN! You guys are incredibly interesting. I am knocked out right now with a sense of awe that God would allow me to interact with you. I have tons of respect for you guys. Keep doing the thing and keep resisting the cookie cutter despite the (Christian??) social pressure. You are much more interesting this way. Just hold close to Jesus and don’t let being different become it’s own pretense or attention-getter. Keep that gorgeous authenticity that makes this community my favorite cyber spot on earth. Good grief, I am so thankful for y’all.
Hey, everybody! It’s been a long time since we’ve done a survey to see who God has brought together to form this sisterhood. It’s a blast not only to behold our common bonds in Christ but to revel in our diversity as a community of very different people committed to one glorious Savior. We’d be bored stiff if we only opened our hearts and lives to those who are just like us. If we have to line up exactly on about 100 points of doctrine, we are liable to get pretty lonely. We don’t even necessarily have to work out a difference to our mutual satisfaction to treat one another with mutual esteem and to honestly love one another. Always preferring someone remarkably similar across the table from us still smells a lot like Narcissus. We may even be fooling ourselves but, at the end of the day, it’s just another form of mirror gazing. Gross.
When I get to see a group of you out there after a Living Proof Live, I always wish I could freeze the moment and stare at each of you one by one. It is the most incredibly refreshing sight. You cannot fathom how different we look in person, all banded together in a holy huddle. It makes me so dang happy. It is clear in that context that we were drawn together by something so far removed from packaging. You and I know that is Jesus. Oh, how I pray that God smiles when He drops in on this community, holds time tightly in His hand, and stares at each of us one by one.
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:11-12
OK! What do you say we do a survey? Complete each of the following as succinctly as possible. Lindsee and I will LOVE bringing these in. Let’s do this today for the pure Jesus-joy of celebrating community!
1. Your name and where you live.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
5. What is your #1 hobby?
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am ___________________________________________________________________.
1. Christina Grimm-York, Pa
2. 41
3. When I was 5 I accepted Jesus into my heart at a neighborhood bible school. It was at my best friends house and we still talk several times a week.
4. Although I feel God pushing me towards sharing my life stories for his ministry. I am writing the books first:) The reality of my life now has me working part time for the city and going to school part time to be a dental hygientist.
5. Reading and listening to a real good sermon. Music and nature are very high on my list as well.
6. Ive been a nomad with church in the past couple years after getting divorced 4 years ago. I am now remarried and we are searching for a church we can serve in.
7. I have 2 little stinkers! Mags is a 8yr old jack russel that thinks the world was made just for her and Sadie, she is 6 year old a Shi Tzu that thinks she is a cat. lol
8. My step son was very happy and excited about my marraige to his dad this summer but his mother has completely turned him against us(because she hates that we are christians and happy) and now he wont speak to his father at all. Its called PAS and at 16 theres not much we can do but pray.
My biggest elation right now is that my 17 yr old daughter is her senior class president, homecoming court and wants to further her education and become a dermotologist.
9. A perfect Saturday for me would be relaxing somewhere with all of our kids- other than home where I would want to clean and do laundry!
10.Only people who really know me realize that I am a struggler in many areas of bondage but honetly wants more than anything to be completely free so that I can serve the Lord and do big things for and with him.
1.Sherry, Smithville, Missouri.
2. I am 55 soon to be 56.
3.I accepted the Lord at 10, 22; and at 36! But is was at 36 in full surrender, I experienced first hand the grace and mercy of God- I have not been the same since.
4. I am an instructional assistant in the autism room at a high school.
5.I love working out ( call me crazy!) reading and having coffee with friends.
6. I am invested in the ROCK of KC ! Love it!
7. I have an Australian Shepard who comforts me when I am crying and rejoices with me when I am up!
8. My daughter has made some decisions that have broken my heart, trying to live her way not God’s way/I can see God working to bring her back !!!
9.The perfect Saturday is sleeping in, having an amazing time with Jesus, going for a good run and getting together with friends for dinner then talking around a bonfire!
10.Only people who really know me know the struggle I have believing that I am worthy to receive all that Jesus has for me…..
1. Michelle O’Neal Chesapeake Virginia
2. 48
3. Northern Virginia (Cornerstone Chapel) 2001
4. Paralegal
5. Yoga
6. River Oak Church Chesapeake, Virginia
7. Two (2) dogs Jack (Kangaroo Jack O’Neal) Dani (Danielle O’Neal-name after my step dad Danny who passed away)
8. Disappointment-wanted to take an amazing vacation in June for my 30th wedding anniversary but funds would not permit it this year (I know I’m pretty blessed if that’s all I have) Elation-My five (5) year tests came back clear (I’m a breast cancer survivor)
9. Watching the sun rise while I’m walking on the beach (my second favorite place to be with the Lord Jesus Christ), then to church with my entire family, lunch and laughter with my family, nap :-), nice quiet dinner, get my clothes, lunches together for the week ahead, and get to bed a little early.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that when I grow up 🙂 I want to own a yoga studio and teach women good health through yoga-exercise-healthy eating-sleep etc. in a humbly-positive way that shines the light of Jesus as I love every single one of them…oh and I like Starbucks Chai tea with a shot of espresso.
That was fun! Michelle
1. Shelly, Wausa, Nebraska (rural farming area in NE Nebraska)
2. 41
3. This is something I so wish I remember in detail, but I can only be confident that it was in junior high youth group. I was then born again and started TRULY living for Christ 10 years ago, at a seminar on the Holy Spirit. That moment shall never be forgotten!
4. I like to call myself the Queen of the 8-Story House. In simpler terms, I am a stay-at-home Mom to 6 kids.
5. ministry/volunteerism
6. Evangelical Covenant Church, Wausa, NE
7. We have 1 Lhatese housedog, 10 farm cats, and 2 water turtles.
8. My biggest dissapointment is that I cannot stop worrying about finances and our persistent lack thereof. My biggest elation is watching my husband grow in His faith…and become consumed with it, in fact.
9. DH works 6 days a week, so I suppose a perfect saturday would be one that he didn’t work and we did something as a family, whether at home or out somewhere.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am chronically insecure.
1. Your name and where you live. Casey Springer, Murray Ky
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 35
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? I was 11 and in my bedroom by myself. My parents were not believers.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I am a stay home mom in school finishing up a degree in Eng/Hist to teach middle and high school students.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
reading/writing
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
yes Hardin Baptist Church
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. We just lost our Boxer to cancer, a ST Bernard and a yorkie. We also have a very loud bird any my son and daughter both have reptilian friends.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. family issues/knowing graduation is right around the corner
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.Church/ lunch at Los Portales….the perfect Mexican restaraunt!and then a possible nap time.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am …..incredibly bighearted. Most think I am super tough skinned and I am so not.
Ok I clearly can’t follow directions…the perfect Saturday (not Sunday)! lol
9)My perfect Saturday is sleeping in …at least just past the usual alarm. I go hit the farmers market sans kids and bring home my great finds for the day. They never know what they get to eat for the following meals. I love the rest of the day unstructured…bike rides, a movie, just relaxing as a family.
1. Carolyn, Atlanta
2. 40
3. In 2001 after going through some hard times, though I have known him all my life.
4. I am Alumni Relations Manager at the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation (we are a nonprofit affiliate of The Coca-Cola Company, giving scholarships to H.S. seniors towards their college career.
5. taking pictures/ photo albums
6. Yes, I lead a group of college girls each week through the college ministry at Buckhead Church
7. No ma’am, but I love dogs!
8. Watching my Dad getting worse with his M.S. (that he has had since 1980). Elation= hearing that my sister got us BOX SEATS at the Justin Bieber Concert in St. Louis at the end of this month, and they are letting ME take my 3 nieces to it! Aunt CeeCee is very excited!
9. REST and quiet time with the Lord!
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am a diehard Bieber fan, have led 5 mission trips to Spain AND that I love investing in other people’s lives.
1. Darla – Medford, Oregon
2. 58
3. When I was 12 at a church revival
4. Office Manager at a Performing Arts Theater
5. Reading and Scrapbooking (oh dear, that’s two!)
6. Tablerock Fellowship
7. Yes, a Bichon/Maltese named Gabby! A white fluff ball.
8. Disappointment; that we didn’t get raises at work AGAIN. Elation; that we did get a bonus so I can get some work done on my kitchen that I have been waiting for 10 years to have done!!
9. A perfect Saturday would be a relaxing morning with my dog, my Bible/journal, and good coffee, then walking somewhere beautiful with my dog, no errands to run, catching up on the phone with a couple good friends and then spending the evening with my best friend in town. (I live alone)
10. Only people who really know me know my life’s experiences and how they have affected me and also know that I am a person of depth and passion.
1. Christy – Hahira, GA
2. 40
3. Raised a Christian, loved Jesus for as long as I can remember. Have had several soul shaking experiences that remind me of my personal relationship with Jesus (all of which have occurred outside in nature).
4. Professor and academic administrator (I do all the compliance reporting and process improvement stuff no one else wants to do).
5. Gosh golly, I can’t pick just one! Reading, scuba diving, and anything creative (knitting, papercraft, etc).
6. Park Avenue United Methodist Church
7. Maggie a little black shiztu and Gracie a beautiful white cat
8. Family member being disrespectful to my mama / seeing new pictures of my darling nephew.
9. Up early, biscuits for breakfast, back to bed with a good book and a late morning nap, lunch with a dear girlfriend, finishing a sewing project, working on Bible Study, a new pair of shoes, seafood for dinner.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am much more introverted than I appear.
Is it too late to play? I hope not. 🙂
1. Lydia, Alabama.
2. 29 for the FIRST time. 🙂
3. I was five. My dad was a vocational evangelist at the time (he has since gone into full-time church ministry) and I used to get into trouble for playing during the invitation. One night when he gave the invitation I knew I wanted to accept Jesus. But, later, Dad found me crying outside of the sanctuary. He asked why I was crying and I said, “I was scared, because you told me not to get up from that pew.” He told me that it was OK and I didn’t have to wait for another service. He led me to the Lord in the vestibule outside of that sanctuary. So thankful for Godly parents!
4. I work at the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, I’m in school as well getting my Master’s of Divinity in Women’s Studies at New Orleans.
5. I love theme parks, carnivals and fairs. I’d chase them all the time if I could afford it.
6. Yes, but praying through some difficult situations there.
7. A sweet cat named Oscar who was a rescue pet. So affectionate, smart and STUBBORNLY curious.
8. Disappointment–going through a tough rejection only to find out that I was lied to when it was someone I truly trusted. Elation–God blessing me with the job of my dreams!!!
9. Perfect Saturday–I wake up at my leisure, eat a bowl of cheezy grits with my parents, and zap myself to the nearest roller coaster. 🙂
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am timid. I come across as bold, but most people don’t realize how LONG it takes me to muster courage.
Dear Beth,
I feel like I am writing to a friend, since I have been through a number of Bible studies with you. As a “friend”‘, I hope I can speak honestly, since I am feeling a little hurt today.
The study group I attend is interdenominatonal. We girls are Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Catholics, and even Greek Orthodox, amd some of us are not affiliated at all. Our first rule, is that we NEVER argue about doctrine. We bind ourselves as sisters in Christ by our commonalities, which are far more numerous and powerful than our differences. I love this group of women, and I am much closer to my God for having known them.
This time around we are studying JAMES, MERCY TRIUMPHS. I was a little startled by the notion that, as a Catholic, I was being asked to entertain the notion that Jesus had siblings, but our church teaches that Joseph, who was probably older than Mary, might have been married and had other children before Jesus was even born….so I could deal with that. What hurt a bit was Meliissa’s commentary on Luther, and her statement that “As Protestants, we inherited our theological impulse to keep law and gospel as opposites…”. We who are on the other side of that camera are not all Protestants. The result of this statement was to add doctrinal differences to the mix. So sad and unnecessary!
I am so proud of all my Christian sisters at our Bible study. They are a living lesson in love. I hope that in publishing future studies, you will consider deleting material that by its nature, divides. As I said before, we have the greatest, most beautiful commonality….Jesus! Let’s concentrate on that.
Thanks for listening, Beth. You are an amazing women with an equally amazing daughter. You have my love and appreciation for all you have added to my journey.
Sincerely,
Carolyn
1. Elizabeth Baehr Columbia, MO
2. 35
3. I was 7 when I realized how blessed I was and what God had done for me.
4. I am CFO at my husband’s law firm
5. I love tailgating at Mizzou’s football games
6. Woodcrest Church Columbia, MO
7. 2 cats, 1 yellow lab
8. disappointment-family moving away/elation-making a new friend
9. Perfect Saturday-PJ DAY lounging at home, reading books, drinking coffee
10. Only people who know my realize that I am a wreck!!
1. Your name and where you live.
Leah, Athens, TN
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
26
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
April, 2005
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Teach at private christian school
4th grade LATIN
5th and 6th grade Anatomy and Physiology
7th grade Earth Science
9th grade Health and Physical Science
5. What is your #1 hobby?
watching old movies from the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Church of God
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
none
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
first date in my life, He never called back / being in the Prayer chapel for the Walk to Emmaus in cleveland, TN
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
cold, cuddled under a blanket with hot cocoa watching White Christmas and Holiday Inn.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
an avid fan of old things
1. Chrissy, San Tan Valley, Arizona
2. Ha ha. Just turned 40, and happy about it.
3. When I was 14. Grabbed my mom’s hand and we both walked the aisle and said yes to Jesus together.
4. Pastor’s wife, mom of three almost grown, lanky, soon-to-be men, Women’s Ministry Director in the church we planted 8 years ago.
5. Reading. Wish I could get paid to read all day long.
6. Epic Christian Church, San Tan Valley, Arizona.
7. Mini poodle, Scuddles, and 6 month old Patches, my new kitty.
8. Biggest Disappointment- life is always hard. Biggest Elation- Jesus keeps on providing what I need to face each day.
9. Sandy beach, crashing waves, cool breeze, a book, and great company.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am… bound to laugh at anything and everything when I am tired and running past empty.
1. Tammy–Sedalia, MO
2. 49 and hanging on tight until the day after Christmas
3. 11 at a good ole’ fashion revival
4. High School Counselor
5. Reading/Pinterest!
6. First Baptist Church, Sedalia
7. No pets, not enough quality time to give them
8. Disappointment?/Husband was named chairman of deacons (and I once had to strongly urge him to go to church)!
9. Perfect Saturday: Sweats, tv college football, and potato soup
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am very shy which leads to some anxiety. (Jesus helps me hide it pretty well).
1. Amy- Georgia
2. 30’s
3. Somewhere around 10 but rededicated my life when I was
31 while attending Believing God
4. Admin Assistant
5. Bible Study
6. Not really but I attend bible study at a Christian Church- Bible study
7. No furry friends.
8. I allowed myself to be hurt by people. God saved me from something huge. His WORD is everything. And He brought a wonderful friend in my life.
9. Cold winter day, snow or rain, fire, warm husband, good food, bible study, Christmas music, Christmas tree, and a cozy bed.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I have been a broken and insecure girl that has been redeemed (Freed) by Jesus. (I am not shy about telling this but only those really close to me know the continuing battle.)
1. Your name and where you live. Crystal/Sacramento, CA
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 47
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? In 1997 on my knees in my living room.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) Health care manager for the State of CA.
5. What is your #1 hobby? – Hiking
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? – Yes, Bayside of South Sacramento
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. – One Border Collie mix called Freckles. Too cute. One female and one male cat.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. – My dear friends separation from her husband & my cat dying from Cancer/My other cat surviving a health crisis
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. – a hike in the mountains or a busy weekend or working out and then heading to the farmers market for some healthy fresh local food on a relaxing weekend.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am weird in a good way (smile).
1. Hannah, Pleasant Hill, Missouri.
2. 24
3. I accepted Jesus when I was six years old in a Sunday morning church service. It was the first time I remember ever really engaging and listening to our pastor and he was preaching about Jesus coming as a baby (it was the week before Christmas). I recognized that I was a sinner and I needed Christ to save and forgive me, so I asked right then and there in my own words in my own 6 year old faith.
4. I currently am an administrative assistant to an office of financial advisors. I also create blinged out custom monogram cake toppers and sell them on Etsy – crafting is my happy place!
5. Exercise – The biggest work the Lord has done in my life in the last 3 years has been to impress upon me that my body and desires have to be disciplined. I made a commitment to Him that I would honor Him and the body He gave me through regular exercise for the rest of my life. He has blessed me because the benefits have been incredible and I absolutely love it!
6. Yes we are currently serving at Eagle Creek Church in Lee’s Summit, MO.
7. Stella is our 1 year old miniature schnauzer. We met and picked her out literally the day she was born, and I am so crazy about her it’s a little pathetic!
8. Biggest disappointment – one of my dear, favorite friends announced last week that they are moving back home to California. I’m so sad because I really envisioned us all starting families and living close for years to come. Biggest elation – My two sisters recently found out that they are both expecting babies in the spring!
9. perfect Saturday is going to a fun coffee shop & farmer’s market with my hubs, then playing with my schnauzer baby and dinner at a quaint, local restaurant with friends.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am a stuffer. I tend to act like nothing bothers me, but really I’m about to explode inside. It’s not always pretty!
1. Alicia, Orlando FL
2. 26
3. Jesus bacame my Savior at 14, during youth group – I went bc I liked a boy. He and I didn’t work out, but I got something much better out of it 🙂 He didn’t become my Lord, however, until age 19.
4. I’m a grant-writer/copy writer/novice graphic design for a homeless shelter in downtown Orlando
5. on a daily basis: following blogs, reading, writing. grander scale hobbies: dancing, kayaking, adventures, writing, completing my “30 before 30” bucket list!
6. Harvest Bible Chapel of Orlando
7. No – I thought I could handle a beta fish, but it died. So I tried a plant – it died too. Lord help me when I have children.
8. Biggest disappointment: I long for my homestate of Indiana. It’s a state you don’t miss except if you are from there I guess – but wow, I do miss it so. That’s not a disappointment except that returning there isn’t in the plans at this time. / Biggest elation: I’m going kayaking this weekend!! And the Lord is uprooting some deep-seeded fears. Slowly (sometimes painfully) I am becoming who He made me to be.
9. Sleeping in (meaning 8am) and going on a run. Then making a huge breakfast and spending time with the Lord on my patio. Then doing something fun with my husband for the rest of the day!
10 Only people who really know me realize that my humor takes a moment to get used to … and that I want to love the Lord and serve Him and do grand-slam things for the kingdom … but also feel tempted to give up to insecurity, self-pity, and fear.
“Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)” thanks for putting that in there. I needed to read that today.
My name is Heather, I’m 35 and live in Richland, WA. I accepted Christ at the tender age of 5, after Sunday School one week. I am mom to my 2 girls, and work as a substitute teacher at their school a few days a week. We have a new pup, Johnny Cash, and he’s a Morkie (Maltese/Yorkie).
My #1 hobby seems to be Beth Moore bible studies ;). My family and I attend Bethel Church in Richland and I teach pre-school Sunday School class, and my husband and I are small group leaders.
We are adopting from China at the moment, so my biggest elations/disappointments seem to circle around those ups and downs. So excited for what’s to come, frustrated with cost and paperwork. A recent perfect Saturday for me was the Simulcast with close girlfriends and great food!
Only people that really know me realize that I am fearful of many things – but striving to remedy that with the great ‘forsake and take’!
1. Shelley, Birmingham, AL
2. 31
3. I accepted Jesus when I was 9. It was during a revival at my home church. I was baptized the next week.
4. school teacher
5. reading a good book (when I have time)
6. Yes, The Church at Brook Hills
7. no pets
8. Biggest recent disappointment: my 100 year old great grandmother just passed away last week. Happy that she’s now with the Lord, sad she’s not with us.
9. perfect Saturday: spend the day with my husband and 14 month old son either around the house getting things done, go to the park, zoo, etc…
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am a worrier. I try to act like I don’t worry about things, but deep inside I really do. I’m probably more of a worrier than I actually think I am.
1. Maria Mukrdechian, Macomb, MI
2. 54
3. Receive Jesus September 22, 1992 at 10pm. Alone in my living room contemplating if I should die this night I would not be in heaven because of my sin. I got on my knees and asked forgiveness….guess who showed up after I repented? Yep and took away a 15 year cigarette habit right there on the spot. No withdrawal. Glory to His Name!!
4. Sr. Project Buyer for a Tier 1 Automotive Supplier. Part of the project team who manages all the suppliers with negotiating all contracts, pricing, delivery, etc…and problem solve any issues that would drive higher costs. Great pay, interesting job, but not my heart. Working with Jesus on following my dream.
5. I love scrapbooking. Making scrapbooks for my sons of all the times Jesus showed up. We have to leave our legacy to our children/grandbabies!!
6. I love my church Eastside Vineyard.
7. No pets….and i love them… I work and would feel awful leaving them alone all day. Looking forward to have it in retirement.
8. Disappointment: I lived in NYC for 2 1/2 years. Rented out my house and just took back ownership. The front and backyard was trashed. The grass looked like a desert. All the landscaping etc ruined. Elation: My four sons all showed up the next morning to help me get things in order. Acutally, they all have been working every week to help me get the rest of the house in order as well.
8. Perfect Saturday: Get up, meet a friend for breakfast; go out into the country and look at all the beautiful fall colors and/or going to some type of colonial town or fair. Come home, light those candles and snuggle on the couch with a good book.
9. Only people that really know me realize that when I am not talking something is wrong.
1.LuAnn, Winfield, Iowa
2. 48
3. I accepted Jesus at a bible study almost 20 years ago. One I guilted my friend into inviting me to. It’s a LONG story. (grin)
4.I’m a bookkeeper for 3 small business including the one my husband, our son and I run together.
5. I dearly love a good book, shopping or spending time with family & friends.
6. New Song Christian Life Church, Lowell, Iowa, a small body of faithful believers.
7. Jake – my 5 year old golden retriever. LOVE him!:o)
8.It’s both all rolled into one – saying goodbye to my Dad in the “long goodbye” after a serious stroke 2 years ago. It’s is at times unbearable to watch him slip away and yet we have enjoyed some of the sweetest moments in our relationship since his stroke.
9.My perfect Saturday – it’s a toss up between running away from home with my husband of nearly 30 years, curling up with a good book or movie or both and a cup of Chia. & Shopping with girlfiends or doing anything with my girlfriends. Did I say I love my girlfriends?
10.Only people who really know me, know that I struggle with being insecure. That my outgoing nature is kinda of a cover up for insecurities but as I mature in the Lord, it’s becoming more and more of a statement of God’s redeeming grace and love to allow me to become who I am made to be.
Hope it’s not too late!
1.Amy, Osceola, AR
2.38
3.I was saved 2 days before my 9th birthday during a revival at a little country church where my sweet Daddy was leading the singing that week. I remember it like it was yesterday! April 7, 1983
4.I am a full time home school mom/office manager of my husband’s family’s business: used car sales, mini storage, and rental property
5. Hobby right now is running. Great stress releiver! Running my first half marathon in 3 weeks! Yikes!
6. Member of Keiser First Baptist Church, Keiser, AR; teach children on Wed night and young ladies SS class.
7. Pets: 2 turtles, CJ and Peppy We just rescued 5 puppies and recently found homes for ALL of them. That’s a big ol’ praise the Lord! We want another dog someday, but this momma is not ready for anything else to care for right now.
8.Biggest disappointment: It hurts too much to even type it. Biggest elation: Seeing my sweet children “get” when the Lord teaches them something all on their own. Worth. It. ALL.
9.Perfect Sat: Early morning run with my SIL, lunch at a fab restaurant, playing with my boys, catching a BAMA football game in the evening. Roll Tide!
10.Only people who really know me realize that I look like I’ve got it all together on the outside, but inside I am going through one of the most difficult times of my life. Trying to stay strong, be patient, and wait on the Lord to do what I cannot. Wears a girl down. BUT, He has a perfect purpose and with Him I can ride the storm out until the Son shines again!
1. Shawn, Tampa, FL.
2. 33
3. in 9th grade; during religion class (private school)
4. What line of work are you in? High school teacher & athletic trainer
5. #1 hobby: crafts
6. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tampa, FL
7. No pets
8. struggles at school/ growth in small group (knowledge, frienships_
9. perfect saturday: hanging with family watching college football game on cool day
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am more concerned about a situation than I let others know.
1. Lynda Harkins, Monterey,California
2. 53
3. Age 6, North Phoenix Baptist Church
4. Director of Children’s Ministry, Carmel Presbyterian Church
5. Lunching with my hubby! (I know it doesn’t sound like a hobby but, it’s what I spend most of my time doing that I love!)
6. Carmel Presbyterian Church
7. No pets currently
8. Getting to baptize kids in the Pacific Ocean at Carmel Beach!!
9. Spending the day with my man!
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am working on my “snarky” attitude. Trying to tame that tongue!
1. Your name and where you live.
Patricia Kern – Kearney, MO
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
57 – I think. 🙂 I really don’t keep track.
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
I accepted Jesus as a very young child while listening to a sermon by Rev. Manning Miller in the Methodist Church in Kansas City, Mo, but I rededicated my life to Jesus as a young woman.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I’m a fundraising consultant.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Reading. Love to read, always have.
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
First Baptist Church, Kearney, Mo.
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
MoMo, our 16 lb. Cat. Love us some MoMo.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Dealing with family changes / enjoying my young adult children and grandchildren and the privilege of praying for every one of them by name each morning, just like my mom and dad did for us.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
7A-cup of coffee and quiet house
8A-hubby gets a back rub as we plan our day
8:30 A – one grand child joins us for ‘errands’ – a one hour time for us with that child one-on-one.
9:30A-cleaning house, laundry, and all things home-related
Noon-lunch or the grocerty
Afternoon-cooking or napping or just enjoying the time to do nothing at all.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
…recharged by quiet time alone. I must be extroverted for my calling/work/life but I need quiet time to focus. I think most don’t know that about me, and that’s fine too. 🙂
Thanks for asking! I love the Bible Studies and worship times I’ve had with and through LPM for more than 10+ years. I am blessed indeed. Thank you for being my blessing.
1. Lavonda — Woodstock, Georgia
2. 42
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior? 7 years old, kneeling in front of my grandmama’s recliner. My grandmother, Minnie Ola, led me to the Lord… she’s been my spiritual rock my entire life, til God took her Home 6 years ago. She still is too…it’s amazing how a love that deep and unconditional can stay lingering and palpable in your heart, long after you’ve been apart.
4. What line of work are you in? I’m a physical therapist who’s currently a stay at home mom, part-time sports/professional photographer, and an Army wife. Planning to go back to physical therapy in the spring part-time to help make ends meet a little better.
5. What is your #1 hobby? taking pictures, and reading
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? First Baptist Woodstock
7. Do you have pets?
Jenni, a yellow lab mix rescued as a puppy (9 years old)
Josie, a golden retriever (1 year old) <— SO MUCH PUPPY FUN
Katy, a 5 lb maltese ((5 years old)
*honorable mention goes to my daughter's hamster, Chloe Bell. They're only supposed to live a year I'm told, and she's almost 2.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation:
disappointment — something my 15 year old son struggled with recently
elation — the way he came to me, broken, overcame it, and has re-focused his life on God. even takes his Bible to school to read Proverbs and take notes from it in his down time, and is talking about starting a teen Bible study in his public high school. (praying for Boldness for him to carry out the desire of his heart)
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday: sleeping in, homemade waffles/pancakes with the kids, cool fall or spring weather, going to one of the kids' games, sitting outside together, then having friends over for dinner (and if there's a football game on tv even better!)
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am joyful and happy on the outside while horribly scarred -but healed- on the inside. All credit to Jesus. 🙂
1. Candace – TX
2. 30
3. When I was a little kiddo in Sunday school during altar call
4. Stay at home mom, homeschooling my kiddos and just started a blog on faith and healthy living
5. I don’t have a number 1. I like books and gardening, surfing the web, coffee with my hubby
6. Yes, my church, a faith-filled homeschooling group, and a group of faith friends from different churches
7. A westie named Sugar. She has been a great dog. She is going to be 14 this year:(
8. A diagnosis/people who are living life to the full
9. Morning coffee outside (in enjoyable weather) with my hubby, a devotional led by my hubby (also outside), random but longer than usual conversation with my hubby while my kiddos show off their amazing trampoline skills and beg us to watch every move. Then more time with my hubby:)
10. In such a hard place in life. Leaning on Jesus with everything I’ve got.
1. Johannesburg, South Africa
2. 28
3. Fully understood age 15, surrended my life to Him
4. Full-time Youth Director and full time Christian Psychology student
5.Singing! Spending quality time with whomever I’m spending that time with
6.Lyndhurst Baptist Church
7.No pets
8. Disappointment: not quite sure where I stand with a guy I really like/ elation: seeing the work that God is doing in the lives of my youth girls, such healing and restoration
9. Rain, a good book or movie with my family/ coffee with friends and good conversation
10. That I’m not as together as I seem to be
1. Kim, Atlanta, GA
2. 41
3. 1/9/91; College
4. Homeschooling mom; Therapist
5. Jazzercise
6. The Church of Christ at Bouldercrest
7. 1 Husky (Jazz)
8. Betrayal by someone I thought was a friend/Being able to come home and take care of my kids in the manner God had been leading me to
9. AM Devotion/Bible Study – AM Jazzercise class – bubble bath – Family outing – Quiet time with a book or classic movie + hot chocolate – an evening siesta (everyone in the house) – home date time with my honey (i.e. watching football, basketball, the Food Network) – quality sleep
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am a HUGE fan of big band music and a lover of Anne of Green Gables. (Don’t even get me started!!!)
1. Cindy, North Carolina
2. 40
3. 7 years old. At revival with my grandmother. As a young child, I hid in dirty laundry from my abuser. When I heard Pastor say our deeds are as filthy rags, I knew I did not want to be dirty laundry to the perfect Jesus.
4. Medical Research
5. Spending time with my Hubs doing whatever it is he wants to do. So honored to have him and share life with him.
6. Yes. Baptist Church
7. Yes. A Yorkie named Tobi.
8. A rejection/a passed exam
9. At home relaxed with family, a nap, a walk in the fall wtih bright orange leaves.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am so desperate for approval
1. Deanne Hullender, Arlington, TX
2. 47
3. October 12, 1972; I was seven years old on a Sunday night after my best friend’s mom shared the Roman Road with me. Parents had laid the groundwork.
4. 25 years as a School Communications Director, now Director of Instructional Services
5. Spending time with Family
6. First Baptist Church Arlington
7. Yes,dog, Bogie – Maltipoo
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – seeing my precious 82 year old friend suffer the effects of several strokes
your biggest recent elation – when my 16 year old shared that she was not invited to a party because she stood strong against drinking. and she was ok with it!
9. Waking up alone and spending time with the Lord and a perfect cup of coffee; cooking breakfast for the entire family; shopping with my college and teenaged girls; watching college football games and ending the evening with my husband of 23 years over a quiet dinner.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am truly an introvert…and what might seem as standoffish, or rude is really insecurity.
I’m late on this, but…
1. Muscle Shoals, AL
2. 50
3. Revival when I was 10 years old.
4. Career Services at University of North Alabama
5. Reading!
6. Yes, Highland Park Baptist Church – for 18 years!
7. Lost our Shih Tzu of 9 years three years ago. Still miss that dog!
8. Hearing that I needed 3 biopsies / ALL BENIGN! PTL!!!
9. Coffee and quiet time, yoga, a long walk, watching football with my hubby, spending time with my family, chicken stew, reading with my granddaughter before bed.
10. Only people who really know me realize I am always planning my next trip! Paris, here we come!
1. Sheila Keedy ~ Gardendale, AL (5 min. north of Birmingham)
2. 54 & new grandmom :)))
3. 11 yrs old, in church but “rededicated” in 1979 when HE sent me a young man that let me know that despite all my mistakes & horrible choices that God knew everything there was to know about me & loved me anyway. Still in love with Jesus and that young man (wh0’s just a little older!) 30 years later.
4. Director of Women’s Ministry @ Gardendale First Baptist
5. Reading-(that was hard listing one!)
6. Yes,see #4
7. After being afraid of animals all my life, my kids insisted on a pet 11 years ago – now totally in love with Sadie, black lab
8. Disappointment – Political temperament of our country- Elation- first GRANDBABY trumps all!!! Dax Patrick Keedy – Speaking of being in love, overwhelmed, smitten…!!
9. Family, Friends, Tailgating, Football, Crisp air – Grandbaby – that’s a perfect fall Saturday – but ask again in spring, then summer, …. 🙂
10. Only people who know me realize I can be still, calm, patient! 🙂
I tried very hard to give one word answers ~ #bestIcando!
HE is good~
sk 🙂
1. Kelly Cotter, Austin, TX
2. 43
3. 5 yrs old in the front of my church congregation
4. Recording Studio Manager
5. Working out/running
6. Yes, Gateway Church
7. Yes, 3 hermit crabs
8. Tripping backward into a past sin pattern/overcoming it!
9. Being outdoors with my family riding bikes or hiking. And GOBS of laughing!
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am actually an introvert.
1. Your name and where you live. Lisa Garrett, Easley SC
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 52
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? 1973 in our little Methodist Church beside the cotton mill where most of the congregation worked.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) Executive assistant to the Mayor of the City of Easley. I also manage the Easley Farmers Market, and run the Easley Community Garden.
5. What is your #1 hobby? Gardening and crochetting
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? Yes, St. Andrew United Methodist Church, Easley, SC
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. 3 dogs, Sadie, Cub and Belle, all adopted from the animal shelter they are mixed breeds.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. Biggest disappointment: The direction our church seems to be taking, disappointed in their lack of concern for things outside our four walls and the lack of prayer warriors. Biggest elation: Seeing my 20 yr old son preach during the Sunday night contemporary service and seeing him play in the praise band. On 9/16 my daughter was baptized (again) by her own decision (a proud moma!!).
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. A day off!! Our farmers market runs from March 24th until Oct. 27th so I haven’t had a Saturday off all summer.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am very compassionate about helping the hungry of Easley. The goal of the community garden was to help address hunger issues in our town. It breaks my heart to know that children go hungry right here in our small town. I found a good verse in Isaiah 58:7 (message translation) to use as a slogan for our garden.
What I’m interested in seeing you do is:
sharing your food with the hungry,
inviting the homeless poor into your homes,
putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad,
being available to your own families.
Wednesday night we are starting your bible study on James. I am so excited and I hope it will light a fire under some of the good folks at my church. Thank you for being such an inspiration! Lisa Garrett
1. LaRee Walker, Midland, TX
2. 58 years, 8 months, 1 week, 1 day
3. Age 11, regular church service
4. Oil & Gas Industry
5. Surfing the internet–mostly researching
6. Crestveiw Baptist Church
7. Praise the Lord, NO (I am not a pet person~gross.)
8. Human relationships/Relationship with Christ.
9. Breakfast with my children/grandchildren, lunch with my children/grandchildren, dinner with my children/grandchildren, sharing pictures with my firneds. Only people who really know me realize that I am a survivor.
1. Esther Weston, Lancaster county, PA
2. 41
3. Most precious and closest story to my heartbeat but how to put the mystery and profundity of it into words still escapes me…I was 5 and still trying desperately to recover from having been given away by my birth mom at 2 ½ yrs when He found me. My adoption was completed at age 4 when they changed my name. (I love Travis’ song by that title – ‘cept his is “You changed my name “ He sure did!!). I had learned that there was a Heavenly Father who would never leave me or forsake me like my earthly one had. I knew more than I knew almost anything else that I was a sinner. That day I heard a message that included the gospel (He paid the penalty for MY sin and would adopt me as His forever if I just believed Him!) and the powerful notion that He wanted us to let our light shine for Him in dark places. That night from my bedroom window, I looked down the block to the Florida beach (which seemed so extremely far in my little five-year old world) and I put all of the faith my hurting heart could muster into this amazing God that I could not see but I was told loved me, and I promised Him I would let my light shine for Him for as long as I had breath.
4. I have a Masters in Counseling and currently have my own counseling practice in Reading, PA. I also work with under-grad counseling students at Lancaster Bible College (which I LOVE every minute of!) I am currently working with God to hone my calling even more specifically.
5. Reading ….cannot get enough of books (learning – mostly counseling related – Dan Allender etc. ). And friends…..can’t get enough of them either!
6. Absolutely!!! Love the body of Christ. Led the Women’s ministry at my church for 10 years before being called to counseling. Cocalico Community Chapel
7. Two cats, one belonging to my son and one to my daughter…she’s the animal lover. She also has a pony and my husband has his dear coi in his pond which is his hobby.
8. You have no idea how big it is that I found it hard to think of a recent disappointment. Most of my life has been crowded with them. My inability to forge a meaningful relationship with my Father is most recently saddening me/ biggest recent elation? Running Therapy Labs with some awesome students at LBC. Being a part of a budding vision there. Elation’s just the right word!
9. Get some chores done, spend time with my (awesome) kids (Andrew 15, Jenna 11) , walk with my honey, read a book by the pond while he fishes and Jenna rides and I ohh and ahh at all his catches.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am finally living in freedom more often than not.
Beth, I loved spending a brief moment with you at the Sovereign Center after the event. (did that pic get posted somewhere?) That day has marked my journey very profoundly. Your prayer for personal revival was answered at least in me that day. Your prayer over me in addition was exactly an answer to what I had been asking of Him. I was on my face and cried harder than I can ever remember in a public place. You make me a mess sometimes but I’m thankful. You have been a spiritual mother to me in ways that you cannot imagine that I have longed for.
Mrs. Esther,
Your story is a pleasure to read and your writing style is lovely! Thank you for sharing because though I don’t really relate to your life story it warmed my heart to read it. God bless you my sister in Christ for your healing ministry and also for not allowing your faith, even though it came to you at such a young age, to loose its luster.
God bless you so much!
Melia
1. Stephanie Ott – Maumelle, Arkansas.
2. 23
3. In third grade I realized that I was made for more. I grew up in a Christian home and went to a Christian school so after hearing about it enough I decided that’s what I wanted.
4. I am a full-time student at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. I am studying Sign Language Interpreting and Speech Pathology. I am already working part time as an interpreter and will be graduating in May 2013. I also thoroughly love to work as a SSP (Support Service Provider) for the Deaf-Blind community.
5. I am an avid reader so I read whenever I get a chance, but I also dance. I had the privilege and honor of dancing as a full time job last year with a Christian Ballet Company (New Creation Professional Dance Company) and hope to return when I am finished with school for as long as my body will let me.
6. Yes, I attend First Assembly of God in North Little Rock. It’s “the big glass one behind the mall.”
7. I have a dog – a Maltese named Zoe. She will be four next month and she is absolutely my baby.
8. Well – a huge change I just encountered is that God told me not to do the graduate program for Speech Pathology which I never even considered. However – although it bothered me to think I was “giving up” on something, I was extremely relieved when it lessened my work load and stress. I am elated to be on the path God has planned for me.
9. I was actually just having this conversation with a precious friend. My ideal Saturday would be a day where there is no homework to worry about. A day where I could sleep in, get up and enjoy my Jesus and my coffee, take my dog for a walk and then just piddle around the house. A day where I get to do whatever Stephanie wants to. 🙂 ahhh…
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am crazy! At first I feel like I’m kind of quiet, but once you are around me long enough you will see the crazy, loud, girl come out that absolutely LOVES the life she’s been blessed with.
Thank you! 🙂 I enjoy my Living Proof family oh so much.
1. Sarah from Willamette Valley, OR
2. 24
3. When I was about 5, with my parents, at home.
4. Event Coordination specifically in the country music industry.
5. Lots of hobby’s but #1 is reading.
6. Absolutely! Morning Star Community Church in Salem, OR
7. A Dalmatian named Ruger and a Beagle named Remington. I also have my company’s mascot. A small rabbit named McCoy.
8. Elation: working with my church body to put on an outreach country music night show. So fun! Disappointment: closed doors.
9. Sleep in, read a good magazine or book outside in the sun with my dogs, hang out with friends and church in the evening!
10 Only people who really know me realize that I like smaller groups of people as opposed to large crowds or groups of people.
1. Your name and where you live.
Melia Moseley; Mobile, AL
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
25
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
When I was about 6 my family and I were stationed in Hawaii with the Coast Guard and my Mom hosed a Backyard Bible Club at our home for the kids in the neighborhood and to young 20-something ‘missionaries’ gave the gospel. At that moment I realized that salvation from that point on for me actually required me to tell Jesus take full control of my life and ask Him to walk with me forever as my Savior and friend. I remember being surprised that it was even a question that we would choose Him or not… It seemed so basic to me.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I’m a missionary. New to the world of international missions but so thankful to finally be living out my calling. I’m pray for the chance to enrollee in YWAM’s Discipleship Training School.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Traveling…. and cooking/eating foreign cuisine 😉
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Yes, First Baptist North Mobile and Deeper Life Fellowship
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
No sadly I don’t have a pet because I don’t have a home or one place that I stay long enough to keep one. I hope to have a German Shepherd one day though! 🙂
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
A reality check that showed me how much maturing I still have to do/ Seeing the Holy Spirit move in and around me where I’m planted now… so encouraging!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
….A date! 😀 Still longing for my better half ladies, what can I say!
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
: a big dreamer and helplessly idealistic! I really believe that people are capable of doing more in Christ than they could have ever imagined and I desire so much to see that happen in my life. We can do all things in Him when He is our inspiration and direction.
1. Judy Rainwater, Birmingham, AL
2. 58, next month I’ll be 59
3. Very young, 5 or 6, I don’t remember and sadly I do not remember being baptized. However, I was truly saved in 2009, while I was participating in my very first Bible study that happend to be Breaking Free! One morning while I was in the shower, started praying and begged God to forgive me and told Him that I truly believed. That I will never forget!!
4. My husband owns his own business and I’ve been working with him for the past 6 years. (After being in the banking world for 25 years)
5. Baseball and reading, When I’m not reading my Bible I love to read Chrisian Fiction.
6. Hunter Street Baptist Church, involved with the greatest group of women in my Sunday School class and Bible Study group.
7. No pets, I like to tease that Ken; my husband of 41 years is all the pet I need!
8. When the Atlanta Braves lost Friday night/yesterday when my 5 year old grandson played up with a 7 year old team and went 5 for 5 at the plate and he received the game ball. Seeing his little face was pure joy!
9. Being at the beach and watching the sunset.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am in love with being involved in Bible Studies and growing in the Lord each and every day.
1. Your name and where you live.
My name is Lori Wiens. I am originally from San Jose, CA (GO SHARKS!), but have lived
in Nashville, TN for the last 7 years.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
I am exactly one month (to the day)46. Not sure how I feel about that yet. LOL :o/
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
I accepted Christ in Junior High at a Youth Retreat. I rededicated my life to Him after
High School, as a result of direct ministry and influence of my College Pastor and his
wife.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I am the Administrative Assistant for the College of Public Service and Urban Affairs at
Tennessee State University, in Nashville.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Lately, my #1 hobby has been cake decorating (hoping to make it a side-business). In
addition, I LOVE country and Christian music, singing (for HOBBY only…no professional
aspirations here…LOL), and various types of crafting.
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
I have been a member of New River Fellowship, in Franklin, TN for 6 + years, and
currently serve on their Tech Team. I am also involved with an AMAZING Life Group
(Small Group) from that same body of believers.
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
I had a wonderful, sweet Chihuahua, Hershey. He was my “little love” for 5 years.
Sadly, I had to put him down last August. A hole in my heart that can never be fully
healed.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Recent Disappointment: That our primary Life Group will be breaking off.
Related Elation: That our group has grown strong enough to the point that
we have been called upon to start “Break up” into teams, so that
new” Life Groups within our church can be built using our”formula”,
which is simply “living life together”
BIGGEST Elation: That our CORE Life Group will still meet quarterly.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
No alarm clock set….no agenda…no having to go to work at my P/T job.
This question makes me sad…….(I RARELY have a “perfect” Saturdays…LOL)
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am: (had to ask some KEY friends to help with this one. THEIR responses were that I am: “Very affectionate.” I lavishly and unapologetically love on those who are dearest to me, and that I am a loved and 4given child of God whose goal is to become a woman after HIS own heart.
1. Judy Grieve, Clarks Hill SC
2. 67
3. My denomination upbringing did not emphasize a date for accepting Jesus, he was always part of my life. BUT I know that He carried me through my father’s death and so June 9 1963 would be the date I mark for my full realization of just who Jesus is and what He can do and HOW desperately I need him.
4. retired from school administration
5. I think creating on the computer, newsletters,graphics, scripture cards
6.Absolutely. Covenant Presbyterian Church Augusta GA
7. ah yes, 2 very cute Bichon Frisees who are still puppies at 13, King and Lady Bug
8. That Elementary Sunday School attendance is so LOW/that 2 talented youth are willing to make the 1st Sunday of the month for the Sunday School class DIFFERENT & FUN
9.Bright sun, crisp air, no traffic, full Sunday school class, my husband beside me worshiping with all his heart sitting next to our daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. (Always nice to dream)
10.Only people who know me really well realize that I am praying for my husband to find Christ in his life.
1. Your name and where you live.
Lisa Lucas, Indianapolis, IN
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
51 today on the 14 of this month I’ll turn 52.
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
I was a very small child, A friend asked me if I believed and love Him.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Retired (due to medical/physcial problems)
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Making greeting cards for everyone especially those in need.
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Yes, Indian Creek Church “The Creek”. Member since 2009
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
Yes 1 dog small beagle/terrier mix and Cat Tortis shell mix both were orphans.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Had to have major surgery to remove precancerous pollyup from my colon (9″ removed). Elation: Came through with flying color and nearly mended quickly. Friends and family all were there for me.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Warm, Sunny spending time in my garden after my bible reading and devotional time. Later visiting family and friends.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
Emotional, giving and loving the Lord, also content to be single.
1. Your name and where you live.
Samantha // London, UK.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
22.
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
I was ready to end it all a year ago and God saved me. I truly accepted Jesus as my person Savior in those moments.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Bookselling. Children’s Department.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Horse Riding!
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Not at present.
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
I have a bit of a menagerie.
10 cats, a Golden Retriever, a sweet little Rabbit and an African Grey parrot.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
I’ve been issued a notice of eviction, and my landlord has turned nasty. // I recently got a call back to a new job!
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
A cup of tea snuggled up in a blanket for an early morning read, and then a fun time with my nieces!
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am…
FULL of passion for the Lord and anything else that I put my heart to!
1. Mary Lisa. I live in Central Minnesota.
2. 43!
3. I accepted Jesus as a child, but it wasn’t until I was a young adult in a lot of trouble that I really got to know him.
4. I am a stay at home mom. My husband and I have hour children. Their ages are: 26, 24, 14, 5. I’m not even kidding. We even have a daughter-in-law.
5. Planning for vacation! HA!
6. We organize the music ministry for a church plant that is part of the Evangelical Covenant.
7. We have a bichon named Fritz Tatanka. I had an uncle and we like bison.
8. The struggles on my 14 year old with autism/ The victories of my 14 year old with autism.
9. Something with my family. Lunch out. Kids in bed in a timely manner . . . mystery movie.
10 My humor comes from years of struggling with depression. Depressed people HAVE to master a sense of humor.
1. Your name and where you live.
Anita Williams
I live in Citrus Heights, CA – a suburb of Sacramento
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
I’m 68 years old
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
At age 50 I accepted God’s call to be His child. I was the senior pastor’s secretary at my church (still am after 26 years). I knew I was not a christian, but struggled with how to make that happen. A drama sketch and a Christmas choir musical drew me to Him and a dear sister-friend led me to my Savior on December 12, 1994.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
I’m Administrative Assistant to my senior pastor at my church.
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Rubber stamping greeting cards
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
Sunrise Community Church, Fair Oaks, CA
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
No
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Two of my four children have experienced divorce
Finding a wonderful care home for my mother-in-law
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Sleep in, great breakfast with husband and friends, leisuring card making with my best friend, take in a good movie, restful and rewarding.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am Mema to15 wonderful grandkids, ages 10-16 – and that I lived a secret life for 41 years before the Lord called me to Himself.
1. Your name and where you live. Kristin, South Carolina.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 25 🙂
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? 3 years old, I was in the bed and thinking over the concept of eternity in Heaven vs. eternity in hell. I decided I wanted the former. Got up, found my mom, and told her I wanted to ask Jesus into my heart. She prayed with me at our kitchen table. I was overjoyed!
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) I teach piano lessons and I work with a children’s theatre ministry.
5. What is your #1 hobby? Working out
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? My church, Church at Sandhurst
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. Not yet. I just got married almost 10 months ago! We are looking to get a dog soon.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. They’re lame but here goes…biggest disappointment was taking back a pair of pants that were to small to find out that I only got $1 back because I used reward money from a credit card to purchase them, thus keeping me from getting the correct size. Biggest elation was/is getting to hang out with my husband on a daily basis.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. Sleeping in with my hubs, drinking coffee, bike riding in pretty weather, movie watching.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am insecure.