Beginnings

Beginnings are always exciting. When I'm writing, the beginning is always my favorite part, because the possibilities are endless.

But beginnings are tricky. Beginnings sometimes make a lot of promises that never deliver. There's nothing more disappointing than a calendar full of good intentions and grand ideas that don't materialize.

I'm determined that we won't see that happen with the Community Ministry. So far, so good. We've almost filled our roster for Habitat for Humanity and Big Sunday. And the support for more outreach into the community is great. But it's about more than numbers and programs.

I have a lot of anticipation regarding the future. As with the beginning of any story, the possibilities really are endless. I hope that we won't allow our plans and expectations to get in the way of God's design. He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. And so, more important than all of the upcoming events is prayer.

Please be in prayer over our hearts -- that they would be open to our neighbors. For our neighbors' hearts -- that they would be open to the love of the Lord and forgiving of our shortcomings. Pray that God will send us workers to fill needs, and leaders to direct and shepherd our church. Pray for mighty acts of God in this neighborhood, that he will make his presence known and surpass our human limitations. Pray that we will be prompted to pray even more. Finally, pray for the events ahead, and for those to come that we don't yet even know about.

As we get to know our neighbors, things will change. Because we want to be sensitive to the needs of our community, and not simply adhere to a preordained agenda, things will change. It's a relationship, not a program.

Upcoming Events
May 7 - Big Sunday
May 13 - Habitat for Humanity Work Day
May 14 - Dream Team Meeting
May 20 - Glendale Graffiti Paint Out
Summer:
Adopt a Block
Community Day (service day)
Community Block Party/BBQ
Basketball Tournament