As August begins I realize that soon our family is in store for some real changes. In just a few weeks, our oldest child will begin Kindergarten. He says he is ready – but I know I am not! I have already cried once just thinking about dropping him off that first day.
On a recent Sunday night I shared with you a way God has been leading us as a family. For ten years or so, even before Michelle and I were married, we talked about the possibility of one day becoming foster parents. Well, as soon as we moved to North Carolina we began volunteering with the pretty young adult Sunday School class that baby-sits for foster families once a month at the Department of Social Services. Through that process we became acquainted with the system and aware of the serious need for foster families in Burke County.
After several months of prayer and discussion, in May we began the process of being trained and licensed for foster care. This process will be most likely completed by the time you read this.
Michelle and I joked recently with each other and said that we don’t really know what we are getting into – then we realized, Do we ever know what we are getting into? In other words, for us this is a step of faith. We do know this: God has placed this burden on our hearts and there is a phenomenal need in our community. So, please pray for our family as we prepare to welcome a child or possibly two children into our home sometime in the near future.
Peace,
Ande
PS Wednesday Nights this fall –
Beginning in September, we are introducing a change in our Wednesday Evening Prayer Meeting schedule. Beginning Wednesday, September 6, Prayer Meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. We will share requests and pray together as we have in the past but will have a longer period of Bible Study. We will conclude by 7:15 or so in time for choir to begin at 7:30. In addition, each month we’ll focus on a different topic, theme, or Bible book.
So, won’t you be a part of this change as we attempt to address the Bible Study and Discipleship needs of our fellowship.
Beginning in September, our topic will be ‘The Practice of Prayer.’
Deep down most of us know that our prayer lives have the potential to become a mighty tree bearing blossoms and fruit. We struggle to plant it and tend it, however. And the seed with such potential has been carried off by the birds of the air, or been trampled on the busy paths of life or has been choked out by the thorns of life. And all that is left is deep regret. (This image is not original to me.) Well, let’s discuss the practice of prayer and together grow in conversation with God.
In October, we’ll focus on ‘Articles of Faith.’
Over the past year or so the pastor has been gathering articles that focus on challenges of being salt and light in a bland and often dark world. Each week you’ll have the opportunity to read an article before our discussion and we’ll see how our faith and the Scriptures intersect with the world. While reading the article ahead of time will be beneficial, it will not be necessary to enjoy the Bible Study.
In November, we’ll look at Christian perspectives on ‘Dealing with Stress.’
Would you believe that holidays are some of the most stressful times of life? I know this is hard to believe! This study will come just in time for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Mark your calendars…our Winter Bible Study will be on the Gospel of Matthew and later in the Spring we’ll spend a month examining the book of Revelation. Wednesday nights have needed a facelift – come try this new approach.
As August begins I realize that soon our family is in store for some real changes. In just a few weeks, our oldest child will begin Kindergarten. He says he is ready – but I know I am not! I have already cried once just thinking about dropping him off that first day.