Praise for a Powerful Weekend!

This past weekend was our 2nd Youth Retreat at the church. It was AWESOME. I dare say, better than last years. (And I didn't think it was possible)

Bro. Michael Switzer preached Friday night on "Living Without The Anointing". It was a timely sermon and I truly, do NOT want to live ONE day without knowing God is in my life. I can't imagine the people who have walked away from the Love of God. While I was praying Friday night for different kids in the altar, my mind went to some that I know who did not walk away on their own. I thought of those whose parents had made that choice for them and my heart was broken. Lately, I have had 4 people talk to me about missing what they were raised with- a good, spirit filled life centered around Christ. Those who walked away on their own- I pray that God calls to their rememberence every time they felt the anointing. For those children and teens who had no choice- I pray God puts people in their paths who will witness to them and lead them Home. I prayed that this weekend and tonight (Tuesday)- met ANOTHER person who fits that description! Isn't God good?

Saturday morning, bro. Michael preached on "Being A More Than Average Christian" Oh, it made me want to go that extra mile. As an adult, I thought of all the people who had influenced my life FOR CHRIST when I was a teenager. I recalled pastor's and their wives, fellow friends and other adults in my church. When I was growing up-I went to revivals, Campmeetings and just fun trips with many other people. I want to be THAT PERSON to other young people. I want to be not just another average Christian. It is funny. Average in school is a C. I stroke if my kids bring home a B- so why am I settling for less in our spiritual walk?

Oh, the fun stuff- our teen's blacklight show was OFF THE CHARTS!!!! We played volleyball, basketball, ping pong, foosball, slid on the slide, rode hayrides and ran our mouths!!! It was awesome, good old fashion, bonding FELLOWSHIP. And it was just what our kids needed. I think everyone left better for it.

Sunday morning before we even got to church, I felt the Lord while praying. Larry did, too. So we got to church and He was there! "When We All Get To Heaven" got real for us and boy what a day of rejoicing Sunday became. We had several in service with us who have not made that statement of faith and don't worship like we do, but I looked up one time and saw tears streaming down 3 of their faces! Praise God! I am so glad He finds the time to show us that He cares. He hasn't forgotten one single person who seems to have forgotten all about Him.All morning, I just felt like my heart was screaming-"I AM SO THANKFUL TO BE SAVED!" I can imagine all kinds of horrible sin, but the truth is none of us knows where we would be without God. One family who came didn't have a vehicle and were calling their friend to borrow hers. The little boy said, "Where does she live? I will run to her house and ask her so we can go to church." How precious is that? God loves tender souls.

So-that's my praise.
God is moving.
God has not forgotten one child whose parents' walked away.
People are hungry for peace.
I want to show them His Love.
Do you want to help me?
Love***Sondra