East Liberty is a mean, ungenerous place to most. You have to be strong to survive and spirit filled to be victorious. We were both. And East Liberty felt good to me. Not because I want to move back–I do not. But I once prayed for this place, cried for this place. For a while, it was my Promised Land. A place where I put down my roots to eternity. It was my Shiloh. God waited for me in the coolness of the evening and I came.
Likewise this city, my city, Johnstown, feels like home. I have prayed over its buildings, walked through its streets, cried for its children. It has been my Promised Land for five years. And I thank God for the time here.
I thank God for all that He has taught me since I entered the ministry over twenty years ago. He has always done what He has said that He will do. He is good. Really good. And so, so very faithful. He has always loved me and He continues to show me His love in so many ways.
Like my children. Rachel is turning into quite a young woman of God. On the mission field. In El Salvador. Jessica is showing signs of being an intercessor; my little Deborah–a warrior for the Lord! And my oldest son, Timothy. What a miracle! Strong, smart, and himself growing in the Lord. Every week God is revealing Scripture to him. And he is listening. And my youngest, Peter. Named after my20father-in-law whom I love and admire so much. Peter is so sensitive, like his mother, and also principled. And Karen. What a woman of God! Standing firm. Storming the gates of hell if necessary for us all. Developing a life changing ministry in learning disability therapy. An intercessor. I am so proud of her and grateful that God sent her to be me best friend and companion.
Yes, I have so much to thank God for. He is so faithful. Let the winds blow in our lives. Let the flood waters rise. We stand on the rock that cannot fail. We will not be overcome! Remember well the great things that He is doing in your lives. Mark them down in your hearts. Remember them. Celebrate His faithful. We truly serve an awesome God!
Come let us praise the Lord and glorify His name forever!