Springtime in England- a gift of joy

 

 

Springtime has finally arrived here in England. After a tedious week of house hunting, sorting and the daily adjustments, we woke up to a beautiful sunny morning. In England when's its sunny you spend time outside in the clean fresh air. So, off we went. Taking a drive through the country roads seemed to capture the essence of a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Daffodils were springing up between carpets of green, while the sheep lay contented with their new lambs taking in the sun after a cold, dreadful winter. As we drove I thought about the newness of life that springs forth in this season. That newness of life offers hope and joy with excitement and expectation of what's to come ahead.

 

 

 

Last Sunday was the day Bob officially took over as Pastor of Calvary Chapel Exeter.  The beginning of a new season in our lives as well as for the brethern in Exeter. With hands layed on him, prayer was offered for the work God has now called us to, reminding us of the scripture found in Luke 1:77-79 " You will tell the people how to find salvation through forgivness of sins. Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us all to the path of peace." There was a sense of excitement, hope and joy in unity among the brethern in knowing God was beginning to do a new thing, not only in their hearts but through their lives. Something new was about to spring forth.

 

 

 

So with a sense of excitement through prayer, God will be faithful each and everyday to take us down this path for His work and His glory - for we are His vessels He desires to use. I am reminded of a well known Christian song that goes -" I have a river of life flowing out of me, makes the lame to walk and the blind to see; opens prison doors, sets the captives free - I've got a river of life flowing out of me...". As God's Word brings refreshment to our souls, may we then be a refreshment to others.

Psalm 85: 9-13

"Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed. Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the Lord will give what is good; and our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him, and shall make His footsteps our pathway".

 

Praise reports:

 

*Rented a house...moving April 2!

 

Prayer requests:

 

*God bringing together a ministry team for effective outreach in various capacities

*CD duplicator

*Furnishings for upcoming rental

*Easter service

*Sensitivity to lead and cast vision in the midst of differing cultural expectations