I came across this note, originally posted in October of 2010, and found the reminders encouraging to me even a few years later. Hopefully the same is true for you:
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There’s an old recipe for rabbit stew that begins, “First, catch the rabbit…” Though it may seem a bit obvious, at least the writer of the recipe understood the importance of keeping first things first; and when it comes to exercising faith, it’s important to make sure first things really are first in our own hearts.
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You’ll notice that I used to write — take a look at the date gap between the last post and this one. You’ll notice that I used to write… and not all that consistently. Or well.
As Sandy Lake Wesleyan is in transition, and as my own ministry and family roles constantly change, I’ve determined to get back to writing on a consistent basis. Honestly, this is more of an outlet and creative expression for me than anything else, but you’re more than welcome to look on, connect, and interact as I share about what I’m learning about life, ministry, Scripture, and leadership. I don’t promise the writing will be any better (more well? weller? awesomer?)…though, I’ll strive for excellence.
The first real posts are coming after the weekend.
Almost a week ago, our journey here in Pittsburgh took an exciting new turn when our daughter, Jubilee Rayne, entered the world on her mom’s 30th birthday. We can’t think of a better way to celebrate a birthday than with a birth day, can you?
Here are the vital stats for our little girl:
Jubilee Rayne Gomez
Born 11:38pm, October 25, 2010
Weighing 7lbs, 6oz
21″ Long
AND HEALTHY!
We know many of you were praying long before we knew Jubilee was coming that God would give us the joy of having children. We thank God for those of you who stood by in faith with us as we went through the heartbreak of being told we may never have biological children and continued trusting God for his best in our lives. We thank those of you who have already been praying for Jubilee by name — we ask that you would join us in praying she would fulfill the meaning of her name and not only be a follower of Jesus but bring freedom, redemption, and forgiveness to those around her.
We really do thank God for you; thanks for being part of our journey,
Jeremiah, Sarah, and Jubilee
This past weekend, my generous, amazing, nine-months pregnant wife was willing to let me take the weekend away to spend some quiet time for prayer and solitude. During that time, I felt like my soul was refreshed and that some nuggets of wisdom were given to me to digest…lessons that you may find valuable, too–maybe messages from God’s heart to yours:
- You already have God’s favor–He sent Jesus for you. He desires you. He is FOR you. You don’t need to pursue God’s favor because he isn’t withholding it; it’s freely given.
- You must have more of God’s Spirit–God favors you to the max, but you must have more of his Spirit convicting, encouraging, transforming, enabling, and anointing you. Don’t settle for yesterday’s victories and intimacy.
- Your weakness is a positive game-changer–“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me (2 Corinthians 12:9, TNIV).
- Your definition of ‘success’ is probably twisted–It seems God’s question for defining success is, “Were you faithful with what I gave you.” Not how famous, big, powerful, dynamic, or amazing you were. Were you FAITHFUL?
- You do not have to change the world or ‘create a movement’–Jesus already did that. Join in what he’s doing and you’ll find success (see above).
- Healing is freely available–Jesus secured your healing and wants to see you made whole, but the process of healing can hurt…so count the cost.
- Sometimes you just need time with your Friend–With no agendas, no big requests, no need to ‘accomplish’ anything, sometimes you just need to spend time with your Friend and King; there is a kind of soul salve that can only be found in times like this.
