visiting home? :)

This past Sunday, we were able to make a trip to the mainland to visit our former church, Northside Community Church in Mission. I have to say how encouraging it is to come and visit a group of believers that love Jesus. The people that really were excited to see us and hear how things are going in Port Alberni are the "pillars"of faith (in my eyes).
These are the people who sing the classic hymns (Amazing Grace & Great is thy Faithfulness) with such vigor and passion because these they have seen God faithful through the ups and downs. Some of these ups and downs have meant famines and wars. For others, they have seen their loved ones perish because of cancer, yet they still hold onto God as their refuge and strength.

I am so thankful for these men and women of faith who have remained steady and strong, amidst adversity and now show such passion to pray and support us. For we do not fight this spiritual battle alone, and we are thankful for all of you who pray and encourage us along the journey to follow Jesus.

continually giving thanks

Ok, it's not Thanksgiving yet, but let's just pull out the turkey's! It's amazing what God has done and is still doing! God continues to draw people to a relationship with him.

Recently a friend of mine commented on how much God has done at Gateway... You know, sometimes it takes an outsider to help us see what's really going on (the good and the bad).
In this case it was the good that I needed to see and be thankful for.

Sure, usually my blogs share some amazing news, but I know I need to live out the verse, "in everything give thanks," throughout the week too.

I'm sure thankful that GOd is gracious with me and continues to remind me of his faithfulness and love.
PS - This past weekend was a blast....yes I caught a big salmon - 28lbs, went out for a date with my incredible wife, and had a really enjoyable Fall Kickoff service at Gateway Community Church.

Ok, maybe I'll have to hunt down a turkey :)