Life

Jarod William James Giffin, my first grandchild of many, I hope, arrived on Wednesday night a 10:59 PM... what a joy to hold him for the first time. When I first held baby Jarod, my heart was immeiately filled with love as I looked into the face of one I have been already praying for.

As I looked into his little face, I wondered if he was going to be a teacher, pastor, bricklayer, maybe pitch for the Blue Jays... but that didn't matter. I was simply in awe of how God could be so good to Kathy and I to experience great joy in this moment. Then it occured to me....

Does God have such joy when he holds me in His arms?

Yes!

Does God have such love when he holds me in His arms?

Yes!

God's heart is full of joy and love for his children...

Think of this for a moment...God doesn't have grandchildren. Each of us come to Jesus and become His children. Interesting thought... we can't have a relationship with God without knowing Christ for ourselves... so it is my prayer that at an early age, Jarod will love the Lord. He can't experience salvation through me but for himself and trust that he will.

Well, I will be praying for all of you this coming week. Kathy and I are off to Punta Cana and hope to find some rest and build towards a great Christmas season. Look forward to seeing you soon.

Thanks for reading and God bless...

PB

Intimacy with God

As I reflect upon a great Sunday morning service, I thank God for His direction on our lives. As I preached on Mary and her gifts of thanksgiving to Jesus, I was so blessed to see so many people with the same desire as there Pastor...greater intimacy with God.

A place with God where I feel safe.

A place with God where I can be who I am.

A place with God where all is at peace.

A place of refuge and strength.

I have come to understand that ALCC is more than a church or extended family. ALCC is becoming a place of intimacy where people can discover more of God. WOW, what a joy to come and experience this intimacy in Prayer & Bible Study, Youth Group, Celebrate Recovery and services like we had yesterday. The altar was rich with the loving presence of God.

As we reflect upon giving thanks this week to God for His goodness, ask God today for a greater intimacy in your life.

On a personal note... my desire is for greater intimacy in my life with God. Come and join me as we seek God in this great venture.

Over this thanksgiving, may God bless you with greater intimacy of His love and Presence.

Happy Thanksgiving!

PB