Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Living Abundantly!

Teri, a servant of Christ Jesus,
To the saints at Grace Chapel, my faithful sisters in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Didn't Paul have a magnificent way of beginning a letter? Although, my greeting is slightly different, it's modeled after Paul's, and filled with the same affection for you that he possessed for his fellow believers. Of course, he wrote his letter from a gloomy prison cell in Rome, while I sit in the comfort of my air conditioned family room, surrounded by the love of my family and dogs. As I consider his conditions, I am moved by his steadfast love and commitment to Jesus, his fellow believers and in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I can't wait to plunge into God's word as we study the book of Ephesians! Are you as excited as I am?

We will be going through the book Living Abundantly, A Study In Ephesians by Lenya Heitzig and Penny Pierce Rose.




As you can see, the cover is darling and it very much appeals to my femininity! I know that seems superficial, but I really like the soft yellow background, the huge pink flower with the yellow center (although it could use a smiley face), the well-manicured, green lawn (I'm a desert dweller...green grass impresses me!), the 50's style blue dress with the empire waist (it's "oh-so-flattering"), the retro Dolly shoes complete with ankle strap, peep-toe and 5" stacked heels! And, just look at that gorgeous long flowing hair!

Yep, it's an adorable cover. But, the really good stuff...it's inside...where we will find abundant life through the Living Word of God! Please join us, it won't be the same without you!

WOW ~ Women of the Word, Women's Bible Study is starting up in 15 Days! Busy schedule? (of course, we're women!) No problem! You have your choice between attending the morning or evening study.

When: Wednesday, September 10
Time: 9:00 AM & 7:00 PM
Where: Fellowship Hall A-B


Fall Kickoff Celebration!

When: Wednesday, September 10
Time: 6-8:30 PM
Where: Behind the Fellowship Hall for Food, Fun and Fellowship! Bring your own chair!

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. (Ephesians 6:24)

Your Sister in Christ,
Teri

P.S. We would love to hear from you. You're welcome to join in the "conversation" by leaving a comment.

Friday, August 8, 2008

The Elisabeth Elliot Newsletter

A few years ago (or more) my husband and I had the privilege of leading worship for a conference in which Elisabeth Elliot spoke four times in one day. It was the first time she had spoken so many times in one day, she told us. But I will never forget it. She spoke on suffering, and told of her life in Ecuador before and after her husband, Jim Elliot, was murdered by the Auca indians. (The movie, The End of the Spear, tells the story.) I still have the notes and pull them out and review them.

She produced a newsletter for many years that I absolutely loved. I treasured every issue and even now they are in a safe place where I can pull them out and glean insight from this biblical, practical and sometimes opinionated woman of God. It was no secret that she loved hymns and hated the modern worship choruses of today. I have come to understand that perspective. She said the words of the hymns, rich in theology and God's character, were what carried her through the dark times in Ecuador.

I have made a wonderful discovery! All of Elisabeth Elliot's newsletters can be downloaded in pdf's from her Web site. I can't tell you have blessed I have been by her teaching, her books, her articles through the years. If she is a new acquaintance to you, let me introduce you! Elisabeth Elliot: www.elisabethelliot.org