Humility

We can all think of times when we have treated someone as if they simply weren't human. Not only do we have a propensity to think we are better then others, but through our sinful nature we actually make ourselves feel better by thinking this way. Paul's call to the Philippians to seek humility is in direct response to the wake-up call Paul had when he met Christ on the road to Damascus. How do we begin to see others the way God sees them? What emotions come to the surface as we read Paul's words in the second chapter of Philippians?

Philippians 1

So we are begining a new study. Philippians is one of my favorite books. There is so much buried in the words Paul had for these new Christians. As you look through this first Chapter dig deep and let us know what hits you about the words of encouragement, teaching, and adoration Paul shares with the believers in Philippi.

Pictures From Kenya

So this is the first chance I've had to log on to the blog and post pictures. I know I've sent some via e-mail but here is a good compilation of the things we have been doing. Here is a quick recap of our projects.

1) Digging and laying a concrete paver path at the Church campus.
2) Digging a 3X5X2 hole and pouring a concrete pad for a generator
3) Building a home for a single mother of 4 in Oyugis.
4) Leading a retreat for the college age group from Good Shepherd.

I'll add more when I get to a place with a faster internet connection.

We miss you guys and can't wait to get back and tell you the stories.

Peace, Garrett

Ephesians 4

Wow, there is a lot of stuff going on in this chapter. I could make a small comment here as I've done with the other posts and recap a point from the chapter, but I would rather simply hear what you have found striking about Paul's words...so...comment away.

Ephesians 3

Paul offers us some amazing encouragement here in Chapter 3 but he also shares with us an amazing responsibility. The church is to be the reflection of God's wisdom to the heavenly powers and authorities. This should at least make us ask ourselves..."Am I doing my part to make the church a reflection of what it's supposed to be?" Though these are powerful themes there are still other things to be discovered in this passage. What are the things God is speaking to you as you read through this chapter?

Prayer requests

I want us to be able to share the things that are going on in our lives...the good the bad and the ugly. So it is here that you can share your requests for prayer. Scripture calls us to intercede for one another and as we do that we become closer and we become stronger. So take just a minute and let us know what we can support you in as we join in prayer.

Ephesians 2

When you really think about it...it's amazing that the gift we have received from God is nothing we can earn. The gift was simply given to us out of God's love for his creation. Paul shares this information with the Ephesians in chapter 2 but he also lets them in on something else that would have been big news for them...The Jews were no longer the only "chosen people". God has made a way for all people to be reconciled to him. How amazing is the grace of God! Now that you have had a chance to read Chapter 2, let us know what things are stirring in your heart. What things about this passage hit home and what things are hard to accept?

Ephesians 1

Paul starts this book with some encouraging words to the Ephesians. He lets them know that he has been praying for them and that he is hoping that the Holy Spirit will grant them God's wisdom and power.
By now you have had a chance to read through Ephesians chapter 1 and do a little journaling. What thoughts and ideas can you share with us about the time you've spent kicking around the passage?