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I can see from my office window the vibrant colours of the leaves dropping from the trees;
peridot, garnet, topaz, amethyst and ruby - a treasure chest of color against the otherwise grey skies.
And already, those dropping leaves are begining to reveal the bare trees beneath that will be with us for the long winter months.
I am reminded that when the trees are bare and rainy days become dreary, the Lord brings about a calmness and peace that settles around us - we can use this time to sit still and wait - and listen to his direction.
Presently, I'm listening to the Lord's direction concerning Vision2012. What is he calling me to? I'm listening.
In the last few months now I've had opportunity to share Vision2012 with new life group leaders. As we seek to grow in number and impact we recognize that we can bring incrimental change to those around us - even in our very own homes. The way we talk, spend our time, spend our resources or discuss our workday has direct impact on our family and close friends. Just a degree of change in our own life-style or the words we choose will indeed impact the perspective of others towards Jesus. Small changes, small conversations, small contributions ... changing the world by degree.
Absolutely - we can ALL be a degree of change - starting with our own circle of influence. Every degree of perspective changed makes an impact on our community,amongst our friends, among those who don't follow Jesus.
Consider silent acts such as praying for someone who is struggling or sick. Have a listening ear...give good counsel, or lend a hand to help with a simple
chore. Bring someone to church and invite them to lunch after to discuss what they heard/ felt during the message. Follow up with them later - maintain a rapport.
So often it's the simple step that counts most in creating change for the betterment of people around us. Sometimes it's a bolder step, one that transforms us too!
Serve the world abroad, make a long term commitment to serve the homeless, join the board of a non profit and utilize your skills!
God has given me a crazy passion for India and I'm just back from a recent trip visiting kids of the slums and working with teachers toward improved English education. We've been rapport building for several years and degrees of change are occuring! During each visit our teams reach a new level of relationship that creates long-lasting impact. We return time and time again in order to be stretched to that maximum degree God has chosen for us - building and sustaining relationships with those who invite us to help in serving the poor and lost in India.
Whatever your step friend - now is a good time to reflect, ponder and pray over it. Ask God to guide you to be that degree of change in someone's life too.
Let me know what you are doing to be that 'degree' - and contact me if you'd like some ideas. I'm here to help!
As always friends and leaders, it is a blessing to serve with you.
Elaine Morse
Director of Life Groups @ Overlake Christian Church
425-895-2427
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