“I know their works and their thoughts, and I come to gather nations of every language; they shall come and see my glory.” Longing for Heaven has so much to do with how we look at life in the here and now. The experience of the Chosen People in the Old Testament shaped and molded the entire religious sense of life and love for all humanity, being freed from slavery, and not just overbearing hard work, but all the things that bring us down: disease, disappointments, depression, anxiety, and every ill you can think.
“So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be disjointed but healed.” Love and friendship also do the same thing. Think of the moments we spend with those we love and how sad we feel when they are gone and we are lonely. Heaven reminds us of pure love and joy with all those we have loved and missed.
“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” But how many people see life like this? Do we really believe that earth is a dress rehearsal for Heaven? Maybe some see it as a prelude to hell. How sad! What truly makes the difference in these two diametrically-opposed life stances is how we see and appreciate Jesus Christ, right here, right now.
“For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.” If we live with Christ in our midst, fully confident in His love for us, and trusting Him with everything, especially our troubles, we will see glimpses of Heaven in places we would never have imagined.
“Earth’s crammed with heaven…But only he who sees, takes off his shoes.” Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”