A group of high school seniors was somewhat perplexed at something they read in history class and were simultaneously frustrated by the apparent inability of their teacher to explain it to them with only his feeble (as they put it) attempt to shift their attention from the fact (as they saw it) that he did not understand it either. He said, “You’ll just have to get older and grow up first before you know what it means.” Here is a quote from Alexander the Great: “I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion. “My heart exults in the LORD, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.” Very soon, we will arrive on Christmas Eve. All that we have done or not done now comes into play as the sun sets and lights come on in our churches and homes. As we near the great and glorious Season of Christmas within hours, we are about to be empowered for the rest of our days if we believe:
What we must continue to fight so that we may prevail with Jesus in this holy time are the issues of fear and anxiety, which have literally inundated all of Earth’s major literary works from all known cultures. Some have reported that Shakespeare wrote about fear in every one of his major works. “Of all base passions, fear is most accursed.” (Henry VI, Act V, Scene 1) It has likewise been said with numbing regularity that the phrase “do not be afraid” is found 365 times in the whole of the Scriptures. There is no time today to either dispute or confirm that but only to say that it is mentioned enough to believe it no matter how many times it appears on the pages of our Bible. The Mother of Jesus, the primary witness of the Birth of Christ, not only was comforted by the presence of Her Son and Savior in her body and holding Him for the first few moments of His life but knew exactly of which we speak: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his lowly servant.”
It is time to sing because we are sheep led by the Lion of Judah, the King of Kings, and the Lord of Lords. It is time to shout with relief because He did what He promised. There can be no more allowances for fear, doubt, or for self-pity if we are really serious about this life and what great things that come out of it. Open your hearts and make yourselves ready! We are His sheep, His servants, His handmaids, His hands and feet. Let Christmas come with all its wonder!
“Stop trying and start trusting.” Rick Warren
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.”