Be the One

I have had so many short words from the Lord that I have wanted to share with you, but no time to put them on to my blog this week. So, I'll just share what the Lord laid on my heart today.

Today was Vision Sunday at my church. It only happens one time a year, and it is a collection of blessings and stories of how God has gone before us AND pulled up the rear of all the projects the church has stepped out in faith to accomplish. It is also a compilation of what dreams and visions the church has for the next year. I can't share with you everything because it would just take too long, but let me just emphasize that it was so very special. I cried out of joy during the entire thing. God's SO faithful, which simply blows. my. mind. When a door is opened to you, step through it, even if you're unsure of what's on the other side.

A few Sunday's ago, Pastor Scotty preached about getting involved and how it is our job as Christians to serve, no questions asked. Jesus served, so get past pettiness and just go for it. I have had such a rough time getting connected at James River, but over half my trouble has been brought on my own self. Whether that be shyness (which I really am not), fear (again, usually not a problem), or indecisiveness (which IS a problem...). However, I decided to fill out a volunteer card, and I got contacted by all three of them. I chose to go with the Red Carpet ministry. (Check out www.jamesriver.org to learn more.)

This morning, they hosted a meeting for those who want to be a part of the Outdoor team. I have always appreciated the greeters on the sidewalks, and entrances to the property, and just LOVE to love on others, so I thought this would suit my personality best. And, most of the greeters I have seen have been close to the same age as myself, so I think it will be a good connecting point! I volunteered to help set out cones beginning at 6:30 in the morning. How early?! But how much fun, right? Then I will greet for the first service, then attend first service and go home. Awe! I know it's gonna be early, and cold for a while, but I am gonna LOVE this.

The Lord and I were having a little conversation as I was driving earlier, and we were talking about my desire for marriage and a family soon, (which we have a lot), and I felt God's approval of what I decided to do in the area of volunteering this morning. He also gestured that what I want in a husband and lifelong partner, I must be myself. I know some of you reading this are like, "Duh..." It definitely hit me in a different way today.

Here's a few things that are musts in a mate:
:of the Faith.
:willing to take giant God risks.
:serve wholeheartedly and faithfully.
:be mentored by those wiser than he.
:a leader who follows.
:a lover of the house of God.

And, if I want all of those things in my man, then I, too, must want those things. I say I am. But, in truth, have I been? Have I been willing to take giant risks for God, serve faithfully (not late...), willing to follow before leading, have I truly LOVED the house of God, and the church therein? I'd like to say I've given my ALL in those areas, but in truth, I know that my fleshly tugs have definitely reigned in some of those areas.

Here's the thing, when I begin to do what I want my future husband and wonderful father of our children to do, I will probably meet him. Currently, all I'm doing is warming a church seat for the next guest, (which is rather comfortable), but I would never date someone who wasn't active in the church...

Sounds so goofy, I know...

An application from MY lesson tonight: Be the friend your ideal friend would look like. Be the servant of Christ your idea of a Christ-server is. Be the sister that You would want to have. Be the daughter, wife, momma.... It might be really uncomfortable, but when you step out, God will reward you. And, a gentle nudge of approval from the Lord feels way better than the 'best' this earth could give.