“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone. ” When we say that someone saw the light,” we are usually describing a very poignant and perfect moment in a person’s life, which more than suggests that things are about to become a lot better. Selfish-induced darkness creates too many problems to mention here and becomes the proverbial red flag and serious threat to a happy and fulfilled life. So when the Light comes forward, it is time to celebrate!
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree in what you say, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.” One of the great equalizers in life is the realization that we are all in the same boat, rowing with the same intention, with one goal in mind: SANITY. Once that very important fact shines its Light into the thinking processes and attitudes of all of us, we will never advance. That is why Jesus asks that we all put Him first all the time and not have any divisions or quarrels about who gets credit, who gets their first, or who is the best.
“From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Once the darkness and arrogance is removed, there dawns the bright promise freed from all the forces that bring us down. Jesus has already won this battle. We are called to live in this inaugurated eschatology, or easier said, living in the tension between the now and the not yet. Much like the experience of time between D-Day and V-Day, the day the enemy is defeated and the day we celebrate and put it all together, the present moment is the best one we have because it is the only one we have. Shine on!
“I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.” Og Mandino
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.”