“In this way we know that we love the children of God when we love God and obey his commandments.” Oftentimes, the things we use to satisfy us are only temporary fixes. Those temporary fixes can end up doing more damage to our lives than good. Perhaps the first few weeks of the New Year bring those issues to the forefront because even after the most wonderful times of the year, so many people seem unhappy, overburdened, super-stressed, and maybe even just downright mean. This is precisely why the Word of God is of supreme importance and a wonderful remedy to keep moving forward.
“And all spoke highly of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.” We all have an effect upon each other, and research seems to show that unhappiness – and happiness – is caused by patterns in our lives: patterns in the things we do, which are called behavioral patterns, and patterns in the things we think, which are called cognitive patterns. The path to being happier can be long and sometimes requires great changes in one’s life. In fact, being happy is something we need to cultivate every day with the help of the Body of Christ while adopting the right patterns in our lives and then sticking to them.
“Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” Today is the day to realize and accept that joy in the Lord Jesus is truly our fundamental responsibility, basically because it is part of our original nature. God created us to be happy! So why are so many sad? Just a small amount of self-awareness for each of us to make sure we are in the right place with the right attitudes will accomplish miracles! Today, let us all decide to have a reality check, place everything in perspective, and most importantly, open our hearts to the Lord and pray for wisdom.
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” Thomas A. Edison
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.”