“To whom has the discipline of wisdom been revealed?” We human beings are almost invariably in need of confirmation, reassurance, and security. No more is this obvious than in our relationships, especially the more important ones we have discovered. This is why from time to time, we all might experience doubt or even a moment of crisis when we face troubles. It is then that we need those special hugs and secure feelings. What is surprisingly wonderful throughout all these moments is that we can find a deeper walk and love that God has for us if we can indeed count these crises as joys. We know that everyone must suffer as part of the journey here, but we also need tender loving care from our God, just as is prayed in our Psalm today: “Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart find favor before you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.”
“Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit. Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.” There is, however, a problem with these needs. If we are not careful, these moments of reassurance and comfort may not be enough. We might even lose our confidence in the Lord if all we look for are concrete signs that may stave off doubt for just a short amount of time. This is why Jesus responds the way He did in today’s Gospel: “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me.”
Our Lord makes it clear that we must rely on the wisdom of God and not stray. Take time today to pray for wisdom. This prayer is always answered. Thank God!
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Reinhold Niebuhr (Serenity Prayer)
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.”