“Brothers and sisters: None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself.” Some might agree with the assertion that a relationship is like a job. You have to work hard to get in it, and you have to work even harder to stay in it. Whether or not that aligns with your own experiences with friends and family, one thing is for sure. Love does require work, and some days are easier than others. Today, the Scriptures seem to underscore that perception. “Let hearts rejoice who search for the Lord.” We could even go a little further: the depth and quality of our human relationships have much in common and directly correspond with our relationship with God and He with us.
“In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” We all know how it feels when something is going wrong in a friendship, relationship, or even with a close relative. Nobody is happy, and nobody wins. The days look grim and dark. But imagine how wonderful it feels when we make amends, ask forgiveness, and restore things back to an even better level of love and respect. “Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep”, and “Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.” That’s right, rejoice, we have our friend back. Peace has been restored. It is beautiful. And it all comes from the Lord to whom we are called. Let us respond to that today: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.”
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.”