“For Zion’s sake, I will not be silent; for Jerusalem’s sake, I will not be quiet.” There is a compelling discussion that is launched with the images behind the Readings today on this beautiful sabbath of the Lord. It revolves around the seriously impending concern about the decline of marriage in the relationship of grown adults, many of whom have chosen simply to live together with little or no commitment for a wide variety of given reasons. For this reason, the depth and long-lasting beauty of the images provided that reveal the type and breadth of the relationship that God wants of us would only be truly understood in the context of a marital vow: “For the LORD delights in you and makes your land his spouse. As a young man marries a virgin, your Builder shall marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your God rejoice in you.”
God has a unique and wonderful plan for each and everyone of us and that purpose is always for the good for the individual and for the world. By that same token, each has been given specific gifts and graces to accomplish the plan that they have been assigned and freely given. “To each individual, the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” Adequately speaking, if everyone understood, accepted, and then carried out this remarkable teaching, then the world would be a very different and amazing place to live, beyond all of our most optimistic imaginings. As this is true between two people in love and the families they bring into existence, so it is true in the Church and in society. This brings us to the Wedding Feast of Cana, where Jesus takes six stone water jars holding about 25 gallons each and turns water into wine. Although this is the caterer’s dream come true, the number clearly refers back to the six days of creation as described in Genesis of which St. John was completely affected and versed. The great number of actual wine bottles such a miraculous moment would have created, more than 800 or so, is an even more stellar symbol of the overflowing love that God has for us, total, complete, committed, and faithful until death, just like marriage. “Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one, but you have kept the good wine until now.”
“One of the highest representations of the image of God is a husband and wife serving each other.” Dr. Tim Kimmel
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.”