“O LORD of hosts, you who test the just, who probe mind and heart…” Silence is an amazing thing, isn’t it? Nature’s core is silence. God speaks powerfully through the silence of the universe. Every time we enter into prayer in silence, especially if our hearts are in the right place, we find it as if that time literally stops, and all our thoughts stop in their tracks. All that remains is the very heart of the existence of God within us, above us, and all around us.
“For if by the transgression of the one the many died, how much more did the grace of God and the gracious gift of the one man Jesus Christ overflow for the many.” In silence, we become aware that we have the freedom and power to choose the types of thoughts we wish to entertain and empower and the thoughts we wish to ignore and diffuse. We begin to ache and pine only for the thoughts and intentions that bring us closer and closer to God, no matter what is going on in our lives.
“Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light.” One day, when all is said and done, and the sands of our lives have finished falling through the hourglass of time, there will only be silence and stillness and perfect peace and joy face to face with The One who has always loved us. Imagine spending that kind of time with Jesus!
Daily, we can practice the following to prepare a place for what is whispered in the silence to live a full and committed life that bears much fruit:
1. Listen without interrupting
2. Speak without accusing
3. Give without sparing
4. Pray without ceasing
5. Answer without arguing
6. Share without pretending
7. Enjoy without complaint
8. Trust without wavering
9. Forgive without punishing
10. Promise without forgetting
Silence is a true friend who never betrays. A meaningful silence with Christ is always better than meaningless words spoken in haste and a noisy rush.
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.”