Since the beginning of the year, Kevin and I have had the privilege of being table leaders at the Alpha course offered at our church. For those of you not familiar with Alpha, it is a 10 week program held once a week and designed to help people explore the Christian faith. We have a speaker and afterward a discussion time for all at our table to share their beliefs and ask questions. Those at our table come from all different backgrounds and life situations. Many we see are either searching for something more, want a new direction in life, or are simply broken due to the result of past hurts from others or their own decisions. In addition to our weekly meeting, there is a weekend away known as the Alpha Retreat. When I decided to write about this incredible, life changing experience, the only word that kept coming to my mind was transformation. One of the definitions of transformation is change in appearance or character. I have to say that Kevin and I experienced that very thing this past weekend while on the retreat. Lives of many people were transformed in such a powerful way that you just knew the restoration, that only God can give, was upon them. We have truly been blessed by all of the people we have met so far at Alpha, and what a joyous moment it is to witness healing, whether physical or emotional, in those that didn't think it was possible to be whole again. Truth is, God gives hope to the hopeless. He makes all things new, and meets us right where we are at. He doesn't ask where we've been, but by His amazing grace, He lovingly embraces us as we choose to begin a new journey with Him.
This also brings to mind that transformation isn't just for those that are beginning their new life with God, but for us as believers in our daily walk. I think that same desire to change for the better still needs to be just as strong after we decide to follow Christ. After all, we want our light to shine so others can see the love of Christ in us. Sometimes depending on the situation, that's not always easy; however, 2 Corinthians 5:20 says, "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." As ambassadors we have a responsibility to continue to walk out the faith we claim to have. Although we are not expected to be perfect, we do need to at least make a conscious effort. I don't know about you, but I for one have areas that I need to constantly work at in my life. For many of us it's changes like patience while standing in line, with our kids, or our spouses. Other areas may be with controlling our tempers, or extending forgiveness. No matter what it is, we should continually want to grow spiritually. Change isn't always easy, but definitely worth it and humbling, when you see others want to live better because of your example.
To any of our friends from Alpha that are reading this blog, I want you to know how much Kevin and I love you. May God continue to bless you abundantly in all areas of your life.
Have a great day everyone, and remember to walk in love and speak in peace.
Love,
Anita
