A Word from Worship
Greetings New Life Church family and friends,
How did September arrive so early this year? When I think back to early Spring when we began this Cancer journey with Don it seems like I've only blinked and here it is Fall and yet it sometimes feels like an eternity. I remember the day of his very first appointment at Florida Cancer Clinic and we ran into another member from church who immediately approached us to say they were praying for us and her words were: "Cancer is a whole new way of living." How right she is. Of course that was before anyone knew that I also have Cancer which has really turned life upside down. I didn't know what to share with you this week because I don't just want to write about us and our needs, when so many people are struggling with issues of various types. Then after prayer this morning, as often happens, God reminded me of something that has been heavy on my heart recently. As some of you know, I began a prayer group a few years ago and as I was looking over some of my notes from a September from two years prior and there was something I talked about then that I want to share with you again. My prayer group (RPM) meets on Thursdays at noon in our sanctuary for a time of sharing and prayer. We also have a large group of members who are unable to attend but are great prayer warriors and are willing to pray in the comfort of their homes when I send out a list of folks who need prayers. It's a wonderful ministry and doesn't require you to leave home!
September reminds me of numerous difficult surgeries in my past - and I know I'm not alone. I'm reminded of the story in Luke 10:25-37 about the man traveling on foot from Jerusalem to Jericho and was attacked by robbers. A priest and a Levite came along but both left him. Then a Samaritan came along and showed him mercy and kindness. Praying about that parable led me to believe that we can show real Christian love in many ways by simple acts of love and kindness - especially by offering prayer. These are things any of us can do and it will be a gift to those who receive it. We all realize that any type of challenge in our lives can cause great anxiety, fear and doubt. But we have certainly been reminded by your blessings of cards, food, and especially prayer have been like a lifeline to us. Any expressions of love and kindness fill us with a sense of calm and peace and that is huge.
I read that 9/12 is the National Day of Encouragement from Dayspring. But here are some simple ideas so you too can pass it on:
* Send a card -a handwritten note is extra nice.
* Pay for someone's food in line.
* Drop off flowers or cookies to a neighbor or friend.
* Always say thank-you with a smile.
These are easy ways to show kindness but I really believe we can show the heart of Jesus by showing love through prayer. Our lists each week of fellow members requesting or needing prayer shows how important it is. Please consider joining our prayer team and become a prayer warrior. To sign up please send me your email address or contact me with any questions.
Our update: Don has been doing physical therapy an getting a little stronger each day. If you missed him, he was in church last Sunday! He has an appointment with our new oncologist tomorrow so we hopefully know of a new or continued treatment plan then. I have completed the maximum amount of radiation treatments allowed and will have a new scan in mid October to check on results. I continue to be blessed by your kindness and love. The food has been so important to each of us for different reasons but I thank you. This has been a difficult and stressful journey so far, but your love has been our biggest gift wrapped in prayer.
I'm praying for you!
Rosie Young
Worship Coordinator
rosie@newlifeforall.church
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