Matthew 28:8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. ESV
I'll never forget the day that I knew God was calling us to leave a
wonderful staff position in Southern California and plant a new church
in Central Texas. We were both fearful and joyful at the same time!
Have you ever experienced that? It's such a diverse range of emotions
that you almost don't know how to act. On one hand you are anxious
because you know that you are being challenged and stretched beyond
your current capacity. On the other hand you know that God has spoken
and has ordered your steps into a new venture that will result in
growth and expansion on every level!
The two Marys went to the tomb to visit the site of Jesus' burial only
to witness the stone being rolled away and encounter an angel of the
Lord! The first thing out of the angel's mouth was "Do not be afraid."
It's probably a good thing he said that! Some of you who are reading
this eVotional today know what it's like to experience fear and joy at
the same time.
You also know what it is to simply be
afraid. The good news in this event is that Jesus himself showed up
(in the very next verse) to comfort and confirm that he was indeed in
the middle of this situation! Today, he wants to reassure you that no
matter what you are experiencing at this time he is there working on
your behalf. Take the advice of the angel, "Do not be afraid!"
Grace and Peace,
Pastor J
I also remember when He called you to California from SA.
Miss you guys!
Posted by: Cindy Beall | January 27, 2009 at 07:32 PM
That was a strange and wonderful season for us all and yet God uses it all to shape and mold us. Makes me more grateful for grace! Miss you guys too!
Posted by: Jimmy Pruitt | January 28, 2009 at 06:27 AM
I believe God wants His Children to always be prepared to step out of our comfort zones and into the unknown But thankfully when we do this we are not alone,God is with us every step of the way! I just know those in your ministry and your congregation at your church are continuously being blessed by your messages.I think it is so awesome how God is working and using you to spread His word and His love!! God bless and keep burning Bright for Christ my friend. :0)
Posted by: Holly Smith | January 29, 2009 at 08:49 AM
Thanks Holly, so good to hear from you! Thank you for your kind and gracious words today. I look forward to staying connected! Grace & Peace, Jimmy
Posted by: Jimmy Pruitt | January 29, 2009 at 08:58 AM