Lydia House April 6th

How have you seen God renew your life? Amber challenged the ladies of the Lydia house with this question during the study Tuesday. Some sat doing absolutely nothing while others poured their heart out on a half sheets of computer paper. It was encouraging to hear beautiful stories of how God has worked and continues to work in the lives of some of the ladies, sisters in Christ, we have the privilege of serving. Along with the apparent renewal we see from God, it's also difficult to hear of women who leave and/or seem untouched by God after being exposed to it in the shelter. Part of serving is praising God for the things which are good and beautiful that we see while trusting he will take care of the unseen things. I think we want to see God change people's lives at the Lydia house not only because it's a tangible way of recognizing God at work in the broken world but because it gives us hope. We want to be renewed by God and seeing people fall away gives us a small or major fear it will also happen to us.

There were many praises on Tuesday to say the least. It was definitely fun having people graciously come up for seconds during dinner. There was a lot going on during dinner as usual and the simplicity of a delicious meal made the environment uplifting. It was also encouraging to see the kids show off the Easter eggs they hunted for after the meal and to see everyone appreciate the ice cream and chocolate covered strawberries. Not only is it fun to serve the ladies we are befriending but it's also fun to enjoy the meal and dessert together. The us and them complex isn't apparent and is possibly nonexistent. It's transforming into a community which is much appreciated. It's definitely something to praise God about. Thanks be to GOD!