"An Awesome Family"

by Dotty Schmitt

Over the past few months I've experienced a growing appreciation and love for the family of God. Paul's numerous expressions of deep gratitude for the people of God have increasingly become my own. With new insight, I'm able to read and understand Paul's words: "I always thank God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus." (1 Cor. 1:4)

Recently, as I've really "looked" at many of God's people, I have smiled at the obvious grace that rests upon their lives. We are "old enough" now as a church that, for many of us, we have been able to build varied and wonderful memories together. Many of us have prayed together, worked together, wept together, and laughed together. Through trials, testings, and triumphs we have grown together as a congregation. As we continue to grow spiritually and numerically, it is our privilege to reach out and love and serve those who may not yet feel part of this awesome family of God.

If you are someone who is still looking for your place in Immanuel's family, find some folks that you can pray and serve with (the pastors can also help you in this). If you are an active member, ask the Lord to show you those who yet need to find their place among us.

As the days of spiritual activity (both good and bad) intensify, the need for each one of us to increasingly become loving encouragers will also intensify. Yes, we are not perfect – we yet fail and disappoint one another – but by His incredible blood and atonement, Jesus has made us one family. Therefore, "let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the DAY approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25)

Loving brothers and sisters will always draw the anointed, manifest Presence of our incredible heavenly Father, who thoroughly enjoys the harmonious sounds of His precious family! (Psalm 133).

You are loved and deeply appreciated — Dotty