April 21, 2010

God calls us to a deeper experience with Him. Jesus was connected to His heavenly Father and He found a quiet place to be with Him. Matthew 14: 22 says that Jesus went to a mountain to pray. There are no mountains in Florida, but maybe there are some in your corner of the world where you can go and retreat. Whether we go to the mountain or to the beach or take a moment in the backyard to look up or close our eyes at our desk… it is possible and important to take time to ask God to renew and revive us. It is important to take the time to pay attention to how He is leading us.

Rosa sensed God’s leading to reach out to her Facebook Friend whose infant daughter has an illness similar to her own two year-old daughter. Rosa remembered how special it was for her and her husband to have the people of H.o.P.E pray for her family. She came on behalf of her friend, and people responded with one heart as they prayed for Claire and her baby.

Dr. Morris and his wife Bodil taught a new Scripture Song about Praising God and trusting the promise that He is able to heal broken hearts. When Pastor Morris invited those with a broken heart to come forward for special prayer, Gary stood up and courageously shared his worry for his adult child. Others stepped forward. A young adult whose friend dubbed an agnostic or atheist was among those who came to lend support to those who were reaching out to God. Could it be that God was present among us? “I didn’t know it could be…like this,” this young person said in amazement.

Among the guests were pastors from all over the United States who were brought together for Andrews Seminary course at the Forest Lake Church. They attended H.o.P.E and the Senior Pastor introduced them to the congregation. Each of them was encircled by a member of the prayer group to receive prayers of blessings for their studies and ministry.

Their Professor who also came tonight was Dr. S. Joseph Kidder. He is no stranger to H.o.P.E : He had dynamically shared his testimony during a Prayer Weekend in 2008! (Click HERE to listen.)

We hope to see you next week, too as we continue to learn from the powerful prayer practices of Jesus!

Praying for our joy…and hope for the journey!
Pastor Sabine

Hightlights of the evening thanks to our resident photographer, Dick Davis:
Praying for ministerial students.
The Morris’ singing and teaching Scripture Songs, accompanied by Dr. George Guthrie at the piano.