Reflecting upon the last few weeks, I realize now that it has been a blur. Everything happens so fast. It is hard to believe that I leave the country yet again on Tuesday morning at 8. Harder to believe is the fact that I probably won’t see the beautiful city of Denver, and many family members and friends for another 17 months…
Expectations are ideas that creep into my head of what the future holds… Not only with regards to my life on the Track, but with regards to my ideas about what will take place here so out of my control. Is there a better place to be than there? Out of control? I am reminded of the parallels of Paul’s thoughts when he explained in his second letter to the Corinthians that in His weakness, Christ has the most power. When I am furthest from control, He can have the most. And his arms are the safest place that I could ever be.
God has been teaching me that the Christian life is not necessarily one of One decision, but more of a hallway. We have to take the step into the doorway of the hall, but still have Life to walk through. Each step along the way affects the direction that I take in the future and sometimes I need to be picked up and put back on track again because there are distractions along the way. So, because making Christ my Lord is such a continual process, it requires almost a constant re-evaluation of my stance, path, and direction. Not only a re-evaluation, but a response to what God is showing me about myself. Action is key.
The last few months have been such a blessing to me. You, who supported the vision raised over $10,000 on behalf of the Orphans and future missions. The Not Alone Benefit Photography Show was just the beginning. Offers for more assistance and even building teams continue to pour in. God knew what he was doing that day when he introduced me to the vision. It continues to be his, but I am honored to be a part of it.
He has also led the way to share his heart for the world with America, on the tour and more recently when I was invited to speak at Metro State College in Denver. I had written a formal speech to take up my 20 minutes, but ended up sharing from the heart on my experiences in Africa, finishing with a call to action even in the secular environment. The overarching message of the summer is that there is Hope in a seemingly Hopeless situation. God continues to be the source of that Hope and encouragement for a world that is dying. Praise be to Him!
So now what? I am excited… Excited to see what He continues to do in and through me. It also comes with almost a sense of sadness. Sadness because I do value the relationships and friendships that God has given me here, back home. But those same relationships in his hands and surrendered to him are in the proper place. I have confidence that when we walk in His ways, we can never go astray. Philippians 4:19 [The same God who takes care of me, will take care of you!]
I look forward to sharing more experiences of my upcoming travels with you along the way. Who knows what will happen this time? Thank you for your faithfulness to reading and the encouragement that you provide as well. It is an interaction that I don’t take lightly, and one that I take with Joy!
May God richly bless your lives.
In Him,
John Paul
[Love is the Movement]
Tags: Uncategorized
(http://www
WOW, what an incredible summer! God has shown Himself as the Awesome Being He is. Thank you for sharing, John Paul, your most meaningful walk with Him. As you have planted your faith He has indeed increased it a hundred fold. We share in your excitement for the stupendous journey ahead of you and look forward to your heartfelt updates with great anticipation. Philippians 1:3-6
love is the movement. keep doing it, john. God holds you in his hands. enjoy the journey, my friend. meanwhile, take lots of good pictures in my stead
love is the movement. keep doing it, john. God holds you in his hands. enjoy the journey, my friend. meanwhile, take lots of good pictures in my stead
John, you are such an amazing man of God and I am so excited for you for this up coming season. You have come so far this summer in your relationship with God and I know that He will only take you further!!!
Have so much and I will be praying for you!!!
God bless BFF
Dear John Paul,
It was such a pleasure meeting you the other evening when you joined us in celebrating our precious Mother’s birthday in Bend. Thank you for taking time to take the pictures and get to know our family.
Out thoughts and prayers are with you in the days, weeks and months ahead. My prayer for you is Joshua 1:9, that you will be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you whereever you go.
In Christ Jesus,
Steve Pengra
John Paul,
Praying that God will do mighty things in and through you over the next 17 months. Keep your eye on Him!