September 8, 2006

 

Dear Precious Servant(s) of Christ:

 

When returning from an outing with the children from church on Wednesday evening, the kids and I were in awe of the beautiful full moon that was shining down on us.  Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”  What a privilege we have to worship and serve a holy, awesome, powerful, creative, loving God.  May He impress upon us the seriousness of who He is.  Micah 7:18 ~ “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance?  You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.”

 

Our board member and sister in Christ, Elaine Grant, shares:  “I am filled with gratitude that my Savior would allow me the opportunity to be part of Standing In The Gap.  Joy, excitement, and expectation fill my heart as I see the Father supply and meet the needs for those who are hurting through you, His saints.  The thankful words and praises to God that I have witnessed with my own ears, and the light in the faces as He brings hope for a better future are pictures I would like you to envision with the eyes of your spirit.  My He continue to richly bless you so that your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”

 

Thank you to those who have stepped out in faith through your monetary gifts, goods, interest, and encouragement.  Also, a heartfelt thank you to Calvary Full Gospel Church for the exposure, support, paint(!), etc. they have given us.  Thank you also to the men who have offered their trucks to move furniture for our Bethlehem Haven women. 

 

What’s happening?  We continue to be involved in the housing of four women who were homeless and have come through rehab at Bethlehem Haven.  Each woman has been touched by Jesus Christ in some way through your giving.  We sang “Jesus Loves Me” to one woman and she said she had never heard that song before (not in PittsburghL).  She is now growing in the grace and knowledge of our Savior and attending church regularly (thanks to great follow-up work by Kim).   Another woman called yesterday and needed prayer as she struggled with the battles in her world.  Today we received a call from Bethlehem Haven and they have two more women who need help with everything (furniture, etc.).  Do you have any in excellent shape?  We have also become involved with Teen Challenge in Alexander, PA, in a very personal way.  A close friend has her son there to receive help.  It has opened our eyes to the needs of this precious ministry.  The house that these boys are living in needs tender loving care  through painting, etc.  If you would like to help with this endeavor, please call Elaine at (412) 831-1193.  We continue to minister to single women; people on the street or whoever needs encouragement with McDonald’s certificates; gas cards for those struggling; gifts cards to Giant Eagle when appropriate, etc., all in the name of Jesus Christ. 

 

Recently, I (Ruth) felt the Lord speak a few things to me.  (1) “Will you do whatever it takes in someone’s life to touch them for me?”  (2) I was feeling overwhelmed one day by the responsibilities of Standing In the Gap and I told the Lord that.  Immediately, I heard Him say to me, “Can’t you just do this until I come back?”  Wow!  Did that ever put everything in perspective!  Together with you, we will continue to press on passionately asking Him to guide and direct our paths so that we can continue to advance His kingdom until He returns.

 

                                                              Because our Savior cares, lives and gives,