Ya know, every once in a while I think God likes to shower some extra love on His kiddos-just so we remember how much He cares. This last week or so I've definitely been feeling that extra dose of love, or maybe my eyes have just been a little more open to how blessed I am. Either way, there has been some serious prayer-answering going on (from big, big burdens being lifted to the small mercies).
Let's start with the shops, because I LOVE to brag on God with all that's happening here! A couple of weeks after I started, an older lady called Margaret came in to ask about all of the events, clubs, etc. that happen here at Cornerstone. As I chatted her through the happenings, I got her story. She literally was just looking for company- someplace to go to see people and to do something fun. That's exactly what we're here for! After the conversation that we had, I was expecting her to come to the card making group that Tuesday...or the next Tuesday...or the next... But she didn't. I'll admit, I've been a bit disheartened as I've watched her stroll up and down the street in front of the shop the last few weeks. But this last Tuesday...SHE CAME!! And she laughed. And she made friends. I listened and watched from the next table (probably with a creepy smile...I was so excited for that moment...), while thinking "Yes!! THIS is what we're here for!" So, praise God for Margaret and for the ladies who so warmly and lovingly welcomed her into the card group. May relationships be formed through that!
There were several events like that last week, which is so encouraging for me to watch and hear about. Also, Boy's Club was (wait for it...wait for it...) AMAZING last week! My heart was singing last Tuesday night as I watched a group of 11boys interact with each other well, welcome new members, listen to the Bible story (I may have bribed them with candy...), and respect for what was asked of them. Now, I in no way expect for this to be the new standard of behavior. But, boy, will that be an awesome memory to reflect on during the hard meetings!
Friday-Sunday I had the opportunity to spend some time in Whitehaven with Mark and a few other friends. At first, I didn't really want to go (that sounds horrible, I know...but I'm usually exhausted by Friday) and was somewhat thankful that I had a busy weekend. But God knew what I needed, as always, and laughed at my plans. I watched helplessly as He crossed things off of my schedule one-by-one and lined things up until I not only had time for an afternoon with friends, but an entire weekend of rest. And man, was my heart filled by their company! I'm so blessed with amazing people in my life. And the laughs provided some much needed stress-therapy in preparation for a busy week.
Today has been a picture perfect description of God's provision. I'm somewhat manning the ship on my own this week and our staff rota is looking pretty scarce. But today, God showed up with literally every issue that came my way. 3 people called in sick, 3 people had perfectly cleared schedules for when I needed them. My schedule filled up, one of my team members' emptied. We had a problem with some of the banking from the weekend, the knowledge was provided to fix it. All the while, ministry was still happening around the chaos. My goodness, is He good! All glory to God for such an awesome week!
This coming week may be a bit of a challenge for me. First of all, will you pray for my boss as he takes some time off? Pray that he wouldn't worry about what's happening here and that he can focus on what he needs to, as well as get some needed rest. Pray for me that I would be a Godly leader (of sorts) amongst a team of both believers and unbelievers. Also, I'm boldy asking for a busy week in both of the shops. We can't build relationships if we don't have people around :) We've had some great conversations around here lately and I'm excited for more!
Lastly, I'll be accompanying one of our regulars to a doctor's appointment this Friday. Doctors make her a bit frustrated and anxious, so I'm praising God for the opportunity to love her in this way and bring His peace along. I'm also thankful for the change that I'm seeing in her as she learns/ remembers how to cast everything onto Him. Praise God for her and the work that He's doing!! Will you lift her up in preparation for this appointment? Pray for peace and patience as we try to get her the help she needs.
Thanks for all of your love, prayers, and support. I could not do this without y'all!
With love,
Britt
Let's start with the shops, because I LOVE to brag on God with all that's happening here! A couple of weeks after I started, an older lady called Margaret came in to ask about all of the events, clubs, etc. that happen here at Cornerstone. As I chatted her through the happenings, I got her story. She literally was just looking for company- someplace to go to see people and to do something fun. That's exactly what we're here for! After the conversation that we had, I was expecting her to come to the card making group that Tuesday...or the next Tuesday...or the next... But she didn't. I'll admit, I've been a bit disheartened as I've watched her stroll up and down the street in front of the shop the last few weeks. But this last Tuesday...SHE CAME!! And she laughed. And she made friends. I listened and watched from the next table (probably with a creepy smile...I was so excited for that moment...), while thinking "Yes!! THIS is what we're here for!" So, praise God for Margaret and for the ladies who so warmly and lovingly welcomed her into the card group. May relationships be formed through that!
There were several events like that last week, which is so encouraging for me to watch and hear about. Also, Boy's Club was (wait for it...wait for it...) AMAZING last week! My heart was singing last Tuesday night as I watched a group of 11boys interact with each other well, welcome new members, listen to the Bible story (I may have bribed them with candy...), and respect for what was asked of them. Now, I in no way expect for this to be the new standard of behavior. But, boy, will that be an awesome memory to reflect on during the hard meetings!
Friday-Sunday I had the opportunity to spend some time in Whitehaven with Mark and a few other friends. At first, I didn't really want to go (that sounds horrible, I know...but I'm usually exhausted by Friday) and was somewhat thankful that I had a busy weekend. But God knew what I needed, as always, and laughed at my plans. I watched helplessly as He crossed things off of my schedule one-by-one and lined things up until I not only had time for an afternoon with friends, but an entire weekend of rest. And man, was my heart filled by their company! I'm so blessed with amazing people in my life. And the laughs provided some much needed stress-therapy in preparation for a busy week.
Today has been a picture perfect description of God's provision. I'm somewhat manning the ship on my own this week and our staff rota is looking pretty scarce. But today, God showed up with literally every issue that came my way. 3 people called in sick, 3 people had perfectly cleared schedules for when I needed them. My schedule filled up, one of my team members' emptied. We had a problem with some of the banking from the weekend, the knowledge was provided to fix it. All the while, ministry was still happening around the chaos. My goodness, is He good! All glory to God for such an awesome week!
This coming week may be a bit of a challenge for me. First of all, will you pray for my boss as he takes some time off? Pray that he wouldn't worry about what's happening here and that he can focus on what he needs to, as well as get some needed rest. Pray for me that I would be a Godly leader (of sorts) amongst a team of both believers and unbelievers. Also, I'm boldy asking for a busy week in both of the shops. We can't build relationships if we don't have people around :) We've had some great conversations around here lately and I'm excited for more!
Lastly, I'll be accompanying one of our regulars to a doctor's appointment this Friday. Doctors make her a bit frustrated and anxious, so I'm praising God for the opportunity to love her in this way and bring His peace along. I'm also thankful for the change that I'm seeing in her as she learns/ remembers how to cast everything onto Him. Praise God for her and the work that He's doing!! Will you lift her up in preparation for this appointment? Pray for peace and patience as we try to get her the help she needs.
Thanks for all of your love, prayers, and support. I could not do this without y'all!
With love,
Britt