I’ve gone to the same church my entire life…except for my Purdue and Miami years where I had to find something as close as possible. Pastor Doug came to our church when I was 15, and has been a part of nearly every important event in my life. He and Pastor Al lead a monthly Healing Service and tonight Izzy agreed to go. Izzy doesn’t like church. It’s too quiet. Too organized. Too boring. Too “abstract” for her. She’s so black and white; so literal that it’s hard for her to believe in God right now in this stage of her life. She can’t see Him, so how can she believe He’s real? It makes me sad and anxious…but I believe He will reveal Himself to her in time. I believe she will find Him in her and His own time.

So her going tonight to the healing service of her own accord was big. She laid in the pew and played her phone, but as she has shown us time and again, when it seems Izzy isn’t listening, she piped up to correct Pastor Doug during his sermon!

As a part of the healing service, people are encouraged to go to the communion rail for an anointing of oil and laying of hands in prayer for whatever healing they need. Izzy did this as well and although she was anxious for those she did not know, those not in her circle, to lay their hands on or near her, she did it. Pastor Doug presented her with a prayer shawl and matching hat made by one of the church ladies. Such a wonderful outreach by our church. Such a Blessed service. God was there, whether Izzy believes it or not He was there, laying hands on her. He was there laying hands on me along with those 10 Bethel members and my beautiful Mama who lifted us up in prayer for strength, peace, health, love. He was there in the people who talked with and shared love with Izzy after the service. He was there in Pastors Doug and Al. He is walking this path with Izzy…with me; and there are days, many many days when He is carrying us down the path. And even though it’s a path I don’t particularly want to be on, I will trust my God and follow where He leads. If you are looking for a new church home, join my family at Bethel…God is there waiting for you