By Maryann Barattia Director of Membership & Community “We Love Because He First Loved Us”1 John 4: 19 What is it that draws women and girls to the Her Life Speaks ministry? After each of the four annual Lenten Retreats I have attended I hear, “What inspired you to return as an attendee to this ministry?” Without hesitation every woman young and older replied “the genuine smiles, love and friendliness of the women who greeted and welcomed me!” How do they do it? How do they display genuine care consistently? Is it a new perfume or cosmetic treatment, a successful marketing strategy? As one who has experienced this at a time when I was lost and broken, I can truthfully say it is the unconditional love of God. It fills the hearts and souls of our sisters who share his love with everyone they welcome to Her Life Speaks. Attending my first small group bible study I noticed a women who was looking in my direction. I was captivated by her bright eyes and welcoming smile. Every encounter over the last five years has been the same, welcoming and genuine. We are God’s representatives to all through the sharing of his love. It is a promise that he has made to us. “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed says the Lord, who has compassion on me.” Isaiah 54: 10 NIV Although I didn’t feel worthy, I heard the Holy Spirit’s call to share my spiritual gifts with others. I didn’t know I had spiritual gifts and was fearful I would make mistakes. It was through prayer the Holy Spirit helped me understand when you answer God’s call he equips you with the grace you need to use your spiritual gifts. “But I’m so busy and this is so out of my comfort zone!” The Father’s love enabled me to feel secure in his calling and I am blessed by each seeking heart I welcome to HLS ministry. “Your love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me.” Romans 8: 37 - 39 When God calls you to serve as sisters in Jesus that is where it begins, welcoming others by sharing his love. Sit in stillness listening for the Spirit and he will reveal God’s plan for you, to use all things for good, to give you hope and a future. There are many ways for you to serve him and in the discovery you will receive a great gift, to become an instrument in furthering God’s kingdom. Will you take the first step to join us in welcoming women and girls who are seeking his love?
5 Comments
April Sliwak
1/10/2018 06:12:04 pm
Thank you, Mary for a beautiful testimony of showing us what God's purpose in our lives can look like. You have blessed so many women by your obedience and the grace of God. I pray He continues to use you to bless us in the commUNITY of Christ!
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Her Life Speaks
1/14/2018 01:22:14 pm
Amen!
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11/21/2018 02:05:44 pm
There were so many times when I doubted God's love. I am now in my mid-20s and almost all of my friends are in a relationship. I cannot help but feel like I am the only one who is never going to find someone destined for me. And then I realized how crazy it is that I am rushing to be in a relationship. Just because you do not have a boyfriend or a girlfriend does not mean that you are not in a relationship because we are always in a relationship with God.
Dee
1/13/2018 08:54:38 pm
My sister in Christ, what a beautiful testimony from someone the Lord has transformed to a mighty disciple!! You are such a beautiful soul and a Godly role model to me and to women of all ages who are connecting with this growing ministry! Love you!
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Her Life Speaks
1/14/2018 01:22:41 pm
Thank you for your sweet comment! Amen
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StoriesHer Life Speaks is all about Her testimony, Her life, and who God is in Her story. Here we write our stories in hopes of helping other women find their relationship with Jesus Christ. Archives
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