ABS newsletter

Here is the newsletter from Mark from this week, and also please pray for a couple in our class, they have a silent request. Thanks, Chris

There is a single sentence from our ABS study last week that has challenged me. As I listened to my ABS mentoring – teacher read this verse, I heard the Holy Spirit ask me if this was true of me. Listen to what was written of Samuel…. The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground. I want to know that God is speaking. I want to hear His word. I want to respond to His word. And I want His words to shape my life and for NONE of His Word to fall to the ground. I am not sure that is true of me, but I am asking God to align my heart with His Word. I am praying that our Valley View faith family is a fellowship that hungers for the Word and, when heard, allows the Word to shape us so powerfully that ‘none fall to the ground.’ That is and will be transformational!

3 Things To Celebrate….

- Our women had an amazing night last night. I have heard that worship was beautiful; Carla taught the Word with passion and clarity; and hearts were poured out around our men as they were being invited to the cross.

- Our men were challenged to be Men at the Cross. Our men were called to love the cross and to spend their lives for the sake of the cross. I am praying for men who live with passion for Christ in their home, church, workplace, and spheres of influence. Over 400 Valley View men gathered… Christ was lifted high and it was a remarkable night! More results (decision cards) to be discovered next week.

- Speaking of decisions, we are scheduled to baptize 20 folks this Sunday evening in our monthly baptism! Praise God for His continuing outpouring of grace and goodness in the life of Valley View. Sunday night will be a GREAT celebration!

3 Things to Know…

- If you have someone who would like to be a part of baptism or if you have folks in your class who need to and are ready to make that step, they can meet in WC146 (choir room) at 5:30 Sunday afternoon. Let’s add to the party those who are primed and ready to be baptized!

- On March 30, 2011 our student pastors (TJ & Steven) will release a new name for our student ministry with great hope that the name will reflect the hearts and lives of hundreds (thousands!) of students as they pass through this ministry over the next years. New excitement prevails in our student ministry!

- Our choir and fellow thespians are preparing for an amazing season and worship encounter. Easter is a ridiculously good holiday for every follower of Christ. Easter is filled with the promise of hope, life, freedom, and passion. April 15,16, & 17 @ 7 PM our choir & drama team will be presenting The Promise that we have due to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Pray, Invite, & Expect!

I hope that you guys are loving this Spring weather. Flowers bloom (sneeze!)…. Sun shines…. Daylight is lengthened…. Bats crack and balls whistle through the air….. it’s just a good season. I love that Christ makes all things new and things just feel new right now. I am praying for the most amazing Spring and Summer in the history of Valley View. Pray with and raise your level of expectancy (even if your expectancy is already sky high!). We are awakened and let’s continue to expect more than we can ask or imagine. Thank you for allowing me and my family to share life with you. We count it a joy and a privilege.

By Grace… For Glory,

Mark