Through most of my life I have considered myself a good Christian. I have attended church on a regular basis, gone to Sunday School, even taught occasionally, sang in the choir, and served on various church committees. But about three years ago, I just felt that something was lacking in my spiritual life. My wife, Nora, and I had not been "biblical scholars" and we felt called to sign up for the Disciple Bible Study Program at our church. Disciple Bible Study was good for me; it strengthened the scriptural basis of my faith and opened my eyes to a deeper understanding of what Christianity is all about. I didn't realize it at the time, but still something was missing. I had accepted Christ in my heart, and I had accepted Christ in my mind, but I still didn't feel capable of stepping out of my comfort zone, sharing my witness of Christ with others. I just couldn't do it by myself. Two years ago I finally said yes to Emmaus, and had the most important and meaningful weekend of my life. Christ acknowledged that "yes, I couldn't do it by myself". I learned that that was OK, that I didn't have to do it by myself. That weekend He showed me a part of His limitless power, grace and love, and that by calling on this power within that His Spirit provides, He would help me share His grace and love with others. I had never before seen such power and love in my life as I did that weekend. I have heard many people say that their Emmaus weekend showed them a touch of Heaven. To this I say, our Emmaus weekend has showed us a part of what God intended THIS WORLD to be. Since then, I have tried to be far more open with my faith; not just on Sunday, but in everything I do. Christ is always there to help; all we have to do is reach out and ask. I still know my own limitations, but I also know the limitless power that Christ's grace and love provide if we let Him work through us. I have now completed all three years of Disciple Bible Study, am a Stephen Minister and Stephen Leader and take every opportunity I can find to share Christ with others. I love working behind the scenes on Emmaus walks as well as in the conference room, and look forward to serving you as your newest Board member. With Christ's help, we should continue to try to see that all the world shares our "Candlelight" experience. DeColores |