Motivation for Ministry-BE THE GIFT

JULY 2009

Chris and Marilyn Johnson

If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14

BTG MISSION STATEMENT

To raise the value and spirit of life by connecting those who need assistance with those who desire to help in their community and in their world.

INDEPENDENCE DAY!

I love July 4th with all of the pride, love for our country and people standing together believing in one common good;

The United States of America.

I especially love the way we celebrate with the parades, picnics and fire works. As I read and listen to news programs and commentaries and with all the people who believe in America, we sure have a lot of different opinions on the direction America should go. It can be very confusing on what the truth is and what people's own selfish agendas are.

I find it somewhat the same as a Christian. Most people believe in God and most of them have a real love for God. We all celebrate a little differently with our music, Sunday services and fellowship with one another. Again as I read and listen to many different teachers and authors and with all the people who believe in God, we sure have a lot of different opinions of the direction the church or more specifically how each individual Christian should go. If you are like me then you may have been confused or maybe felt left out when God has seemingly been giving directions to everyone else and yet not to you.

Since this month is about freedom,

Let me show you how God set me free.

In John 21, Peter is having breakfast with Jesus. Jesus asked Peter three times, "Do you love me, then feed and take care of my sheep?" In the verses following, the only direction Jesus gives Peter is "Follow Me!" Of course Peter cannot let it go and sees others gathered around and says "What about him?" Jesus responds to Peter by saying that their life is none of his concern, you Peter, you just follow me.

For me personally, it seemed that all of my friends and ministry peers had direction for their life and I was being left behind or left out. I learned though not to compare my life, my calling, timing or direction in life with anyone else, but to focus on following HIM.

I encourage you to share Peter's lead by following Jesus.

It says in Jeremiah 29, God's promise to each of us.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,

plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future!"

So no matter what you read, hear or what others are doing...just keep following Jesus. And as with Peter, what God has for you could be just one breakfast away.

Each month we have the opportunity to serve single moms in our community. We were blessed to work with this family a couple weeks ago.

Our volunteers were able to repair some windows and toilets, fix her gates and fence, repair her deck and railing as well as clean up and trim some trees that could pose a threat to her house.

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. (Winston Churchill)

We know this mom was thankful for the time and dedication of those who helped her. We at BTG are grateful for the opportunity to serve.

On behalf of our family, thank you again for your love and condolences in the loss of our father. We know that God has special plans as we continue on in the style, love and passion that he once carried. Write or e-mail us.

Love and God Bless,

Chris and Marilyn Johnson - BE THE GIFT

WAYS YOU

CAN BE PART

BE THE GIFT

1. Call or e-mail if
you would like to

volunteer or help
with a project.

2. Invite us to
partner with

your church or

business to organize

a project or trip.