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Dancing in the Rain
 Life's not about waiting for the storms to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain.
We have all heard that quote. It sounds kind of Pollyanna, but if you look deeper I think it contains a great truth. I know a lot of people who wait to be happy until their lives are perfect and hassle-free. It never happens. The storms of life never let up, whether it is a broken relationship, a financial crisis, a devastating diagnosis, a disappointment, an unfulfilled dream.
God doesn't think we need to wait.
Life is uncertain and storms are guaranteed. They often overlap, bringing one challenge after another. Sure, there are islands of calm, but soon the thunder is heard in the distance and before you know it, it's pouring again.
I think there is an unspoken perception that we should not have to endure these difficulties. Surely God will protect us from all that! But God never promises a life without trouble; he just promises his faithfulness and peace in the midst of it. In fact, he doesn't talk about simply gritting our teeth and "enduring" hardships; he goes a step beyond that--to joy. Perhaps even dancing.
That might sound just too unrealistic. A tall order to fill. Not fair. Hard to swallow. Doesn't God know what it takes? He doesn't understand how hard it is!
Friends, we who love the Lord have his Spirit within us. Scripture tells us that we are in this world but not of it. We can reach down and find that peace and joy in him, no matter what the circumstances. Wrap your arms around it. It is ours to embrace as sons and daughters of the King.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me." John 14:1
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Sounds like dancing to me.
Greg ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11: Fellowship of Followers
At 6:15 at Debbie's house we gather to learn and practice how to be disciples of Jesus Christ. Come to pray, discuss, and seek the Lord. Call Debbie for directions at 623-329-5333.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12: Women's Study
Women! Join us this Monday at Gayle's house at 7 PM for a viewing of Joyce Meyer's DVD, Battlefield of the Mind. This is a powerful teaching on the topic of how we handle all of our self-talk and stinking thinking. Even if you have not attended the Women's Study before, come for this important message to all women. Call Gayle for directions at 602-822-4435. See you there.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17: Star Gazing at Estrella Mtn. Regional ParkThis is a fun activity for young and old alike. The event hours are from 7:30 PM till 9:30 PM. However, it would be a good idea for everyone who wants to attend to arrive early. It might be a good idea to arrive as early as 5:30 to 6:00, as the last event was filled to over-flowing and involved a walk from an overflow parking area that was at least a ¼ mile from the telescopes. For this event we do want to car pool as the price per vehicle to enter the park is $6.00. For information about this event go to www.maricopa.gov/parks/ Scroll down the left side of the page to the column titled Outdoor Activities and look for Star Gazing. I am also including a link to the event providers so you can get an idea of the sort of activity it will be. Go to www.stargazingforeveryone.com and check out their page. The only thing that can interfere with this event would be the weather so I am praying for a clear, non-windy night. I hope you can go. I think you will enjoy it. Dress warm. If you have any questions call me (Roberto) at (623) 435-0536. (Please leave a message, I'll call back I promise.) More info to follow. Thanks! SATURDAY EVENING, DECEMBER 15: An Evening of Splendor!Singles Christmas Dance7 - 11 PM The Lakes Ballroom, Peoria Tickets: $20.00 per person Hors d'oeuvres and Desserts Served For Info Call: Carol at 602-348-7563 or Sandy at 623-581-0499 (Tickets can be purchased online at www.lifediscoveryministries.org) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ON-GOING MINISTRIES
 TUESDAY EVENINGS, 6:30 PM
Community Church of Joy - Meet in the Church Lobby 21000 N 75th Ave, Glendale Isn't it time? Whether you have gone through a divorce recently or have difficulty picking up the pieces from a past divorce, come for this series of videos that can provide insights into getting through major issues of divorce and moving forward with your life. This is a safe, small group setting with others who have gone through the same thing. You can start anytime! Call Jerry for more info at 623-972-7651. | 
