What am I referring to, you ask? Big things...
A baby! Yes, we're pregnant! Isn't it just every woman's dream? What a journey of faith! We are so thankful to Jesus for giving us this special blessing of a child on the way. My heart is so full for this little person already: prayers, dreams, visions, excitements, worries, fears, and everything in between. Our families are so excited. My mother and sister call me almost everyday to see how I'm doing (so sweet, love y'all!). Artie's mom sent us flowers when we told her we were pregnant (this will be her first grandchild). Our church family is such a blessing too. On Wednesday nights, the Pastors challenge us to a specific people group to pray for in small groups before our service starts. Last night JJ asked us to pray for expecting parents, parents and grandparents. In our circle of six, there were prayers offered to God for Artie and I's little one by our brothers and sisters in Christ. (It was actually quite funny, Scott Avriett prayed for strength for our up and coming late night feedings - we all giggled, but I said AMEN!) I have also had friends offer me their materinity clothes. O - it just humbles me and brings tears to my eyes of the beautiful support and love of the Body of Christ! Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
Artie - a liscensed minister of the Gospel of Christ! Artie was liscensed last night in the Wednesday night service. At the first steps of God bringing to fruition the call on Artie's life and my life and our life together - is just so amazing! As I was driving to the service, I caught a view of the sky. There was a cloud covering over South Tampa and God brought a memory to my heart. May 20th, 2000 ~ "OneDay" ~ a powerful conference where I heard God's call to ministry for my life. Having no idea how or when or even what it was going to be ... He had spoken a destination into my young believing heart. And here I am, at my Gilgal (an Israelite camp on their journey to the Promised Land), full circle ... a cloud covering reminding me of the verses that were read from the platform at OneDay...
"There is no One like our God,
who rides on the heavens to help you
and on the clouds in His majesty"
&
"He makes the clouds His chariot"
He was hovering over us yesterday as He fulfilled His promise. Hallelujah!
Those are just two of a very long list (and yes I have made a list). Pastor Todd challenged Artie and I to start a "Blessings Journal" to record all that God is doing. He told us when we have times of doubt or trouble to go back and read our journal as a family and remember what God has done for us. Great advice! And advice taken!
I plan on posting throughout our pregnancy. The baby is due on March 17th and we get to find out what we're having sometime in November. So, keep checking in for updates and pictures (I have my first belly picture I'll post) and keep us in your prayers.
"The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His Name!"
Luke 1:49
