Roots Deepened In late Summer 2010 , I was asked by Lisa Samra to join a Bible study here at Calvary . I showed up with a pen and a willing heart . After our first class I went out and bought my first Bible and eagerly began to learn . We studied the book of John and it was a time of blessing and growth . I felt comfortable asking simple questions . I learned how to look up verses , how to pray , how to lift up others , and how to read the bible . I was amazed at its living power and transforming Word . I was able to share and ask for prayer for my unbelieving husband . The Lord graciously answered in November of 2010 when he gave his life to Christ . Amen !
Year after year , I continue to be amazed at God ’ s gardening plan . I see His goodness , faithfulness and blessings of answered prayer abundant in my family ’ s life and in those around me . I see His Word active and alive as the power of Christ breaks through and transforms lives . In April of 2013 , I had the privilege of experiencing the Spirit breaking through to my dear parents ’ souls as we prayed for physical healing for my dad . Prayers again were answered as both of my parents gave their lives to Christ that day . The Lord redeemed my parents , restored our relationship , and planted a desire in their hearts to know Him better . And only as the Lord can do , He blessed us immeasurably more that I could ever hope for when we were all baptized together on Easter , 2014 .
As I sit and write this , I am in humble amazement of how the Lord met me and rescued me . I can still picture myself sitting in the balcony , feeling overwhelmed as music ushered me into the workings of the Spirit . I see how the people of Calvary Church welcomed me in and gave me a place to call home . I see how the Bible studies have shaped me , spoken truths to me and grown me in the Word .
Jesus Christ loves you , seeks you and wants to have a relationship with you . He is writing your story and has a full 360 degree view of it all . You may feel lost , forgotten , or that He will never answer your prayers . Trust me when I say He sees you , knows you and hears you . He is working even when you don ’ t know it and wishes to bless you immeasurably more that you could ever hope for or imagine . I know from my small experience that it never looks the way you thought it would . Trusting Him , releasing yourself to Him , and allowing Him in is the best possible place you could ever be .
I am so thankful for this church , for the Light it shines and for the people within its body . As you enter into this holiday season , may you feel Christ ’ s love in abundance as you release yourself to the Gardener who redeems , restores and rewrites your story .
In our seasons of challenges and blessings there is one thing I know : The Spirit is alive and working in our church !
By Nicki Metcalf
Nicki has been married to Mike for 18 years and they have two teenagers . This is Nicki ’ s first year as a small group facilitator for Tuesday Women ’ s Bible Study . She is loving the ways God is growing her through this step of faith !
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