Jeannie De La Garza

Dear JANES,

It is with great sadness that I inform you that one of our JANES, Jeannie De La Garza, passed away yesterday. Please keep this family in your prayers. Jeannie has been a blessing to many women through her words of encouragement in the Granola Bar Devotional . We've posted one of her devotionals so that you can be blessed by the precious words she left behind. I would also like to invite you to leave a comment below for Jeannie's family to let them know how much we love them. Feel free to share a memory of how Jeannie has blessed your life.

Love,
DeeDee

Funeral Arrangements

Thursday, June 5th
Seaside Memorial Funeral Home
12:00 PM

Devotional written by Jeannie De La Garza.

One Step at a Time

My grandson Richard is a vivacious child who brings so much joy into our lives. I think back to a few years ago when he was about three years old and spending the night at my house. I was finishing my evening by straightening the house, and the last thing on my list was to take the trash out. I told Richard he could stand inside the doorway of our den and wait for me while I took out the trash. I explained that I would be right back. I will never forget the horrified look on his little face; he looked like he was about to cry. I asked him to come with me, but he wouldn’t. It had just gotten dark outside, and I had some little stepping stones that led a trail to the trash barrel. I knew I had to get Richard to trust me; so I told him that once I stepped on a stone, I would then tell him when to take his step. We finally started out down the path, and he put his hand into mine. I told him I would never let anything happen to him. Instantly, his little hand relaxed; and although he was still worried, he wasn't terrified. We took one stone at a time until we got to our destination. I tossed the bag into the trash can, swung Richard into my arms and headed back to the safety of house. I was so humbled by his trust in me. Sometime later, I found out in a conversation with Richard that the reason he was so worried was because he was afraid that a "ninja" was going to get me. He had been watching his Uncle's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. Richard’s trust in me reminds me of how Jesus wants us to trust Him – like little children. Jesus has never failed me. I want to always trust Him in every area of my life. He alone is worthy of my ultimate faith, whether I can see my next step or not. There have been seasons in my life when I couldn't see the next stepping-stone on my path; but as long as I hold Jesus’ hand, I know I am safe. The longer I know Him, the more assured I am that I can trust Him every step of the way.

Memory Verse:
"We live by faith, not by sight."
- 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

Prayer Prompt:
"Father, I thank You that You are always with me. Please always remind me that I can trust You in every season of my life. Right now tell me what I need to hand over to You in complete faith, including . . . "

Contributor:
Jeannie De La Garza

Note from Women's Minister!

Hello JANES!

I just want to say that I am so blessed by the ministry of the BAF women. Kudos to those of you who studied God's Word this season and strengthened your walk with the Teacher. Kudos to those of you who have been involved in Outreach Projects in order to bless our community and grow your faith in the Provider. Way to go Bevy Teams as you carried on the vision to build Christ-centered community and sought to create fellowship with the Shepherd who calls you by name. Kudos to the Admin Team as you worked to keep this ministry organized and running efficiently, all for the glory of the Creator (and Organizer)of the universe. And thanks to all who planned and participated in our fun and meaningful Events that brought all of our JANES together for the sake of friendship. . . in honor of the Friend that sticks closer than a brother. You have inspired us and encouraged us to keep reaching for all that God has destined us to be. I am truly blessed and so very proud to be your servant.

"So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully." Romans 12:5-8

deedee

Fill the Front!

We've realized that our church is at the size now where we need more than just the band leading worship. When our members and committed attendees sit in the front of the auditorium during the worship service, it can generate an enthusiasm and spirit of worship that is infectious for the entire congregation. We would like to invite all of the MOB, JANES and Home Team members to make a concerted effort to "fill up the front" at every service. Please join us starting this weekend.