April NewsLetter

Hello Ministry Partners,

We had some great Easter services last month and we are enjoying the wonders and amazement of spring as the flowers around us begin to bloom. It reminds me of some of our residents as we minister to those in the nursing homes. Many look as if they are in a shell buried deep within the earth; I praise God for the power of His Word as it lifts us out of the shell and makes us a lovely flower in His sight.

April 1, West Jax - We picked up on the resurrection of Jesus today. Last month we spoke on the proofs of the resurrection and today we spoke on the results of the resurrection. Sis Betty and Joan sang “Because He Lives” and it never ceases to amaze me of the penetrating power of the good old hymns. I saw many struggling; who barley had the strength to sing along during this great hymn. Once we completed the hymn, it was requested again, so we sang it again! We had Charles and Doris and Rachel at the services and we just were blessed in the Lord!

April 2, Cedar Hills - GOSPEL SING - Today we had a Christian couple, the Richies” come in and they sang their hearts out for us! The residents, and our volunteers, thoroughly enjoyed their beautiful song; not to forget the spiritual filling we received as a result! Bro. Paul and Sis Tara told me that they would be glad to come back and sing for us again, I thank God they use their talents for the glory of God. I wonder what Christians could do for Jesus if we would all use our “specific” God given talents and gifts for His glory. I think we have an indication in the book of Acts; we could turn this world upside down!

April 8, Cedar Hills - Hello friends. Remember, He is able! Sometimes we forget this simple truth and we want to put the ball back in our court. We had a wonderful service today. Charles, myself, Teresa and a friend of Teresa’s (Kendall) had great opportunity to minister and this is what it is all about. Sometimes, I get discouraged (as I guess many Pastors do) because it seems as if many (church) folks seem so disinterested in our dear precious nursing home residents. Week in and week out we go in and see the lonely faces and it seems as if you try to encourage participation from the local churches and their nucleus of Christian workers. I am really beginning to wonder if in fact our nation/society/churches have made these precious souls; second class citizens and take consideration that they are not worthy of out time or God given talents. These ministries are not only beneficial to the hearers but also it is an effective way to promote spiritual growth and maturity within your own spiritual walk. God, please help us not to overlook those who are not so available to our needs and time restraints! If anyone can come sing, hug, encourage in 1 of our 4 monthly services, get in touch with us (318-9468)! We would love to have your help.

April 15, Life Care Centers - We had a good time in Jesus. We had our normal services and Kendall and Amber were back with us. I had a great opportunity to go a pray with a dear Christian man today. I asked him what his prayer request was and he was crying and unable to speak. We had a time of prayer and I reflected on how fortunate we are to have a Father who listens. This dear man was an amputee and seemed so thankful to have someone pray with him. What a great opportunity to be a friend. I look forward to next week.

April 20, West Jax - Volunteer Appreciation Day - Though I was not able to attend, Sis Teresa and Kendall went and represented our ministry. The staff was very appreciative for our continued efforts to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ into the facilities. A certificate of appreciation was presented to SOJ and it was well received. We really do appreciate the staff of all 3 facilities and ask that you hold them up in prayer as they have a difficult and sometimes thankless job.

April 21, Life Care Center - Volunteer Appreciation Day - I thank Teresa and Kendall for attending these days of appreciation. Folks, our volunteers do these things out of Christian love and without their ministry SOJ would be ineffective. Maybe, you would like to become a SOJ volunteer? We have a gentleman that normally stutters when making song requests in our services. I was told by Sis Teresa that he sang a musical special, stutter free. Amazing!!

April 22, Cedar Hills - We had a full house today with both residents and volunteers. We had a lot of musical specials and I preached on sin this morning. At the end of the services we have started having a time of prayer (altar call). Though the residents are not able to come to the altar, we go to each resident that requests a time of prayer. We closed the services and this month of ministry, praising God for all He has done!

Please pray for one of our directors “Clyde Watson” and family. Clyde’s wife (Marie Watson) went to be with the Lord on the 29th. We will truly miss Marie’s presence, but Marie’s in the arms of Jesus now!

Love in Christ,

David, Pat & Rachel