The man preaching read Mark 6:14-29. I recommend that you read this passage but know that it will likely not encourage you. In fact, it may make you feel disgusted and heartbroken. This is the passage in Mark where the details surrounding the death of John the Baptist are shared. Although saddening, there were points pulled out of this passage in the sermon which we feel apply to our lives today:
1. Authentic Christians point people to Christ. (like John the Baptist did in his ministry)
2. Authentic Christians are distinguished by repentance. (Although Herod respected what John said, he did not turn from his sin)
3. Authentic Christians may face deadly opposition. (John committed his ministry to the Lord, was bold in his faith, and lost his life for the cause of Christ)
Application: My life should point people to Christ. I must repent...often! And no matter what trials, challenges, or heartbreak I may face, I want my life to be dedicated to the Lord.
Marvin and I are excited about the obedience and dependence that God is calling us to. Lord willing, we will be moving to Peña Blanca, Honduras in January. Leaving our jobs, our home (my parent's basement), and what has become familiar to us both (boneless skinless chicken breasts, purified water, evenings out, etc.) will be challenging. Rather than grieving the things we are giving up, God has given us a great joy and excitement about the things we will get to be a part of in Honduras- opening our home to Marvin's brother and his friend so that they can complete high school, learn English, and be encouraged in their relationship with God; discipling the older girls at Eternal Family Project and maintenance at their home; getting to know neighbors and share the love of Christ with them. We are praying about many other doors the Lord may open up for us and ask that he will provide for our physical and spiritual needs and provide for others through our presence in Honduras.
Romans 8:35-39 states "Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord."
The above picture was taken November 2014 of our son Thomas looking out over the town of Peña Blanca. As we get ready to move there, we invite you to pray for us. Pray that we seek God's will over our own and that He will open doors where He wants us to live/serve.
Blessings and Love,
Karen Ramos
