Speaking Snapshots: January

 

Historically, January has not been a busy month for me as a speaker. That’s probably because I live in Indiana, and people hesitate to schedule anything in January. Our current weather speaks to why. But this year I had the privilege to speak twice in this frigid month, and I wanted to tell you about them!

            I spoke at our church on the first Sunday of the month. It was kind of a last-minute arrangement; I filled in for someone else. But I already had something written and prepared for the following week, so I said it would be no problem to share it twice.

            Speaking at our church is one of my favorite things to do – although I confess it brings an additional level of nerves for me. Our people are so supportive and kind, but when you see and worship with these same people every week, you really don’t want to let them down!

            I always spend a few minutes praying over the room before I speak. This has become one of my sweetest moments that I always look forward to, and on this first Sunday of the year, I captured it with a photo. I never want to forget the magnitude of the responsibility and my complete dependence on God. I want to get completely out of the way so God can do His thing!

            I’ve never had the chance to speak on the first Sunday of the year, and I decided that is one of the best gifts ever. Fresh starts are, as you know, one of my most favorite things. To get to share with a group on that day was such a bonus.

            Yesterday I spoke at another church in our area, and I’ll actually be visiting this one somewhat regularly this year. Ryan and I drove out to the church early in the year to see where it was and get a tour of the inside, but yesterday was our first day to serve there for a service.

            Ryan always goes with me when I speak (unless, for some reason, his schedule absolutely prevents it) but yesterday he didn’t just go with me; he had his own roles! He led the music for part of the service, read the Scripture, and ran slides for me while I spoke. I absolutely loved watching him serve in the ways God has gifted him.

            It was a good January, and I learned so much as I served these two Sundays. I’m looking forward to February!