November 30, 2017
Happy November everyone! This month we have been taking time to reflect on the goodness and faithfulness of God throughout this last year. As Thanksgiving day approaches, we are recognizing that there are many things to be thankful for.
Friends. Family. Jobs. Ministry. Food on the Table. Jesus. Clean water. Education. Resources. Joy. Life.
These listed above don’t even begin to scratch the surface on all of the wonderful gifts God has given us. In fact, I am convinced that we could spend a lifetime searching for ways to truly thank God for all that He has done, and all that He has given. When I ponder these things, these scriptures come to mind;
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” – Job 12:7-10
“ Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.” – Psalm 96: 11-12
This month we had the honor of celebrating the graduating class of our second Restoring the Foundations training. Those that attended were trained in Issue Focused Format, and Thorough Format. We were so blessed by each person who came and we were so encouraged by the testimonies of lives changed during the school. We look forward to having our next training in 2018. We believe that each student was here for a greater purpose, and as they move forward, they will use the tools they have received to invite others into a deeper relationship with Jesus. We are excited to hear how God is using each person!
For the second time this year we had a City Wide 12 hour day of worship and prayer at the Worship Center. We had 85-100 guests attend. It has been so amazing to see worship teams, pastors, and leaders come together to pray and seek God’s wisdom for ways to release the Kingdom and preach the gospel in our city of Abilene, Texas. In the months to come, we will host multiple Encounter Nights of worship. We pray that you will be able to join us as we seek Jesus and His presence. For dates and details for Encounter Nights, you can visit encounternight.com, or irisabilene.org.
Near the end of this month we welcomed Pastor Jose Novella from Mozambique, Africa to Camp Barkeley. He shared a powerful message at New Hope Church about trusting the Father, walking in obedience, and thirsting for God’s presence. We thoroughly enjoyed times of worship, prayer, fellowship, and flag football. We are thankful for Pastor Jose and His extravagent yes to Jesus!
Thank you to all who have been praying for us. November has been such a sweet month for us here at Camp Barkeley! We have had so much fun meeting with local friends and church family. We have been so blessed that God would provide a place for His sons and daughters to put some time aside and to seek Him.
We are praying for all those affected by the natural disasters all around the world. Please stay connected with us for more Iris Relief updates.
Love and Unity, Iris Abilene: Camp Barkeley Family
