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DAWN LEWIS
Women’s Ministries President
am typically a very busy person. For several years I have worked full time, been an active member of my church’s
Women’s Ministries, served as chairperson of our diaconate, been the Event Leader for my area’s American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, and more recently added President of ARP Women’s Ministries to the list. Over the last 18 months I have also had my infant granddaughter for months at a time, and helped my husband care for his parents as their health declined. I was also taking an in- tensive continuing education class. My husband and I went on a cruise be-
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fore Covid-19 hit. I spent a lot of time rest- ing. I was worn out. Upon our return, the busy lifestyle picked right back up. Slowly though, as restrictions became tighter due to the virus, life slowed a little, but I was still very busy. Then I got sick. From June until September, I was admitted to the hospital four times, had three brain surgeries and several other procedures. I had no choice but to slow down. I had to depend on others to pick up my slack. It was hard for me to give up control, but I believe this was God not only telling me to slow down but mak- ing me slow down. I had to realize that co- chairs, Vice Presidents, and others could step up and carry on the meetings I was unable to plan much less participate in. I realized that putting my job on hold was going to be ok. That is why they have substitute teachers. I have been so blessed during this time. I haven’t cooked since June, yet my hus-
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each other well and had known each other for a number of years. The joy in their fellow- ship was very obvious as they shared stories from the past and recent events. They were interested in what was happening in the life of each person there and they had fun catching up. They supported each other whether the stories they shared were funny or sad. In the same way, members in a circle should get to know each other and support each
Finding the Joy L
band and I have had plenty of food. My hus- band has had to spend many nights in a hotel and eat fast food while I was in the hospital which adds up quickly, but gifts of money have provided the extra we have needed. During this 18 months, my husband also lost both of his parents. It has been a rough road but I know who is in control of my life. Right now my husband and I have time
to have morning devotions together. God wanted me to take a break. Proverbs 8:33 states “Heed instruction and be wise, And do not neglect it.”?
other in whatever may happen in their lives. Getting to know each other through fellow- ship time, retreats, meals, etc. can result in a group of women who are “there for you” when you need them and who can pray for you and help you when you need them. Circle should not just be a time to “check off” items on an agenda. Too often, some leaders just go through the items on the list without having any joy in the meeting. Circle should be an activity that we look forward to find the time to participate in because we enjoy it! As Christians, we should not forget to find the joy in serving God, worshipping Him, and joining others as we do these things. In December, we will begin preparations for Christmas and one of the songs that we
will often hear is “Joy to the World.” “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!” God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to the world. That Son, Jesus, loved us so much that He died for our sins on the Cross. Knowing that we are so loved by God, should fill us with joy! Knowing that we can serve Him and worship Him should fill us with joy! Psalm 122 says. “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.” All church activities are important in developing unity among members and there is joy in that! There should be joy in all things, especially in Womens Ministries!?
ast weekend, I joined nine other ladies for a trip to the beach to celebrate my older daughter’s 40th birthday. As we sat on the beach (in a “circle”), it was interesting to listen and participate in the conversations that came up. Everyone in the group knew
Knowing, loving, serving, Jesus ARPWM knowing, loving, serving, Jesus November/December 2020 19
Women’s Ministries
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