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This month's SHINE story features Sherry Lajiness, a member of The Orchard Barrington, who volunteers for the non-profit ministry organization, Refuge for Women. Despite her initial reluctance, Sherry followed the Lord's prompting to serve a few hours a week and is making an impact in the lives of these women. Watch this short video to see how Sherry’s “yes” to serving is helping her to shine in her community for Christ.
Do you, or someone you know, have a SHINE story? Let us know!
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Tom Hutchison and his son-in-law, Andy Reimink, are not only members of The Orchard, but also two men who are making a lasting impact for the gospel of Jesus Christ through their industrial water treatment company, HOH Water Technology. Together, Tom and Andy shine both personally and professionally to serve the most under-resourced and desperate communities around the world through the establishment of basic water systems. These systems offer clean water to thousands of children and families, and is truly, “living water,” – their source of life and sustenance. Do you, or someone you know, have a SHINE story? Let us know!
Jana Balis, founder of Ignite Hoops and member of The Orchard , explains the mission of this local competitive youth basketball program, as well as her heart to unconventionally reach our local youth with the gospel through Christian coaching. Jana and Ignite Hoops are a great example of putting faith into action to shine brightly for Christ in our community! May this story encourage you to consider how you too might shine for Christ in areas where God has placed you. Watch the above video for more!
At my baptism, I shared the story of how I first came to know Jesus and how He used my burdens to grow my faith in Him. I grew up going to church, but with my autism, it was hard for me to sit still and focus in Sunday School or church. I wasn't interested in gaining the knowledge of God or wisdom from Him until middle school, when I recognized my need for Jesus, and that I was a sinner who needed to be saved. Nothing I could do would ever be enough to get me into heaven. I then decided to believe that God really did send his son to pay the price for me - even though I did not deserve it - because He loved and cared for me so much. It is the best gift any of us could ever receive. After high school, as I transitioned from school to work, I became more aware of the causes of my heavy emotions and anxious thoughts. I really feel that God used this awareness to show me my need for dependence on Him to get through each day and to trust that my future is secure. Proverbs 3:5-6 has really been an encouragement to me over the years.
To glorify God by growing in faith, hope, and love, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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