Summer Book Study

Its 6 1/2 hours until summer vacation! Just hours left of the best job I've ever had with the sweetest little boy in the world! Back in January, when we were covered in snow, an opportunity fell into my lap that has changed life as I know it! I've had the delight to be a one on one para at Longview Farm Elementary, the adorable school 3 minutes from our home where Sarah has attended kindergarten. I've literally taken my sweet little girl to school with me now for 3 1/2  months, seen her in the halls, become good friends with her teachers, and loved on all her little class buddies. I've been responsible for primarily one little boy who is the hardest working, happiest child I've ever met. He has literally NEVER fussed about one thing since I met him. The job has allowed me to use my dietetics background as well as my education background. And I got paid for it!!! Talk about a dream job! But wait, it gets better! I get the summer off! Pure grace indeed! 

So now I'm wondering how I will spend all this free time this summer. 

Ha! Who am I kidding? I have three very busy kids so our summer is packed FULL! However, I want to lead a few Bible studies because, as most of you know, that is my love of all activities! I was unable to lead a true Bible study after going to work, and I missed the comradarie and accountability. I need that in my life more than anyone!

So here's the plan, and it's all Kristi Pinson's idea. (Kristi is my dear friend and role model in ministry who spends her summers doing mission work in national parks. This year she and her awesome husband,Vince, are in West Glacier, Montana! Kristi asked if I was doing an online study so I decided that even if only she and I were studying together it would be worth it! She will probably be mad that I shared this photo of her and Vince, but she can't reach me right now so I'm safe! She's also an amazing photographer. You should friend her on Facebook so you can pray for and follow their amazing ministry this summer...plus see some gorgeous photos of Glacier National Park!)

I get to lead a daytime Bible study at my church. If you live anywhere near Lee's Summit I'd certainly LOVE for you to join me on Tuesdays at 10am for Beth Moore's "Sacred Secrets" in FBCLS' Fellowship Hall. This is a great video based study that has minimal homework and we meet only 7 times. It's a great local opportunity.

But...I have friends from around the world who can't come to "Sacred Secrets", so I'm offering an online option. I've been reading a book by Priscilla Shirer titled GOD IS ABLE. It is about my favorite verse in the Bible, Ephesians 3:20, which says,

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, (Ephesians 3:20 NIV)"

This verse has meant so much to me for several years! I have been reading Priscilla's book for almost a week and have already been encouraged and challenged by the insight God has given her. 

So here's how this will work. Starting next week I'll post something on this blog about chapter one. I'll ask some discussion questions and pray that you share what God is showing you. It's a great way to be accountable to each other for staying grounded in God's Word throughout the summer. It's minimal commitment, minimal "homework", but leaves room for God to speak to us through His words, Priscilla's writing, and each other's input. 

All you need to do is get the book and let me know you are on board. Feel free to invite a friend! I love it when I get to study with friends from every season of my life! Sometimes we complain about how horrible technology is and how many terrible things come from it, but this is certainly one way to use it to honor God and encourage one another! Please comment either on the blog or on FB or Twitter @gaylabeth to let me know you are with us! I'd love to see a photo of you with your book too! 

Happy Summer, ya'll!