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Tuesday, April 1, 2014

The God We Serve

The God we serve is the same, yesterday, today and forever. That is a powerful and comforting thought. Our individual, daily circumstances, however, are all about change. Change can be a challenge even when it seems good so it is helpful to partner with One who brings stability, security and vision.

I began my adult life in a tuxedo blowing a clarinet in the orchestra. The idea that I would ever become an ordained minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ was non existent except in the mind of One who beholds the future as clearly as we see the words on this page.

My personal journey took me to the Army Band in Germany where I made the Savior my own, then on to the university for a teaching degree and graduate school. I got married, had a son and taught while ministering in my home church. The road to full time ministry, ordination, jail ministry, chaplaincy and rescue mission work led me to this time in my life.

I am humbled and thrilled to have been selected to step into the directorship of the Mission. I am honored to be one with a towel and a basin. Service is such a privilege. It is a privilege that weighs heavily upon my shoulders.

I am grateful for God's blessing and for the Board's vote of confidence. I appreciate Don and Charlotte Bettis and the staff of the Mission for their support. A special thank you to Bob Sloan and Bob Collins for introducing me to the Mission and to my wife Kathy for her support and constant encouragement. As for our supporting churches and donors- you must know that your partnership means everything.

May our journey together be practical, graceful and obedient. I have treasured my time as your Chaplain. I will do my very best to honor the Mission as its Director and, for now, also its Chaplain.

There have been so many hearts that have broken in my hearing this past year that now I can hear that breaking even when it is only a whisper. I can hear it even over the angry raised voice of a man with no bed, no pride, no future.

God give us ears to listen even as you form within us a charitable revolution that has at its core your will, your ways and your love. Let us set aside all our own rules and make room for your reign. Your hand will only bless what is truly yours.

May God be glorified in the work we do in the lovely Name of Jesus. May we listen and act as He would act and love as He would love.

In hope and humility,
Rev. John T. LaMantia


 Newsletter post from The Anchorage Gospel Rescue Mission April 2014

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