after my first round of meetings, things are looking really good. God is so faithful in bringing to completion the work He has started in us [philippians 1:6]! after the meeting with the family resource network (a group that basically compiles information about other organizations and make that information available to families in need of assistance) i sat and talked with the director, shannon meade, for quite a while. we dreamed about solutions for the youth of our community and discussed some opportunities for them to both serve and be served at the same time. it was great to see her heart for logan, and get some input from someone who has lived here for much longer than me. the p.i.e.c.e.s. meeting (a group that focuses on drug abuse prevention) was a lot more formal. things were being reviewed, passed and voted on, but it was so great to see that there are people in logan county who are concerned about their neighbors, these issues and doing their best to affect their community in a positive way. p.i.e.c.e.s. was interesting also because it is a group of both Christians and non-Christians united for a common goal (although there is a pastor's meeting beforehand). it really is a beautiful thing, but it's sad to see people who don't even know God caring more for their family, friends and neighbors than the Christians around them often do [luke 10:25-37]. i've been talking and meeting with lots of people and have even more coming up.
i think i'm about ready to write up a solid plan and a mission statement, as most conversations are revealing similar needs, so i was researching some from similar organizations across the country today.
it still is and will always be a big part of my job to dream, and i like that. if you'd like to join in, feel free!
this year, kids' club has been especially full of older kids; some even appear to be as old as sophomores or juniors in high school. it breaks my heart to know why they're there, but i'm glad they are. emily loves them.
we had our Bible study and prayer meetings today at the church, and both went for almost 2 hours. one of the biggest strengths of the body here at new covenant is that they are truly prayer warriors. i'm learning a lot about expectant and passionate prayer just by being around. the meeting tonight was extraordinary.
in other news, someone on the hill was moving out today and they were trying to bring this huge 24 or 26 foot u-haul up the hill. it took a few tries but we were able to help them make the turn with minimal damage to the truck and the street. on the return trip, however, the street was not so lucky... whoops!

::