GPBC Blog

By Susan Fleming --

Bruce and I recently moved to a new neighborhood, intentionally wanting to be in a location that was unfamiliar. There have been many discoveries in the weeks we have been here, most of them very small but delightful. The houses, yards, street trees, and porches are so much fun to examine for the first time as we walk past. Finding little gems like a new coffee shop or park or Thai food has been a treat. Fireworks viewed from a new angle and concerts in a new park are all good. After being in the same corner of the world for such a long time, it is refreshing to discover that different is a good thing. And of course, just about the time we want to think our new abode is amazingly wonderful, we have had a few experiences that remind us that this world is terribly flawed and sinful. We are reminded daily that God is active and watching over us – we might not be as risk-taking as our sacrificial Global Partners, but He is finding new ways to bring His creation into focus. When God reveals something about Himself, I fall in love with Him in new ways. One of my personal pathways to relationship with Jesus is spending time immersed in God’s creation – so the experience of walking in this new neighborhood can bring me into closer relationship with Him.

There are many discoveries in daily life that it is difficult to find God in – my desire is to identify where God is and what he is doing in these moments. Every day, I have a choice to stay with Him in the painful or distasteful events or discoveries, and hopefully become aware of what my part is in this.

“Finding” Him in the little things – the landscape of our new neighborhood, or the ancient words that were written just for us to discover Him all over again. I actually do not “find” God because He is already there, but I discover new things about Him when I take the time to be fully present in watching and listening for how He is in this moment in this space.

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, but it is rich with truth about seeking God and finding Him in His Word. This chapter focuses on the Truth and necessity of God’s Word and on His very character. Psalm 119:18 “Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law.” Verse 105 tells us “Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path” – a good reminder as I am out discovering Him in new ways this summer!

My summer reading is the book of Mark – intentionally chosen because I am not as familiar with this gospel as the gospel of John, and I tend to revisit my go-to favorites like Paul’s letters. My intention is to read this with fresh eyes and really look for God in the familiar stories of the gospel and “find” Him in new ways. I’m forever surprised that reading the same verses at different points in my life will always reveal truths that I need for today.

Enjoy your summer, and “find” Him in new ways as you play and work and be!

A few things Women’s Ministry is up to:

August 24, we will partner with Children’s Ministry and Premier to gather together for another movie night in the bowl! Bring your chairs and blankets, friends and family and enjoy a summer evening together.
There’s a Facebook page for Moms and Grandmas of children that will meet from time to time for community and play – the next event is swimming at Wilson Pool on July 18 at 2pm. If you are on Facebook, come find us by searching “Greater Portland Bible Church Mom's and Gram’s Group.”

Women’s Ministry is beginning a relationship with Portland Rescue Mission to see where we can be of help and bring Jesus in some way to the precious women who live there. We have lots of ideas but are waiting on God to reveal where He wants us to join him in His work!

In October, we go to Stephens Creek Crossing to give hoodies that we will be collecting in the weeks to come. Last year made a huge impact on the recipients, the staff at the facility, and on our hearts. As you are out shopping, pick up a few hoodies to donate.

Save the date – our Annual Christmas Brunch on December 1 is already planned to be fabulous and fun as always!