BUILDING UP EACH OTHER Val Velde, RLC Council President

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”–

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Building each other up and supporting one another is what we are called to do. I see this in action at Roseville Lutheran Church. I’ve seen the power of our community through the work of the Reconciling In Christ team that continues to focus on how to make our community be as welcoming as possible to all. I’ve seen our community come togetherat Octoberfest in a communitywide fun event. We are a busy place filled with love. I’ve witnessed your encouragement of my family as we navigate advanced breast cancer. I have previously shared with you all the very real ways RLC has shown up for me in my time of need from meals, rides, gifts, and words of encouragement.Now, let’s talk about the power of prayer. When I hear that the RLC men’s group has prayed for me, and other members included me in their prayers it moves me. Prayer is just as real as those meals and rides and so very appreciated. The power of prayer is found in so many parts of the bible:

• James 5:16-18: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah prayed for drought and rain, and God answered him.
• Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
• Psalm 107:28-30: Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.
• John 14:13-14: And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
  
• THE POWER OF PRAYER
  As Christmas season is upon us let’s be reminded of the power of prayer. Pray for our family members, friends, neighbors, church, communities, and world. Prayer brings us closer to God and focuses our minds on those elements of our lives that truly matter. This season I’m grateful to be done with Chemotherapy. Each day I feel more and more myself and feel so blessed.
  I’m ready for surgery, radiation, and
  other steps that I need to take to
  beat cancer. I pray for my doctors,
  the researchers, and the scientists’
  making advancements that will
  help millions. I pray for you, our
  members of RLC. “God is our refuge
  and strength, a very present help in
  trouble.” Psalm 46:1 If you are going
  through challenging times, pray, but
  also please reach out and ask your
  community for help. I did and RLC
  answered.
  
  Val Velde, RLC Council President