Stephen Ministry Leader Training

I was in Orlando January 11 - 17th at the Stephen Ministry Leader Training. I was 1 of 4 from the First Reformed Church in Sioux Falls. It was a very intensive training, but what was even more powerful for me was the presence of the Lord.  I never imagined what it was going to be like to share a week with close to 400 people from many different congregations and even a few from Europe. They all loved the Lord and wanted to provide leadership in their churches, training others to become spiritual care givers. One of the first activities we were asked to do, was to introduce yourself to someone you didn't know.  Not to tough when I only knew 3 others. I met Joe who was the only one from his church of 4000 to bring this ministry back to his church.  We were told that this person was to be our prayer partner for the rest of the week.  Joe received the Lord 5 years ago and has a wonderful enthusiasm for others to find the same joy and peace that he has. Now out of all those people, who would dare say it was just by chance that we would uncover a plan the Lord had prepared for us.  Right away I found out that he owned a business that rented canoes and gave tours in a huge State park close to Tampa. Joe found out that I have led many canoe camps in Minnesota and that I was going to be spending the next week on the beach at Treasure Island.  Guess what? Last Tuesday I drove up to Joe's "Canoeescape" and we spent several hours on a river through a swamp being amazed at God's creation and alligators, turtles, and beautiful birds.  I really like God's plans. I really enjoyed getting to know Joe's heart and to hear his prayers.