December 2023 Message from The Pastor’s Wife, Sis. Alene Stanley

Ladies at the Well,

 

I have said this before, but it is worth repeating, for a long time we have said that “Jesus Is the Reason for the Season,” however, during this season other holidays are celebrated such as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, therefore, I have penned a new phrase that says “Christ is the Cause for Christmas.” As we know without His Immaculate Conception and humble birth, there would be no reason to celebrate Christmas. Also, and let us be mindful not to X Christ out of Christmas, for an example: Happy X-mas.

Now, a word of encouragement entitled So Dry and Thirsty. In John 4:10 Jesus said, “If you knew . . . who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water.”

While the woman of Samaria and I have many differences, we have one thing in common. I, too, find myself from time to time running on empty. In the busyness of ministry, the weariness of activity, the fickleness of people, the excitement of opportunity, and even in this holiday season, I sometimes wake up and realize, “I am so dry and thirsty.” I am even exhausted!

 

Invariably, when I examine myself, the reason for the dryness of spirit can be traced to one thing. I am not drinking regularly and freely of the Water of Life. I am neglecting my daily routine Bible study. I am rushing through my prayer time. I am not obeying the voice of the Lord because I am just too busy to slow down and be still. At those times, I intentionally carve out quiet interludes to confess my neglect and read, meditate, pray, listen to praise songs, and just think on Him and His goodness until I can fill the renewal of Spirit. So, my sisters in Christ, give it a try, it works!

 

Thank You, dear God, for still giving us today, Living Water from the Well that never goes dry.

 

His Love and Mine,

Alene Stanley