Sunday, October 18, 2008

    Hi, everyone!  First of all, I would like to thank you for your thoughts, prayers, words of encouragement, and general support of the ministry.  I must admit that I never saw this coming.  I've always enjoyed singing about the goodness and mercy of the Lord; but, the idea of "ministry" was a very scary thought to me.  In fact, when God saw fit to move me in this direction, I felt inadequate for such a task and time as this.  Initially, I was a bit apprehensive, but God gave me assurance through your testimonies and the kind words you have shared with me during my ministry travel and through emails.  Now, I know that God's purpose for this ministry is being fulfilled.  I can honestly say that I truly love having a music ministry.  It is always a wonderful feeling to share with others the impact that God can make on a heart committed to him; and, I am truly honored and look forward to every opportunity to do so. 

     Even though I have had a wonderful time sharing the music ministry, I have also been blessed by the ministry of others.  There are some really talented people out there who are doing a wonderful job of sharing the love of Christ.  Sometimes I wish that we lived closer so that we could enjoy each other’s gifts and talents more often.

     I am sure that there are quite a few of you out there that have gifts that you would love to share with others, and I encourage you to step out on faith and do so.  There is no better time than the present to do what God has placed in your heart to do.  Yes, it may start out intimidating, but God will walk you through step by step.  A lot of people don’t realize that everyone starts with a little bit of doubt and apprehension concerning their acceptance by others, but, if it is God’s will, He has already prepared the way for you.  You may not know what is down the road, but Isaiah 30:21 says, “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."

I have listed a few of the ministries that have truly blessed me over the past few months.  All of these people had to step out on faith, but God took them by the hand and led the way.  I hope that you take the time to read about their experiences and enjoy their ministries.  I assure you that you will be blessed.

May God Bless You,

Shondolyn Young Richardson