Text Box: The message and lesson given on Sunday (Aug. 24 ‘08)“Preparing for Success” should have spoken to each congregation member, first, individually and second, as a member of Grace Church. I immediately recalled the membership vows of giving our time, talents, service and gifts to be able to accomplish much for the success of myself and the church. I took a personal reflection on the “Six E’s for Success” as I listened to the message and came up with a wonderful conclusion. I EXPECT the promises of God to be manifested in my life. Why?; because I know that I am a child of God. I sincerely believe that God has loved me, blessed me and increased the fullness of my life, even through the loss of my husband, Thomas, this past January. I do think that it takes a lot of faith to expect success. There is one way to consistently believe in God’s promises, and that is through EDUCATION in The Word. I believe one must discipline themselves to reading, study and prayer to prepare for success individually, and for the church. But, preparing for success takes much EFFORT. Effort means hard work, even in our day to day struggles. It took an enormous effort for me to carry on with the huge commitment of leading the Conference School of Christian Mission. Thomas knew of my commitment and continuously encouraged me. I so wanted him to share in my success. Now, after seven months of grief, continuing prayer and much support, I believe he and God never left my side. It is difficult to have ENTHUSIASM when your mate and closest friend of over forty years begins to have so many health issues. During every hospital visit, neither Thomas nor I lacked the confidence that we were in God’s presence as we delighted in each other’s company; (many times laughing so loud that the nurses hinted that we might be disturbing other patients.) God’s expectation of me is always EXCELLENCE. One of my favorite scriptures is; “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” (Phil.4:13) Losing my husband was very difficult; but more than that, I needed God’s strength to lead me through the School of Christian Missions event. My husband, through God’s help, has left me with very special memories to make life bearable and comfortable, but God is giving me much strength to carry on. God has chosen me and is ELEVATING me in His service, promising me many fruits, as the result of my new works, as I go on in my new life. He is preparing me for success, and preparing Grace United Methodist Church for success as well. As long as we are alive; we have an obligation to strive, in Christ’s name, AMEN! ~Helen Johnson Text Box: LIVING IN GRACE Text Box: 121 Driving Park Avenue Rochester, NY 14613 585-458-5927

I’M PREPARING FOR SUCCESS