First, I’m reminded that this year took the lives of over 300,000 people in our own country. If we don’t take time to reflect and allow that to sink in, we mis-understand the value of human life in the shadow of The Cross.
- While other faith-groups suffered to find their voice during the pandemic, DTPHX Church knew we already had a plan by continuing to speak relationally into people’s lives. One by one, we come alongside all to show love; pick up the broken, often previously burned by church experience. Ultimately, 2020 was focused on being missional - just like 2019 and 2021.
- So many charities stumbled through 2020. But DTPHX Church was able to give financially even beyond 2019. I don’t mention it often but we don’t spend much to operate and that allows us to flex with our expenses. That allows us to give to endeavors like …
- To the Cooperative Program that among missions, also aids Children’s Services & Medical missions on seven continents.
- To International Mission Board sharing the Good News of the Gospel all over the world.
- To the Bible Project as they produce teaching content on The Bible.
- To Christian Challenge & Chi Alpha staff on the campus of ASU.
- To Dennis Pethers and The Rooftop - Joining Jesus In His Mission.
- To Deborah, missionary friend in SE Asia.
- As friends within our neighborhood move, we now have new friendships to make.
- Bob and Cherylin at Hob Nobs moved locations. Now we are commissioned to further our friendship with Aaron at his new spot, Luanna’s.
- Sherry and Julie at UL2 retired. So now we await new staff hires to extend our love to.
- And we deepen the friendships we already started.
- Stephanie at Fair Trade Cafe’.
- Dina at The Painter’s Lounge.
- Andy at Lola’s.
- ASU’s Student Engagement Office.
- Students at ASU
- Amy, Nicole, Greg and others with Roosevelt Row CDC.
- Friends within Portland Place where we live.
It’s just what we do.
Simple Church.
Maybe even Odd Church.
If you have any prayers re: extra year-end giving, pray for Downtown Phoenix Church.
We’ve got more beautiful friendships to encourage. —Buying Coffee. —Benevolence support—Fixing broken bicycles. —Giving Christmas presents. —Hanging speakers. —Hiring musicians to sing downtown to strengthen businesses. Yep, whatever is needed!
“Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in Him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!”
Philippians 4:4 from The Message translation by Eugene Peterson
Every day. Without strings attached. Leaving the ultimate results in God’s hands.
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