A Taste of the Abundant Life - in the Heart of Amsterdam!

My wife and I recently took a trip to Europe and had a layover in Amsterdam. So, we chose to make the most of it by having a late lunch in the city at a popular Dutch pancake restaurant in Amsterdam Centraal, and then we took in the beautiful sights and scenery. As we strolled through the heart of downtown on a bustling Saturday, to our surprise, there we saw a parade coming along the main road. It was a parade like no other - a Jesus parade, a March for Jesus, with lots of people waving flags, worshipping, praising, and dancing, and all with overflowing cheer of His goodness and a desire to share that with the world. We joined right in with them for a number of city blocks. It struck us that there were no labels or marketing to highlight the name of any church, denomination, or organization - only one name, Jesus - no other distinction but to be in love with Him and what He's done for us.

It also struck me about what the Lord has placed on my heart for this ministry. This ministry is not to be about labels or anything that can somehow divide us, but to simply be more like Jesus to the world around us. Primarily, that we can be used as vessels of blessing, pouring out as the overflow of God's heart to all the people in our community - to bring us together and to celebrate all of His goodness and love towards each and every one of us.

May we all live as a bright light to the world, as evidence of the wonderful, abundant life that He has so graciously given to us through Jesus! May our lives be lived in such a way that we bring honor and glory to our Heavenly Father. Thank You Lord, for Your unsurpassed goodness, grace and mercy that You've freely given to us!

Matthew 5:14-16 (AMP)

14 “You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15 nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Blessings to you all! May we all be a bright light shining for the world to see and may we be fitted and ready with the gospel of peace such that everyone around us experiences His great love through each of us. May the Lord richly bless you and prosper you abundantly!

Numbers 6:24-26 (AMP)

24 The LORD bless you, and keep you [protect you, sustain you, and guard you];

25 The LORD make His face shine upon you [with favor],

And be gracious to you [surrounding you with lovingkindness];

26 The LORD lift up His countenance (face) upon you [with divine approval],

And give you peace [a tranquil heart and life].’