From the Desk of Jill Keenon, Operations Director:
Romans 7:15-8:1 is famous for Paul saying, "I do what I don't want to do….." But at the end of the consternation he states that not only is there a solution but no condemnation when we do fail.
The point of the verses is that we are in a fight to come to the realization that we have a new nature, and we can learn to live like it but without God's wrath when we mess up. The thing about being controlled by our sin is not just when we choose to do wrong but having a flesh that is still here. We are controlled by hormones, stomach problems, physical issues, and our own wrong bents. We can change from elated, to anger, to calm assurance, in minutes all day long. What we have to do is to fight with what we have to fight with and that is Jesus in us.
This week I had some physical things that took me over, and I was having trouble fighting the pit of despair. When we have a problem no matter what area of our lives is effected (emotions, physical, etc.) we have to use the strength in us which is Jesus. I did not do this; I let self pity take over. Paul talked to me about it, and I responded to his admonition but I also found a physical solution to my problem. I wondered what I would be doing if I still felt lousy, and I had no one to keep me accountable. Would I still hide in my own world or would I do what I know is true and that is to find my strength in Jesus? It is not the short term that matters as much as our follow-through. I am disappointed in myself, but like I said, God will not condemn me but continue to work on me from the inside out. I am thankful He is in charge because I would send me to the pit. I love His mercy and grace!
COLOMA PLACE HOME:
1. Sue received a good solution to her home problem and moved out successfully on Saturday.
2. We need to pray for a peaceful resolution to a problem with the Dyers leaving. They are not seeing that they have lived rent free for a year and that we need them out on time in order to sell ready the home for sale and they are angry with us because they think we are being unfair. There is more to it but I don’t want to lay out every thing to everyone, so please pray for healing, a solution and no hard feelings when they leave.
3. Pray the work will get done in time for the open house on October 13. Pray for the buyer.
QUICKS HOME:
4. I am having trouble wording what needs to be prayed for because if I say certain things and others know things could turn out poorly for the children. So, please pray for God’s hand to be on Pat and the baby. It is really important but we just don’t feel comfortable sharing the details out in the open. The wrong people might get word and cause legal problems.
KEENON HOME:
5. Paul and I, on Wednesday, are going to meet with Melissa’s parents in Indiana for a serious meeting to try to explain her progress or lack their of depending on your prospective and find solutions. Our views may be different for Melissa than theirs. Please pray for a productive meeting, calmness and hope to be present. Then Melissa’s mom is coming to stay for five days. This is scary for Melissa. Pray for them to get along and enjoy each other.
6. We had a talk with Matt and it went well. Pray for him to stay on track and to grow. He needs consistency, hope for his future and to learn to over come his self doubt and defensiveness that drives his responses to authority and instructions
7. Joel will be starting a new job this week or next. Pray for him as this begins. It is in his field of study, so it is a good opportunity.
8. Keano went to see his other grandma this weekend and he saw his biological Dad. Well, he is not supposed to be with him alone and she had the dad baby-sit with one of his gang banger friends. This is scary. Pray for protection for Keano in his spirit. He feels the stress when he comes home because he knows we don’t want him with him alone. At eight he should not have to “manage” the adults in his life.
In Christ's Service for the Community,
Paul & Jill Keenon
Open Door for Teens, Inc.
