Come, for Everything is Now Ready

As many of my readers are aware, I experienced a heart attack in Hungary in 2018. At God’s urging I wasn’t afraid of the triple bypass surgery that was needed. By His grace, I survived surgery not only once but twice in three days. This was a turning point in my life.

I began an ongoing personal journey that continues today. It included a desire to participate in the Great Banquet at First Presbyterian Church and become more involved with other like-minded Christians. I joined the Missions and Evangelism Committee. I also began interacting by phone with the Grace Bible Chapel’s Men’s Fellowship led by my high school friend Pastor John Johnson.

In my journey, I accepted the invitation as a guest and attended Great Banquet #35 in Fort Myers, Florida, USA. The three-day experience began on a Thursday evening. As “banquet guests,” we studied, sang, prayed, and together discussed 15 topics presented over three days. The topics were presented by laity and clergy focused on God’s grace. Daily, Holy Communion was held to remember the death and celebrate the resurrection of God’s son Jesus Christ.

As a result of attending the Great Banquet, my spiritual life has been strengthened and my life has also changed. I have a better understanding of prayer, the sacraments, study, and Christian action. I strive to live a Christian life while also bringing others to Jesus. I increasingly know Jesus and am working to make him known through my actions.

Every other week, I participate in a small reunion group that meets to support each other in our actions and growth. Just as I experienced personal interaction with God six years ago in Hungary, that personal engagement is moving forward in many ways to God’s glory.

Finding a supportive community to explore and deepen one’s faith journey is truly invaluable. Regular gatherings not only provide a space for mutual support but also allow for the sharing of experiences, which can offer comfort and guidance.

It’s truly remarkable how personal encounters with God can have a lasting impact on one’s journey. The fact that I experienced such a profound interaction with God six years ago in Hungary is a testament to the unyielding and transformative nature of faith. As this personal engagement continues to unfold through the Great Banquet, it brings about a sense of wonder and awe contributing to my faith and ultimately contributing to the greater glory of God.

De Colores

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14 thoughts on “Come, for Everything is Now Ready”

  2. I wanted to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable growth I’ve seen in you since your participation in “The Great Banquet.” Your journey with Christ has been nothing short of inspiring, and it’s truly heartening to witness the transformative power of your faith.

    Your commitment to deepening your relationship with God is evident in the way you approach life with renewed vigor and purpose. Through your actions and words, you radiate the love and grace of Jesus, touching the lives of those around you in profound ways.

    It’s incredible to see how you’ve embraced the teachings and principles of “The Great Banquet” and allowed them to shape your walk with Christ. Your openness to God’s guidance and your willingness to surrender to His will are a testament to your growing spiritual maturity.

    Remember that this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be ups and downs along the way, but know that you’re not alone. God is with you every step of the way, guiding and strengthening you as you continue to grow in faith.

    I encourage you to keep pressing forward, leaning into God’s grace and allowing His love to overflow from your life. Your journey is an inspiration to us all, and I’m excited to see how God will continue to work in and through you in the days ahead.

    Keep shining brightly, Barry. The world needs more people like you who are wholeheartedly devoted to following Christ.

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  3. Enjoyed so much your Invitation to the Banquet and the picture. Read it to my husband. It’s so nice to get an invitation to a dinner —such as the Somerset Trust Bank’s dinner. How even more exciting to get Christ’s invitation to His eternal banquet! I hope everyone takes notice & accepts. Thanks for sharing. You are truly an inspiration.

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  4. Barry, I hope your health continues to improve and you are enjoying life. I’m in Madrid following a language programme in Jaén. All is good but I fly home tomorrow and am ready for normality and home again. Take care.  Maggie 

    Sent from Sky Yahoo Mail on Android

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