July Update 2023
July 14, 2023 Ministry Journal, Upcoming Events 1 Comment
Living a Balanced Life
Here we are in the middle of summer and it sure is flying by. I’m continuing to lead worship at various churches in the Bay Area and weekly train musicians and worship leaders in-person and through Zoom. I’m so grateful to help others excel in their musical and ministry endeavors.
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There are four Saturdays left of the Mount Hermon Summer Concert Series. All the concerts are free, but you must register through iTickets. Veritas had to move to July 29, with Michael O’Brien, because of a family emergency. Here’s the new line-up:
- 7/15 – Nicole Nordeman
- 7/22 – The King’s Brass
- 7/29 – Michael O’Brien & Veritas
- 8/5 – Phillips, Craig & Dean (sold out)
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I did a Summer Home Concert through Facebook Live which is now available on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/dpx16y_XN6o. I played all the songs on my latest album, Encore, and wrapped it up with My Prayer for You. I hope it encourages you!
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I’ve been hearing recently that more and more people are experiencing anxiety, emptiness, and despair. More pastors are feeling lonely; care workers are feeling discouraged; and teachers are feeling less valued. One way to personally work through this disheartening trend is by living a balanced life. How are we doing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? Stephen Covey, in his book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, gives 4 personal habits for us to keep in mind to help us stay balanced and victorious in life. These have been very inspiring for me.
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1) Be Proactive [Habit 1]
Take initiative in life by realizing that your decisions are the primary determining factor for effectiveness in your life. Take responsibility for your choices and the consequences that follow.
2) Begin with the End in Mind [Habit 2]
Self-discover and clarify your deeply important character values and life goals. Envision the ideal characteristics for each of your various roles and relationships in life.
3) Put First Things First [Habit 3]
Prioritize your life. Make sure you put the important things in your life before the many little things that can keep you from what matters most.
4) Sharpen the Saw [Habit 7]
Balance and renew your resources, energy, and health to create a sustainable, long-term, effective lifestyle. Make regular time to reload physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
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Our relationship with God is vital in maintaining a balanced life: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). God loves us deeply and wants us to enjoy an abundant life! May you experience intimacy with Jesus in a fresh way this summer!
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Thank you so much for your ongoing prayers and support for Heartfelt Music® Ministry. We couldn’t do this ministry without you.
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Upcoming Events
- July 16 & 30 (Sundays)
I’ll be leading worship at San Jose Christian Reformed Church. It is located at 5150 Camden Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95124, (408) 266-4412. The service is at 10:00am. - July 23 (Sunday)
I’ll be leading worship at San Ramon Presbyterian Church. It is located at 12700 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583, (925) 543-7772. The service is at 9:00am. - August 3 (Thursday)
I’ll be playing instrumental guitar music during an Ice Cream Social at Saratoga Retirement Community, 14500 Fruitvale Ave., Saratoga, CA 95070, 6:30pm-8:00pm.