This shows just a small example of one of the most impoverished places on earth. I have never seen anything like it! Over 700,000 people live in this slum in Nairobi. There are 4 other slums like this in Kenya of a similar size. This is poverty beyond description. There is no possible way to accurately describe the sights, the smells, and the dark oppression of the slum. These are conditions that no one should have to endure and yet for so many this is their life. It is hard to describe the emotions of spending time in a slum like this. And yet because of the ministry of Compassion I experienced something in this dark, hopeless place that I never thought I would find….HOPE! In the midst of poverty that is beyone imagination there is Hope because of Jesus Christ! Children are being rescued from poverty and are believing that there is a hope for the future because of the truth of the Gospel.
This video shows the home of a Compassion child, Edwin, that we had the honor of visiting. When asked about his favorite part of the Compassion project, Edwin said his favorite part of being a Compassion child is experiencing the love of Jesus!
As you look at these conditions reflect on the hope of Jesus. The light of Christ can shine in the darkest places on earth!
I am blown away by the hope that I experienced in a hopeless situation because the Gospel is alive and well!

This week is the beginning of our 30 day Gospel reading emphasis. As we read through the Gospels together I am going to share a few brief thoughts on some of our daily reading. I hope this will be an encouragement to you as you dive into God’s word and are reminded of the love of God revealed in Christ.

I am praying for you as we look together at God’s “Crazy Love” for us!

For a copy of the reading plan click on this link to our website:

http://cedarcrestchurch.com/

This week is the beginning of our new series “Crazy Love” at Cedarcrest. I am so excited about the next 9 weeks as we dive into the incredible love God has for us all and focus on our response to His love.

There are so many ways for you to be involved in this series.

- Attend worship. Each week will be a memorable worship experience as we look at God’s relentless pursuit of us with his love.

- Get in a Group. We are launching new community groups that meet during the week as well as new adult bible study classes that meet on Sunday mornings @ Cedarcrest. If you are not currently in a group click this link to get plugged in! http://cedarcrestchurch.com/crazy-love

- Read the book. Francis Chan’s book “Crazy Love” will serve as the foundation for this series. Make sure you pick up a copy of the book to read during this series.

- Read the Gospels. Beginning September 13th we will be reading through the 4 Gospels in 30 days. Click this link to follow the daily bible reading. http://www.youversion.com/reading-plans/the-gospels

I cannot wait to see how God uses this series in the life of our Church. This is a great time to bring someone with you to get connected to the love of God. I am looking forward to seeing you for “Crazy Love”!