As the 2020 journey comes to the end of the year, Donna and I especially thank God for you! Your partnership with us to reach leaders and legislators is essential and so much appreciated. You are a blessing. We thank God for the privilege to serve Jesus with you.
2020 has been a crazy year, but Legislators call Capitol Commission’s non-partisan work and presence “essential” and “empowering.” Bible Study attendance has increased, both in-person and on Zoom. Leaders have been drawn to discipleship.
Our ministry strategy is expressed in three key terms: PRAYER, PRESENCE and PROCLAMATION.
PRAYER
We pray for all legislators and with many in person. Capitol Commission created a website that makes it easy for you or anyone to pray daily for each of your State and National leaders. The website allows you to share with the leader that you are praying for them. You can sign-up at http://www.Pray1Tim2.org. God worked it out so we were able to participate this year in the National Prayer Breakfast and the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast just prior to the nation’s shutdown.
PRESENCE
Now more than ever in our polarized political culture our leaders need comfort and encouragement. Our presence gives hope behind the scenes. Our Bible Studies allow leaders to come together as they grow in faith and friendships. We demonstrate the love of Jesus by providing biblical insights and by coming alongside them relationally. With COVID-19, Hurricanes and Special Sessions this year, there were many opportunities to practice the ministry of presence. God’s plan is not Programs but People. This is His Plan A and there is no Plan B. You cannot have Relationship without Trust. You cannot have trust without Time.
PROCLAMATION
We boldly present the good news of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. Jesus is not the religious guy; He is the life-giving One. Bible studies flourished this year as challenges motivated many to place their dependence on God alone. New, creative, and fruitful opportunities were launched on Zoom, Podcasts, Facebook and Apple TV. I am looking forward to leading two military retreats next year with Officers Christian Fellowship and the War College, as well as lead a new tour to Israel and Egypt, Lord willing.
Speaking Opportunities in 2021
- House of Representatives Bible Study
- Capitol Lobbyist Meetings
- Meetings with Senators and Representatives
- One-on-One Appointments
- Bible Studies every day of the week but Saturdays
- Officers Christian Fellowship Retreat
- Leader Faith Forum – St. Tammany
- Giving Hope Retreat Center
- Capitol Commission Gathering
- National Day of Prayer at LA Capitol – postponed
- U.S. Senator Event
- Louisiana Treasurer’s Event
- Leadership St. Tammany Retreat – postponed
- Lakeview Mens Gathering
- Kingdom Group International
- Chamber of Commerce
- Business Forum
- Inauguration Swearing-in
- Prayer Community Event
- Bridge Bible Church, Los Angeles
- The Fellowship, Washington, DC
- Kiwanis Club, Mandeville
- Kiwanis Club, Covington
- Forcey Bible Church Roundtable
- Louisiana Economic Recovery Taskforce
- Northshore Bible Church
- LA Governor’s Prayer Breakfast
- Dental Association
- Mayor’s Forum, Mandeville
- Tammany Parish President Inauguration
- FBC Covington Youth Groups
- Bernard Parish, television
- Iron Sharpens Iron – postponed
- Holy Land Tour – postponed
- Forcey Missions Conference
- (Re) Cast Podcast
- LA Treasurer’s Meeting
Financial Update
I have not mentioned finances since last December. The core of the ministry has been supported by people making monthly commitments to GRACE ADVENTURES, and this has been supplemented by one-time gifts. I am grateful. As a faith-based ministry, I am required to raise all my support.
Thank You
You have sacrificially partnered with Donna and me for years now to serve God’s Kingdom purposes. You have prayed, supported and encouraged us so we can minister to leaders with biblical values and our hearts. Out of caring for leader’s hearts comes relational equity to be considered their friends. These trust-filled relationships require empathy, time and consistency. Eternal fruit often flows out of extending God’s friendship to leaders. We are seeing Jesus’ impact on one of the most important mission fields. Thank you for strategically making this work possible and for many years of friendship with Donna and me. It is a joy to work with my friends to help new friends meet Jesus in a vital way. We love you and pray God’s best for you and your family.
Merry Christmas to You
Christmas is upon us. It is hard to believe that 2021 is only a few weeks away! Most are saying “Amen” to a new beginning. This year has been hard for so many. We have rejoiced with those who rejoice and hurt with those who have been hurt, sick, grieved, or experienced loss.
Donna has continued her service with the Crisis Pregnancy Center, leading a mentoring ministry to young moms, and plays a major role with Capitol Commission.
Our family wishes your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Michael and Donna
Year in Pictures
