From the start, Grace Adventures has focused on reaching Political, Business and Spiritual
leaders for Christ, one leader at a time. During the month of April we launched a new initiative at the State Capitol to reach out to our elected leaders while they are in a nine-week session gathered in Baton Rouge. I am spending three days a week at the Capitol from April through June 6th.
A Representative recently asked me, in front of many other Representatives, why I was spending three days a week at the Capitol. I said, “I want to help leaders think through the ‘Big Questions’ of life. I want leaders to win not just in politics, but in life. I don’t want leaders to climb the ladder of success only to get to the top and discover their ladder is leaning against the wrong wall. I want leaders to be healthy spiritually, physically, mentally and in their families, because they will serve better. I want everyone to get to know the real Jesus, the Jesus of the Bible and not the one who people make in their own image. If you get to know the real Jesus you will be turned upside down, you will be stunned, amazed, challenged to no end and inspired. I believe things can happen at the Capitol in Jesus that could never happen through politics. Walls can come down and relationships of friendship can be built. I don’t believe the Kingdom of God will ever arrive on Air Force One no matter who is the President. I don’t believe revival will start in Washington DC. I believe it is possible for a revitalization to start in an unexpected place … like Louisiana and it could spread to the nation.” This is why I am at the Capitol.
National Day of Prayer
State Capitol Senate Chamber, Baton Rouge
On May 2nd, I had the honor of helping lead the National Day of Prayer event at the State Capitol. Governor Bobby Jindal, Senator Broome, and Speaker Pro Tempore Leger participated as members of the Capitol, and the community gathered to seek God’s face and ask Him to bless and heal our land. We prayed for seven mountains of influence that included Government, Military, Family, Church, Business, Media, and Education. I began with these words, spoken to our founding Fathers from eighty-one-year-old Ben Franklin at the 1787 Constitutional Convention:
“And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need His assistance. I have lived, Sir, a long time and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth—that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings that “except the Lord build they labor in vain that build it.” I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without his concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the Builders of Babel.”
Ministry Opportunities
Open Doors for Ministry continue to come to speak the gospel and words of encouragement and challenge to groups in the community and at the Capitol. This month I delighted in speaking to the Louisiana Dental Association, started a new Bible Study at the Capitol, opened the House of Representatives in prayer on April 30th and was the Honorary Chaplain for the Day. It was fascinating meeting with the Israel’s Ambassador to the United States on the 65th anniversary of the restored nation of Israel. I am continuing my work in New Orleans and the Northshore as well. This includes five ongoing weekly Bible studies, discipleship and appointments. It is a busy time and I will be ready for a little downtime after June 6th.
Jonathan and Patricia
We will head to Texas this weekend to celebrate as Patricia receives her Master of Science Degree in Speech Pathology!! She has labored hard, working full-time and going to school full-time. She has a huge heart to help others. What tenacity and staying-at-it power! God bless you Patricia.
Wrap-Up
Books I’m Reading
1. 7 Men and the Secret of their Greatness, Eric Metaxas
2. Operation World, The Definitive Prayer Guide to Every Nation, Jason Mandryk
Donna and I appreciate you. It is a delight to have friends who care and pray. We can only do what we do because friends stand with us in the Great Commission. Thank you. Please let us know how we can serve you. Our prayer is you too will find delight in God and experience His nearness and blessing.
Betting the Farm on God,
Michael
Open Doors for Ministry continue to come to speak the gospel and words of encouragement and challenge to groups in the community and at the Capitol. This month I delighted in speaking to the Louisiana Dental Association, started a new Bible Study at the Capitol, opened the House of Representatives in prayer on April 30th and was the Honorary Chaplain for the Day. It was fascinating meeting with the Israel’s Ambassador to the United States on the 65th anniversary of the restored nation of Israel. I am continuing my work in New Orleans and the Northshore as well. This includes five ongoing weekly Bible studies, discipleship and appointments. It is a busy time and I will be ready for a little downtime after June 6th.