Reflection: July
By Jennifer Box (QSM, JP)
Jennifer has just finished her role as IVP for Pacific Fellowship. Jennifer has served GB for many years and we thank her for all she has done and is still doing. Jennifer is married to Les, a mum of three and a grandmother of two.
As I finish my role as an IVP for GB International, I have been reflecting on my time as a member of Girls’ Brigade and the changes that have been made over the years. Thinking back to the beginning at Sandymount Presbyterian Church in Dublin Ireland 123 years ago, Margaret Lyttle took that first ‘COURAGEOUS’ step of founding Girls’ Brigade in 1893. Scotland in 1900 founded The Girls’ Guildry in response to a need for a church mission, while in England in 1902, Girls’ Life Brigade began.
These groups continued to grow until in 1964, discussions began on amalgamating the three. What a ‘COURAGEOUS’ step this was. Some of you reading this will remember this change taking place.
Our theme for this year is ‘BE COURAGEOUS’. In the International Resource sent out to all companies this year, we are encouraged to do things differently and let go of past ways, have the courage to speak out and advocate for girls and young women, the courage to go somewhere new, courage to go against the crowd and stand up for our beliefs, courage to face difficulties and challenges, courage to grasp new opportunities. How COURAGEOUS will you be? We can’t of course do this in our strength alone. There are numerous bible verses that come to mind that have encouraged me over the years. Three of these are: Luke 1 : 37 “For nothing will be impossible with God” . Mark 11 : 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Philippians 4 : 3 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Commit your goals, dreams and aspirations to God, then ‘BE COURAGEOUS’ in taking the next step.
The IVP baton for the Pacific Fellowship has been handed on to Renelle Neale of Australia. During my eight years as IVP I have made many friends throughout the Pacific (and the worldwide GB family) and it has been an honour to have had the opportunity to serve God in this way. I wish Renelle all the best for her term of office.
Deuteronomy 31:6 says “Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.”
‘BE COURAGEOUS’ step out in faith and reap the rewards.
