On Sunday afternoon, November 23, 2008 … Josh and Zimri confessed their faith in Jesus and were baptized into the name of the Father – the Son – and the Holy Spirit. Kelly baptized Josh, and then Josh baptized Zimri. They began their new lives on the same day.
They began another new life together – as husband and wife – on December 6th.
Please welcome them to the fellowship of God’s people and share a word of encouragment with them. (Offer a blessing for their marriage, as well, please.)
Knowing that Josh and Zimri are now our brother and sister is reason enough to “bless them”, but it might inspire you … as it did me … to hear how Josh appreciates life.
On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving … I asked our folks at the OPEN to tell me something that they thank God for (and to be specific). Before I was finished asking the question Josh had his hand up … eager to share.
“Every morning when I wake up I thank God for my life. The fact that I am alive is all because of God. I was in a gang … and I have taken drugs … been shot at … gone to prison … over-dosed on drugs … even tried to take my own life. I could have been dead so many times. I thank God that I am alive.”
And now he thanks God for his new life in Jesus … and his new wife, who walks with him as they walk with Jesus.
Thank God for His gift of a “new life” – for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th chances….May God bless your walk together as you live your lives walking in His light.
Thank God that you found a place where you could be real – and be healed!
By: Dennis Wilson on December 9, 2008
at 8:23 pm
I love the fact that there is “utter honesty” at the OPEN and for people like Josh who has learned the true meaning of “Lay your burdens down”.
After 19 years of marriage, through some really great and really hard times, Josh, it only gets better and better. When times get tough, remember how much you love her today, be forgiving as your Lord has forgiven you, love her like your as your Lord loves you.
You both will continue in my prayers.
For the people at OPEN, you have a very rare gift there, savor it and give God the Glory for the things He has done and is continuing to do there.
By: Donna on December 10, 2008
at 9:37 am
Josh, it has been amazing to watch your life change over the past year. From the first time you visited the Open, it was clear that you were comfortable there. I love your willingness to share your past with us, and how you allow us to have a glimpse of who you were. It helps me appreciate who you are now all the more! May God bless you abundantly because of your faithfulness and obedience!
Zimri, you have an ability to nurture your friends and family in such a way that inspires others. You have been a bright addition to our group at the Open. Josh, Johnny, Lexi, and Pauly are all very lucky to have a loving wife/mother such as yourself. I pray that God will continue to work graciously in your lives and overwhelm you with blessings! Congrats on your new life in Christ and with Josh! I love you bunches!
By: Sarah on December 10, 2008
at 10:44 am
I pray that God blesses you both in your walk with Him and in your walk together.
I have watched in amazement at how God has worked in your lives. From the beginning you have both shown a willingness to be honest about your lives and have shown an obvious hunger for more knowledge about Him.
You have had so many obstacles, yet you would come in week after week, asking for prayers, asking for help and guidance. You have not given up … and God is blessing that endurance.
In your lives serving Him you are going to have tough times … times where you doubt His power, His love. But you can always rely on His promises. He keeps every one. So when you don’t FEEL loved by Him … KNOW you are. When you don’t FEEL His power … KNOW it is there.
In your lives loving each other you are going to have tough times … times where you wonder if you can really make it together. Many of us witnessed your vows … the sincerity, the honesty, and the obvious love you have for each other. So when you don’t FEEL it … ask us to remind you of what we KNOW … you two can make it … keep God as your stronghold.
I’m so proud of you both … thank you for showing me what God can do when we allow Him to work in our lives.
By: cemotosnack on December 10, 2008
at 12:12 pm
Josh, you are an amazing person. It has been such a wonder to watch you as you learn and grow in God. Your honesty about the good and the bad has been good for all of us. May God continue His work in you until He comes to take us Home. Keep getting to know God and His word.
Zimri, you are a beautiful soul. Your ability to handle the things that have come your way is truly a gift. God has blessed me very richly by bringing you to the OPEN. May He pour blessings on you as you walk with Him and know Him and listen to His word.
It was an honor to be allowed to be there at your wedding. Thank you for sharing that moment with us. It absolutely filled my heart!
By: sherryfisher on December 10, 2008
at 10:06 pm
Josh, I am so glad God led you to the Open. You have been a blessing, an inspiration, and a great source of humor since your arrival. Welcome home!
Zimri, I admire so much your desire to love those children as they were your own. Especially at your young age. I love your heart that you share so sincerely in our ladies study. You amaze me and I’m so glad God led you to us. Welcome home!
By: Lisa on December 12, 2008
at 8:58 am
Josh…Zimri,
To be able to start both “new lives” at one time is a gift. Take care of the gift you’ve been given.
Take care of each other in every way so that your new life together will be long….happy….blessed!
Take care of each other spiritually so that your (most important ) new life in Christ will be blessed and will last for eternity.
Congratulations….we all love you and are so proud of you. Can’t wait to see what the future hold for you!
Josh, you have such potential to become such a leader….someone who can reach and teach people that others of us would never be able to reach. You’ve walked a walk that will allow you to talk to so many people that we can’t. We are all so thankful for you!
Zimri, you are such a beautiful and sweet young woman. You are wonderful with the children and because of you being their momma….their entire world…life….memories will be changed forever. Being a momma isn’t ever easy (anybody who tells you it is isn’t being honest), but the rewards far out way the work! We are thankful for you, but most important those children will someday be so thankful that you are their momma!
By: mothergoose on December 16, 2008
at 1:41 pm
Praise God for all things. Proud of these new Christians and the work you are doing for the Lord.
By: Matthew on December 16, 2008
at 9:34 pm