A Hand FULL of Miracles, a Heart FULL of Love

By Sheila Schuller Coleman for the Schuller Family

Merry Christmas to you, dear friends. This Christmas we are celebrating an amazing year of miracles and milestones.

As people everywhere are struggling with overwhelming challenges, you, our faith FULL church members and friends have shown HEROIC FAITH, continuing to support your church even when times were tough. As a result, we experienced miracle after miracle here at Crystal Cathedral!

There were weeks when we didn't know if we would be able to keep our doors open. Then, without fail, extra, unexpected, miracle gifts poured in and we had just enough! How do we begin to thank you? The year 2009 was not only a miraculous year for the ministry, but it was a milestone year for the ministry and me personally. I was totally surprised when my father and the board asked me to accept responsibility for the future of my father's legacy and this ministry. Although reluctant at first (saying yes required HEROIC FAITH, to say the least!), I was further surprised by the absolute joy and delight it has been to serve in this position. How wonder FULL it has been to serve side by side with my father. Having the opportunity to help him share the message of hope has been extremely FULL filling!

In addition to the miracles and milestones at the ministry, my husband Jim and I experienced a joy FULL milestone this year when Jason, our firstborn son of four, married the love of his life, Annie.

We praise God this Christmas for so many, many miracles. Most of all we thank him for the miracle of his Son, Jesus, who is the source of our joy, our love, and our life.

May you and your family experience miraculous milestones this Christmas! We are eternally grateful for you and your HEROIC FAITH in us. God is counting on you and me to make 2010 our 55th year as a congregation - the best year yet.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Ask Sheila: Hiding My Light Under a Bushel

Dear Sheila,

I was not a Christian when I married my husband of 23 years. Ten years ago, I gave my life to Jesus. My life has changed somewhat, but frankly I am afraid to grow too deep in my spiritual walk for fear that it will drive a wedge between my husband and me. Whenever I talk about spiritual matters with him he sneers. So, I pray and read my Bible but keep my spiritual life private. Should I keep going this direction or be more forthright about my relationship with Christ?

- Hiding My Light under a Bushel

Dear Light under a Bushel,

Your signature pretty much says it all! You've answered your own question.

I would suggest that you grow and grow and grow in the Lord. You do that by reading God's word, spending time with fellow Christians, and by praying. As you do this, your light will grow bright and brighter. You don't have to talk to your husband about your deepening relationship with Jesus-you just have to walk it. And pray for him.

Jesus didn't just come to save us for heaven in eternity. He came to save us so we can experience a bit of heaven on earth. He said, "I have come that you might have life, and...have it more abundantly " (John 10:10). As your husband sees you living a truly abundant life, he will become hungry and thirsty for the same. That's good news! In Christ,

Sheila Schuller Coleman