A Commercial of Sorts

Since its earliest seasons, I have been a fan of the reality show The Biggest Loser. Last year I was especially intrigued by one of the contestants’ stories. In 2006, Abby Rike lost her husband, 5-year-old daughter, and two-week-old in a car accident, an unfathomable tragedy by anyone’s standards. Watching Abby process her grief in the context of The Biggest Loser, I just knew she was Christian.

And now, she’s coming to First Baptist New Orleans, along with Bible teacher Jennifer Rothschild, worship leader Alicia Williamson Garcia, and special guests Sally Ann Roberts, Lisa Welchel, and Michael O’Brien, for the Fresh Grounded Faith regional women’s conference to held here on Friday and Saturday, April 9-10, 2010.

Tickets are now available for the two-day conference on Sundays at the Women’s Ministry table in the church lobby and weekdays in the church office (third floor). Between now and March 8, early-bird tickets are only $29 (while they last). After that, ticket prices will rise to $39 until the day of the event when the at-door price is $59. Obviously, to get the best price for this incredible conference, tickets should be purchased as soon as possible.

Abby’s story is inspiring. Not only did she lose 100 pounds as a result of her Biggest Loser experience, but she gained a healthy lifestyle and vigor for life, and is a living example that even in one’s darkest hour, there is always hope.

Let me know if I can answer any questions about the conference, line you up to volunteer as a greeter or coffee server, or sell you a ticket. I’d really like you to hear Abby’s story in person as well as Jennifer’s and the others. Contact me at judijackson@mindspring.com or 504-722-8261 (cell).

Even after this . . .

I Kings 13:33 "Even after this, Jeroboam did not change his evil ways . . ."

No doubt, God sends 'wake-up calls' to our lives -- I think of all the ones Aaron got last year and yet, "even after this" . . .

Sarah had some strong ones of her own . . . she seemed to respond a little differently -- verdict is still out in more ways than one.

Were these "wake-up calls" more for Allen and me? Are we missing something in there for us? God, don't let me miss the opportunity to be directed, disciplined, and ultimately, saved by You!