Cottonwood is a church that is a bit unusual. We make plans, but we are also flexible. Today was one of those days when a few unusual things happened, and it was glorious.
We have been involved in prison ministry for several years. In 2008, a man from prison asked if he could join the church. He appreciated that the pastor came to speak every month, and other men went in with him, and he just wanted to be a part of the church. Pastor Mike told us about John, and showed us his picture. We all rejoiced and welcomed him as a new member of Cottonwood, but we never met him or heard about him again. John was moved into another facility shortly after that.
Today, he and his wife walked into the church and sat down on the second row. John has been out of prison for 6 months, living in Ft Worth with is wife. At the end of the service, Mike introduced John and told the story of how he joined the church in 2008. John said he served 7300 days, and had always wondered if he would ever walk through the doors of Cottonwood. It was such a special time. We once again rejoiced and affirmed him. Mike had John and his wife stand at the front so that we could all greet them.
I invited them to go to lunch with us and we had a great time. John's wife tearfully said that it was such a good day. She rarely feels that they can openly share about John's background, and it was such a relief to let down their guard and be completely accepted. I am so grateful to be a part of a church that would accept welcome anyone who loves the Lord, regardless of their past or their problems.
Our purpose is to encourage women to pursue a growing, passionate relationship with Jesus Christ through support, fellowship and discipleship. We strive to provide many opportunities to help women grow in relationship with Christ; to live the abundant life that Jesus promised, a life of joy and freedom, and to have relationships that are healthy and fulfilling.
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