Rooted Fall 2021

I almost left my church in 2018.

I've told this story before. There may be glimpses of it in other blog posts here, but this post is about answers to prayers I prayed for years.

I don't consider myself a patient person. I prefer instant gratification or nothing at all. Looking back waiting for God to answer this particular prayer was the longest, most serious waiting I'd ever done.

From Fall 2018 to Fall 2021, I trusted that God would provide a place at my home church where I could grow as a Christian. God being God delivered beyond what I imagined, and exactly on target for what my heart desired.

Rooted is a discipleship group.

It's not a bible study or a fellowship group--although those things are incorporated. It's content is meant to meet you where you are and help you grow in God through the implementation and practice of seven rhythms.

I was reluctant to accept the invitation to facilitate (lead) a group of people I wasn't sure I'd know. I was tired of being worn out from bible studies, young adult groups and small groups. I serve because I obey God because I love God. I did what was right, but deep in my soul, I wasn't filled.

I think God cared more about my church fatigue than I did. I accepted what was true. Things were better and good enough.

And then came Rooted. I didn't even know how to articulate what I wanted during those frustrating months in 2018. I cried on the phone after our fourth Rooted meeting. I cried to my boyfriend telling him that God answered my prayer so specifically that it felt so right to be a part of it.

I know in my soul this is why I am at Palm Valley Church.

I know, regardless of my vocation and crushed career dreams, that Rooted is what I was knitted for.

There are these rare moments when everything feels aligned so perfectly.

That night, crying in the Home Depot parking lot, I knew that I knew that I knew, I'd found my purpose and the place where I can be every bit of who God made me to be without hiding or making myself smaller.

I finally feel...Rooted.

You can join Rooted Spring 2022 here.