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I usually don't give much thought to fortune cookies.  They are so bland and generic (yet I heard those who make them actually make some money.  How about that for a job title!)  Anyway, the other day Michele and I went out to eat at a Chinese restaurant with family.  I got my fortune cookie and laughed.  I had to take a second look after reading it.  It said, "The change you started already has far-reaching effects.  Be ready."
I couldn't help but think about the AZ Calvary Chapel Pastors, Leaders, & Servants conferenece we were doing on October 16th.  We had 200 people from 26 churches gathered at our church to be encouraged, edified, and equiped in their ministry area.  It was a blessing to see the unity among Calvary Chapel churches as well as watch out church body serve in such a wonderful way.
But I also couldn't help but think about the next step of faith with Arizona Calvary Chapel School Of Ministry starting in January 2027.  The goal of this is to raise up current and future leadership for the Calvary Chapels in AZ.  The teachers are set for the first semester.  There are currently 5-6 host sites getting ready.  And students from each of those churches are signing up to learn leadership.  I wonder what God has in store for the future of all those churches?
I know what some of you are thinking, "Pastor, it's a cookie."  To that I say, "Yep.  It was good too."  But, listen, if God can speak to us through nature reminding us of His love and care, then why can't He use a small piece of paper with some writing on it?  Sure we don't look into every thing as if there is a sign behind it all, but we do give God space to use those special moments.
In the end He gets the glory, not the restaurant, nor the fortune cookie, not me.  It just blesses my heart to see God's sense of humor and encourages me in the efforts.