10 chapters a day

A few months ago, I was reading a book by Philip Yancey and he talked about how he was doing research for one of his books. He said that he locked himself in a secluded cabin for a couple of months and read through the entire Bible cover to cover. He talked about how when you read it cover to cover, you really see the main thrust of the scriptures. You see the way God relates to us, how he loves us, and how he is consistent throughout the course of history. Reading some of Philip Yancey's work inspired me to dig deeper into scripture and to challenge myself in new ways. A while ago I had the idea to read 10 chapters a day. 5 chapters in the morning, and 5 at night. This seems like a lot of reading, and I usually have a hard time being consistent, but I really want to be immersed in scripture every day. Not as an academic exercise, or as a chore, but as a way to worship, learn more about God, love, and how to live a surrendered life. I think writing this on the blog will help keep me accountable. I also have some important people in my life that encourage me constantly. I'm so thankful for that. So I'm going to challenge myself, and I'm also going to challenge you - my brothers, and sisters. If you are not in the word daily, find a reading plan that works best for you and try your best to stick to it. I've been inspired by scripture so many times, and have seen God work through his word in really unique ways. I was thinking about waiting for the New Year to start my reading plan, but I'm too anxious for that. Please keep me in your prayers, and continue to pray for the children in Kenya. Through Compassion, they are growing to become mature Christian adults. I'm so excited about this next year. May God bless you, and remind you that no matter how far gone you think you are - God is always there, and he is on the move. If you seek after him, he will meet you where you are. I always thought that we needed to search to find God, but it turns out he finds us. If you want to see your life change in a drastic way, open your hearts and minds to the work that God is doing. Whether it's through scripture, through events, through people, or through miracles. Thats all I have for now. Talk to you all soon!
In Christ,
Chris

Getting to know Yawa

This is my sponsored child. Her name is Lydia Yawa Sowah. She lives with her father and her mother in Ghana which is in West Africa. She is responsible for carrying water, running errands and cleaning. Her father is sometimes employed and her mother is sometimes employed. There are 10 children in the family.

Singing and playing group games are Yawa's favorite activities. In primary school her performance is average and she also regularly attends church activities and Bible class.

When I started getting involved with Compassion, I wanted to sponsor a child that lived in Africa, has my mom's name, and has a birthday close to that of my mom's. It was a complete surprise when I tried searching for those specifics that Yawa's name came up. My mom - Lydia and I are now sponsoring Lydia Yawa, and are excited to find out more about her and the community she lives in. Please remember Yawa in your prayers.

thanks for your support,
Chris

drum lessons!

Shoot me an email if you are interested. You can purchase a gift certificate for however many lessons you want, or you can use them as a gift! christopher.matetic@gmail.com

Friends! Exciting news! Thank you!!!

Friends, just wanted to share with you the great news. On the 29th, we experienced a great out pour of love. Without you none of this would be possible. We've raised $3800, which should cover the cost of the trip including air fare. Thanks to all of you friends! We love you all, and thanks to the anonymous donor and Open Door Church! This is amazing. I am blown away by your generosity. We are getting more and more excited about this adventure that God has called us on. I look forward to talking with all of you, so keep in touch - we will be updating the blog often, so check back for more exciting things that are coming up. If you are still thinking of donating, we still could use your support. Elizabeth has been a great supporter of Compassion for years now, and a huge encouragment to me.  Lets help support her in her journey to Africa. There are paintings for sale, and more art coming. Let me know if you are interested. Ok. Talk to you all soon!
Love you guys!
In Christ,
-Chris