Waiting Expectantly

In my faith journey God has always used the writings of other Christ followers to encourage, inspire, and challenge me to a deeper walk with Him.  My desire is that He might do the same for you as you read the writings shared in these devotionals.  Blessings!

Mary - I particularly honor you for your persistence in leading worship in ways that give honor to our Lord. The CDs Jan and I have of you are among the best contemporary music we have. Leading worship is difficult . . . and you do it well.                                     [personal letter]

God has used Mary in my life to grow my understanding of faith and what it looks like to be enveloped into everyday life. By example, she has helped me embrace my relationship with the Holy Spirit and to acknowledge God’s constant presence.

Mary passionately loves God. Everything she does in her music and relationships comes out of that love for God.  Her words express the wonder of being a child of the loving God. She is authentic, honest, inclusive, and compassionate.  She is engaging, humorous and disciplined.  Mary leads worship with enthusiasm, energy, and a heart for God that draws the congregation into His presence.

Mary shows me what it looks like to depend on the Holy Spirit. She is in tune with the Spirit and has spoken truth over me numerous times. Mary has demonstrated the love of Jesus to me by inviting me into her life and loving me, no matter what. Her presence is full of joy and peace, and my life will be forever changed because of her!

My heart has been encouraged over and over again from any time spent with Mary. Her unquenchable thirst for Jesus and to help others know Him is infectious. Can’t wait to receive more of that through her Advent reflections. 

When I think of what it looks like to be led by the Spirit, I look to the example set in my life by Mary Goldring. She simply trusts Jesus in every circumstance she finds herself in and leads those around her to do the same. In today's church worship culture, we don’t see many older leaders, especially women. Mary proves that worship is a posture of the heart and dependency upon Jesus. My family and I love Jesus more because of our proximity to her.

A friend for over 30 years, Mary exhibits an intense love for Jesus, an unconditional love for people, and an outstanding ability to use her voice and guitar skills to bring others to a place of worship. God is using her humble and willing gifts to love and bless others.