GROW

16 years ago, in the shadow of a near-death experience, I stood at the threshold between life and eternity. It was a moment that would etch itself into the very fabric of my being, a divine encounter with Jesus, despite my status as a non-Christian at the time. That encounter, as my soul hovered over my lifeless body, left an indelible mark on my spirit, propelling me into a journey of faith that would shape the course of my life.

For three years following that encounter, I found myself in a tumultuous dance with God, evading His call, yet unable to escape the lingering presence of His love. It wasn't until I found myself on the floor of a random church, surrounded by strangers, that I finally surrendered, my heart laid bare before the One who had pursued me relentlessly.

During those early days of surrender, my newfound faith faced resistance, particularly from my husband, who struggled to comprehend the depth of my sudden new conviction. Yet, every night, I sought solace in the pages of the Bible, finding solace and healing in its truths.

One night, as I immersed myself in the Gospel of Matthew, my eyelids heavy with exhaustion, a vision unfolded before me “a young redwood tree, its branches stretching toward the heavens with an unparalleled vitality. Watching and the tree grew and grew before my eyes. Tears streamed down my face as I witnessed this miraculous growth, and in the depths of my soul, I heard the gentle whisper of the Lord: "You're growing." It was a moment of divine affirmation, a reassurance that even in my weakest moments, God saw my efforts and was proud of me.

Over the years, that vision of the pine tree remained etched in my memory, a symbol of God's unwavering love and affirmation. Yet, it wasn't until recently, in a moment of divine synchronicity, that its significance would be fully revealed.

Following the launch of Mosaic Women’s Collective ministry, a prophetic woman from my church approached me with a look of fascination in her eyes. As she spoke, her words carried the weight of divine revelation: "Lyssa; You are like a pine tree, continually growing and pursuing God's call on your life. He says you never stopped since you met Him, you never stopped growing even when things were difficult and you wanted to give up. And you never will." Ummm excuse me while I fall over! As each word poured from her soul to mine; my knees began to buckle. How could she possibly KNOW this?!

In that moment, as her words echoed the vision I had experienced a decade prior, I felt the overwhelming presence of God's love and affirmation wash over me once again. It was a reminder that, no matter the trials or obstacles I faced, God's plans for me remained steadfast, and His pride in my journey was immeasurable. 

As I reflect on the twists and turns of my journey from near death to new life, from doubt to divine affirmation, I am reminded that God's love knows no bounds, and His faithfulness endures through every season of life. And as I continue to walk in obedience to His call, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for the unending grace that has carried me thus far. I AM UNDONE! My prayer is that this testimony will encourage your dear sons and daughters of GOD! DO NOT forfeit your calling! RUN with endurance, Soar like Eagles! Count it (IT) the junk, the character building, the wrestling with your flesh, the heart that breaks for what breaks His; count it all joy! It’s a gift! Isn’t that WILD?! So opposite of how we understand thing as human beings..

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways.” Isaiah 55:8-9 

Know that Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He is like a TREE planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers Psalm 1:1-3 

THANK YOU JESUS!