In the heart of New Iberia, Louisiana, a small yet vibrant town nestled within the Lafayette Metropolitan Area, the atmosphere buzzed with the anticipation of an evangelistic meeting led by a woman of deep faith, Ayla. As the sun began to dip behind the Spanish-inspired architecture of the town, the town hall’s lights flickered on, casting a warm glow that welcomed the crowd. People from all walks of life were gathering for an evening that promised to reignite their passion for Christ and restore their sense of purpose.

New Iberia, with its rich cultural blend of Cajun and Spanish influences, had long been a place where traditions and faith intertwined. Known for its annual festivals—El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia and the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival—the town was filled with a deep sense of community, pride, and history. Ayla, a passionate evangelist with a heart for bringing people closer to God, had been invited to speak at this gathering to remind the town of the strength and foundation they could find in Christ, regardless of their circumstances.

As Ayla began the evening service, her voice carried through the room with an air of quiet authority. “We’re here tonight,” she began, “not only to celebrate what God has done in this community but to awaken the spirit that is alive in each of us. This town, rich in culture and history, is ready for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We are on the cusp of a new season of revival, and I believe the Lord has a word for every heart here.”

Ayla’s words were met with murmurs of agreement, as many present had already seen the stirring of God’s hand in their lives and the lives of their families. In a town like New Iberia, where people took immense pride in their heritage, this meeting held special significance. The spirit of unity that characterized the festivals and celebrations of New Iberia could now be harnessed for something even more powerful: unity in Christ.

“New Iberia is not just a place where people live,” Ayla continued. “This is a place where generations of families have come together to honor their traditions, celebrate their culture, and share the love of Christ. From El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia to the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival, your community thrives on togetherness and celebration. But tonight, we celebrate something even more important: the harvest of souls.”

She paused for a moment, letting the weight of her words sink in. “Just as the sugar cane harvest begins each year, I believe that the harvest of souls in this town is ready. The fields are white, and the Lord is calling us to step into this new season of abundance. But we must first open our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to work within us. The task before us is not to stand idly by but to go out and bring in the harvest.”

The room fell silent, each person reflecting on Ayla’s words. Her invitation to embrace the harvest was a powerful call to action. New Iberia had always been a place where community mattered, where people looked out for each other. But now, Ayla was encouraging them to take that same sense of togetherness and pour it into their mission to spread the gospel.

“I want to share something with you tonight,” Ayla said, her eyes scanning the crowd, “something that the Lord showed me as I prayed over this meeting. The spiritual harvest here is not just for a few—it is for all. God wants to use every single one of you. Whether you’ve been a Christian for years or are just beginning your walk with Christ, He has a purpose for you.”

She went on to talk about the festivals and how they symbolized the unity and joy of the community. “El Festival Español de Nueva Iberia is a time when the people come together to honor their Spanish heritage with food, music, and dance. The Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival celebrates the hard work of the sugar cane harvest and the tradition of a community working together for a common goal. Tonight, we are here to celebrate our shared goal—to bring the lost into the kingdom of God.”

Ayla spoke passionately about the diversity of the community, highlighting how the fusion of Cajun and Spanish cultures created a unique foundation for God’s work. “You see, the world may see our differences, but God sees His people—a people united under the banner of His love, ready to be called into action.”

The crowd sat in rapt attention, and as Ayla continued, her words seemed to ignite a fire in the hearts of those present. “You might be thinking, ‘I’m not qualified,’ or ‘I don’t know how I can help.’ But let me tell you something,” she said with a smile. “God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. He has equipped you with everything you need to do His work. You have been given the tools—your gifts, your talents, your story. It’s time to use them for His glory.”

As she spoke, the room began to fill with a palpable sense of expectation. People, many of whom had attended church their entire lives, began to feel the stirring of something deeper. They knew that it wasn’t enough to simply attend church—they were being called to become part of something bigger, something that extended far beyond the walls of the building.

Ayla went on to remind them of the importance of the harvest, not just in the physical sense but in the spiritual sense. “This community, just like the sugar cane fields, is ripe for the harvest. But we must be the ones to gather it. We must be the ones who go out into the world and share the good news. The Lord is moving in New Iberia, and it’s up to us to step into the calling He has for us.”

She invited the crowd to come forward for prayer, encouraging them to lay down any fears, doubts, or hesitations they may have. “Tonight, we are committing to being a people who go out and serve the Lord with all that we are. We will be faithful in the harvest, and we will see the glory of God come to our town.”

As people began to step forward, Ayla prayed over them, calling down the fire of the Holy Spirit to empower them for the work ahead. The room was filled with a sense of awe as individuals surrendered their hearts to God’s calling, feeling a renewed sense of purpose and dedication.

The meeting concluded with an overwhelming sense of joy and excitement. The people of New Iberia, inspired by Ayla’s words, were ready to go out and take their place in the harvest. They knew that together, as a community united in faith, they could accomplish incredible things for God’s kingdom.

Ayla left the stage that evening with a heart full of gratitude. She knew that New Iberia, with its rich cultural heritage and its sense of community, was primed for revival. The work was only just beginning, but the seed had been planted, and the harvest was sure to come.

The shores of Lake Michigan glistened under the moonlight as believers gathered for a powerful night of prayer and worship. Chicago, a city known for its architectural splendor and cultural vibrancy, was the backdrop for this divine encounter. The Willis Tower stood tall in the distance, a reminder of human ingenuity, while the historic Wrigley Building exuded timeless grace. As people arrived, mingling with one another, the air was thick with anticipation.

Evelyn, a woman of great faith and wisdom, took the stage, her voice steady and filled with conviction. She looked out at the crowd, many of whom had come from different corners of Chicago—some from Wicker Park, others from the bustling streets near the Chicago Riverwalk, and even a few who had enjoyed a baseball game earlier at Wrigley Field. Each person had their own burdens, but tonight was about surrender, revival, and the move of God.

“Brothers and sisters,” Evelyn began, her voice echoing across the lakeshore, “we are gathered here tonight because we believe in the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Just as this city is a beacon of culture, progress, and resilience, so too can we be beacons of hope and faith.”

The crowd responded with fervent “Amens” as Evelyn opened the Scriptures. She shared the story of Joseph, emphasizing how God’s blessing followed him wherever he went, much like the favor that rests upon Chicago despite its struggles. She reminded everyone that the grace of God is sufficient, even in difficult times.

The prayer session began with a call for unity. “Lord, we lift up this city to You,” Evelyn prayed. “From the towering heights of the John Hancock Center to the small food vendors on every street corner, may Your presence be known. We pray for the people who walk the Riverwalk, those who visit the Art Institute of Chicago seeking inspiration, and even those cheering in the stands of Wrigley Field. Let them find their true joy in You.”

The congregation sang in unison, their voices harmonizing beautifully under the open sky. Many lifted their hands, surrendering their worries.

Evelyn continued, “Many of you have come here tonight feeling burdened—perhaps by personal struggles, by financial hardship, or by the state of the world. But I tell you, the God who parted the Red Sea, who shut the mouths of lions, and who raised the dead, is the same God who will bring breakthrough in your life!”

Tears streamed down faces as people fell to their knees in prayer. The atmosphere was thick with the Holy Spirit, moving among them like the gentle breeze coming off Lake Michigan.

Evelyn then turned her focus to revival. “Chicago has been a city of change, of history, of culture. But tonight, we declare it to be a city of revival! Just as in the Second Great Awakening, when souls were set on fire for God, we cry out for a fresh outpouring! Let the streets of Wicker Park hear Your name, let the business districts see Your light, and let this lakeshore be a testimony of Your power!”

Shouts of agreement erupted from the crowd. Hands were laid on the sick, prayers were lifted for families, and worship continued late into the night. Evelyn’s words resonated deeply: “Stay close to Him, stay in His presence, and watch as He transforms this city, your lives, and your hearts.”

As the meeting came to a close, a final song rang out, a chorus of hope and faith. The city lights twinkled in the distance, a reflection of the light now burning brightly within the hearts of those gathered. Chicago, a city known for its resilience, had just experienced a night of divine encounter—a night that would not be forgotten.

Written by Amara

A City of History, A People of Purpose

Founded in 1834, Marietta is a town rich with history, where the past and present blend seamlessly. From the charming structures that survived the Civil War to the vibrant downtown core, our city has always been a place of resilience and transformation. Much like Marietta, our faith journey is one of preservation, perseverance, and the continuous call to revival. This month, as we reflect on the blessings and challenges before us, let us remember that God is moving powerfully in our midst.

The downtown area, with its museums and historic sites, reminds us of the importance of legacy. The Marietta Museum of History preserves artifacts and stories of the past, just as we are called to uphold the testimony of God’s faithfulness in our lives. The Gone with the Wind Museum tells the tale of an era gone by, yet also speaks to redemption and new beginnings. In much the same way, Christ calls us to let go of the past and embrace the future He has prepared for us.

As we gather in worship and service, let us be mindful of the foundation upon which we stand—a foundation of faith, prayer, and unwavering trust in the Lord. Just as the old railway station, now a welcome center, continues to serve and invite visitors, so too must we open our hearts to those seeking the love of Christ.

The Call to Readiness: A Season of Preparation

In the New Testament, we are reminded that believers are the dwelling place of God’s Spirit. This is not a passive truth but an active calling. We are being equipped for a greater purpose, molded through every trial and triumph. Just as the city of Marietta has withstood the test of time, so too must we stand firm in faith, prepared for the battles ahead.

There is a necessity for readiness in times of emergency—both physically and spiritually. Just as a city preserves its landmarks, we must preserve and uphold the truth of God’s Word. The strength we gain through opposition, the growth that comes from standing unflinchingly in conviction, and the lessons learned in seasons of hardship are all part of God’s preparation.

“The season of weariness for many of My people has been long and very difficult,” says the Lord. But He also promises that those who endure will see His power in ways never imagined. Lift your eyes to the Lord, for He is where our help comes from (Psalm 121). Now is the time to sow Miracle Seeds into our hearts, trusting that in due season, we shall reap a great harvest.

Revival in Our Midst

We are witnessing a stirring of God’s Spirit in our church and community. The past ten days of prayer and worship have only been the beginning. Just as a revival once swept through Marietta, leaving an undeniable mark on its history, so too is a revival awakening within us today.

In the evening services, we have seen the presence of God moving mightily. Our congregation remains steadfast, filled with expectation and hunger for His Word. Many have testified of healing, restoration, and a renewed passion for Christ. The Lord is doing a significant re-alignment, calling us to deeper levels of faith and obedience.

The enemy may push back, but we stand victorious in Christ. The breakthrough is not just for a few—it is for all who believe. Just as Marietta’s historic landmarks continue to tell a story, our lives are testaments to God’s goodness. We refrain from every evil and align ourselves with His Word because it is our final authority.

A Roar of Victory

It was about the middle of April, 1864, when a great battle took place near Marietta. Today, a different battle is waging—not one of war, but of spiritual awakening. The Lord declares, “I have heard your cries, and I am here!” It is time for us to rise up, to take hold of the promises of God, and to step into the destiny He has prepared for us.

Just as the old cotton warehouse that now houses the Marietta Museum of History has been repurposed for a greater mission, so too are we being refined for His glory. The Lord is calling pioneers and forerunners to step forward, to lead in faith, and to proclaim His Word boldly.

The waters are breaking, the harvest is ripe, and the time is now! This is not a season for fear or hesitation. It is a season for action, for revival, and for unwavering trust in the Lord.

As we close this edition of the Marietta Faith Messenger, let us take these words to heart. The Lord is revealing Himself in unprecedented ways. He is calling us to deeper devotion, to unwavering faith, and to bold action.

May we be like Marietta—strong, enduring, and rich in testimony. May our faith stand the test of time, and may our lives be a beacon of light to all who seek the truth.

Stand firm, beloved. The best is yet to come.

In His Grace,
Amara