ok, so What's this Dinner Really About?

it started as A seed

In my early 20s, God gave me a desire to start a Bible study group for women. It wouldn’t be an ordinary Bible study. It would include group activities that intentionally pushed us out of our comfort zones. I wanted to blend fun with Christian-based formats that would allow the heart of God to be seen beyond the ordinary. The connection would spark a desire to bear one another’s burdens and help eliminate unnecessary isolation and solitude. It's a place where each woman’s story and journey would reveal a consistent and loving God, no matter the circumstances.

This Friendsgiving dinner is the first official gathering birthed from that seed, with more to come.

The waiting

That seed was planted quite some time ago. In the time since, I went through many personal transitions, and there were transitions on a global scale too, like economic shifts and the 2020 pandemic. I believe this season allowed me to learn who God is beyond who He has been in scripture. I experienced unexpected housing, job, and relationship transitions that could be seen as a lack of God’s provision and love. I spent an ample amount of time wondering if I was even on the right path.

“The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?” Proverbs 20:24 NLT

During my final semester of college, while finishing my BA in Communications, my living situation changed drastically. Unexpectedly, I went from living in a stable place with family to suddenly searching for a place on my own. With the help of my father, I was able to secure a home, but I was forced to sustain my own housing for the first time. It seemed very unfair, yet I understood that God had sent a way for me to be covered.

Running to the feet of God

Ultimately, these scenarios kept me running to the feet of God and seeking His divine intervention at every turn. They showed me that God is not only present but highly concerned with the direction and details of my life. After pure exhaustion with my own plans, I stopped searching for fulfillment in earthly solutions. I cultivated a greater intimacy with God and a steadier belief in who He is to me: Father, provider, counselor, confidant, defender, and beyond.

Surrender meant letting go of the way I expected God to provide for me and bring joy into my life. He used people and scenarios I never would have expected to show me His strategy for moving me ahead. Even in surrender, the path held unexpected turns, but it solidified the promises of God:

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you.” Isaiah 49:15 NKJV

“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

“As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 

Joshua 1:5 NIV

Fast forward to today

I now realize I was gaining valuable experience and understanding of how God leads, and it will carry me through the journey ahead. When I first received the idea to start group meetings, I didn’t have the experiences with God that I carry now. I also didn’t have the hosting experience I have today. For over five years, I’ve assisted people in ministry in hosting multiple events, and I’ve participated in summer camp events for children. All of this experience fortified me to be able to host now.

So with courage, and now more than enough experience with God, it’s fitting to say this is divine and perfect timing to start what God planted in me all those years ago. This meeting, and every meeting after, is a moment for God to connect with us and strengthen us wherever we are on our paths, and to bring His desired outcomes into our lives.

What to expect at the table

This is an invitation for women. Together, we’ll take part in group activities centered on the theme “Even in our mistakes, God gives us grace to grow.” We’ll also grill our own food while we talk, so expect good conversation and a table that feels like home.

It’s called The Healed Collection because coming together and connecting our stories creates a collection with Jesus at the center. Healing is not linear, and it can happen in so many ways. This is a place where we can glean from one another.

The introduction of new merch will be an extension of The Healed Collection, as garments we wear can represent healing and new beginnings. Come as you are.

Your seat is waiting

Join me at the Friendsgiving Dinner: The Healed Collection on 11/21 at 8:00 PM at NIKUxLA. Please confirm your RSVP by Wednesday, 11/18. Details and RSVP at the http://bridonmichelle.com/event-details/friendsgiving-dinner-the-healed-collection

Your seat at the table is waiting for you!