Barbie in the Pulpit

I never realized there are so many varieties of Barbie Dolls until I was doing a bit of research for this Daily Thought and Message. I found everything from Stewardess Barbie to Halloween Hip Barbie. There's also the Dooney and Bourke Barbie(for the real shopper in you) and the Autumnal Octoberfest Barbie. About the only thing missing is Pastor Barbie, or is it really missing?

If they do decide to produce a Pastor Barbie, the perfect example to build from would be Pastor Holly Johnson of the Christian Outreach Church in Morganton, N.C. She co pastors the church with Pastor Timothy Fortune. Recently, someone said Pastor Holly resembles a Barbie Doll. She asked if that should be taken as a compliment.I told her most definitely yes. How many women would not love to look a bit more like Barbie?

The most stunning part of this story is that though she has the outward beauty of Barbie, her real beauty is the compassionate heart that beats inside. Pastor Holly exhibits abundant compassion, concern, tenderness, humility, forgiveness, and Christ like love. She also leads the COC Praise and Worship Band, is Executive Director of The Outreach Center, and preaches wonderful messages every other Sunday. People are drawn to her because of the light of Christ that radiates from a soul that so desires to please the Lord and do His work.

Like many, her road has not been easy, but Pastor Holly is incredibly tough (though she says she's jello). The bondage of the past is gone and her future is unlimited. The Lord is using her in a mighty way, but she can still use your prayers. Pray for strength, wisdom, and direction. Also, pray for royalties if Mattel does indeed come out with Pastor Barbie.

If you would like to send Pastor Holly a message of prayer and support, her email is hollyjohnson@theoutreachcenter.org

You can hear Pastor Holly's messages on COC Cares, which airs on AGR Thursday evenings at 8, plus each Sunday morning at 9. Plus watch TOC Today on Charter Cable Ch. 10, everday at 10am and 7:30pm (except at 8pm on Monday and Tuesday). It's hosted by Pastor Holly.