The Whitaker Bible study has been meeting every Tuesday evening since 2011 from 7-8:30 p.m. It encompasses two of three objectives for XXX: prayer and Bible study. It currently does not actively incorporate individual accountability. The Bible study began when Joe Moore visited Chris and Lisa Whitaker’s home to pray with their eight year old son, Zachary, who had recently, after months of assessments, been diagnosed with Leukemia. After prayer the first week, the second week began a story of Romans with the Whitaker’s older son Drew as well as Zachary. Zachary really only listened but as the weeks went on he became more attentive. For periods we met at Texas Children’s Hospital as Zachary’s symptoms intensified and he was in and out of the hospital. The study chosen was on Romans 8. Zachary was sitting next to Drew reading along as we read the Bible. Upon reaching Romans 8:XX, Joe asked Zachary if he was sorry for his sin and wanted to be a part of God’s family through the salvation offered by the sacrifice of Christ. He said he did. Sadly, Zachary’s illness progressed and on July 31, 2011, he went to be with God but not without telling his family that God had assured him not only he but his father, mother and brother were good with God. The Bible study continued through Romans and Romans 8:28 came to be a source of strength for the Whitakers and Joe. Hence, Journey 828 is so named based on this verse. Also, Journey 828 is dedicated to the memory of Zachary Whitaker who in his eight years impacted thousands and continues to do so.

Joe Lugo testimonial