Wonderful Trip

Thanks to all of you that prayed and to the Lord who gave us a very special time together along with safety as we traveled snow-covered roads for many miles.

The Candlelight Carols program was fantastic! Presented in the historic Moody Church, the Moody students presentation "To All People A SAVIOR" is still echoing in my head. The cast included the Chorale, Men's Collegiate Choir, Symphonic Band and the Women's Concert Choir & Bell Ensemble...two hours of outstanding music and message followed by a special reception for friends of the school. I were blessed to be there and to enjoy time with Gavin, Jeremy and Sue. It was well worth the lengthy trip on some rather treacherous roads.

While traveling, I listened to the monthly update from Chip Ingram regarding his family and ministry. It was most appropriate for me as I thought about how much nicer the trip would be on dry roads without the snow. Sharing his struggles with health and other issues recently, Chip focused on Philippians 2:14 which in part says "In everything you do, stay away from complaining...so that no one can speak a word of blame against you." Okay...the snow was beautiful but it did add a bit of stress to the trip...no complaints however.

For an attitude adjustment, Chip focused on Psalm 37 selecting five specific mind-changers from the first eight verses of the chapter:

1. Do not fret [worry] or envy (vs 1-2)
2. Trust in the Lord and do good (vs 3)
3. Delight yourself in the Lord, he will give you your heart's desires (vs 4)
4. Commit everything you do to the Lord...Trust him (vs 5)
5. Stop your anger (vs 8)

There is much more in that chapter, but those five points are a good focus for my anticipated busy day back at the office today.

Thanks so much for traveling with me by prayer and with you phone calls and emails. You have no idea what an encouragement that is!

Love to you all,

Chuck