Godly People

This morning as I was thinking about the past weeks I read Psalm 16:3 “The godly people in the land are my true heroes. I take pleasure in them!” What a blessing and encouragement are each of the godly friends in my life! This evening a group of us are taking a little over an hours trip to the edge of the mountains to enjoy a time of fun, fellowship. and experience some truly Southern Appalachian culture as we enjoy outstanding Texas style Bar-B-Q along with live bluegrass music and cloggers from miles around. I wish that you could join us! Carol and I enjoyed several trips there, and I believe our last trip was in 2005. One of those dear friends who joined us along with Carol, have now passed through that curtain of death. A reminder of how brief this life is and the importance of being prepared for that final moment here on earth.

I am continually thankful for the wonderful group at SIM that continues to encourage me and allow me to serve with them in their world-wide work. It is always a special treat as folks spend time at the office as they return from assignments around the world and prepare to spend time “back home.” I am continually reminded that God is truly at work around the world as they update us on their area of service. We had one near-tragedy this week when my boss Bob was hit by a car while riding his bike home. Somehow an individual hit the accelerator instead of the brake and threw him off the bike, then running onto the bike. He is still mighty uncomfortable with cuts, abrasions and a broken tooth but fortunately no broken bones or more serious injuries. Do pray for his rapid and complete recovery!

As you enjoy the weekend and prepare for a new week, it is my prayer; “…that God who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Love,

Chuck

Blessed by you!

During our prayer time yesterday at the office we had a brief devotional from the Book of Acts. Often we hear that book referred to as the Acts of the Apostles but we concluded that it is actually about the Acts of the Holy Spirit. It is interesting how the book ends without a “real” ending, giving the impression that there is a continuation. The conclusion was that it has NOT ended but is still being written by the Holy Spirit in the lives of each believer in Christ! I find that to be an exciting thought.

I enjoyed a delightful weekend on Jekyll Island with friend Keith. It is always great to get together with him, and our camping trips are a special time of sharing God’s fantastic creation and some delicious food and good fellowship together. Carol and I often camped on Jekyll Island over the years and we had planned another trip which was not possible because of her adverse reaction to the chemo, so I had to cancel my reservation. I suspect that was about three years ago, but they still had that record on file and had my deposit available for use, but I had long forgotten about it being there. I was impressed!

Visits are always a great encouragement to me. Tomorrow Carol’s brother Phil and his wife Nancy will be coming for a visit which I have been looking forward to for some time. We were last together in Florida about a year ago. It reminds me of Paul’s letter to Timothy when he says “May the Lord show special kindness to Onesiphorus and all his family because he often visited and encouraged me.” (2 Timothy 1:16) I too am blessed by each of you as you visit, call and write. May the Lord bless you also as you bless those around you!

Have a blessed week!

Love, Chuck

He Is Risen

Our beautiful spring weather has kept me busy getting the yard in shape along with doing bits of needed spring cleaning inside. This week I had a wonderful visit from a couple on their way to Florida, using my home for a B&B. They came to the U.S. over 40 years ago from Norway. Engaged, she immigrated with her family and he came exactly a year later to continue their engagement and ultimately they were married in the U.S. They told about their childhood of need with the inability to buy important things like food even having money. Food just was not available. Repeatedly they said…”You are so blessed in this country”. I wonder, do we really appreciate that?

Recently I have been thinking much about Easter together two years ago when Carol and I spent it at our lake house with the family. Looking back at Carol’s blogs over the weekend she said; “Why do we call it Good Friday. It was a day of agony, but it was good for us, wasn’t it?” “I was thinking about the Lord’s supper. Every time we sit down to eat, we’re getting the benefit of living plants and animals that gave up their lives to nourish us. That analogy can drew our grateful thoughts to the ultimate sacrifice Christ gave for us.” Easter evening she wrote; “This afternoon we had the promised discussion about possible funeral plans with our daughters…We’re cool with the possibility that God might give both of us many more years, but at least we’ll get some options tied down anyway.” In just over three months, Carol met the Jesus that she loved.

I am thankful for our “adopted” family here, and will have Easter dinner with them. Rob’s mom just fell and broke her hip. During the repair they found a suspicious spot in the bone which is being analyzed. Do pray for them.

As we greeted each other Easter morning two years ago, I greet each of you:

The Lord is risen.
He is risen indeed.
Hallelujah!

I trust that this weekend will be a vivid reminder for each of us about the love and freedom that Jesus made available for of us.

Easter Blessings!

Chuck