Everlasting love

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it seems appropriate that I was reading through I Corinthians currently. As I read chapter 13 it was a good reminder of God’s love for each person on this earth and in turn our love for each other and for Him. Verse 13 is thrilling! “Three things last forever—faith, hope, and love---and the greatest of these is love.” As I think of the gifts God has given me, none of them can equal the gift of his love. Isn’t that true between family members and friends too? Now that is something to truly be thankful for!

As I read Chapter 15, I was challenged by the way the Apostle Paul wrapped it up: “But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” (I Corinthians 15:57-58)

I will be spending Thanksgiving with friend Keith and his family in Wake Forest. Friday I will continue on to Washington DC with Keith to spend the weekend with daughter Lisa. We plan to do some of the tourist things and are hoping that the crowds are not excessive. I am blessed to have such a wonderful family!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and a fantastic weekend!

Love to you all,

Chuck

Fear and encouragement

I just completed reading the book of Acts and have been reflecting especially on the Apostle Paul. He certainly had a lot to discourage him along with much encouragement, yet he continued to trust the Lord and boldly move ahead. Often he was surrounded by many sinful influences and corrupting pressures but he was able to move through them without being influenced by them, leaving behind a tremendous impact as lives were transformed. In spite of the "problems" in Corinth and Ephesus many growing churches were established through his efforts. Certainly his resolve coupled with the Holy Spirit accomplished much! It was exciting to see how God used some of the persecution to expand the gospel into Judea and Samaria. Acts 9:31 says; "The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it grew in numbers." A combination that we usually do not combine in our thinking...fear and encouragement. But what a testimony to the believers obedience and God's faithfulness.

I have been helping friend Keith with his fathers home that had water damage and should have the final work completed when the carpeting and kitchen vinyl are in place next Thursday. Tomorrow (Saturday) the family and some friends will be coming to complete the sorting and emptying of the house, so I am sure we will all be busy. It is always difficult to dismantle the home of a family member when living several hours away.

Thanks so much for your prayers.

Love to you all,

Chuck