Trusting God

I enjoyed a delightful weekend with friend Keith in Raleigh/Durham. He had been looking at an aquarium for tropical fish so we checked them out at the store, selecting one, setting it up, adjusting the water chemicals according to instructions and finally adding a few fish to “test it out”. Knowing that we were rushing the process, we selected some inexpensive fish, but so far they have adapted and seem content in their new surroundings. It was most helpful that Keith is well versed in water quality and knew exactly what chemicals were needed to make the water safe for the fish. It will be fun to watch the project develop over time.

Having finished reading the book of Genesis a few days ago, I have been thinking about the patriarchs listed there. I always enjoy reading about Abraham, Isaac and Jacob but for some reason this time I seem to focus more on Joseph. What an amazing life of faith in God! After being sold into Egyptian slavery by his brothers at the age of 17, I love the statement he makes to them many years later when they are on the verge of starving; “God has sent me ahead of you to keep you and your families alive and to preserve many survivors. So it was God who sent me here, not you!” (45:7-8a) As Joseph looks back over the years, he can see God’s providence at work, both human and divine. Being human, I am sure that he must have wanted to ask “why” many times, but at the same time his faith never seemed to waiver in his God in spite of the ups and downs of his life. That is a good reminder for me!

This was my early morning at the office to pick up donated bread for our kitchens so I am hoping to get a little extra sleep tonight. I trust that your week is going well. I am always thrilled to hear from you and get caught up with your lives.

Love to all,

Chuck

Caught in the act

Returning home I found a thief busily doing his best to empty the "squirrel proof" bird feeder of every single sunflower seed. I had been thinking that the birds were eating a lot of those seeds lately. I suspect that if I am unable to discourage him, I may have to relocate him to a distant park.

I have had no problem keeping busy since returning home. I have my car in for repair from the encounter with the deer but was a bit shocked at the over $5,000 bill and two weeks to complete the work. Presently we have 30 potential candidates that are learning about us and we them, to determine if this is a proper fit for their service around the world. It is exciting to see the age span going from fairly recent grads to white-haired couples. It is also interesting to see the percentage of medical/doctors in this group. The group will be heading for their respective homes on Sunday.

I am feeling dramatically better after the chest congestion but recognizing that I am far more tired yet. I am sure that too shall pass, but it reminds me that I am not getting any younger. As I recognize that, I am encouraged by 2 Corinthians 4:16-18:

"...we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever." That is a reminder that I need to focus upon every day!

I trust that you have had a blessed week and look forward to a restful weekend.

Love,

Chuck

Special family times

Thanks to all of you for checking on me. Yes, I did make it back home without any other problems other that a bit of slow-going in Ohio with ice and snow. After seeing several vehicles overturned and others far from the roadway, I was thankful to pass through the area without incident. Parts to repair the deer damage to my car from the out-bound trip are on order and repairs should be underway on Monday.

Some of the cold front pushed into Charlotte this week so we had a couple of cold days but today it is a sunny 60 and is projected to be around 66 tomorrow. Hopefully that will help eliminate the last of the chest congestion that I have been trying to shake. For some reason I tend to get congested when the temperatures get cold.

It is always special to get together with the family. I was thrilled that everyone but Julianna was able to make the trip. Hopefully next time she will not miss the fun due to work responsibilities. It made for an active household with up to 17 of us at the house but it builds special memories as we chat, play games and laugh together. On New Years Eve Gavin and Calli had some friends join us to welcome the arrival of 2012 but with my congestion I decided that sleep was more important than watching the ball drop.

As we move into the new year my prayer for you from the pen of the Apostle Paul is; “I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you over flow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Love to you all,

Chuck