Happy New Year

I have glasses too!

I trust that each of you are off to a great new year!  I have been blessed with special times of family members visiting.  Yesterday daughter Sue arrived from Michigan and we are now in Sumter, SC visiting Justin, Laura and Ella.  As you can see, Ella is still the center of attention as she is showing off her glasses with Sue.  It is a blessing to have Justin and family closer so we can get together more often.  Actually I have been here three times in the past three weeks and they have also spent time with me in Charlotte during that time.

 

I have appreciated the many Christmas cards, notes and letters from you friends located around the world.  It is a blessing to share the joys and sorrows and hopefully be an encouragement to some as you are to me.  Recently I was reading Paul's letter to Timothy and was challenged by his attitude as he wrote what was likely his last letter from prison as he anticipated being put to death.  His faith and focus remained solid as he wrote:

 

"I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory to Christ Jesus to those God has chosen.  This is a trustworthy saying:

If we die with him, we will live with him.

If we endure hardship, we will reign with him.

If we deny him, he will deny us.

If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is."  (2 Timothy 2:10-13)

 

I found that to be a tremendous encouragement for my life and for each of you.

 

I trust that 2013 will be a year of special blessing and encouragement as you walk with the Lord!

 

Love to you all,

 

Chuck