A Delightful Time!

We had a delightful time in the Bahamas and were pleased that all of our flights were nearly on-time.  We enjoyed Eleuthera Island with a trip to Harbor Island and a couple of days in the busy city of Nassau.  It is always fun to renew friendships and enjoy the lovely beaches and beautiful clear emerald water.  We visited one unique beach which has pink sand.  I believe that I have only seen one similar beach previously.  Paul and Ruth are outstanding hosts, and we always enjoy being with them.  While we were there, a cold-front passed through and the temperatures dropped into the low 70’s which was no problem for us but some of the locals felt like they were in a “deep freeze”.  The real shocker was that while we were away Charlotte had 1-2” of snow which is most unusual.  Many were pleased with it but I was just as happy to miss the “fun”.

While on Eleuthera Island, we were thrilled to hear that two of the men that work for our builder friend made decisions to turn their lives over to Jesus and leave the life-style that they had become accustomed to.  They were so proud that with the Lord’s strength they had been able to turn their backs on their previous live-style and are eager to learn more about living their new lives.  Do pray as the Apostle Paul prayed for the Ephesians, that their “…hearts will be flooded with light…” and that they “…”will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power…”  (Ephesians 1:18-19)

It was exciting to get back to the office and see all of the projects that the volunteers had completed and greet a group of around 25 new candidates that arrived to learn more about SIM and consider their options.  We also have initiated our new kitchen which is a great blessing and at the same time a bit of a challenge to find where items are stashed.  I am sure it won’t be long before the cooks have a good handle on that and also the operation of all the new equipment.

I seem to still be having some problem with breathing but the congestion is now under control.  I have an appointment for my annual physical next week and am praying that the medical people will have wisdom in locating and treating any areas that are in need of attention. I will appreciate your prayers to that end.

Have a blessed week,

Chuck

Purpose

These have been some busy days!  We are finalizing the construction of a new commercial kitchen and have been going through the many final inspections necessary to get a temporary occupancy permit.  This will allow us to complete the remainder of the remodeling of the building while being able to use the new kitchen during the construction.  As you can guess, this has not been without many challenges.

Along with the project we have had a wonderful group of volunteers replacing the roofs on two buildings, and this past Sunday 26 more volunteers arrived to help with the roof, remodeling, work on other campus projects and a group of ladies are busy preparing delectable dishes and desserts to go into the freezers for use when we are feeding groups throughout the year.  What a blessing these folks are!

Later this week I plan to join daughter Lisa on a trip to the Bahamas to visit Carol's sister and her husband and get some sun that hopefully will aid in getting rid of the last bit of my chest congestion.  We are praying that our flights will coincide well knowing how that many get changed and even cancelled these days.

These past few days I have been thinking about purpose in our lives...mine in particular.  The Apostle Paul says; "When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ.  Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some...I run with purpose in every step."  (1Corinthians 9:22, 26)  Later he warns; "If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall."  (10:12)   I find that to be a great challenge and a reminder to live an effective life for our Lord.

Have a blessed week!

Chuck

Blessed

I am thankful to our Great God and to each of you for praying!  At long last, I have made a dramatic improvement with this chest congestion and am actually breathing without the aid of any drugs.  What a blessing! 

One of the blessings from spending sleepless nighttime hours fighting for breath was an opportunity to do much extra reading which was a great encouragement.  One night I was reminded of God’s control of the situation when I read; “You are indestructible until God’s purpose for you life is completed.”  The question that immediately came to mind was whether His purpose was complete.  Shortly afterward I read a verse that was one of many that Carol had focused on during her battle with cancer; “Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens.  Remember the great reward it brings you.  Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God’s will.  Then you will receive all that he has promised.”  (Hebrews 10:35-36) 

I had planned on driving to Indiana tomorrow, spend the weekend there with family and then go on to Chicago to meet with some friends at Moody and also attend some of the Founder’s Week programs.  I also was planning on a visit with Jeremy, Julianna and Judah, but decided to cancel the trip this week.  It did not seem wise to travel that far considering weather factors and the possibility of exposure to a new variety of germs while still in a slightly weakened condition.  Phone calls to Moody friends and to Jeremy yesterday will have to suffice until better weather is assured.

One day this week I heard Chuck Swindoll make the statement; “It’s not your age but your attitude…”  I believe that is a good reminder for many areas of our lives and something I need to keep at the forefront of my thoughts!

Please join me in thanking our Wonderful Lord for his love, mercy and grace extended to his people, moment by moment and day by day!

Have a blessed day!

 Chuck