He Cared!

One of the benefits of spending more time at home, is becoming a bit more familiar with the lake wildlife.  Most every day I see the alligator come up to sun himself and the sand crane frequently stops by to tap on my door.  I don’t believe that he is wanting me to come out to play but rather is curious about his image on the glass. 

As I read Psalm 78 today I was impressed about the importance of passing the history of God’s miracles on to the next generation, recognizing how easy it is to talk about the problems and challenges of life rather than putting our focus on the amazing miracles and provisions of God.  As we fail to respond appropriately as individuals, ignoring the tremendous history of God’s blessings, we impact the entire nation as was the nation of Israel in this Psalm.  We see there the result of ingratitude, expecting everything to be perfect without obedience and then becoming demanding of a gracious God.  In spite of their disobedience, Asaph wraps up the chapter saying “He cared for them with a true heart and led them will skillful hands.” (Vs. 72)  WOW isn’t that an example for us!

Tomorrow I plan to go to Orlando for a get-to-gather with Carol’s family and the wedding of cousin Sherri Saturday afternoon.   Carol’s brother Phil and his wife, then plan to return with me for a few days.  It will be a great time to catch up with that part of the family.

Have a blessed Easter weekend.  HE IS RISEN!

Love to all,

Chuck

Asaph's honesty

The Doc’s wife just sent this photo of Sue and me at a dinner with the Medical Group one evening after my “problem” on the ship.  I was surprised to see how much of the bruise on my chin still showed.  Thankfully that is now all gone and the bruise on my shoulder and arm which had turned green has now mostly disappeared.  My rib cage is also much improved and I have been able to sleep the past four nights.  What a blessing!  I am not certain how many of you received Sue’s email as I was being transported to the hospital, but your prayers were most appreciated!

This morning I was intrigued by Psalm 73.  Asaph, a gifted musician, apparently a part of the Levitical choir in King David’s day, asks the question:  “Why do the wicked prosper?”  I appreciated his humanness when he stated; “For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.”     He gained perspective and a solid foundation for hope as he focused on God’s justice and faithfulness to his people as he reviewed his nation’s history and examined his own heart.  Even as he wrestled with the issue, he said; “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”  (vs. 26)  That reminded me that I should not be too quick in evaluating the day’s news before reviewing the historical account of similar situations and see that ultimately God does respond to the prayers and needs of his people at the appropriate time.  God really does care about our daily challenges and he ultimately rewards godliness even when his timetable may differ from ours.

I am so thankful to be feeling much better after a couple of difficult weeks and realize how easy it is to neglect being thankful for good health.  Hopefully this will be a good reminder for the future!

Love to you all,

Chuck