Encouraged

I realize that a bit of time has passed since I last sent out a blog so will do that tonight before retiring.  This morning I was reading Colossians and was challenged by The Apostle Paul’s desire for the people in Laodicea:  “My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ in whom are hidden all the treasurers of wisdom and knowledge.”  (Col. 2:2-3)  Later on in that chapter he talks about the Spiritual fullness of Christ along with the freedom that we have when knowing Christ.  I was challenged as I read those verses by how easy it is for me to miss opportunities that God brings across my path to be a positive witness for Him.  I can come up with all kinds of excuses from being too busy to not feeling qualified for the task, but the bottom line is that He has already equipped His own people to respond to those needs according to His will so I should not delay in my response!

Stuart continues to battle the CJD which is continuing to weaken him in mind as well a body but he continues to fight the good fight, trusting God for all that lies in the future and thanking Him for all that He has given him.  While he may easily lose his train of thought when talking, he still remembers to pray diligently for many.  As we pray together I am always amazed at his ability to pray without losing those thoughts and only occasionally has trouble recalling a specific name.  Please join me in praying for him, Donna and the family as they travel this difficult road together.

Monday I was having lunch with a friend.  As we were about to get up from the table in the restaurant, he said that he was feeling a bit “funny.”  Within moments I could see color flushing from his face.  He indicated having a bit of pain and wondered if I would drive for him back to his house.  By the time we got into the vehicle his pain was excruciating so I took him directly to the hospital ER to find that he was passing a kidney stone.  After apparently passing it, he was released but has been having similar pains at a lesser intensity these past two day.  Pray for Mike as he meets with the doctor tomorrow to find what is causing the continual pain.

I trust that your days are going well and always enjoy your emails and notes updating me about your lives and of your family members.

Love to all,

Chuck