Brrr - very cold and rainy here in S Texas - it breaks my heart for those people in poorer neighborhoods where there is no heat or electricity - only extension cords running from one house to another. Our Helping Hands here at the park make quilts to be delivered to the colonias which is usually the only warmth most of these people have. There are many cases of fires and even deaths from people trying in any way to keep warm. We had dinner with friends Karen and Dean the other to celebrate a belated birthday for Dean when imagine my surprise as we entered the restaurant and saw small space heaters all over - no central heat even in pubic places!!
In ladies Bible Study we are studying the book of Esther. Ali does a great job bringing the Bible to life with an in depth study - the book is full of suspense, intrigue, and surprises while relating the events that were all orchestrated by God!! Take the time to read it. If we try to trace our lives back in history, can we see where God had a hand in every major event??? Many things that people claim to be coincidences or luck are not really that at all, just God's divine intervention. Many events in our personal lives have hinged on things that seemed impossible to happen but were actually destined to happen. God is and always was in control. For these we are eternally grateful for He has brought us to this place and this time for His purposes. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13.
This is Thanksgiving week, and despite all the preparations and holiday festivities, why don't each and everyone of us take the time each morning to write down one thing each day that we are thankful for - the one special thing that God has blessed you with??? Even more fun would be ask a child what he/she is thankful for. Such innocent answers would certainly open our minds to true thanksgiving!!! Go ahead, check with your children or grandchildren - will their answers surprise you???? "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Ephesians 5:20. We are blessed to be able to celebrate two Thanksgiving dinners this week - one this evening at Great Oaks Community Church after which we will have the food distribution. Through God's direction, we were able to connect with a ministry which enables us to receive cases of fresh produce every week - enough to provide for those in need. What a blessing we receive when we also give. Then again on Thursday here at the park where we join with friends to celebrate.
Next week I will again have pictures - it seems as if I have forgotten my camera all the time this past few weeks, but between the inconsistency of the WiFi and the many details in starting up a new season this year with a new chaplain, a new sound system, and the many changes in the park, I seem to forget to take the time to "stop and smell the roses". God wants to fulfill all of our tomorrows, and give us strength for today. He wants to bring a new tomorrow, renewing our strength. He wants us to live life, and live it in abundance. God intends a wonderful fruitful life for us. The key to that is stopping, and sitting still; waiting on Him to carry out His will in our lives. Patience - not one of my strong virtues.
Pray for those this week that must work and be away from their families on Thanksgiving Day - those who give up their time and sometimes lives in the service of our country, state, and community, those who serve in the medical fields, giving up their time to minister to the sick, to those who work at minimal pay jobs on Thanksgiving Day in order to provide for their families - all of those who cannot sit down to a warm meal with families/friends for any reason. Keep them in our prayers this coming week.
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