For the Journey – November 2021

“I will give thanks to You, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing the praises of Your name, O Most High.” Psalm 9:1-2
 
Thank you, Trinity Baptist Church, for appreciating our Ministerial staff so well during Pastor Appreciation month. We were blessed by all your cards and kind words and gracious gifts. It was very rewarding to be on Sabbatical this month and have the opportunity to just sit and think and pray.
 
The LORD opened up a place for me to go and spend quality time resting and reflecting. It was somewhat off the grid with a little electricity from solar panel but no refrigerator. I got to go back to my days of camping with my family and having to keep our food on ice. My routine each day included a bike ride around the property covering portions of loops more than once, allowing me to accomplish over 7 miles each morning. I would sit in the swing on the cabin porch and journal after riding. Never underestimate what can be accomplished by sitting and swinging on a porch.
 
One thing the LORD brought to mind as I was journaling and watching the nature around me was the awareness of squirrels and deer that blended in so well with the landscape. They were very camouflaged but visible. The thought immediately came to mind that we are sometimes so busy, going from place to place and doing this activity and that activity, that we certainly miss some of the landscape around us. Whether that landscape be animals or people, it is worth slowing down and focusing on the moments God places before us.
 
There is no better time to stop and consider all God is doing around us than at this season of giving thanks. I love that November and Thanksgiving precede December and Christmas. We ought to always be grateful and remember God’s love through Christ’s coming. Our calendar puts us in the position to let the world know what we are truly thankful for and to Whom our gratitude is given.
 
It was good to be away. It is even better to be back in Kerrville and anticipating the good God has placed before us as a Faith Family. Find a swing, find a place, where you can sit and see what God is doing. Let’s be thankful together.
 
“But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children – with those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts.” Psalm 103:17-18
 
We are truly blessed to bless.
In Christ,