INSPIRASUNS

This past weekend we hosted our annual Kentucky Derby party for our little community. We all gather at our community clubhouse, everyone pitches in with food and we have a good time catching up on the latest, and of course, watching the race. One of our neighbors has not been well for quite some time so when he arrived with his wife it was a joy to see him. They stayed for the entire party and he fired off quipps with his dry sense of humor. On Monday he was moved to a local hospice facility. We got word early yesterday morning that he passed away peacefully late Wednesday evening.

A few weeks ago I got a phone call at the office. A young woman explained that her mother-in-law had been coming to our church for about the last month. She and her husband loved the services and the welcome they always received. The woman explained that her mother-in-law had an accident the day before, she had fallen and hit her head. Unfortunately, she passed away not long after. The young woman was asking about funeral arrangements at our church. We held that funeral this past week and it was beautiful, a true celebration of this woman’s life.

I was listening to a podcast yesterday morning, one that I listen to regularly. The host was interviewing a friend of his, they were discussing different ministries they participate in. The friend being interviewed shared that he has a talent for cooking and shares this passion with others in need. The discussion centered around a new facility being built to help abused children, which will include a new kitchen for this gentleman to not only feed children, but teach them cooking skills, and even further help them make a career out of it should they choose. The kitchen is named after the gentleman’s son Sammy, (Sammy’s Grill). You see, Sam died last year from an overdose. Sam too loved to grill and cook just like his father.

Friends, much is happening around us. There are days when things seem totally out of control. There are times when we ask why, or what did we do wrong to get here, or how could this happen. I can’t explain why certain things happen, I only know that Father is here when they do. Satan loves to take advantage of difficult times, he loves to see the cracks in the armor we wear. One little crack and he slithers in and before you know it, we’re doubting, questioning, and walking away from where we need to be grounded.

Whatever challenges we face just make a point to stop and pull Father in close. Ask him for strength to fight off the doubt and questioning. Open up to Him and ask Him for guidance and healing. Feel His love surround you, almost like a big heavenly hug 🙂 .

I lift prayers today for those who need them, in whatever challenges we’re going through. Father, hear these prayers and strengthen your children. May we be guided by your love and walk boldly in your ways, and Father, may we be healed by your heavenly hugs. In your Son our Lord Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.