Down Time

I've been working pretty hard over the last few months and was beginning to feel slightly under the weather this past week. Nothing major, just bloodshot eyes and sinus aggravation. I treated myself with homeopathic eye drops and Emergen-C. After a few days I was feeling physically better, but knew I needed to give my brain a rest. 

I used a sick day on Friday to take a break. I spent the morning with my 17-yr-old son, chauffeuring him to our state senators' offices so he could turn in his service academy nomination applications. This was just one of the many steps in his pursuit of an appointment to the US Air Force Academy. I was just happy to spend the morning with him.

After a quick lunch, I took myself to float in a pod of magnesium salts. Yes, that's a little odd, but it actually allows you to float without any effort. (infinityfloating.com) It's very relaxing and is supposed to pull toxins from your body. Whatever. I just know it feels good. :)

I was able to grab groceries, put them away at home, and get in the car-rider line for my daughter a whole hour before school let out. I was in the first set of cars, so she only had to walk out of the building and climb in. (Usually, she has to wait at least 20 minutes on me.) I told her that it might be the only time it would ever happen. :)

We grabbed an early supper, then I went out to mow the lawn. I was cutting it close with the amount of gas in the tank, and yes, I ran out. Thankfully Daddy was able to save the day! After my third shower that day, I sat down to enjoy a book and go to bed early. 

Ir was a day full of family, rest, and a little work. I felt so much better as I closed out the day.

Jeremiah 30:17a For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds, says the Lord

The New Sanctuary

I missed my post last week because at church we had practically a full day celebration in the opening of the new sanctuary. So many people attended that I'm not sure there were even parking places remaining (and it was raining!). The new worship center has seating for 2000 and it was quite a good crowd. 

I sat in the generally area as I did in the old worship center, but I didn't like that spot and tried a new one today. I'm thinking I'll be moving around a lot until I find my magic seat - where I'm comfortable and can see well. :D

Last Sunday's Block Party was a success even with the rain. Most of the events were moved inside and I was thrilled to see all of the kids attend, from toddlers to young adults. It was an exciting evening that end with a fabulous fireworks show. 

Ezra 6:16 Then the children of Israel...celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy.

The best part about last week was that 21 people joined the church an 5 professed their faith in Jesus. That's what it's all about!

Sunday School

It has been almost 30 years since I've been part of a Sunday School class just for me. I attended such a small church in my college years, that it just really didn't work out. When my kids were younger, I  was very involved in their classes, even teaching for a couple of years. But, today was the day to step back in. 

They don't even call it Sunday School at my church; it's known as Bible Fellowship. I walked up to the Welcome Desk and said, "I need a 9:30 ladies class" and they gave me a room to try. It was a lot of fun. I enjoyed meeting the ladies there and was surprised at the ages represented, 20 - 70. A couple of their service projects piqued my interest, so I think I've already found a place that fits. :)

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. 

I'm looking forward to this new adventure because you are never too old to be taught new things!

Be a Light

Our middle school pastor preached the message this morning at church. It was simple, direct and memorable. He spoke about being the salt and light in our world, from Matthew 5:13-16, and noted that church should not be our 'safe zone' to surround ourselves with other Christians, but a hospital zone to treat those in need of a savior.

Near the end of the message, he turned on a lamp placed on stage. It changed nothing in the room. He asked them to lower the lights and you could see that the lamp gave light to the darkness on the stage, but not out in the audience or in the balcony. 

Next he asked all of the men to turn on their phone's flashlight. He had women, then students also turn on their flashlights. It brightened the room some for each group, then everyone joined as one and you could see the difference. Great visual; great message; great reason to wake up each day!

Matthew 5:18 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.