I was looking over the last blog dated September 17. It seems like it was just a couple of days ago that I wrote. I am told time seems to speed up as we age. Humm!!
Mary and I are well, other than the aches and pains we all have as beings dressed with a body that is not as God intended. In many ways it frequently betrays us, so it seems. Today, I heard of a friend's passing in TN. Also, I just came back from visiting a church member. Her mother, a wonderful Christian, and also one of our church members, is critically ill and it is touch and go. The family is deeply distressed and we all pray with them "without ceasing". It is a reminder that our message is valid and our work either as a missionary or anything else we do in the name of Christ is never to be minimized. Paul spoke the truth when he said in 1 Corinthians 15:19 "If our hope in Christ is only for this life here on earth, then people should feel more sorry for us than for anyone else." He called himself an ambassador and a child of God. Those are lofty titles and they are ours as well! Amen, amen!
This stormy scene was taken a couple of weeks ago about ten minutes from our place. This phase of the calendar year with storms and hurricanes is almost beyond us. Autumn, with slightly cooler temperatures, is around the corner.
Looking at particulars, the church continues to meet outdoors each Sunday morning for a 9:00 AM service. I was sure we would have to cancel a couple of Sundays as rain came in on Saturday night. Nevertheless, by Sunday morning it had passed on and we were able to set up the chairs so the believers could meet as they have for nearly 2000 years. Who are we to break with such a practice! Our attendance is about 50-60 % of the usual attendance. The church's short range FM broadcast system has allowed some to participate in the service from the security of their cars and thus avoid the risk of infection.
Some delightful things have happened since I last wrote. A church member and his business associate asked me if they could gift a dinner for the church members after the Sunday service. It was such a beautiful gesture and we all appreciated it so much. The food was put in "clam shell" carry-out platters and everyone took it with them.
Furthermore, twice since I last wrote, the church was selected to be a recipient of fresh produce as well as personal items and household goods. We were able to bless over 50 families in our congregation who, at their discretion, shared it with some of their family and friends. I divided the boxes among seven church leaders and we took the items directly to the homes of our members. It allowed us to have contact with nearly everyone in the church even though it was from only the front gate.
Presently we are plugged in to the Samaritan's Purse...Christmas Child project. The members are responding well, either by buying items and filling up a box or giving money so the church can purchase the items. We are hoping to fill and donate 40-50 boxes by the end of this month. As a rule, our church members are generous and willing to help people in need.
Mary and I have had cataract surgery since I last wrote. I have one to go this Thursday. Our church members have graciously consented to preach and carry my/Mary's responsibilities for four weeks. There are many fine believers in our congregation. The church is truly blessed.
I suppose I will stop here. Thanks for "dropping by".
Johnathan and Mary Reece
No comments:
Post a Comment