Change and Peace

Currently, some major changes are taking place around the world.  No matter where or when you turn on the news, there is discord, disruption, disharmony and disturbance. But . . .

Driving in our area today, there is such beauty . . . the air is fresh and clean, the sky is high and deep blue, the trees are changing color (not as brilliant as in New England this time of the year, but still beautiful.)  There's a crispness in the air that matches the crisp apples found at roadside stands, a yummy treat!  We bought a bunch of Winesaps last week and made applesauce for the freezer to enjoy with gingerbread or pancakes during the winter.  It's hard, on a day like today, to imagine that out there somewhere, the world is turning upside down for a whole lot of people.

We have a friend vacationing in Italy right now, and headlines read that there are dangerous riots happening in Rome.  Having been to Italy, we pray that she gets to see the fragrant and beautiful harvest there this time of year, and avoids the danger of the city. We have friends planning on a cruise that includes Greece and Turkey, and we are concerned for their welfare, yet hope that they get to see the beauties of Istanbul (the Spice Market) and Ephesis, unharmed. We see the ravaging that has happened in our beloved England, and feel sick for the places and precious people we loved to visit who live there. We hear of the brewing hotpot in the HolyLand, and we wonder what will be left of Jeruselem when angry people have their way.  New York city, Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix - even our country's big cities are feeling the effects of people's anger and hatred. These are angry people without Hope.

Is there any peace anywhere in the world? We've decided that the only real peace can be found in our hearts.  It doesn't come from crisp apples, tasty cheese, long afternoon drives in the country (although those things can contribute temporarily).  It comes from the presence of Jesus Christ within - the one who has placed us all on equal ground and has given us the same hopeful futures if we simply accept Him and His gift.  That's where the real beauty is - today and always! Taste and see that He is good.


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Love to Remember Forever!

Last Saturday Night my sweetheart was surprised by a Birthday Party to remember.  The outpouring of love was INCREDIBLE!   People from far and near were present at 2 Scoops Ice Cream, Soup and Sandwich Shoppe, and many, many others sent cards and letters affirming that man of mine as important and beneficial to them. Ron was quite surprised as we arrived to a banner, balloons and bumper to bumper warm bodies at the Shoppe.

He was given a photo album of pictures from ministry and a scrapbook of written sentiments and cards from folk everywhere.  A soft and fluffy doggie bed and multiple toys for little Miss Rockey - a mini schnauzer puppy - when she comes (in 3 weeks)  And the big gift, given from many who love him, is the puppy.

The grandest gift of all however, was a surprise visit from our daughter who lives in Florida.  Both our girls, Sara and Naomi pulled off that surprise affirmation of their love for their father.  They surprised us both!

I ask you - is there anything more important in life than our relationships?  If you think there is, you might want to compare notes with Ron, 'cuz he's sure that these relationships are of greatest importance.  First God, then family and precious friends.

We are both still reeling from the granduer of it all, and the great outpouring of love, and oh, the precious memories!




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