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The Value of Community

the value of community

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Psalm 133

This week, I have had many occasions to pause and praise the Lord for the great community in which I live.

After I voted on election day, I lingered in the parking lot for three hours, praying for God’s will as I watched my community vote. They came alone, they came as families, they came by the carload. More than once, I watched strangers helping each other navigate the long, bumpy ramp or get into their vehicles. I do not take this good neighbor thing for granted!

Later in the week, I took advantage of the free community dinner provided by a local church. Again, all ages came to share a meal together; some individuals, some families, several who had brought friends and family. The laughter and camaraderie are unmatched; I am grateful to those who provide the food and facilities. The welcome mat is extended to all whether or not they can drop a few dollars into the offering jar.

At another community event, I believe more than one miracle happened as senior adults attended the free coffee and pie social at the YMCA. God did what only He could do at one table as two strangers from out of town found out they were actually neighbors. The laughter and chatter that followed ensured the beginning of something great.

Click here for what the Bible says about community.

Precious friend, I have a challenge for you. Find out what’s happening in your neighborhood; lend your support as much as possible. To be perfectly honest, without my sweet husband by my side, I often have to push myself out the door. Home is comfy and I can always find things that need my attention. I make a choice to go out.

Do it for yourself. Do it for others. Our world needs Jesus, now more than ever. And, we need each other!

I’m looking forward to hearing from you. As I hit send, I always pause and pray for God to meet the deepest needs of those who take (make) time to read my chatter!

Hugs,

Susie

More than a Recipe

“Let all you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14

My only sibling always seemed to go the extra mile. When I called for a list of herbs in my brother’s famous roast, he replied: “Sure, Sis. I’ll get right back to you.” He didn’t just call me back. Instead, I received this beautiful, hand-written, detailed letter in my mailbox.

Always the over-achiever, Richard graduated from Goodman (MO) High School in 1968 with honors including salutatorian, Boys State, Babe Ruth championship team, and more. In the Navy, he graduated from Class 9 Communication School as the honor man and represented the Navy at the European National Pool Tournament. In the business world, he worked as a Consumer Finance Manager for finance companies and hospitals. His skill with figures pulled many hospitals out of the red.

Little brother was a great story-teller; so much so, I took most things with a grain of salt. However, later I learned many of his “tall tales” were true. One thing I could depend upon, if I had a need, he would be there for me.

He called Mother every week, regardless of where he was. After she died, he continued the Saturday night calls to me. “Sis, how is it going?” Oh, how I miss those calls.

This simple letter is one of my most prized possessions. Not for the recipe, I don’t cook. Its value is in the memories it holds. Richard took precious time and care to go the extra mile for me. God blessed me with a brother’s love that will last forever.

Click here for verses on brotherly love.

I wonder, what am I leaving for my family? for others? A house full of “stuff” or hearts filled with sweet memories of a Mom, Grandma, or Friend that loved beyond measure?

More than tangible things, I have real concerns about my spiritual legacy. But, then that’s a story for another day. Keep tuned in.

What is your most prized possession? Let me hear from you.

Hugs and prayers,

Susie

The Goodness of the Lord

For the word of the Lord is right, And all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. Psalm 33:4-5

Do you find yourself complaining about our world today? Truthfully, I do. With all the noise about climate change, gender identity, low wages, increasing costs, and—dare I mention it—politics?

Amid my murmuring over world situations, personal issues, and concerns for my family, a friend posted this photo of her mother cuddling a little one.

I know sweet Ottilla. I am sure her gaze is not on her uneaten food; her thoughts are consumed by that precious child in her arms. She loves God and trusts Him as she loves and prays for her family and friends.

Ottilla has seen a world in turmoil more than once; yet she believes in every word of the Bible. Amidst the storms of life, she looks for “the goodness of the Lord” in the world. She trusts God now and for the future.

The longer I gaze at this picture of pure love, the more I think of God’s overwhelming love for His children.

Friend, do you fully understand that our Father in Heaven sincerely desires to hold you like that? He knows you. He knows what the future holds for the world and you. Will you pause just now and close your eyes with that picture in mind? Ask God to hold you in His arms. Let Him be the Father He wants to be. Trust Him to bring peace, comfort, and direction in every circumstance you are facing.

God’s love is so much greater than any love we will ever experience here on earth. “The word of the Lord is right,” you can trust Him. Journey with me as we seek to live by the verse above. Let us look for the good in the world; trusting Him with what we do not like or understand.

I am closing this note with a prayer of peace for you. Please, let me hear from you.

Hugs,