Aches and Praise Two Hundred & Fifty Two

Dear friends,

A couple of weeks ago we experienced what is called the longest day of the year, as the season changed from spring to summer. Yesterday Karen and I had our longest day of this year, as we got up at 3 a.m. to get ready to travel to the West. After arriving in Abbotsford at Noon we had a wonderful visit with both of Karen’s sisters and went to bed at 10 p.m., which was 1 a.m. in the East. It took a long flight to enable us to have an extra-long day!

On the plane yesterday I began reading a book entitled “Chosen and Cherished” by Edna Ellison, Joy Brown and Kimberly Sowell. It is one of many excellent books by Christian authors that are available. I was especially intrigued by the subtitle of this book – “Becoming the Bride of Christ” – as we are in British Columbia to attend the weddings of two of Karen’s nieces, Camille and Marabeth. Please pray for them and their finances – Brad and Caleb – as they prepare for their “big day” on July 8 and 24 respectively.

In reading the first few chapters of “Chosen and Cherished” I was amazed at the links between the wedding customs of biblical times and the Scriptures regarding the church, the bride of Christ. Just as the father of the groom decided when his son should go and get his bride for the wedding ceremony, so our heavenly Father is the only one who knows when Jesus will come for His bride (Matthew 24:36).

You may remember that a few weeks ago I shared a prayer request about J.P. who is trying to stop smoking. I phoned him on Tuesday and learned that he is going through a very difficult time in his emotions. Please pray that he will know the peace that only Christ can give.

This morning a lady named Bev Harland shared her story on “100 Huntley Street” and told how the Lord used the words of a young lady who worked in her restaurant, as well as several Bible verses, to reveal His love to her and lead her to a life-changing decision. Today is Karen’s spiritual birthday. Praise the Lord for His love and grace in Karen’s life. I count it a great privilege to be her husband!

Scripture for the weekend: “On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.” Psalm 62:7 (ESV)

Thought for the weekend: “I have found encouragement in the story of Clara Barton, the nursing hero of the Civil War and first president of the American Red Cross. A friend mentioned something cruel that another person had done to her and asked her, ‘Don’t you remember?’ Barron’s answer is classic: ‘I distinctly remember forgetting that.’” – from the book “Forgiveness” by Gary Inrig

By His grace,

Steve


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