Blossoming white, deep rose, and pink trees dot the carpet of green grass and fountains as we enter our housing area. Today a pair of mating ducks crossed the street (yes, of course we stop!) while Canadian geese watched from the lawn. Seeing the beauty of Spring, along with a lot of neighbors out walking again, has been renewing and peaceful.

This afternoon I enjoyed an outdoor visit with a potential dogsitter on a patio covered with plants, potted flowers, and statuary.

Perhaps the pain in so much of the world helps remind us of our blessings. Even when we have difficulties, there is so much for which to be thankful.

A year ago our nephew left the hospital after a bout with Covid that almost took his life. KD’s doctor fasted and prayed for five days while treating KD. What an amazing gift!

I hurt my right hip a few months ago and have been walking with a cane on and off. Today Paigey and I walked about ten blocks. Don had offered to pick us up on the return trip, but we made it home without a rescue! It felt good!

Last night we dined with dear friends, then went to a worship night at our Evergreen Valley Church. The evening was meaningful and unscripted. The leaders allowed the Holy Spirit to work through music, a word from one of our pastors, and testimonies of various individuals of how God is working in their lives.

One man, who used to hold services for the homeless, is unable to attend church now because he is caring for his ill wife, his first priority.

Greg spoke about going to lead Bible studies in jail. He thought he would face threats, mocking, and fists. Instead, there were 25 men waiting to hear from him. And over the next significant period of time there were never fewer than 20 at Bible study, men whose lives are being changed because they met the One who came to set the captive free!

Joy, a teacher, felt a pull to start a Bible study for teachers last summer, after a year of online learning. At first she thought what she was feeling must be a mistake, but after two months she said “Ok God.” And that study has been so needed as the teachers have faced a difficult year coming back into the classroom. Recently Joy felt a tug to start a prayer group–and this time she determined not to wait two months. That very week two parents came in to pray with her.

Another woman shared that repeating scriptures she knows has freed her from severe panic attacks.

Our world is in turmoil. And yet, God is at work around the world. And one day our God will reign supreme, evil will be abolished, and those who trust in Christ will live forever with Him. This world is not the end. It is just a teeny moment in time, a stepping stone. An opportunity for God to develop our holiness rather than our happiness.

What a day that will be!