James and Jake

In the midst of life's insanity, and the deep sadness I still feel for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, there is a light that shines in the darkness! I woke up tired and unmotivated to do anything this morning. But as I turned on my daily dose of Katie Couric and Matt Lauer, I found hope and a renewed sense of joy. A sweet, old, blind man named James lost everything in the Hurricane. Including his guide dog Jake. He was rescued and taken to Houston, TX, where he never lost hope that his best friend Jake would survive. Over 2 weeks later, that national guard searched James' home, where they found Jake just waiting for James to return. They flew Jake to Houston where he was re-united with his owner. As I sat and watched this sweet man with his dog talk about how they have survived and the hope that he has, I was lifted to a better place. He spoke of how the local pastor and churches have helped him find a home, a job and all new clothes. That is our call as people who follow Christ. We should not take it lightly, as we are the hands and feet of the Savior of the world!

Family

This has been an eye-opening week for Nick and I. It began last Friday as I picked up my 90 year old great uncle at the airport. I had not seen him in 12 years. I was overcome by the blessing of family as I spent time with him last weekend. We were able to gather as a family for dinner at my grandma's house. I mentioned to Uncle Buddy that Nick and I enjoyed ballroom dancing. His face lit up! The rest of the evening was spent learning to tango with my great uncle. That hour was absolutely priceless to me! I have such a renewed joy in family.

The next evening we were able to have a dinner party with Nick's whole family. I was not looking forward to it, but it ended up being a similarly, wonderful experience, just like the night before. I was able to connect with my new family in great, new ways. I felt so blessed as I hugged each family member and said "goodnight."

2 days later, we got the phone call that Grandpa Brad had died unexpectantly. What a gift that we were able to spend one of his last nights with him.

A reminder for us all... We often take family for granted, and we should cherish every moment that we have with those closest to us. God has blessed us immensely with family, and we should be eternally grateful for the time that we have with them.

Prayer for Hurricane Victims

Please join me this Sunday from 12:00-1:30pm at Cherry Hills Community Church in room 173 for an intimate prayer/worship gathering. If you are feeling anything like me, you feel totally helpless. The images are unimaginable. We are a nation desperate for God. I believe there is power in prayer and I ask you to join me. We will be taking an offering to send to the Hurricane stricken areas.