Enjoyment

I am reminded that, just as we studied in Ecclesiastes, enjoyment of life is a gift from God, and that apart from HIM, all is meaningless.   In all that we do, whether it be relaxing or serving, being able to "enjoy" is important.   Just as I am to be willing and eager in serving, I should find balance in having fun in relaxing as well.

As I look back on this weekend, I am pleased to see that I did enjoy serving; but, I also found enjoyment in other areas:

• I had a chance to watch figure skating - they are currently halfway through the Grand Prix series season.   
• I also decorated my dining table for Fall, leading to Thanksgiving.   
• I experimented with some new dishes in cooking.   I made a sun-dried tomato basil chicken with olives that turned out really well.  I also made a curry chicken breast, taking ideas from something I saw on one of the cooking shows.   The secret was to use a mallet to pound the chicken breast so that it was more tender and of an even thickness; and to fully marinate it (with curry, salt, pepper, and oil) before putting on the grill.  I also pan-fried cucumbers with onion and basil.  I don't often cook cucumbers; but, it actually has quite an interesting taste cooked.  
• I had a craving for "Cookies & Cream" ice cream, and it was a pleasure to be able to satisfy that craving
  
• And then, I went to the home of one of my community group members, who was showing her slides from her missions trip to Haiti.   I do have a heart for missions; and I'm still praying for what new area God is leading me into.   The poverty in Haiti is truly heart-breaking; and the contrast to the wealth we have in our country is stark.  I need to determine how I can be most effective with my limited resources.

Well, the weekend is over, and it's back to work.  But I am reminded that in Ecclesiastes, it also said that even work is a gift from God to be enjoyed.