Full Weekend

This is another one of those full but fulfilling weekends.   It started on Friday night, with the Fish WNO event.  I've always loved Nichole Nordeman's music and story-telling through her songs.  What stood out the most from what she shared was the reminder to evaluate what really affects us and whether what we are investing our time and emotional energies into is what is really important.  Lindsay McCaul opened for Nichole; and what touched me the most was the song she sang about her dad after she shared that her dad had written her and her sisters letters telling them that he had a terminal illness but wanted them to have a letter that they could hold onto and re-read.  Holly Wagner, from Oasis church and author of Godchicks, gave the message.   She talked about having HOPE in the midst of trials; and rising in the darkness to be used by God.

Yesterday, I spent time with a friend from a previous project, along with her family.   Her daughter has grown much from the last time I saw her.   I'm so glad that she liked the puzzle that I brought, though, she seems like she'd be able to handle one much more complex than the 24 piece Disney one that I gave her.  Although, she does seem to like Disney.  Other things she likes is swimming, karate, and coloring.   She was really cute and well-behaved.  My prayer is that she and her parents will come to KNOW CHRIST.  May God show me how to most effectively shine HIS Light into their lives.

Today, I was blessed to be with my church family.  My pastor started a new series that answers the question of "Who am I?"   And it was clearly shown that as believers, who we are is identified by who we are IN CHRIST!  I had a chance to talk to Pastor prior to the service, and I feel blessed that he seems to care about what is going on in my life; and he even offered to be on the approval checklist for anyone I would be start a relationship with.   It's neat that I do have a "list" of people who can provide wise views on any person  who becomes part of my life in that way.  And then, talking to my Assistant Pastor after class today, I was encouraged to hear him say that he felt I didn't need the Friendship Evangelism class because I already do it; however, I would be interested in taking it when it comes back around again (maybe in May).

Before service, I also had a chance to talk to the brass player's son.  He was so cute and openly talked all about the planes from the Disney Planes movie and about Frozen.  It's touching to see the brass player interact with his son.

I feel like I have been able to put into practice my area of focus this year - Loving Others.  Last week, a person in my class seemed to be so grateful and blessed when I took her out to lunch for food that she really enjoys but has not had for awhile.   Friday, by my invitation, a person from my small group was able to go to
WNO, and she was glad she did.   I also gave another friend a ride.  Today, I tried to encourage a few other people through talking with them.   May God continue to use me and shine through me.