Brothers and Sisters,

I don’t know about you, but, I’ve had one of the worst weeks of my life and additionally one of the best! It began with having to put my beautiful border collie, Spencer, to sleep after a lengthy, costly and prolonged illness.  It was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make (if you’ve ever had a beloved pet, you’d understand). He was not only my doggy, but also one of my constant companions. In many ways, he was my best friend.  Adding insult to injury, I equally lost one of my closest friends, not to death but to the world, with it’s empty promises, bright lights and empty promises.  I know that some people have faced greater loss than these, especially given the recent tragedy in Colorado and elsewhere around the world. My point is that losing those we love is hard on us! It touches the heart, which in turn affects our mood and so it goes.  Priorities change, outlooks change and sometimes lifestyles change.

The one thing, I noticed, throughout this week and the last is my increased awareness of God’s presence in my life.  Whether it be in the smile from a stranger, the kind word from a friend, the support of family, or the Holy Spirit himself… God is everywhere! No more have I felt his presence than when I have distinctly perceived the attacks from others in their thoughts or words.  It’s as if an invisible shield or armor encases my very being! I can’t see it, but, I can feel it.  It’s as if a thousand of electric impulses or bubbles surround me and nothing penetrates it! The daggers keep coming, but, they don’t seem to harm me.  It’s as if God himself is standing between me and the thing that is trying to get to me and it is having no luck whatsoever!  Yes, I miss my doggy, that’s true, but I know that I will see him again in heaven! And yes, I miss my friend, but, I trust that God will bring him back around…But, if for some reason my friend rejects God, I think I’ll still be okay… Cuz the Good Lord is not allowing me to sink into despair! He really is ever faithful and true! He is my rock and my stronghold! And I for one, cannot live without Him! AMEN! :D