Reaching Out

Today was the 1st day of school in our community. Normally, since my youngest child is 28 years old, I wouldn't think too much about it; but today was different. Our church is located next door to a middle school w/ 1600 kids in it. Our parking lot is the spot for parents to come & park and wait for their kids to get out of school. has been the pick up spot for several years now. This year we decided to reach out to them, so today we stood out there in the grueling hot sun and handed out cold bottles of water. The people loved it! We also invited them to our Saturday night back to school bash, but mostly we just came to give them water. It wasn't much, but it sure felt neighborly. And seeing their surprised smiles certainly made it worth it.
PJ

Go for it

Again, I'm sorry its been so long between posts. Life in the ministry can get rather hectic. The other day I was traveling to Kansas City and stopped at a rest area. It had a lot of space to roam around and large shade trees to relax under. As I went into the rest room I was almost knocked over by little guy who had finished his 'business' and was in a big hurry to get outside and enjoy the space to run and trees to climb. I know that because when I finished my 'business' I went outside and watched him for a while. As I watched, I believe I heard God ask me when was the last time I was in as big of a hurry as that boy to join God in His creation and enjoy it so much.
I should have sat down and removed my shoes, walked barefoot in the grass, lingered in His sunshine, and napped in the shade of one of His grand old trees. But I didn't; I had a appointment in KC to keep.
As I write this I realize why I am feeling all used up; I NEVER take the time to rest in His Presence and enjoy His creation like that little boy did that day. I walk almost every morning in a great wooded park next to our house. I am always lookin for wildlife and enjoying the sights. But I am also always walking; hey, I'm doing it for the exercise and health. What a fool I am!!
PJ