THIS WEEKS ENTRY

October 14, 2010

Did someone see my summer?  Where could it have gone?  Can you relate?  Somehow we have found ourselves in the thick of fall with its rich colors, cool breezes and the aroma of burning leaves.  The kids are continuing their hard work in their studies and Randy is (as I write this journal entry) working hard to complete the final song for his upcoming jazz piano CD.  Then it is off to the studio for mixing... 

I was fortunate to be able to take a five day break from life.  I was nearing burn out...a dangerous place for any of us to be.   Supporters of ours have a beautiful house up north and they let me use it for the week.  I read, slept, did a little work, worshipped, drove back country roads...talked to the Lord about the state of my being...it was fabulous.  I met a friend for lunch right on Lake Huron (she is a judge) and enjoyed wonderful company for a few hours as she talked about the legal world...little which I know of.  It was a great escape and the Lord was faithful to me just as He always is, reminding me of His infinite love for me that is not based on my performance.  Those basics are foundational for the Christian walk and I needed to visit them again. 

Every concert we have done this month has contained a moment that revealed why we were there.  Sometimes it was in the concert...sometimes it was afterwards during a conversation...and still other times it was revealed in an email a few days following.  But, regardless of the timing, we are very appreciative that the Lord has let us participate in building the body of Christ and encouraging believers to stand faithful in times of doubt, difficulty and wavering faith.    

One lady emailed us with a lovely message that our description of "sacrificing ourselves upon HIS altar daily" hit home with her.  She told us that after years of hearing about sacrifices, she finally understood what it means to daily pick up your cross.  It was life changing for her...we never know what the Lord is going to do with one of His services...but it is always something valuable. 

All of our concerts this past month have been in Michigan, although several were a good distance from Waterford.   We are still enjoying the missionary housing in Waterford and most weekdays will find Randy using a church office (another HUGE blessing this church has given us...) to work on his CD and the kids and I forging ahead with school.  In the midst of juggling everything...I have not given up my book, although the pace has slowed... 

Between booking, recording, concerts, meeting with people, schooling our kids and enjoying this home the Lord has provided, life is full!   

We pray you are doing well...we would love to hear from you.                                     

Have a blessed week!