Stories of Hope

  This poem is a reflection of things I've been learning lately about the nature of God and his creation. I know that there are lessons to be learned in the 'valleys' of my life. I know that I’ll come through them with a greater understanding of pain, I’ll be more compassionate and empathetic toward those who suffer constantly. And I’ll have more patience for people who can’t move quickly because of the state of their health. I’ll also be better equipped to relate to shut ins and people who choose to be socially isolated.

   Last Saturday, while Krista was acting as host for a rental we had here at Hope, a well dressed gentleman came through the doors with an unusual request. He wondered if the church could help him buy some infant formula for his baby grand-daughter.

  Job was only three years old when he saw the news about the earthquake and tsunami that devastated parts of Japan, but he knew that he had to do something. He decided that, when he was older, he would volunteer to help Japan rebuild. A few months later, when Job heard a presentation at JAM City by Simon and Danielle about their family’s year-long serving adventure around the world, Job’s vision expanded to include other countries where help is also needed.

  Some people know that I lost my big sister, Karen, when she was only 36 years old. She was my mentor and one of my best friends. I admired the way she raised her kids, served the people around her and clung to her faith, no matter what life threw at her.