What life-direction changes can come about from a single post card! And yet in the midst, what tender mercies can come from the paintbrush of our Father. They are new every morning, and today is no exception. From Daily Light this morning such meaningful promises:
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. Ps 90:2
I've learned in the past few years to "hold lightly the things of this world". But a few cherished possessions are a daily reminder of dear ones who will forever hold a place in my heart. Calligraphy from Elizabeth, reminding me to delight myself in the LORD; a sepia photograph from Jan, reminding me that He is my perfect peace; a plate from Lillian's home, which will always bring a smile and an appreciation for her sense of beauty and her love of home and heritage; pictures from my dear Mother's kitchen, one of the few constant reminders of her love for her family and her devotion to making our home a refuge and a place of laughter and peace; a rolling pin from my dad's grandmother, calling to mind homemade bisquits and Granny's rendition of "We'll Understand It Better By and By" while she rocked; Edith's tole art, calling to mind a beautiful laugh, chocolate pie and roast beef Sunday dinners; Carole's scripture plaque, a new reminder of being still and knowing God's presense; and our little feathered friend, God's reminder of Sharon and her love of our Father's creation. Our Father's Life continues to flow from each of these dear Saints. Some are now singing in His presense, and some continue to remind me that He also makes His dwelling on this broken earth and in our broken vessels until all things are made new.
What a gorgeous evening! Becca and I watched the snow falling outside our windows and decided to follow it. We drove up Fort Mountain for a beautiful sunset overlooking the Blue Ridge. I hope I never reach a point that I am not awed by God's handiwork here. Sharon, the little Mocking Bird picture is for you. He visits me each morning, usually with a few notes to greet the sun. He loves a breakfast of peanut butter and cornmeal :)
The LORD is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. How majestic is His handiwork. I honestly stand amazed at His goodness to me.
Becca and I had a lovely hike yesterday afternoon. I've always loved Ft. Mountain from our first visit two years ago. It's so refreshing to simply drive up a mountain in a moment's notice, enjoy a leisurely hike, and then make it home before darkness sets in. My soul is literally drinking in the Appalachians and their peaceful beauty. The LORD is so good to me!
Last Friday was Dalton's annual Big Brothers Telethon. What an exciting and delightful evening. I thoroughly enjoyed the local talent of this precious place! By the way, over $38,000 was donated to our organization by the Dalton community!
This has been a wonderful weekend. We're finally beginning to "feel like home" in our new place. Here are a few pictures of our home, the Saturday morning sunrise, and the Cohutta Seventh Day Adventist Church. The pile of stones is their prayer altar. I was so humbled and blessed when I attended their service a few weeks ago. The ordinance of humility (foot washing) touched my heart deeply, and I've rarely had a more meaningful Lord's Supper as a result. I've fallen in love with Dalton and the dear people here. Such kind gentle people with huge hearts....
