Greetings from Austin Street

Happy Saturday!  All is well at 811. It was pretty quiet around here today. Our thoughts were with our dear friend Carme, her daughter Shaleena and Dave’s sisters and brother. We are feeling the loss and the whole in our lives way up here in Arlington. I have been in touch with Carme throughout the day. The service for Dave has been set for next Sunday, February 23, 2:00 pm at their church in San Antonio.  Please continue to keep this family in your prayers.  Thank you.

Dear God, I pray your goodness shine in me so others will see how wonderful you are and seek your kindness and security. I want my words and thoughts to be acceptable to you. Please teach me how to honor you and love you more. And Lord, I pray that your Holy Presence will continue to surround Carme and her family as they begin the journey without the presence of her beloved husband, dad and brother. May, they be surrounded by kindness and your tender mercies. May peace and comfort begin to soak into their souls and your healing grace begin. They are a family that has always sought to honor you.  Bless them Lord. I love you Lord. In Jesus name, amen.

Today and every day we will see people we know and some we don’t that will see God’s power in us. Those we meet will realize that there is something different about us. The difference is not in us, but in the God we serve that lives in us through the power of the Holy Spirit. What can we say when someone asks us about the hope that we have? What is our answer when someone asks us about that power of God that lives in us? I think the first words that we should offer are about the profound love God has for us.  We need to share with others about God’s kindness and the sweetness of His love. And in that power of loving kindness tell someone about God’s perfect forgiveness and how that forgiveness and love has changed our lives. I must admit I have always been a bit put off by those who share their faith without respect to the one with whom they are sharing. So my friends when we share the goodness and love of God with others let us act as scriptures directs and speak gently and with respect.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

1 Peter 3: 15

Take joy in the journey remembering that faith, hope and prayer never disappoint. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. Wear comfortable shoes, continue to pray for Carme and her family and get some sleep.  Love you all, Bruce and Gaylene