Mid-week News 3-13-13

Dear Family of faith, First of all, let me say thank you for all the cards and letters, emails and calls that I have received from many of you in the past two weeks. Those, and your affirmation on the last Sunday of February, have meant so much to me; and I appreciate more than ever the support and caring that you have shown. I have come to value friendship more in my life than at any other time. Our trip to see our grandchildren was wonderful. Not only did we see our 2½ -year-old granddaughter, Annika, and our newborn grandson, Malik (pictures soon available); but our Ohio children surprised me and drove through the night to spend the weekend with us for an early birthday party. It was wonderful to have the whole family together in one place. One of the highlights was when our four children and two son-in-laws all gathered around me, laid hands on me, and prayed for me—so touching. It’s at moments like that that I know God has blessed me beyond anything money can buy. Speaking of blessing, thanks to those of you who were praying for me this morning. I had a rough night, but about 7-8 a.m. I felt an incredible calm come over me that only comes from prayer. Never underestimate the power of interceding for others! Recently when I was on a beach, I wrote the following words about what I saw: She sat in her wheelchair, perched on the boardwalk, Wrapped in her shawl on the hot sunny day, Looking at the bronzed bathers on the beach Frolicking in their carefree youth, Oblivious to the watching eye of nostalgia incarnate. A wistful window on yesterday’s pleasures Brought moments of delight to one imprisoned by age; And yet within, her spirit sparkled anew with every gleeful laugh Of half-clad lovers on the sand. Their joy audible, hers now silent, Her soul waiting for rebirth and youth come back again. Don’t ever get too old to be young at heart! With affection for all of you, Pastor Carlan