#76 10/17/2024 Thoughts from the back deck... Fill your tank. It's ok to take a break!

It's been a busy couple of weeks: Helene, a pastors conference, Monster Milton. Full of good and challenging moments. A baptism of a one-month-old baby and a smiling family especially his big sister. A large funeral where I met a lot of great people coming together for the comfort of community and the gospel.

Teachers and friends came together to help one of our teachers, her husband, two young children, her mom, dad, and brother, who were completely flooded out. A man who served his country for many years, whom I really respect, is going to see Jesus really soon and his daughters at his bedside. A friend who is in the hospital and has cancer and his property has downed trees everywhere and there is nothing he can do about it. Gathering even at a luncheon by Options for Women to hear and support the NO on 4 constitutional amendment. 

No electric. Cold showers. Food I had to pitch out due to the power being out. 
Plenty to wring your hands over. 
Elections are about 20 days away. 
Will there be another storm heading our way? 

Yesterday I took the day off. I needed to take the day off. My tank was empty. Emotionally I was raw and chances were I would not be helpful or focused. I slept a full 10 hours, which was a first in a few days. Rested, I been a new morning on my back deck. In the word. In prayer. This morning, I read Matthew 14:10-15. What the Holy Spirit brings to us never ceases to amaze me... read on.

John the Baptist is beheaded. At the news, Jesus gets into the boat for some alone time. Time to grieve. Time with the Father. Time with his thoughts. Rough day! 

When we have a rough day, it's okay to do what Jesus did. Go. By yourself, take some time. Pray. Recenter with the Holy Spirit's help. 

Then look at what Jesus did. People were hurting and lost. They needed help. They were looking for answers. Jesus has compassion for them and helped. 

When you've taken time with God, then again go be like Jesus. Help. Step out. 

It's really easy to get caught up in the "poor, pitiful me" thoughts but that is hard to do when you breathe in the word of God, lift your voice in prayer, and step out to help others. 
God's blessings to each and every one of you! Rest when you need to rest. Step out when you have rested. Jesus leads the way!!
From the back deck...
Andy

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