We gather together.
Young and Old.
To break bread.
A Thanksgiving meal.
Rows of tables.
Rows of food.
All brought together.
The room hums with conversation.
It is good to be together.
My farmer, farm boy and Zach share their experience in Haiti.
Gratitude to this body and others for their generosity.
Enough funds raised to cover the entire trip.
To God Be the Glory.
We gather upstairs for a Hymn sing.
Both the Organ and the piano.
Songs chosen by the Congregants.
So fun.
Memories swirl of times with my Grandfather.
Hymn Sings.
His harmony.
His faith.
The sound of voices lifted in praise is a glorious experience.
Singing the words of the Old Hymns is powerful.
A Christmas Carol is snuck in as well.
“Joy to the World”
Such hope.
We then sing a song sung at our son’s funeral.
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Word’s that continue to ring true.
I miss him.
My heart aches to have him here.
The memories made now without him.
For me, there is still no other way through this than on my knees.
Resting in the hope of the One who calls us by name.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul
There is so very much to be thankful for.
I am thankful for:
Traditions of a church Thanksgiving dinner and Hymn Sing
Memories that have made me who I am
Snow falling
Snow on the trees-Oh,how my mom loved that look
Singing Christmas songs with my kids
A quiet afternoon to think and rest a bit
A houseful of girls for a sleep over
A farmhouse that resounds with laughter
A week of no school and kids home
cell phones to communicate with the ones not so close
the cross
the sound of my wind chimes ringing in the wind
menu planning and baking
promise of eternity and reunion with our loved ones
the opportunity to make a difference in this world
prayer
I am reminded that it is a choice to choose joy.
To live in the hope of Christ.
There is much in the media and this life to drag us down.
How much greater the Hope and joy when we keep our eyes fixed above.
The things of this earth are fading.
Soon they will be but a dim glow in light of God’s glorious richness.
We sang this song at Elijah’s funeral.
I have posted it many times.
I post it again with the hope that the words will minister to your heart.
They are truth.
They are hope.
I pray you can confidently say,
“It is Well With my Soul”
