The Illinois heartland was my home. Cliff hailed from eastern Pennsylvania. We met at Goshen College http://www.goshen.edu/ in northern Indiana introduced by our mutual friend, Kristal. :)  Travel and week long stays with each other and, by default, our families was required in order to spend time together outside of school.

My first Christmas with Cliff's family was as his girlfriend not yet fiance'. Yep, awkward, intrusive, embarrassed-- you can imagine it. I was not looking forward to the family gift giving time; I was prepared to fade into the background as much as possible after receiving the presumed token gift.  What a shock when gift after gift was pulled from under the tree for me including a tan, solar pocket calculator from older brother Gerald which he chose himself! (OK, I've just dated this story!) The generous abundance and hospitality shared with me by the Wenger family that Christmas and many hence, created an atmosphere of acceptance, delight, and joy! 



Photo credit: Korinne Wenger-- Honduras

 This Sunday Brother Mick's message is "Twelve Baskets Full" recounting the overabundance of food after Jesus provided for the hungry people with loaves and fish in John 6:1-21. http://bible.oremus.org/. Although we don't know what happened to the overflowing baskets of pan y pescado, Mick will guide us in exploring some of the options.  http://www.ridgeviewmennonite.net/

Boston get ready! Alana and Michael are en route to their new apartment as they will be attending grad school at Emerson this fall.


Items for our August and September ingathering include 6 oz. toothpaste, bath towels, bar soap, and gently or new t-shirts (ladies medium or large; men's large) of any color which will be made into bags-- the food pac program will utilize these items when school resumes.  There are baskets in the foyer for which to place these things.

Prayer for today: Lord God, as we experience shifts and changes in our lives, help us to recognize the constancy of your love.  As we experience the storms and clouds of life, bless us with the light that is you. As we face doubts and indecision, guide us with your Spirit.  As we recognize your presence in all aspects of our life, help us to respond in humbleness and joy. Lord, fill us with your healing and hope that your mercy and grace will overflow, and the Good News that is you will cover a hungry world today. Come Kingdom of God. Be done will of God, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus name. AMEN.


Without question or doubt, you are loved by God, and I love you too! 


Love and Light,
Carol

Always remember who you are, whose you are, where you are going, and what you believe, because it does make a difference!  Oh, and don't forget to attend a church of your choice this weekend. "  jd