July 5th

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.Romans 8:18-25 

The past few days have been a whirlwind of joy and crisis. We have our two oldest daughters with us and our granddaughter Lilly. While we were off getting supplies for the annual 4th of July parade. The hurricane named Arthur brought lashing wind and rain yesterday, so the parade was postponed until today. Running up the parkway to Atlantic City on a holiday weekend is a real challenge. And we are surrounded by loved ones and neighbors in this season, we are home at last, and my mother is ion good hands. The stress of life can overwehlmed us but God is always blessing us.

We are reminded in Paul's letter to the Romans, that life is full of suffering and challenges. Sometimes they seem too much to bear. And yet all around us are glimpses of the incredible beauty and blessings that God has for us, now and forever. We might be brought low, but we are never abandoned or alone. God is present with us and surrounding with love and support. We are invited today to see those people and things around us that bring us joy and know that God is with us. May we renew our hope in what is possible, as we turn and see the gifts of love in front of ud.

Today I ask God to help me be grateful for every sign of love that I see today. May we embrace the blessings that we know today, trusting that God is doing more for us than we can imagine or hope. May we be renewed as we rejoice in the love we have found tosay.