Resting in His Grace

Well another day... this morning on my balcony I watched the sun rise and listened to the birds, what a beautiful song they sing. I know in my heart they sing praises to their Creator. Knowing that He feeds them and gives them shelter, all the more I am comforted by my current state. As I was reading His word this morning (in Philippians chapter 1) I could not help but think about Pastor Yousef in Iran sitting as Paul did in a cell awaiting his fate. I pray diligently for him and hope that he will find comfort in the words of Christ. (see article on http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/03/u-s-support-for-iranian-pastor-continues-to-grow/) I pray that he clings to the messages of Paul and will be encouraged by his circumstance. My little life here seems but a mere speck compared to the many who have become martyrs for Christ. But i know that God has called me to where I am and I strive to be a light, even in my little bubble here in DFW. I ask God for boldness- that I can be a bright light and live out my days here on earth wrapped in the beauty and grace of Christ Jesus. The scriptures that I read this morning below, please be encouraged by them...

"Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
   Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me." Philippians 1: 12-30 (emphasis added by me)
 
 
Another update.... We had Family Camp with our Church a few weekends ago and it was a great time of fellowship and time away from the city. Kellie enjoyed getting to know more people! My favorite part was the hay ride! Yes, the hay ride!! We went out at about 10pm and the night sky was breathtaking! I can't remember the last time I saw so many stars and planets. The Milky Way seemed only a few feet away, and Jupiter was brighter than any other star in the sky!! What an amazing creation He did in creating the Universe!!
 

This was a contest...who ever could put the FROZEN shirt on first, won. Of course it was like a block of frozen ice!!! :)

 
 

We have had a few lake days as well at Grapevine lake with Kellie and the doggies! :) They were wiped out...