Thankful Thursday~ Burdens and Hope

Dear Friends,

I have to tell you I had the most wonderful moment in time this week. At one point in our lives my husband and I found ourselves becoming friends with a sweet family in California . Through a series on events they had come to a volunteer group that we worked for with some needs. In all honesty the group was not based on our belief in the Lord but of helping others , and we enjoyed it . We did find ways to speak of Christ and let others know our reason for joining and helping those in need. Some of their needs were so humbling and so were they. I really enjoyed getting to know them , their children and lives. When it was time to help others, like at Christmas box time, Ed would come for what he needed but always be one of the ones to stay and really help me. Pack boxes, pass things out , deliver things. One day he just started telling me all his burdens and concerns . In turn I told him from the heart a real medical concern in our family . He asked how I coped and could help others so well . I told him we are told by the Lord to help others and be good stewards of what we had. He asked how I handled burdens and I explained about prayer and that good friends help your with your burdens , but don't carry your burdens as we help you turn them over to Christ and pray with you and for you.

Paul wrote of our hope as believers which he called "the blessed hope. He said "Looking for the blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ" Titus 2 :13.

Well we hired Ed for a few jobs and he never showed up, and never completed them which surprised us . We were on a deadline and really needed the help. Finally my husband who is so patient and kind had to let him go. Well he called two months later and apologized and straightened out but in the mean time it cost us a lot of time , money and heartache.

Well he called the other day and has fully understood the meaning of giving his life to Christ. He said his family life has changed for the better over the years having Christ in it . He told us the turning point was when he realized he couldn't turn to anyone , until he accepted Christ, changed his behavior , became responsible . He also said he now fully realized what we said about turning to Christ . My husband and I marveled that what we felt was a roadblock in our life at the moment was a turning point for someone to turn to Christ and become a fellow Christian. I am thankful God uses all to his glory and good. I have always realized that God will use all, that we can grow learn and change through things but now I can really reflect that what we might consider obstacles in our way will really make a difference in witnessing for the Lord. Like my husband said a few months of setbacks for us was nothing to bring someone to the Lord.

I am thankful for my family.

I am thankful Ed and his family are now Christian.

I am thankful for my fellow hope givers, burden helpers and Christian Sisters and Brothers.

I am so thankful to Denise and the Reflection award she bestowed on me. It really meant so much and am working on but wanted to acknowledge how her gift made me smile this week. Her compassion and friendship has so enriched my life.

I am thankful to you all who kindly stop by and show me your live, families, hearts and love. I will be by to rejoice in your moments of thankfulness this week. I am thankful to Iris for hosting.


May the Lord bless you this week and always.


In Christ,