Sunday Nap

Foggy, weary and tired -- my body was demanding a nap this Sunday afternoon. I lay my groggy head and heavy legs upon our soft couch hoping to get just a few winks. I felt some sense of guilt as my wife persevering in the kitchen diligently cleaning up from lunch. However, it did not deter me from my nap.

After I slept for about an hour, I felt revived. I spent the rest of the cool fall afternoon working around the yard. As I labored, I thought of my wife. I am so thankful that she is patient and kind. Her selfless attitude, steadfast work ethic, and love for me is unmatched.

Well, not quite unmatched. God's love for me takes the cake ... but she is a close second.

Date Night -- by Annette

As we sat in our backyard enjoying the cool Sunday afternoon weather and the laughter of our children, my husband said, "Oh, honey we were suppose to have our monthly date night tonight." We had both forgotten and realized it was to late.

A few moments later, we decided to walk to a local convenience store to get snacks. Our kids rode their bikes and I leisurely enjoyed a stroll with my husband. Though our date nights usually involve dinner, a movie ... just time alone without the kids. Tonight was different. We were not alone, but as we watched our kids race up the sidewalk and enjoy a sweet snack, I realized it was just as special.

Auctions

To my surprise, just an ear shot from my back fence was a household auction. Spencer, my curious six year old, and I decided to check it out. As we walked by the many cars that lined the streets, we discovered a yard filled with treasures. After getting our bid number, we positioned ourselves close to the items we were interested in -- two sleeping bags packaged tightly in their stuff bags. The bidding started at $5 then $6, I countered at $7, my top bid. Going once, twice, sold. As we peeked into the top of one of the bags, we noticed it had camouflaged material. Spencer was so excited.

We made the short walk home and opened up both stuff bags only to discover that the camouflage material was a pillow covered in camouflage. It was not what we expected. It reminded me that when we seek after God, unexpected things will happen -- but unlike the pillow, its always for the best.

The Munster Flood

The misty, moldy smell permeated the air as we entered into the flood devastated neighborhoods of Munster. The turn toward the river brought yard after yard filled with water logged furniture, mold filled drywall, and destroyed family treasures. As we approached Elaine's house, we could she that her property was no different. This 84 year old widow had lost nearly all her possessions from the flood waters that rushed into her home.

The team of seven from our church spent the next two days cleaning out wet drywall, soaked paneling, and moldy insulation. At the end of our final day, Elaine approached us with a gift. "It is all I have to give you," she said, as she handed us a half a box of chocolates. "You have saved my life," she said as we depart with a group prayer and plenty of tearful hugs.

We never preached or handed out a gospel pamphlet, but hope was imparted as we represented Jesus with love and actions. I can't wait to do it again.