Safe and Sound

Well, after the backpackers being gone for 2 1/2 days, I just had contact with Dan again about 1 hour ago.  Great news!  They all made it back alive!  And no major injuries!  Praise the Lord!  I always breathe a sigh of relief when I hear from them again after being out in the wilderness with wild animals and no contact with the outside world. They were in Junction City and heading in to Weaverville (about 15 minutes East) to get some lunch and then Drive home.  So we are greatly anticipating their arrival, probably sometime around 3:30 or so this afternoon.  Lord Bless them with a safe drive home!
Friday afternoon-Saturday morning I only had 2 children, Steven and Bryanna.  Now that was weird!  It was so quiet and not much mess, really enjoyed it.  But I am also glad that it was only a day of it....I can't imagine life without all my kids. I guess I really need all of the chaos, and something/someone to give to.  I believe we were created to give/serve and just aren't happy when it's all about us (well at least not for long, temporarily it may seem nice).  We are called to live a poured out life and having a houseful of children requires me to give constantly, not only of myself but more importantly to give God's word and forgiveness to those around me.  When I get introverted and start just thinking about me it's like getting bogged down in stinky sewer or like in the Pilgrims Progress, "the slough of despond". I am so thankful we walk by faith and not by sight...that the only thing we are called to bear is each other, that the Lord doesn't give us what we deserve but instead has mercy on us.  I am thankful that all I really need is His word and Promise and that I get to be in peace and rest in that.  Where His Spirit is there is Faith!  Thank you Lord, this weekend has been a good reminder for me to ask the questions, "What do I have my eyes on?  Is it Christ?  He asks us to put our eyes on Him, and I believe as my pastor said this morning in church, "You will grow in Grace and Faith as you throw yourself on God and His word."  Throw yourself on His word, not the words in your head, not the words the world gives us, but His word.  Look to me, he says, after all He is the author and finisher of all!
Thank you Lord.