The Blessing of Prayer

Today we had some friends and family come by our new place. We are still settling in, but is always great to have people we love drop by. Friends from Church, John and Barbara, came by with a house warming gift. It was fun to show them around. They are lovers of nature and the outdoors so they loved the place. I have lots of respect for this “mature” couple and their walk with Jesus. You can tell they know Him well. As they were getting ready to leave, Michelle and I asked them if they would pray and ask God’s blessing on our family and “new home”. What a joy it was to hear them talk to the Father…to pray for our kids and our marriage…for the memories that would be made…for God’s Spirit to thrive unencumbered in every room of the house. Thank you God for John and Barbara…they really encouraged us today.

Later in the day, my brother Buddy and his wife Debbie stopped in on their way back to New York. Buddy leads a thriving church in Malta, New York called Northway Church (northwaychurch.tv). He is one of my heroes in life. I couldn’t be more proud of my Bro! God has given him the most incredible Godly wife who is just perfect for him. They couldn’t be happier for us. Buddy said that “God’s favor” chased us down and tackled us when He gave us this house! As they were preparing to leave, we joined hands (by the chickens…we have 17 now) and Buddy and Debbie prayed over us. They prayed God’s grace and protection over us as the “enemy” tries to attack. They prayed that we would stay focused and on mission. You could just sense God’s presence and power right there with us. Thank you God for Buddy and Debbie…they really blessed us today.

So, today on my vacation, God showed up. He showed up in the presence of 4 of our friends and family. His Spirit reached out and tapped us on the shoulder…reminding us of God’s call on our lives. Jesus said that if you follow Him that you would go through tough times…He also promised He would never leave us, and today we felt Him close. Thank you God, for your presence in our lives, it fills us with grace, love and hope.