The Blessings of Neighborhood

(Note: This is a follow-up to our 2007 update. This will all make more sense if you read that entry first!)

With our finances strained as we headed into the holiday season, we sat the kids down to let them know that things were going to be different this Christmas. We explained that our current situation was an opportunity to focus on serving others and not on what "stuff" we would be getting for Christmas.

What we learned in the weeks to follow is that sometimes serving others means being willing to accept God's blessing through them. We have seen God provide not only for our finances but for our spirits. It seemed that whenever we felt at our ropes end, there would be a note, a card, a conversation, a call or a ringing door bell - each with some token of God's presence and persistent care through willing and giving neighbors, friends and family! The story of God's provision isn't about a single event, it's an unending process of an ever faithful and loving God working through obedient, loving people.

Thanks to everyone who has been such a blessing to our family. We are very excited about all that God is doing in our lives and your generosity has been a beautiful picture of Him at work around us!!!