Gratitude

count your many blessings, name them one by one.........

Recently my friend Lisha completed blogging 30 days of gratitude. I was encouraged by her take on things for which she was grateful. Today has not been the best day of my life, however, it has certainly not been the worst. So, to put things in perspective here are some blessings in my life:

1. A God who loves me......
2. A husband who loves me......
3. My family...........
4. My church.........
5. My church family..........
6. My job (at church).......
7. My friend, Lisha, who has picked me up so many times recently.......
8. Craig & Mark J (I could not be in ministry with better people)...........
9. Volunteers who take care of church business in my absence..........
10. The ability to find humor in most things and laugh at myself when necessary.........

.......count you many blessings, see what God has done!

Big Blessings

I joined the staff of my church almost two years ago. I can't say I came to work, because it is NOT a job, but a ministry. For over 30 years I worked in the textile industry, moving up from an hourly labor position to a supervisory one. During that time, I volunteered for every type of training that was offered: computers, English, management, etiquette. You name it, if it was offered, I was there. Little did I know that God was preparing me for a leap of faith.

My good friend, Lisha mentioned in April of 2006 that the church secretary was leaving. She knew that at one point when the position was vacant I felt the call. Well, this time that feeling did not go away, so I scheduled an appointment with my pastor, to discuss this opportunity. After everyone got over the intial shock and discussions all around, I was offered the position and left the known for the unknown. What a blessing the unknown has been. The pay difference (rather substantially less) has not affected how we live. God seems to provide all we need. The intangible benefits are overwhelming.....Imagine a place where the family is valued and the need to care for your family is honored. How awesome is that? I've been able to care for sick children, an ailing mother and go to the airport to meet an injured grandchild as he arrives back home. I can attend sporting events with my child, school programs or just take a few hours to spend time with my family. The duties of this position are a joy, though sometimes stressful, but I wouldn't want to be any where else. Thank you God for BIG Blessings!