It has been very cold – but sunny – all day. Kathy and Paul stopped on their way to church to pick up an item that Kath left in my car yesterday. They left directly after church for Homecoming at their alum college. I left a little early for Sunday School to get things organized for the class. Max was dressed up – someone told him he looks like Joe Biden! I disagree – he is MAX through and through!
Max’s older brother JJ was baptized this morning at the beginning of church. He shared his confession of faith – and his decision to be a child of Jesus – with Todd. Then his dad baptized him. He was very excited and happy. I’m so proud and happy for him and the family.
Dad Joe and J.J.
Todd’s message was ALL PEOPLE MATTER (Zacchaeus). We must look at the people around us, then look up – that’s where our help is. People want to be seen – they are seeking value and affirmation. We can meet them at their spot – it’s where grace and sin meet and hope is born. Everyone is a puzzle piece. Without you, God’s plan will never be complete. We must Prioritize People (not plans or processes); Use relationships to build bridges; and acknowledge that there are no insignificant people in God’s kingdom. All people matter; YOU matter – to God and to me!
After church I stopped at the mall and walked as I knew it would be cold and very windy. I left my money in the car so I wouldn’t be tempted to purchase anything. There’s a little bit of progress on the ‘Santa’ train display at the mall’s center court. The train!
I did a quick clean-off of the decks and front walk when I got home, then changed clothes and made a burger for lunch. I’m still debating on making potato soup when I’m done posting this. I did the ironing and ran the sweeper and touched up a small nick on the kitchen wall. Then I printed off next Sunday’s lesson, emailed the next month’s schedule to Mary, and made my grocery list. Productive day!
Now for the sorrow. I was devastated yesterday when my friend April (who still works at Smail Auto) txt me to say that Mark Smail (Bud’s older son) passed away following a skiing incident. He loved to ski and was very good. I could barely wrap my head around it; he was 62. I called one of my current bosses and he verified the information as he has connections to the Smail family. Then about 8pm last night Don, a very dear friend and former co-employee at Smail’s (he was working there in 1967 when I started!), called me with more details. I am just broken for his family, especially his mom. Bud has been gone only about 5 or so years. Please keep the family, the Smail employees, and the dealerships in your thoughts and prayers. This will be a huge adjustment and heartache for everyone – and even I feel the sadness and loss. Praying for peace and comfort.
Scripture of Comfort:
TRIVIA: The first automobile to offer seat belts was the 1950 Nash.
PEANUTS Thought for the Day:
TOMORROW February 19th is:
Family Day; Iwo Jima Day; Islander Day; National Airboat Day; National Arabian Horse day; National Chocolate Mint Day; National Lash Day (Eyelash); President’s Day; Tug of War day; National Pancake Week.
I’ll try to fit the pancake in. And for sure chocolate mint. I love my family every day! And please keep the Smail family in your prayers. God bless us, every one…
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