Charity

What is Charity? In our society, the word is most often used to describe giving to a non-profit organization or to people less fortunate than ourselves. While that is a good example of what charity does, it doesn't convey the full meaning of the word. In the Bible, the word "charity" is used to denote a Christ-like love, the Greek word "agape".

Nowadays, the word "love" is vastly overused. We "love" everything from our pets to sports teams to foods to video games. You get the picture. So, when we say we love another person, the word has lost much of its value. I Corinthians 13 is called the love chapter because it describes what love does. In that chapter, the word used for love is the word "charity". In his sermon this morning, my pastor encouraged us to all read verses 4-7 and substitute our names for the word "charity". I have done so below, and I encourage each of you to do so also, and to evaluate whether it is true in your life. When we have Godly love for others, it will be true about us.

Suzanne suffereth long, and is kind; Suzanne envieth not; Suzanne vaunteth not (her)self, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave (her)self unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

New Years

Yes, I realize that New Years Day was four days ago, but today is my New Years Day, as it is my BIRTHDAY!!! Being as close as it is to New Years, I wait until my birthday to make any new years resolutions I feel might be necessary. This year, I resolve to be much more mindful of God's blessings in my life.

Over the past few months, I admit that I somewhat lost sight of God's blessings. Sam was sick for so long, and it seemed like nothing was going right. As I look back, though, I realize that there were actually more good things going on than bad things, but I had started focusing on the bad to the point of not noticing the good.

This week, I have made a point to see all the good thing God has done for me and Sam lately. He has worked through friends, co-workers, and family to bless us beyond belief! This year, I resolve to praise Him more for what He does in my life and be more vocal in letting others know what a great God I serve.

As an added bonus, today I have received over 120 birthday wishes through phone calls, emails, text messages, and facebook posts. God has blessed me with the best family and friends, and I am so very grateful!!