Day 136 Rededicate 250 - A National Jubilee

 

5/17/2026

"Oh that men would praise the LORD for His goodness

and for His wonderful works to the children of men!"

Psalm 107:8

 

May has presented many public opportunities for Americans to express their thanksgiving and praise to a Holy God who has not just showered us with blessings, but He has poured great strength and incredible wealth and ingenuity and an enormous capacity to shine the light of His glory on not only our nation but the world at large. The celebration of prayer, praise, and worship of our Almighty Father held this weekend began weeks and months before with humbling ourselves, seeking His face, repenting of our sins, and embracing His Presence, and He heard our cries to Heaven, and He is healing our land, one heart at a time! I believe this, because I have seen young people responding to His call at an old-fashioned tent meeting in Stockton, California led by Mario Murillo Ministries where many young people are running to God, surrendering their hearts and lives, being delivered of addictions, and hungering for more and more of Jesus, the only truth there is in this world. People of all ages are being saved, healed, and delivered as they respond in humility, repentance and praise. I saw it as Rabbis and Pastors met in Washington DC with members of Congress for an Israel Advocacy Day bringing Jews and Gentile leaders together in solidarity and friendship to stand against the evil of antisemitism. I saw it on more than one college campus as revival continues to break out in prayer meetings, students racing to the front of the chapel in repentance, confessing their sins openly, seeking the forgiveness of our God who waits with open arms to welcome them home. The momentum has been gaining ground, so the church must arise and shine! Do not miss out! When a church continues with their own agenda when things like this are happening, it's time for revival and transformation in that church. When I see the lack of support for or response to a national call for prayer and fasting for the eternal welfare of our nation, it troubles me. And when I see a National Mall filled to capacity, folks in and out all day, Christian television streaming it live, and yet not one mention of this rededication was mentioned from the pulpit of many churches across this nation, it grieves me. 

The Rededicate 250 Jubilee was well done and well attended, and there were ministry leaders and political leaders participating who presented the Gospel of Jesus Christ in every speech and prayer. There were civilian testimonies of miracles and revivals, and the worship was God-honoring. Those leading worship were Pastor and Worship Leader Andy Frank, the Grand Canyon University Canyon Choral Society, the Liberty University Choir, Blessing Offor, Aodhan King, Military Trumpets, Bagpipes playing Amazing Grace, and the closing worship leader was Chris Tomlin, a favorite of many including myself.

Pastor Samuel Rodriguez was the opening speaker who prayed for the event and set the tone for the day with Psalm 89:14, "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before Your face." Sadie Robertson followed with a short message from 2 Kings 22 about the young eight year old King Josiah who changed the nation with his sweeping spiritual reformation of Judah. When he took over as king, following his father's death, an evil king who did not follow the example of King David, he set to restore the temple. One day a discovery was made of the scrolls with the law, and Josiah first repented and then determined to follow the instructions of the "lost word" that had been found. As Sadie shared about the reforming deeds of Josiah, she mentioned that the word is never lost. Even Jesus said in His Olivet discourse found in Matthew 24:35 that "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away." Sadie also shared the testimony of her father, Phil Robertson, who is now in Heaven with Jesus, about how he literally was so lost in sin, cheating that he walked out on his wife and from his family. Later, he experienced the presence of God, discovered the love of Jesus, and finally went home and asked forgiveness. We all know the amazing story of the Robertson family. Prayer works.

There were so many speakers and short messages, testimonies, history lessons taught during the day, but so much can be packed into a few words with scripture. Scripture says it all. But this is still not the end of the celebration, as it will continue throughout the entire 250th year. On July 3-4 Intercessors for America will be hosting Rededicate America featuring Dutch Sheets in Washington DC at the Museum of the Bible. Others participating in the event will be David Kubal, Jim Garlow, and Danny Gokey plus many more, offering teaching on foundational beliefs, testimonies, and worship. Information has been posted on my Facebook page.

There's so much more I could say about today, as the day continued to overflow with blessing after blessing, but for now, it's late, and I have a wall to climb. Shalom. 

  But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! 

Amos 5:24

Day 135 Nevertheless

 

5/16/2026

 "When you have nothing left but God, 

only then can you realize that God is enough."

Daily Walk

 

"How deep is your commitment to God?" Job was a wealthy rancher living in the land of Uz; he was a man who feared God and walked uprightly shunning the very appearance of evil. He had a large family of seven sons and three daughters, who enjoyed getting together on their birthdays to celebrate. Job did not want his children to accidentally enter into sin during these celebrations, so when the parties ended he would gather his children, sanctify them and offer sacrifices for them just in case they sinned. I know how that goes, as I've prayed for my children before, during and after. In fact at this moment my younger son, who lives with me is off at an appointment, and I'm praying for his safety and well-being. Parents care about the health and welfare of their children, especially their spiritual welfare. Job walked with God, and he did not want to offend Him or others with inappropriate behavior or unintentional sin. He was a compassionate and generous man, the story goes, who helped others in need, and God had blessed him greatly. 

One day when the angels were gathering in heaven before God, Satan came along. God asked him what he'd been up to, and Satan told Him that he'd been roaming the earth watching everything that was going on, and probably causing mayhem, because he goes around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour as 1 Peter 5:8 later described him. Then God asked Satan if he'd considered His servant Job, because he was "the finest man in all the earth - a good man who fears God and will have nothing to do with evil." (Job 1:8) Satan took the bait, and God allowed him to cause Job to lose his wealth, but He would not allow Satan to hurt him physically. Satan was quick to devastate Job by having the Sabeans to raid and drive off the animals and kill all but one farmhand who was able to inform Job. Next, a messenger can to tell him that fire had fallen from God and consumed his sheep and herdsmen, and before the words were from that man's mouth another messenger came to say the Chaldeans had driven off his camels and killed the servants. Finally, another messenger came to say that while his sons and daughters were feasting in the older son's house, that a mighty wind had caused the roof to fall in and kill all his children. All this bad news happened in succession, probably as a horrified Job stood there breathless with each report. Imagine that much tragedy in one day, within minutes of each other. The scripture notes Job's response as: "Then Job stood up and tore his robe in grief and fell down upon the ground before God. 'I came naked from my mother's womb,' he said, 'and I shall have nothing when I die. The Lord gave me everything I had, and they were his to take away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.' In all of this Job did not sin or revile God." (Job 1:20-22). I'm sure that did not sit well with the enemy who had hoped Job would curse God, but not faithful Job.

The next time the angels came again to present themselves before God, Satan showed up again. God once more asked him what he'd been up to, and the response was the same as previously. So God asked him once more to consider His servant Job. Since Satan had lost the bet the last visit, and Job had not turned his back on God, Satan told God that if he was allowed to take his health, Job would curse Him. God once more gave Satan permission to afflict Job physically, but he was not allowed to take his life. So Satan had Job stricken with boils all over his body - painful and nasty. It was at this point that Job's wife told him to curse God and die, but Job didn't listen. He told her she was talking like a heathen. Not too long after this Job's three friends - Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar - showed up to console their friend, or so they felt that's what they were offering. They were so shocked at Job's appearance and his obvious agony when they first saw him that they sat in silence for seven days, not speaking a word, until at last Job in his agony and suffering blurted out the words "Let the day of my birth be cursed," and he proceeded to lament his existence further, wondering why this had happened to him. It seems like a normal reaction to me. But no, after that poor Job's real suffering began as he experienced not only the pain of his physical maladies and the emotional terror of losing his family and wealth, but he felt the betrayal of fair weather or 'would be' friends. One little slip of the tongue, and a barrage of verbal bullets began to be loosed against Job. I'm not so sure I could just sit there and take all of the well meaning concern and advice myself. The commentary says, "after exhausting the conventional wisdom of his counselors, Job is confronted by God Himself, and his demanding "why" melts into humble worship."

In the end, after each of his friends took their turns buffeting Job with godly counsel, God spoke directly to Job and set things straight regarding Job's questions, and He vindicated Job before his friends and told  Job to pray for them. Then, God restored all Job previously owned doubling the number of animals and increasing his wealth. God even gave him seven sons and three beautiful daughters. He lived 140 more years and had grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nothing else is mentioned about the wife, but I'm sure she was humbled as well and perhaps gained a little more gratitude and fear of the Lord as well as respect for her husband.

People always talk about the patience of Job, but actually he was getting a bit unsteady at one point. After he cursed the day he was born and spoke of his misery and longing for death, the scripture says in Job 1:25-26: "What I always feared has happened to me. I was not fat and lazy, yet trouble struck me down." I have always wondered what Job meant by saying what he feared would happen. I guess that's one of the many mysteries we will discover once we are either raised from death to life again or get carried away to His Presence where we will have eternity to discover the answers. We all experience or will experience suffering, mishaps, turmoil, loss, and so many things in this life and in this evil age. But the one thing we can say is that when we serve our Risen Savior who saved our souls from sin and eternal damnation, He said in John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Satan is out of business spiritually speaking, so we have no need of his roars if we trust in the Lord and lean not to our own understanding. We must have faith to believe and accept His great gift of salvation, and we must trust in His Word. Although things come along, and Satan will certainly try to get the best of us, nevertheless, "Our God reigns forevermore!" (Psalm 97:1)

Day 134 The Way Home

 

5/15/2026

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less

traveled by, and that has made all the difference."

"The Road Not Taken"

Robert Frost  

I have always enjoyed traveling back roads and avoiding interstate and highway traffic. Besides which the scenery is much more beautiful as we twist and turn through densely forested areas with old farms and pastures of animals lazing and grazing, seemingly enjoying life on the range. It may take longer to get to where ya going, but it makes for a peaceful, less anxious way to travel - at least in my thinkin!

We left a little late yesterday en-route to Virginia Tech for the graduation, but check in wasn't until 4 pm where we stayed in Roanoke, and the graduation didn't begin until 7:30 pm. The weather was chilly in the mountains, but thankfully, although it was cloudy, it didn't rain on our parade. Although the ceremony finished earlier than expected, the drive back to the house took longer due to traffic, so we were late settling into bed. I've become accustomed to going to bed earlier most nights, but I wasn't as tired last night as I thought I'd be. Our room had a huge television on the wall, and after playing with the remote control for some time, my sister and I were able to figure out how to find a station and a movie to watch before calling it a night. We decided on a Robert Redford movie, The Horse Whisperer, which we enjoyed, although it was sad, but it ended well. 

This morning I felt pretty rested, but it would have been nice to tuck my head back under the covers and stay awhile longer. The place we stayed in while nice enough did not have the amenities we had previously when we rented an airbnb, but we adjusted. It made me think about what I'd love to see if I had a rental of my own. I think I'd have paint brushes and cans of paint, and I'd offer to have them paint for me in exchange for a hot meal and a lot of snacks! Maybe an extra night on the house if I was pleased with the paint job. It's not a totally bad idea, but perhaps it will give me something to dream on.

We had to check out by 10 am, so we decided to take it easy, travel a different route home, through an alternative back roads route and try to find a nice ma and pa restaurant to pay our respects and grab a nice meal. I also wanted to stop at a Family Dollar or Dollar General to pick up some notebooks for myself and gummy worms for my son in appreciation for him watching my cat. I have never seen so many Dollar General stores in the backwoods before, and they were so close together. We didn't see many grocery stores, however, until we got to a larger town, and they were few and far between. Maybe most people grow their own food?! We did notice many barbecue places in one area, so I guess they raised pigs. It was an adventure going over hill and vale, but I loved the rolling hills and fresh, clean air.

We didn't stop for lunch until we got to Green Bay near Keysville which is only about an hour from my home in North Dinwiddie. We passed a busy local restaurant, called Willoughby Restaurant, so we decided to make a quick turnaround and stop there. We're so glad that we did. Once we entered the door we sensed the homey warmth, as we were greeted cordially and told to sit wherever we liked. Candi was our waitress who was very warm, personable and attentive. They offered a wide selection of breakfast combinations all day in addition to their other choices. The specials included catfish and meatloaf, and one other item, but it slipped my mind. I decided on the meatloaf that came with bread and two sides. Everything was homemade and fresh, so I decided on mashed potatoes and baked beans. I was not sorry for my decision, as the food was very delicious. My sister had the meatloaf, but rather than mashed potatoes, she chose a baked potato with butter and cheese with bacon. She savored every bite. My nephew had a double hamburger with cheese and bacon and a side of home style fries. The hamburger was definitely patted out just for him, and my sister grabbed a bite of the hamburger and the fries, reporting that the fries particularly were sensational. I guess we're potato people, as we all enjoyed our taters. Later Mr. Willoughby came out to our table and chatted with us a while, then he sat down at another table with a friend and chatted briefly. This was definitely a family restaurant, with local patrons. I think I may take a ride back up the road one afternoon and pay them a visit just for the sheer enjoyment. Anyone reading this, be sure to pay them a visit.

Arriving back at home, after visiting with my son a bit, I decided that I'd go outside and trim some of that wicked Virginia Creeper that creeped back into my bushes. After all the riding and climbing in and out of the truck, and after a short night's rest, that was not a sensible thing to do, so I didn't last too long outside squatting and bending. So, I decided I could wait another day to burn the branches and debris. Since I had eaten not that long ago, I decided I'd forego supper and rest a bit. When I sat down, I drifted off to sleep, so I really didn't get a chance to finish up my evening meeting with the Wilbur family online. So, rather than make my neck stiff from sleeping in the chair, I decided I'd head off to bed. I figured that I'd be more refreshed in the morning. It's been a good day!

Day 133 Many Blessings

 

5/14/2026

"Praise the LORD, O give thanks unto the LORD;

for He is good; for His mercy endures forever."

 

Psalm 106:1 

 

So much is happening today in our nation, in Israel, and in my family! On May 4, 2026 President Trump proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month 2026, and issued a proclamation calling for May 15-16 to be a "National Shabbat" and "Shabbat 250" calling on Jewish Americans to honor the Sabbath. This has never been done by a sitting President, the news is saying; however, God called us to honor the Sabbath from the beginning of creation. When the calendar was changed during the time of the Nicene Council 1700 years ago, Sunday began to be honored as the day of rest. I for one am very happy to see someone other than me and my friends talking about honoring the Sabbath Day to keep it holy. I was raised with Blue Laws, so businesses were closed, except for ones absolutely necessary for  travelers, but I have observed both days for several years. There is much to be gained by following the commandments of the God, as our souls and bodies need rest, and we definitely need to draw closer to God by reading our Bibles and spending more quality time with our families. In Israel today marks the 78th anniversary of Israel becoming a nation on May 14, 1948, so today many are enjoying Jerusalem Day festivities. We are commanded in scripture to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; may they prosper who love you." (Psalm 122:6). As believers in Christ and as American citizens, we have much to be grateful to Israel.

In just about an hour I will be joining my sister and her son, and we will be traveling to Blacksburg to attend my sister's grandson Alex's graduation at Virginia Tech. In 2023 we attended Alex's older brother Jacob's graduation from Tech, and it is also my brother's alma mater, considerably more years ago. It seems to be the college of choice for the men in the family at least. As for me, I attended Virginia Commonwealth University many years ago, and since that time the college campus has spread all over Richmond. Virginia Tech is a sprawling university, and it is a very scenic area. I have always loved being at colleges, as the atmosphere can become electric. The hustle and bustle of young men and women laughing and engaging in conversations that are pleasant and non-confrontational. At least that is what I remember of college life, although I was married with three small children when I went back to college, so I didn't engage in many social activities. Still, it was  nice to see people happy and enthusiastic at Tech, as we strolled around the campus and had a nice luncheon prior to the graduation. As we were rushing to the stadium for the ceremony, we actually met a lady whose son was graduating who knew my neighbor in Dinwiddie County. It truly is a small world. I often wish that I had gone away for college after I graduated from high school, but it wasn't a possibility back then. Still, I have fond memories, and I made wonderful friends and teachers who believed in me and encouraged me in my education.

Life is full of surprises and many wonderful blessings. I can hardly wait to discover what God has in store for us today. 

 

Day 132 Eyes on Him

 

5/13/2026 

"In returning and rest you shall be saved;

in quietness and confidence shall be your strength."

Isaiah 30:15

 

The "suddenlies" of God are so prevalent in the Scriptures, and yet few realize the significance of that powerful word "suddenly," and the many times the phrase "But God...!" has been spoken. Truly He is an amazing, wonder-working God whom few really recognize as such, who really don't know Him at all. So many know "of" Him, but do not have that deep revelation of who He is! That takes time as with any friendship. What the world does know a great deal about, however, is vengeance and hatred, and that is a disturbing life to live. We serve a God who gave His life to save us from the evil unleashed on this world by sin, but it appears that the depravity only spreads, except for the truly hungry seekers.

Yesterday there was news of many high school students being saved at a weekend event in Columbus, Ohio. The CBN headline read: 

Hundreds of High Schoolers Turn to Jesus at UniteUS Event in Columbus, Freed from Suicide and Shame

"Hundreds of high school students in the city of Columbus, Ohio, recently found hope and freedom in the name of Jesus Christ as they came together to seek God in a night of worship.
 
The UniteUS campus ministry has seen a powerful move of God across college campuses over the past few years, with tens of thousands of university students giving their lives to Christ. On Friday, the ministry hosted its second high school outreach, and the Holy Spirit touched hundreds of young lives once again.

'There was so much joy in the room, so much hunger, and such a beautiful reminder that God is moving in this generation. Different schools, different stories, different backgrounds all gathering together for one purpose,' the ministry posted."

Now that's Good News worth shouting about! The young people are getting their eyes on the worthwhile stuff, and they are getting them off of the garbage the world has thrown their way. When parents are too busy at their jobs or complaining about the government, and the churches do not stand up and speak out, confusion comes, and the kids are the victims. But praise God that there are those who are standing in the gap for our children! Praise God for those who are continuing the work of Charlie Kirk in Turning Point USA and for those of us who support this fine work. There are other ministries who have existed for a while that are now finding their courage and their voice. Thank God for those who are not afraid to stand for godliness and morality. This is what we are supposed to be exemplifying as One Nation Under God, and it is happening, but the battle is intense.

Just this morning I posted an article about Senator Josh Hawley's speech delivered at Boyce College of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky, on April 16, saying our country "was founded on the Gospel of Jesus Christ." He warned these seminary students that our nation is in a "spiritual crisis," and he reminded them that "our nation needs you." He also noted that it is time for the church to speak out and take a stand, especially when it comes to the sanctity of human life. Nations have been cursed for killing the innocent, a fact Bible students should know well. It is my prayer that his message was received by open hearts and readied soil eager to go out and turn our nation around for good. May they not be satisfied with simply turning it back to where it once was, but may they go forth with the anointing of Holy Spirit and fire to see our nation and our world turned upside down for Christ!

Interestingly, this is not how I intended on writing this blog. My son recently changed his internet provider to Starlink, but he's been experiencing some problems with the performance that was promised. He realizes that glitches do happen, but he was not ready for the problems he has encountered with getting a living tech support person on the phone. Because of his anxiety it is very hard for him to deal with chaos, and that is what it seemed like to him. On the flip side for me when I become anxious or upset, I turn on my music and dance and attempt to keep my focus on what I can do now. It doesn't always work, but there is where faith comes in. It seemed as if anything he did or any time he attempted to call, even at 2:30 am here to a call to Indonesia, the office was still closed. It was maddening. But with the Lord's help, I was able to call and connect, and even though I spoke with an AI assistant, I was able to get an expedited return call within half an hour. I know that was entirely God, as I was a bit frustrated trying to get an AI Assistant to listen. Sadly he is in need of a new cable or something, but hopefully that also will be expedited. At least that helped relieve his stress. 

I was listening to Sean Feucht of Let Us Worship tonight give a report about all the things the devil tries to bring our way to defeat the purpose of God. How well I know that. He's a ministry leader, and this weekend he will be participating in the 250th Rededication of our Nation at the Washington Mall along with many other ministry leaders. Much prayer has gone up for this event, and that's where my part comes in as a watchman on the wall. I am not able to attend in person, but I will be standing on my post with others as we catch the event online. While there have been many who have attempted to criticize and half preparation for the event, I was reminded this morning in my quiet time that "True power comes from God" -resting in Him and not panicking or becoming anxious. Our focus must remain on God, especially in these difficult days we find ourselves living through. Holy Spirit also reminded me that "God's purposes always have God's provision."

Day 131 I Wait for You, Lord

 

5/12/2026

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord"

Psalm 33:12  

 

I've been sitting here in my room, one cat happily snoozing on my bed, and the other is probably hiding under my bed in order to avoid any unpleasantness from Alex. He loves to hiss at Mia so she knows that I'm his human, not hers. Their ensuing battle always amuses me, as it is not confrontational in the sense that they hiss and strike at each other. Generally only Alex makes noise, then runs for the door. Who can say what goes on in the minds of cats! But at least it gives me a bit of a distraction when one is needed. Prayer concerns do tend to weigh heavily on my heart. Only God knows what is actually going on, so I wait...and pray...and listen!

"Prayer is the one prime, eternal condition by which the Father is pledged to put the Son in possession of the world. Christ prays through His people. Had there been importunate, universal, and continuous prayer by God's people, long ere this earth had been possessed for Christ."  E.M. Bounds

"Be not afraid to pray; to pray is right; pray if thou canst with hope, but ever pray, though hope be weak or sick with long delay; pray in the darkness if there be no light; and if for any wish thou dare not pray, then pray to God to cast that wish away."

"In the conflict between the believer and the powers of darkness, the inner chamber is the place where the decisive victory is obtained." Andrew Murray

"This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith." 1 John 5:4

So much is happening this week in our nation and in the world. It's a constant merry-go-round, and it seems as if the spinning increases every day, hour by hour, and even moment by moment. This weekend America will be re-dedicating our nation to God, something that has long been overdue. Several countries are praying for our nation, Australia is in the lead, but all nations are watching to see what America is going to do next. America truly does set the pace for much that happens in the world. Our most important ally is Israel, and thankfully so, as it is Biblical, and our future depends on remaining a close ally.

I learned this week that a family member for whom I've been praying for is now taking his family to church, and it's a full gospel church where the full counsel of God's word will be shared, or I sincerely hope that is the case. In these uncertain and confusing times I have been seeing much confusion in the pulpit and many falling away from sound doctrine, as the Word of God says will happen. 

This morning in our prayer call, the young ladies who were providing worship sang a song that really spoke my heart. The lyrics go like so:

"Hungry I come to You for I know You satisfy

I am empty but I know Your love does not run dry

So I wait for You. I wait for You.

I'm falling on my knees offering all of me

Jesus You're all this heart is living for.

So I wait for You. I wait for You. 

Broken I run to You for Your arms are open wide

I am weary but I know Your touch restores my life. 

 So I wait for You. I wait for You."

 

It's important that in praying for the needs of nations that we don't forget to keep a watchful eye on the neighbor whose standing on the wall beside us. Sometimes our focus is too much on the bigger picture than narrowing down our sights to see what is happening right in front of us. That's why we need to stay in the secret place, listening to what God says and how Holy Spirit directs our prayer. Sometimes we just need to be still and wait or worship. Silence is very hard sometimes, as the devil doesn't want us to focus, so he sends distractions to get our minds on something else. This is why worship is so important, singing to God, learning to be quiet. Sometimes the best thing to do is rest a little. I am learning that it's okay to take a break. Usually I have to be knocked off my feet before I get the hint that I'd be more effective if I gave it a rest. But, yes, the needs are great, and persevering prayer is essential. We know the victory has already been won by Jesus who sits in heaven, at the right hand of our Father, where we are always on His mind.        

 "For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, and all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up," says the LORD of hosts. "That will leave them neither root nor branch." Malachi 4:1

But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings; and you shall go out and grow fat like stall-fed calves." Malachi 4:2

"For I am the LORD, I do not change;..." Malachi 3:6

So, I wait for You, Lord. I wait for You!

Day 130 The Way

 

5/11/2026

"You don't choose a live, you live it."

The Way  

 

The day after a special holiday hits me harder than the actual day. Memories are generally good ones, because I look for something good in everything, or at least I make every attempt to do so. My children are grown, living their own lives, in their chosen ways, and two of them live in different states. My younger son Daniel lives with me, so I'm no longer living alone, but that has required some adjustment on both our parts; however, it's been nice sharing meals together and going for groceries or on occasion out for a meal. Neither of us venture out on great adventures, as we both tend to be homebodies, but we each lead our own life. I haven't been able to make the trip back to New Mexico since I moved back to Virginia in late October 2021, so each year I attempt to make plans, hoping this time I will be able to make it. It has been difficult since I spent thirty-five years of my life living there, so I have acquired many friends and acquaintances through my former job. I can't really call people "acquaintances," because I make friends easily, especially when getting to know them for so many years. Clients become like family, and I hold on tightly to friendships. Sadly, I learned that many of my former clients died during the COVID epidemic and lock downs, probably from isolation. This is what happens to older people when they are shut off from contact with others. Thankfully I do maintain close contact with a few people, although I learned recently that a very close young friend had died. This has been very hard, because she was like a daughter, and her children like my grandchildren. Her mother passed away in December the year I moved here, and she was extremely close to me. I guess we never get used to these things although death is very much a part of our lives. The encouraging part is that I will see her again in heaven. Both of them.

It's very chilly here today, and it's been raining, so I must say that this weather is not conducive to happy feelings. But just like Pollyanna, we must always look for the good in every situation. The good, the pure, the lovely things of a good report; if there be any virtue, any praise, think on these things. So, this afternoon I treated myself to a movie, an old friend pulled out of storage called The Way, starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez about the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. It was actually filmed on location with real footage as they made their way during the filming. It has been another "bucket list" dream of mine to make the pilgrimage, but so far I have found no one who is interested in hiking for whatever amount of time it takes, facing changeable weather conditions, sleeping in tents, sleeping bags or hostels along the way. The younger me would have gladly tackled this journey alone, but now I don't know if I still could muster the courage to go it alone. There are generally two seasons where the majority of people travel the roads, due in large part to the climate and weather changes. I've lived in the mountains, and it can be hot one day, and the next it can be cold and snowy. Nowadays it is the same way here in Virginia. Today it is very chilly and rainy, and yesterday it was sunny and warm. Just so we don't get another ice storm where I have to axe my way across the driveway I'll survive. I don't know if I will be able to make this dream, my pilgrimage on the Santiago, a reality or not, but this movie sure did make me think about it again, so who knows!

Yesterday, after my initial church service, I did something I hardly ever do - watch movies. Daniel gave me a movie for my collection for Mother's Day - Wonder Woman 1984, so I watched it. It was good, but I'm a Marvel fan and this was a DC movie. But even so, I don't spend much time with movies, unless they are faith based, because they don't interest me. I'd rather binge The Chosen which is playing in the living room now, just to fill the house with good things. That way when I chase down the cat, I'll glimpse a familiar scene, maybe stand there a moment or two and remember. 

Since yesterday was my day of rest, I also watched bits and pieces of Star Trek, the new movie and its sequels. They were enjoyable, predictable, and had funny parts. Sometimes I just need to laugh or just rest idly in a chair and not think. An occasional escape from reality is nice, but much reality can be seen in these movies, although they are supposed to be futuristic and positive, but sadly very little mention of God ever comes up. That's the part I can't take, as every culture, every age will always need God in control, or if not, civilization is doomed. We have so many things going on now, so many contradictions, that, honestly, when I sit here, my head swims, because it is too much to grasp.

This coming weekend in Washington DC our nation will be rededicated to the Lord, as One Nation Under God. Thousands will be gathered, and members of my prayer group, Intercessors for America, will be gathered from each State to be part of this great event. I am unable to attend in person, but I will be here, watching online and standing on the wall in prayer. Then in July there will be another event for the 250th anniversary of our nation. 

Other situations are ongoing in other parts of the nation and the world, and no one knows from minute to minute what will happen next. Sadly there are so many undercurrents in our nation alone that the ripple effect is tearing our people apart. I am very grateful for our President and those he has in his administration, as I cannot begin to imagine the huge amount of stress he has to manage on a moment by moment basis. Yet, he manages to keep things pretty well, and his staff is tremendous. God knows what He is doing, and He uses our leaders to bring order to this world. Never doubt God's hand in every circumstance, big or small. Scripture bears it out that God is in control.

So that's my day, and that's my way of living life, sharing life, and standing for life. Selah.