"And if you SPEND YOURSELVES on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness and your night will become like the noonday."

"The Lord will continually guide you. He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail."- Isaiah 58:10-11

Monday, January 2, 2017

Christmas and New Year's Greetings!

Warm Christmas and New Years Greetings from the Smiths –  











It came without ribbons!
It came without tags! 
It came without packages, boxes or bags!”…
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! 
"Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store. 
Maybe Christmas… 
perhaps… 
means a little bit more!'*


Things that mean “a little bit more” in our lives:
Rick – God’s provision through faithful supporters. Jesus’ redemption. Small group. The CUBS winning the WORLD SERIES!!!
Ann –The saints who regularly pray for us. Jesus, because my life is hidden in His. A husband who kills snakes and tarantulas. Puzzles. The Smitherene's. 209 children being supported by 295+ people.
Katie – A summer home in Kenya. Trip to the Dominican Republic. God, opening doors to serve. Consistent grace. Business classes at Notre Dame. Sister-like roommates. Being at Wrigley the night of the CUBS win! 
Rachel – Quality friends. A wise mentor. Getting accepted to college. The Oasis kiddos. God, who’s ways our bigger than ours. 
Julia – Sleeping in. Parents who love us. Dinner every night. God’s forgiveness and grace.
Caleb – Katie coming home for Christmas. God answering prayer. Fun and funny friends. Short notice parents. 
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss