Happy Mother's Day

This week I asked a bunch of moms on Facebook to share with us their greatest needs. It was helpful to hear their heart. Here are just a few of their responses.

• “Time… time alone, time to get things done, time to be appreciated, time at the spa... “
• "In no particular order: working household appliances, caramel cone ice cream, friends, some "me time" every so often, hugs, a helpful and supportive husband, DVR/cable, a nearby Target store, guidance, wisdom, peace, JESUS!”
• “Maids, good babysitter, pedicures, coffee, time alone”
• “Encouragement, gratitude, recognition of their hard work, strength, patience”
• "To know they have made a difference in their families lives.”
• “In a word: support. Support from their husbands on a spiritual, emotional & physical level. Support from their families. Support from their friends.”
• “I need my friends to help bring me down when I'm on the brink of insanity and to lift me up when I feel like life is playing a cruel joke on me.”
• “Us moms need to know what we are doing REALLY matters!!! The daily 24/7 busyness and time we take for our children's lives are developing and building the foundation for the rest of their lives. It matters and sometimes moms don't feel like it does. We need to feel supported, appreciated, loved, safe, secure, and encouraged through it all.”

Thanks Moms! You are doing a great job! And remember, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

Thank You

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.

Philippians 1:3 (NLT)

THANK YOU!

I was overwhelmed. My 40th birthday celebration last weekend meant more than you will ever know. What a surprise, the whole weekend. I felt loved and honored by you all. I want to thank Leslie, our church, family, and friends for putting together a birthday celebration I will never forget. You guys are the best and I am blessed to have you all in my life. Thank You!

I have been reflecting on being thankful this past week. God commands it in Scripture (Psalm 100:4 and Colossians 3:15) and if we pause to reflect we all have things for which to be grateful. But how often do we stop to say, “Thank you.” First of all our thankfulness needs to be expressed to God each day. He is the giver of every good and perfect gift. (James 1:17) It honors God and we give Him worship when we pause and say, “Thank you.”

Next, think about who you need to thank. After last weekend I have a lot of “thank you’s” to write. Please be patient ;-) Take time and think about who you need to say thank you to this week. Make the call, set up coffee, or write the note. Sometimes all you have to say is, “Thank you.” Take the time. They deserve it. And you need to do it.

Let me close by saying thank you for praying this past week for our zoning meeting with the city of Huntley. We passed through two of the boards and now our request goes before the city council this coming Thursday evening. Continue to pray that God’s will will be done and that we will be able to move into the Prime Outlet Mall at I-90 and Rt. 47. God has big things in store for us out there!