Family Letter by Debra

Dear Ladies,

     What’s new? The question that is most often asked of me, next to, how are you? Well, let’s think about the how are you question first. I am doing fine. I continue to move forward with my focus on the Lord. Now back to that what’s new question. I think there is something new every day in my life. I am either learning, doing, or thinking of something new.  The Word of God uses the word “new” some 150+ times. There is the new moon, new style, new look, new testament, new year, new age, new song, new thing …. But with all this sorrow, selfishness, and chaos going on around me, I think my favorite is new heavens and a new earth.  The Lord speaks through the prophet Isaiah to give us this assurance.

     For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. Isaiah 65:17  

     Our church has a new look. No! I am not talking about a new paint job, although we sure could use one of those inside and out, I am talking about the arrangement of members in the sanctuary. Lisa is in the front left corner, Monica is in the back middle, Marie in the back right, I am the front right, others are scattered about like pepper throughout the seats. We are doing our best to comply with our county ordinances. We have two new members. A couple joined us about a month ago. We also have had a few visitors make their way to our services.

     David has several new things in his life.  He started his junior year in August with a mask in hand and plenty of quarters. The college has been on lock down since the beginning of the new semester. He also decided to take a break from the fast pace, high pressure job at the Keeter Center. He now works in the custodial department, which gives him more time for studying, his girlfriend, and church services.  David also proposed to his girlfriend, Morgan. And she said yes.

     James and Caity are patiently awaiting the birth of their baby girl. Her due date is October 29th. They have purchased many new items and received many gifts for the arrival of their newborn. James also started his Master Degree online with Georgia Tech.  I am sure he has faced many new, exciting challenges.

     Donna and the children are doing great considering all the changes this year has brought their way.  Donna was able to return to work in May, but each week it has been a new schedule for her. Lilibeth started a new school.  She is part of a satellite school program our county offers to a few chosen students.  Elaina and Elijah are both doing well with their new school schedule. They are with me or at home three days each week and two days they are at their school building.

     Gina and her family are doing well. Gina’s new book “Forgiven Again’’ will release in November.  I am looking forward to reading it.  Lydia is doing well in school.  She is home schooled, but still faces challenges.  She is growing so tall and learning so many new things.

     As for me, I am too busy to look back at the should’ve, could’ve, and would’ve. Every day is a new day for me. I am faced with decisions, tasks, and a prayer list like never before.  Teaching my grandchildren is a challenge, but I am so glad to be a part of their life. So, What’s new?

Love and prayers,

Debra