Thankful for Good News

Are you praying for a week of good news? Here’s some: Shepherd had a wonderful combined worship service on Sunday, followed by a great Thanksgiving meal with lots of friends, old and new, sharing stories. I found out someone fighting cancer has come through and is now cancer free. Someone else’s surgery went well. Many of us will be surrounded by our loving family on Thanksgiving. My parents are celebrating their 67th anniversary! Nearly 90 new friends are joining our Shepherd family this year. Babies are growing, desert flowers are blooming. And did you know feline diabetes is now treatable with oral medication so you don’t have to give the poor kitties an injection? It’s a game changer for our sweet grandkitty. Good news comes in many forms. And you know the key…you need to look for it and praise God when you see His mighty works and mercy. 

Some of us might be struggling to be thankful right now. You are in our prayers and in God’s heart during this tough time. If you just need a little holiday spark, recall your best memories, think about God’s goodness and faithfulness over the years. Remember the song “My Favorite Things” from the Sound of Music? The children were afraid in a thunderstorm and Julie Andrews sang the classic line, “I simply remember my favorite things and then I don't feel so bad.” Fun reminder to renew our minds with good things. More good news from Romans 13, These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law. Another good news key: focus on Jesus and His love and let life flow from there. Love, gratitude and joy to you! ~Tracy