Today is the first day in over a week that the sun is shining bright. People are out and about taking advantage of these warm temperatures (low 50's) and this morning I put on my sunglasses to do some work outside and the brightness was almost bothersome. Its like the Altus Ice Storm never happened. The only evidence of the storm are the fallen trees and the muddy ground. Many are still without electricity and we pray earnestly for the safety of those who are working around the clock to restore the power grid to Altus and the surrounding communities.
It never ceases to amaze me how in the midst of trials and tribulations the grace of God shines through like the bright sun. Last Sunday morning with blankets in hand our people met for a cold morning service without lights and with no heat. What amazed me is that inspite of their discomfort their faces were aglow showing God's grace was alive and well in their lives. The service was a blessing and time spent in a cold church house was well worth the effort it took to attend.
On Wednesday the power came on at the church and we called every available member that there was going to be a fellowship service that night beginning at 6PM. People brought food to cook and snacks that they had available. We sang, gave testimonies, (war stories) brought a challenge from God's Word, and stayed together in fellowship encouraging one another in the Lord. Some didn't even leave until around 11PM. What a blessing it was to see the joy that only God can bring in the lives of those who call Him by name and enjoy His grace in the midst of the storm.
Many are still without power and brothers and sisters in Christ are busy assisting those in need with generators, money, and tree cutting and removal. PTL for christians who care! Some, it will take weeks before their power is restored...but God is faithful and His people are kind and that is how grace is given and received day by day and trial by trial.
I PRAISE THE LORD for the members of Tabernacle Baptist Church who has shown the light of God's grace so bright that this preacher needs sunglasses to see.
This little light of mine...I'm gonna let it shine...
