Feathered Friends and a Faithful Father

The sound of hedge trimmers filled the air as workers buzzed about our property, giving our shrubs their annual haircut. While the trimming certainly improved the appearance of our garden, not everyone was thrilled with the landscape makeover. Our feathered friends, who had made these hedges their temporary homes, were notably disturbed by this disruption to their peaceful existence.

Day after day, I gazed out my bedroom window, hoping to catch a glimpse of the familiar birds that usually frequented our feeder. The garden seemed eerily quiet without their cheerful chirping and playful acrobatics. My heart sank a little each time I noticed the untouched birdseed on the driveway outside my office.

When I expressed my concern to Jason, he offered a suggestion that was both practical and profound. "Why don't we make an extra effort to show them we still care? Let's put out more food than usual, maybe even some special treats."

Dana Rongione 27/06/2024 Dana Rongione 27/06/2024

Bouncy Castles and Boundless Grace

Three days have passed since our Community Family Fun Day, and I'm still in awe of God's faithfulness. Despite my lingering illness, back pain, and barely-there voice, the Lord blessed our event in ways I never imagined possible.

The day dawned with perfect weather—a true miracle in Wales! As I stepped out into the crisp morning air, I felt a surge of energy I hadn't experienced in weeks. Though I was far from feeling my best, the Lord granted me strength to not only endure but actually enjoy the entire day.

The turnout wasn't as large as it could have been, but it was greater than we had anticipated for our first community-wide event. Families from all over the community came to join in the festivities. Children's laughter filled the air as they bounced on inflatables, played games, and picked prizes. Parents relaxed and chatted, forging new friendships and strengthening existing ones.

Dana Rongione 23/09/2022 Dana Rongione 23/09/2022

Resting in the Word of the King

The situation was dire. Resistance seemed futile. Hope was hanging by a thread. Yet, in the midst of what appeared to be complete destruction, the people rested themselves in the words of the king. On the eve of battle, Hezekiah gave a compelling speech, reminding the people who was fighting with them and for them. Sure, Sennacherib had a big army and a bully attitude, but Judah had God on their side. And with that reassurance, the people stopped shaking in their boots and found peace in the situation.