Have you ever done something that you feel was perfectly right, only to have it spit in your face? I can think of several times in my life when doing what I thought was the “nice” came back to bite me. The problem appears to be the perceptions of other people. It doesn’t matter how pure my motives may be; if someone else interprets them wrongly, I may not be able to protect myself. That’s when you find out who are your friends and who are the enemies who have hidden themselves near you. Our sermon today was from John 15 and the pruning we received from God. All my gardeners know that pruning cuts away parts, and cutting brings pain. Don’t worry, I don’t believe plants feel pain, but when it comes to God cutting things our of our lives, or cutting habits that will harm us, life tends to get uncomfortable. The good news is if we are vindicated, life goes back to good or better. God prepares us for the trials ahead. Our job is to trust and get closer.
I think back to the end of last school year when I was faced with giving up my anniversary cruise or attend a state mandated class. It seemed unfair and silly for a 25+ year teacher to have to go back to school to learn how the state wanted me to teach reading. It was personally against me; it was all K-3 reading teachers. My heart was at peace because to me the choice was clear, go on the cruise. I miss my students, but now I teach two mornings a week, and I get a little free time. I’m willing to see what God has in store for me. God is good.
There is a whole column on the Preservation Society meeting. There was spirited and interested participation from the 18 citizens who attended. I encourage everyone to go by and see the improvements being made in the building. When the Christmas market comes to town, the doors will be open for tours of our beautiful old bank building.
McKinnerney Real Estate has put up a soda machine for the public. Profits from the machine will be divided between the Friends of Animals organization and the Preservation Society. Perhaps you can get a drink from them one day then run over to Skelton’s and get a drink there. Please remember to support our local stores. The Coyote Store has added a small grocery line to their food menu, Skelton’s has kept a limited supply of groceries ever since the pandemic, The Feedlot cooks up some delicious meals and keeps drink supplies. With the price of gas, it is worth while staying in town for your daily needs. The new variety store will not have food as such, but they will return to the original design with consignments, home decor, wedding lists, baby lists and more. I may have to buy one of their new purses. Remember the motto, “Keep it local.”
Once again, there are so many prayer requests. Kathy Brockman may finally get some relief from the pain she has been experiencing. Kay McKee has been given the all-clear for the skin cancer on her face. Others are not doing as well, please lift your neighbors, church members, community, President, Congress, Ukraine, and Central America as they face the brunt of the hurricane season. Pray for our open borders and for the protection of our agents and the towns that must house this mass of migrants. Most of all pray for our precious troops and their families. God bless America. Go Coyotes. – By Sue Ransom