One of the moments that changed me forever was not so much seeing the date on the left side of my father’s tombstone, or even the one on the right, it was the dash in between. As I have reflected on my father’s life, I have contemplated his legacy and all that was entailed in it, then, I took a long hard look at mine and have considered what it will consist of after I am gone from this world. My life has not been pretty or glamorous. It has been filled with trials, temptations, and failures. I have always felt great shame in my past and in who I used to be. I have been burdened by my mistakes, some even to this day. Many of my biggest regrets are the selfish actions that I did before coming to Christ, as well as some that I have done since. There are many days that I live in a place of weakness, brokenness, and shame. I think to myself, “My life is a mess, how can God ever use it for His glory?” I battle my demons everyday, then it is like the Holy Spirit reminds me about the Apostle Paul’s pleading to God and more importantly the response written in *2 Corinthians 12:9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.* There have been some people that have come into my life that regularly remind me that despite how my life has been lived, I have been able to help many that suffer and struggle in similar ways that I have. I am encouraged by the words of Charles Spurgeon, “I would go to the deeps a hundred times to cheer a downcast spirit. It is good for me to have been afflicted, that I might know how to speak a word in season to one that is weary.” My friends, whatever battles you are facing today, I believe that God can use them for His glory and purpose if you let Him. We all need to come to the realization that it’s not so much of a question of “if” you will be remembered, but more importantly “how” you will be remembered. I pray that the most impactful thing I am remembered for is my Love for the Lord Jesus and then my love for others. Be of good courage and joy, all you who hope in the Lord, for He has not finished His work in any of us. My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.