Closeness with family and friends is something I always desired but never really understood until I came to Christ. I am encouraged by what is written in *1 John 1:3 What we have seen and [ourselves] heard, we are also telling you, so that you too may realize and enjoy fellowship (koinonia) as partners and partakers with us. And [this] fellowship (koinonia) that we have [which is a distinguishing mark of Christians] is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ (the Messiah).* There are certain people that have come into my life who without a doubt are there because of the providence of God. Some I have known for years, a few I have only met once or twice, others I have just recently met, and some because of technology and social media are those that I will probably never meet in person until I get to heaven. I can think of a few individuals that from the first moments that we met there was a “koinonia”, a holy fellowship in the faith. A few of the people that have encouraged me in my faith I met in different types of circumstances and different seasons. The day after I came to Jesus I was arrested and the officer that was taking me to jail shared with me the love of Jesus and encouraged me to go to Calvary Chapel where I was later ordained as a pastor. A little over 11 years ago I had a tumor in my neck and I met a doctor who was a man of faith and a skilled surgeon. A few years back we had a therapy provider who worked with my grandchildren and impacted our lives by being genuine in character. The list goes on, there are people who read the devotionals that I put out who share them with others. Individuals that have come alongside my family in our times of need so that I am able to devote time to study, share, and minister to others in the various ways that God has me doing. I have come to understand that there is a role for everyone that I have met throughout my life. For some, I have seen God use me to help draw them closer to Jesus. For others, God used them to help change me in one way or another to be more like Jesus. Certain individuals have shown me who I do not want to be because even though they say they are Christian there is no fruit and they are not living like Jesus. Most importantly, I have learned to love without conditions because of Jesus’ love for me. Recently, I have been drawn to be a little more present in the moments, and a little more intentional with others, because I have seen through the deaths of certain individuals that I know that tomorrow is not promised. I am thankful to all those who have encouraged me in the various ways that you have, you are all rare and amazing people. May we all remember the words of the Lord Jesus written in *John 13:35 By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, if you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves].* My Friends, thank you for reminding me regularly why this life is worth the fight by your love and support for my family and I. Jesus loves you and I love you too! 

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, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.