This morning I woke up sad and brokenhearted again, been struggling most of the morning, and for some reason haven’t been able to shake it. There have been quite a few different situations that I have recently helped others walk through that have challenged me emotionally, physically, and more impactfully spiritually. Sometimes the weight of carrying the burdens of others lingers long after the conversations have ended, and it reminds me just how much we all need God’s strength each day. The good news is that I have felt God’s presence and power in all that I have been involved in, but there are also times when I feel alone, isolated from the world while feeling like I am exactly where I need to be, so I pray I can find purpose in the pain. Even in those quiet moments when my heart feels overwhelmed, I am reminded that God has never once abandoned me, even when my feelings try to convince me otherwise. Have you ever really thought about the people throughout your life that have helped you become the person in Christ you are today? Have you thanked those who have truly cared about you and wanted what was best for you in life, without having any motives or agenda? Then have you contemplated what you will do when you find out that your last time together will be the last time, for one reason or another? There have been certain people in my life that in the small span of time impacted my life in a huge way. People who have been there for me in different seasons of my life, not to fix anything or do anything specific, but to help me feel loved, supported, and cared about. Looking back, I realize that some of God’s greatest gifts have come through ordinary people simply choosing to be present when I needed them most. Because of their actions I look a little differently at what is written in *Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: 2 A time to be born, And a time to die…4 A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance; 5… A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing; 8 A time to love, And a time to hate…* Over the years I have learned to cherish the little things in life, the special moments of time with certain individuals that showed me that they appreciated me, and more than that, valued me, because I feel that not much is worth more than that. Those moments have taught me that faith is often strengthened not only through the sermons we hear, but through the love we experience from people who quietly reflect the heart of Christ. To the noteworthy people that have helped me become the man of God that I am today, people that have impacted my life for Jesus and the kingdom, you who have prayed for me and my family, supported me in the various ways that you have, emotionally, physically, financially, and more importantly spiritually, I want to thank you with all that I am. And for those who read what I write and encourage me to continue to lay out my heart for all to see, you are truly valued. May we never underestimate the difference a kind word, a faithful prayer, or a simple act of love can make in someone’s life, because we are all called to encourage one another. None of us were meant to walk this journey of faith alone, and together we can continue pointing one another toward the hope that is found only in Jesus Christ. May we always give God the glory for every life He allows us to touch and every blessing He pours into our own, because without Him we can do nothing. As we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, may His perfect peace guard our hearts and minds, reminding us that He is faithful in every season and will never leave nor forsake us. To God be all the glory, today and always, and may His grace, peace, and unfailing love rest upon you and your family. Your prayers are always coveted. Closing thought: If God can use imperfect people like us to impact lives for eternity, then let us never grow weary in loving, serving, and lifting each other up. And always remember that 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.