​Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another.                                                                                                                                           Hebrews 10:24-25
Good Morning friend,
          What the world needs now is love, sweet love, not for some, but for everyone.  This week, we will celebrate Valentine’s Day.  How I wish our cards would encourage us to spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  How I wish the cards would encourage us to really love our neighbors.  This world needs more love, deep Christian love even toward our perceived enemies.  It’s a Biblical mandate!  Not a suggestion or a nice thought.  Notice that the writer uses the phrase “Let us” three times.   First, in verse 24, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on.” The word “consider” means to fix the mind on.  It’s a deliberate decision.  Second, in verse 25, “Let us not give up meeting together.”  Yes, you may be different races, sexes, religions, political affiliations, but meet together, find common areas of agreement. Third, the writer says, “Let us encourage one another.”
          I recently read story about a second-grade boy who was trying out for a part in the school play. When the day came for the auditions, his mother took him to school and waited for him to come out. She was nervous because she knew he couldn’t sing, couldn’t act, couldn’t dance, and couldn’t memorize very well.  She was surprised when he came out after 45 minutes with a big smile on his face. “How did it go, honey?” “It was great, Mom. Guess what? I’ve been chosen to clap and cheer.”  Well, guess what, my friend, the phrase “Let us” in our scripture today means you.  You’ve been chosen to clap and cheer for your family, neighbors, friends and even your enemies.                                                                                                                                    I’m cheering for you, Linda

​My prayer is that joy was in your heart this morning when you first opened your eyes.  How glorious it is to have a brand new day before you!  Even if you are facing difficult circumstances today, your soul can be at peace knowing that Christ goes before you.  Into every doctor’s office.  Into your relationship.  Into your finances.  Into your work.  Christ before you, Christ within you. Christ has your back. He’s beside you.  Holding you to keep you from falling.  He’s the lifter of your head. 
          Dear one, choose joy today. Biblical joy is defined as “calm delight.” Pause and breathe in the peace of God that passeth understanding.   It’s going to be okay. You are not alone.   Choose faith over fear.                                                                                                                                                Linda