The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.

1 Peter 4:7

Now that I’ve got your attention,

let me say I don’t know when the end of all things will arrive, but for me, it may be sooner than others. You see, I put another candle on the birthday cake last month and every time that happens, it reminds me time is a valuable commodity and I shouldn’t waste it.

This year each time I received a birthday blessing, I sent one back in the form of a challenge. I asked my well-wishers to do something good. Some people took up the task and wrote back to me to tell me what they have chosen. Many of their choices had to do with time spent with family. It was so great to be in on their fun and what a blessing to hear of all the good taking place amongst my friends.

What would happen if we took this practice of doing good beyond our households and into the world? I know many of you already do that. I would love to hear those stories, too. How is good being infused in the world around us? How is it making a difference? We all have the power to do something that makes the world a better place

The rest of the 1 Peter 4 passage says this—

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

1 Peter 4:8-10

There are many ways to reach into the world with love, hospitality, and service. There is something for everyone. It’s not a bad pattern for life and it allows anybody to make a difference.

Why do I talk so much about love?

The reason I talk about positive interaction with others so much is I love God. I also want the people around me to know and love him, too. God has changed my life for the better, and I cannot help but want to share that fact with whoever crosses my path. He loves me just like I am, flaws and all. I want everyone to know he loves them the same way. I plan to do my best to make it easy for others to find that out for themselves. I want to love like Jesus loves, make people feel welcome, and serve my community. I hope to inspire others to do the same. It’s a world changer.

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A Bit of Family News

Towards the tail end of June, my second great-granddaughter was born. June Reign weighed in at a very healthy eight pounds. She is the sister to Miss Baby J. Our granddaughter is clean and sober, allowing her to keep our little June-bug with her. We are very proud of the transition she has made in her life, and we have high hopes for their future as a family. Please continue to bring Carrie, TJ, and June to God’s attention.

That being said, we are still on track to complete our adoption of Baby J by the end of the year. It’s crazy where life might take you. We never dreamed we would be where we are today. We don’t regret even for a minute our decision to be available to watch over our little gal. Thank you for all the prayers and encouragement. We feel very loved, supported, and cared for.

One last thing. This message hangs on a wall just off our living area: Believe There is Good in the World, Be the Good. It reminds us that goodness is available, and it’s up to us to make it happen. Please consider using the time you have left on this earth to be part of helping others find God. Who knows when it all will end, and you will run out of time to make a difference.

Love you guys. Thanks for reading.