Overcomers

Isaiah 61

 To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion, give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes, Messages of joy instead of news of doom, a praising heart instead of a languid spirit. Rename them “Oaks of Righteousness” planted by GOD to display his glory. They’ll rebuild the old ruins, raise a new city out of the wreckage. They’ll start over on the ruined cities, take the rubble left behind and make it new.

 It's been a difficult year for the Obert-Thornes in so many ways --the death of a precious grandmother--health issues .We celebrated the 4th of July together (Lora's birthday) -- and here we are back at the same table on New Year's Day sharing a meal -- under very different circumstances. We're a lively household of 9 for the present time.

the front wall was the only complete wall standing everything behind this is charred ruins

Terry and I have witnessed their faith and rock solid trust in God to make something wonderful of this disaster and for Him to bring beauty from the ashes of their house on McKinley Ave.  Every morning and evening they circle their family together back in one of our bedrooms for Bible study and praise.  They hear from their parents how they're going to meet the challenge that day with a grateful heart and hope in Jesus.

They've seen "God-winks" in every situation ---significant items being replaced that no one could have possibly known how important those were to them, as  teachers, church family and friends have been so very generous!   Mom and Dad are taking care of  their kids first -- helping them process this whole ordeal  -- It was great to see the kids start to play again on Friday.
Meantime they're all back at doing what they do best -- taking care of others --- as they look for baby items for a young mom they met at Church on Sunday.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NCV) "God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid but a spirit of power and love and self-control.