"And a vision appeared to Paul in the night.
A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him,
saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”  
-- Acts 16:9

I am humbled each time I read about this vision that the great apostle had in the night.  I’ve often wondered—how many times has a similar vision came to me, and I simply wake up and forget it, or miss the importance of what I’ve just dreamed!

Jeanne and I wish to thank the congregation for all the love and support you’ve offered us since our daughter and grandson left suddenly last April.   We have missed them deeply, and hope to someday see them again.   But, until we have permission to visit, the 10 hour drive to Iowa would be a disappointment.

Since that time I’ve reflected on the emptiness we’ve felt.  And an echo has entered my mind—of my own advice to others—”If you can’t help your own, go help somebody else’s kids.”

I’ve taken that to heart.   This week I will have opportunity to meet my “Little”, as they call it.   Big Brothers and Big Sisters matches adult mentors with youth and children who need somebody to care.  The mentors are called “Bigs” and the children are called “Littles”.   Clever.

Paul went to Macedonia and helped.  Well, praise the Lord, by the time you get this I will begin helping in a new way—with my “Little”.  Perhaps  I can help make a difference in his life.

I’ll keep you posted!

We all are in need of healthy and life-giving relationships.   There is so much we can do to respond to the needs of people around us.  I’m so proud to be part of a church that is seeking to lift up the importance of building relationships with one another and with God!

Keepin’ focused! – Pastor Gary Brooks
gary@gbfumc.org