In this space, I am sharing devotions written by our dear Barbara Meade.
Barbara grew up a Quaker and is a regular attendee at Spiceland Friends Church. Her faith and Quaker roots go deep as her uncle was a Quaker pastor, evangelist, and artist. Barb's writings about her many life experiences reveal her faith in Christ and highlight the memories of a great family, her years in the banking industry, and her time as a local small business owner. Barb's desire is to serve those around her through her encouraging devotionals and writings from her life. Barb has recognized that our relationship with Christ grows throughout our lives, both in good times and through life's challenges.
November 22, 2022
Grief and Blessings
We all face it. It leaves a hole in our heart, a hurt no medicine can fix. For myself such an emptiness, things don’t mean the same. We say we have lost them, I haven’t lost him, I know exactly where he is. That is what makes it possible to get up & find purpose. The holidays are here, our first. Lord help me find strength and see the blessings he left behind.
Luke 23:43 Jesus said today you shall be with me in paradise.
“WOW” what a comfort, as I said I know exactly where he is.
Amen
November 29, 2022
Heaven’s Treasures
I just endured my husband’s estate sale.
A lifetime of things, things that represented his life’s work. Farm tools, equipment, woodworking tools, antiques. He created beautiful things. I saw a piece of him in all of this. I watched a piece of him leave whenever I heard the auctioneer say “sold.” If that doesn’t make you stop and think nothing will.
I then realized these were earthly things, and like all earthly things, they passed away. It’s the heavenly treasures that matter. Only those are everlasting.
Matthew 6:19-21 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. For where your treasure is, there your heart will also be.
Amen
Eric is our associate pastor, working with outreach and youth ministry as well as adult discipleship and growth. Eric retired from a 28-year career in public education as a high school band director in 2019 and is now living his lifelong dream as a pastor. Eric and his wife, Diana, continue to live in Henry County where they have been lifetime residents. They "raised" three children and are now making their best attempt at "raising" themselves.