My oldest grandson - Clayton Fields - was baptized into Christ last night. This was the best birthday gift a pawpaw could every get. I'm very proud of him and also of my other grandchildren - Mary Kathrine Sullivan - Jimmy Fields - who have also obeyed the gospel as well. I pray that they will set the example for the other siblings, in their life as a christian.

John and Janet Gibson lost their house to a tornado today. They are safe. Your prayers would be greatly appreciated.

This is the topic of a lesson I gave a couple of weeks ago. It was based around my father-in-law Jim Atkins. We as a family still miss him greatly. I would like to shear some of my thoughts with you.

1. The loss of a loved one is a difficult burden to bear...
2. The Lord certainly knows our grief...
a. John 11:33-35
b. John 14:1-3
3. Indeed, God can be a wonderful source of comfort...
a. 2 Cor. 1:3-5
b. Rev. 21:4
4. In the death of my father-in-law
a. I found God to be the God of all comfort
b. Indeed, I found that He provided many avenues of comfort
As I reflected on my father-in-law's passing, I found myself thankful for His many comforts. Perhaps you might find my thoughts helpful should you find yourself losing or have lost a loved one....

Time and again, we find ourselves worrying about the circumstances that are out of our control. During the ‘Sermon on the Mount’, Jesus addressed the problem of worry and asked, “Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?” (Matthew 6:27) Worrying about your circumstances will not resolve anything, so what are we to do?
Often, our biggest worries come from a mere failure to accept the circumstances we are in currently… and deal with them appropriately. The apostle Paul found that his circumstances weren’t always the best, yet he proclaimed, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). His circumstances certainly were not ideal, yet his attitude remained stable. He was able to do this because of his faith and understanding that God gives us the tools to deal with even the most difficult and painful of circumstances. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Accepting and dealing with the cards we’ve been dealt might seem easier said than done. However, the fact remains that worry can be a stumbling block to contentment, joy, and even growth. So the real question begs, “What will your current circumstance matter in the end?” Our focus must be on that which has eternal consequence! “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). Let us seek to do the Lord’s will, and deal with difficult circumstances accordingly. Read. Study. Obey God’s Word!

This article is from my son-in-law Ian Rice.

But we have not had any snow this winter so far, temp to warm and the flowers are confused. As far as snow goes, I can take it or leave it, but we need some cold weather to kill the bugs. Well, that's my venting for now. Have a nice day.