Would you go into this building? Many building entrances in GM lack curb appeal to say the least. However, appearances are often deceiving. It’s likely that most of the individually owned apartments inside are in good shape. What a great reminder to all of us to dig deeper before we reach a conclusion.

“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

1 Samuel 16;7

How are you celebrating Thanksgiving this week? We have full hearts as we look forward to sharing this holiday with friends in our home and at the center. We are partnering with workers from another organization to host a meal at the center for some refugees living in our city. Secondly, we are sharing a meal with the international students that attend a weekly hangout. That one will have a little twist–everyone will bring a dish to share from their home country. We praise God for who He is, and for what He is doing in this place!

Walking through neighborhoods in our city can be pretty interesting. As I passed a nearby furniture repair shop, the carpenter had his day’s projects sitting outside. I’d love to see the finished chairs, but it’s not likely that I’ll get the opportunity.

I often have this same thought when it comes to the work that God is doing in people’s lives. I want to see the end result, but that’s not always how it works. In Hebrews 12:2, we are reminded that Jesus is the “author and perfecter of our faith.” My job is to join Jesus where He is working, at whatever point along a person’s journey, trusting that He is drawing her to Himself. It is an honor and a privilege to be a part of the story, at the beginning, middle, or end!

Thanksgiving isn’t a holiday in GM, but it is a great opportunity for us to share with those we minister to about our gratefulness to God. Please pray for open hearts as we share–thank you!

Our youngest daughter recently made some play dough, and together we made this creation called “Abigail.” She’s really something, isn’t she? 🙂

Sometimes when I think about being God’s masterpiece, I picture myself like this–a little wonky. When I allow those thoughts to turn into words that I speak to myself, it’s hard for me to believe that God would use me. BUT, what does the Bible say?

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Romans 2:10

God views me as His masterpiece, because He sees me through the blood and resurrection of Jesus. He definitely wants me to join Him in His work, because He has already planned those things for me. I don’t need to waste any more time wondering. Rather, I can spend that time worshiping and praising our awesome God and perfect Creator!

Please pray for the future of GM as the country faces major divisions. Embassy emails with demonstration alerts are regularly hitting our inboxes, and the news is full of back and forth threats and accusations. Please pray for leaders on both sides to find a peaceful way forward, and for people to seek true Peace through Jesus.