Surprised by God . . .

They say the best laid plans are often for naught. Patti and I had envisioned a new season of time with each other, and we did expect God to provide opportunities in this new season as well. Ministry opportunities seemed to be in abundance, but also time to study and nurture our faith, and time just to relax and recreate together. My retirement from Sacramento County in December 2007 followed by a wonderful holiday to New Zealand for a month seemed to be the kickoff to this grand new season for PnP? But God . . . yes, but God, lest we forget we are the Lord's servants and His ways are indeed Higher than ours.

So, we enter into this new season with two new children (His lambs) added to our family. Tommy and Leanna Moscotti (10 and 11 yrs. respectively) lost their father this past January, then their mother wasn't able to care for them. Our daughter, Karly, had developed a close relationship with the two kids through her after school care program. Well, the rest is (as they say) history, and now Tommy and Leanna are part of our family. Needless to say, Patti and I appreciate any and all prayers and support as we enter this new and very different season.

The following are the Scriptures came to mind in the midst of all these new "opportunities" to "Feed His lambs.":

Isaiah 55:8-9 (New International Version) (for Pat & Patti)

8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.

9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version) (for our kids, now including Tommy & Leanna)

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Philippians 4:12-13 (New International Version) (for all of us)

12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.