“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12) (NIV) Dear Friends, We had a sad situation come up at our counseling offices this week. One young teen left a note where others would certainly find it. When it was found by another teen, he left a very troubling response. I can’t really quote the first note because of the profanity it contained, but essentially it communicated the person “hated life and hated everyone in her life” and there were some troubling images as well. The second teen can be quoted with some edits, although it’s not pretty: “Nobody gives a f—k you should kill yourself retard b—tch”. Although we are trying to figure it out, we still can’t determine who left the notes. What I CAN tell you is that I’ve been pondering the whole thing for days. Clearly the first note was a cry for help. The second may be a similar cry, although this could be nuanced. Why does anyone bully anyone else? Is it insecurity? Low self esteem? Were they looking for attention? Is this a case of “hurt people hurting other people?” as a learned behavior being acted out? In any case, what I can certainly say is there is a HUGE lack of empathy for others. Sure, a teen may not understand fully how their words or actions may hurt others or maybe their lack of empathy for themselves make it easier for them to target others. Generally though, I find it’s most likely due to family problems, trauma or mental health struggles and this is an unhealthy way to attempt to cope with it. At any rate, it’s a long way from our Lord’s command to “Love one another,” and I guess that part makes me kind of sad. And so our work continues… It’s hard to love other people if you first don’t acknowledge and “love the Lord your God”. It’s out of that love that all other love flows. Blessings in Christ, Pastor Jim Kilby

Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. 10 I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’ Isaiah 46:9-10 Friends, I just got off the phone with the most infuriating company. I needed some basic answers, and their only response was I would receive an email when I received it. Seriously. I could feel my face heat up, my eyes began to tear up, and I could feel tension building throughout my body. In a blink though, I remembered God is not surprised by this! Is it a pain? Yes. Is it something that feels like it could be avoided? Yes. Will it get resolved? Yes. Then I had another thought. God was not surprised by my situation, but I wonder if He was “surprised” by how long it took me to remember He is in control. Because you know what? Everything I am working on daily does not surprise Him…ever. God is not surprised by… …the request for groceries. …the request for household goods for a single dad and his son. …the request for linens, groceries, and clothing. …the really big need for rent and stability. …the need for safe housing and reunification with family. …the dreams for the future of this ministry! None. Of. It. surprises Him. Only me. It only takes me off center and makes me remember God is the one who meets these needs anyway. He will get me the email. He will feed the hungry. He will provide comfort. He will see the unseen. And I get to be a part of it. And if you choose to, so do you! As we head into the last months of the year, I would be remiss if I didn’t remind you of end-of-year giving. Donations received before midnight on December 31 st are tax deductible for this year. Prayer, though, can be given any time, night or day, and will count for eternity. Blessings, Elizabeth Kilby