Sunday, August 23, 2009

Fresh Wind!

What a whirlwind week this has been! Meetings, lunches, Women of Faith conference in Dallas, and a myriad other details to handle. I loved it! I'm a work hound. I just love to be busy doing something productive, checking off things on my to-do list. I can't just sit and watch TV or hang out. I have to work on something with my hands at the same time. How about you?

I'm happy to say that I feel a fresh wind blowing through our land, bringing renewed joy, a brighter day, an anticipation of hope, a little touch of heaven on earth. My work seems to be picking back up as confidence is returning (or perhaps people are just tired of being depressed and are ready to move on). For that I am extremely grateful and hopeful. I pray that's also true for you, friends.something productive and checking things off my to-do list. I can't just sit and watch TV or hang out; I have to work on something with my hands at the same time. How about you?

The Women of Faith conference was excellent this year, as it always is. Patsy Clairmont left the entire 16,000-women audience rolling in the aisles. Steven Curtis Chapman had everyone on their feet for song after song. Lisa Whelchel (Blair from the Facts of Life TV series, who is now a minister's wife and mom) blessed us with her story of victory over life's difficulties. The praise team was uplifting. Mary Graham was as gracious and caring as ever.

I didn't get to hear Marilyn Meberg or Luci Swindoll this year, but the one who touched me the most was Sheila Walsh. Her heart-wrenching story of brokenness, depression, and fear that turned into renewed joy and love through forgiveness had everyone in tears. Then she topped it off with two amazing songs--"Let Go" and a wonderful version of "Amazing Grace." (Please see my review of her new book below.)

Thank you, O God, for your never-failing mercy and love. Help me to reflect your glory and grace accurately to the world through my words, my actions, my songs, my relationships, my writing. "Not to me, O Lord, not to me, but to your name give glory" (Psalm 115:1).

Blessings, friends, for a wonderful week ahead. May you shine your mirror so you reflect His glory accurately into the dark corners of the world too.

Mary

1 comment:

Jennifer Stair said...

So glad you enjoyed the WOF conference this year, Mary! And I agree: Sheila's message is powerful and inspiring. (Of course, I may be a tad biased, since I edit Sheila's books and have found her to be such a gem to work with!) ;)