Covering like oil

Like soothing oil, I'd felt it - the presence of the Holy Spirit.  All week long, mind whirling, spinning lists, they'd prayed.  Prayed for me; prayed for us.  Monday morning last, feeling the heat, sensing the breath of the evil one on the back of my neck, I'd asked them for one important thing:  "Please pray."  And they'd agreed, those faithful friends.

They'd asked.  We had, too, and He answered.  Praying and working, working and praying, all covered with that holy oil, it had come together.

In the lovely way that He has, Father God, the Divine Controller of All Things, kept His word, proving once more that "all things are possible to them that believe."  That I can indeed "do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  And this morning, I give thanks.

What a weekend it was.  As I sift through the gifts, counting them one by one, I'm humbled.  Grateful. Standing in wonder at the meticulous providence of a Heavenly Father who numbers our hairs, orders our steps, plans our days.

There was lovely fellowship, laughter ringing around our table Friday night.  Even our sons felt the joy.  Interested, intrigued, they sat - the four of them - listening, enjoying the chatter, taking their measure.  All those women...

Mr. Schrock, who'd warned me earlier in the week that he'd "probably be pretty quiet all night, seeing as how it's all women," did no such thing.  He'd worked like a trooper, showing his love and support for his girl by hanging new blinds, mixing up ice cream, and helping with 100 other things.  Then, when they'd come, he'd welcomed them in and shared, in his own way, the love of Christ.  We connected, the Schrocks and the Sarasota team, on a heart level, and it was a gift for sure.

Then came Saturday and breakfast with the other Schrocks before the show.  Heart connections again (thank You, Lord) with those we love, and then the excitement and frenzied pace of the cooking demonstration and book signing taking place on the second floor.

This morning, there you are, scrolling through my mind like a PowerPoint slide show.  One by one, I see your faces, each of you who came to meet Sherry and the team; came to show your support and love; who came, smiling big, with hugs to say, "Yea, God!" and to marvel with us at what He's doing.  I see, too, those of you who messaged or texted, saying, "I can't be there, but I'm thinking of you - so happy."  And I give thanks.

Today I give thanks for a Heavenly Father who enabled us to do what needed to be done in preparation.  Who worked miracles with my work schedule.  Who saw to every last detail.  Who gives us friends and family and, best of all, His very Spirit to live within, covering like oil...

Praying that you, too, have the witness of His Spirit within today; that you, too, will find yourself empowered and enabled to do all that needs to be done; that you, too, would sense His presence, covering like oil.

All is well,

Rhonda