Summer already? Can't be! But 'tis true! Winter turned to spring, spring kind of hung around, our cars turned yellow, but clearly summer is here based on the temperatures and some humid days already.  Time has gone so quickly, I suppose it struck me on Graduate Recognition Sunday that indeed the calendar pages are flying, and life is moving on.

When I ponder the year so far, I am amazed at what we have been able to do. Remember when we hosted PORT, and then the big snow storm happened? The PORT people needed a place to shelter during the storm and we said "please remain with us!" Now, I will admit I didn't have a plan for that, but between PORT, the City of Newport News, and Chestnut we adapted, and provided care and comfort for many guests. We took on the unanticipated, (where I find much of life is lived anyway) and did all things for the glory of God. And we helped, which was the point of hosting PORT anyway.

We took on some physical challenges for our facility that is clearly showing its age. The heating and cooling challenges initially looked insurmountable from a financial stand point, and while we sought to raise the funds for heating and cooling, the kitchen facilities finally gave out. The kitchen is where many ministries launch; from bereavement meals, church suppers, programs, dinner theaters, homeless meals, Menchville House meals, BBQ's, Fish Suppers, and many others. The bottom line is that we needed to fix the kitchen quickly because this year, we have had to serve many bereavement meals and one was coming up fast.

The moneys from second mile giving provided the funds we needed for both of these needs. And then there was Rise Against Hunger. We dared to dream big this year which meant an increase in costs, coming on the heels of the two major repairs. But you know what, with everything going on, WE DID IT. I chose the picture of Bobby Privette's hands for a reason in this issue.

No matter what WE have faced. We always stood ready to serve. Our hands always prepared to feed, shelter, fix, clean, clap, and most importantly to pray.  Bobby's hands represent all of our hands, for they are truly servant's hands. Yes, time slips by fast. Yes, we have said good bye to too many friends this year.  Yes, there have been challenges. Yes, we wondered where we would get the funds. And yes, at times our hands grow weary. But our hands always know when to pray, and our hands always rejoice when God provides.

Summer is here, and I pray everyone gets a chance to slow down, to refresh and renew, and take stock at our many blessings we have and give thanks. For God is counting on our hands to do God's work for God's people in Newport News and beyond. May God bless our hands for the ways we will serve, and be the hands of Christ in our fast paced world.

Peace and Grace,
Pastor Ken