What's On My IPOD

It's time once again to travel to the mountains to participate in the Royal Family Kids' Camp.  This camp is held for abused and neglected children that live in our area.  Most of if not all of these children are in the Foster Care program and are not able to be with their parents for a variety of reasons.  The song, "There Are No Orphans of God" is one of the songs we will be singing for our Communion Service.  the music video is below:

 

As I listen to this song, I realize there are many who very alone who don't wear the label of Foster Child or orphan, and yet feel that singleness and lack of hope of not having anyone that they can feel close to.  For those who may feel this way, know that you have this hope.

There are no strangers, there are no outcast, there are no orphans of God. So many fallen, but hallelujah, there are no orphans of God.

¹⁵ So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children.^[a] Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”^{[b] 16} For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. Romans 8:15-16  New Living Translation

For those who would like to follow the happenings of Royal Family Kids' Camp, you can read our blog, which will have daily entries.

Experiencing A Loss

I lost my dad a couple of weeks ago.  As is often the case with these types of losses, it was a complete surprise.  I don't think anyone is totally prepared when they lose a family member or friend, but sometimes there's a few warning signs, such as an illness or a word from the doctor. In this case, my dad had just been to the doctor and he'd been told his health was good.  I think I am still in shock but can write a bit about it now.  The memorial services are over and now begins the time of sorting through the things that my dad thought were important to keep.

Our Lord understands what it was to lose someone dear.  It is recorded in John 11 that Jesus' close friend Lazarus had passed away.  Although Jesus knew that God the Father was going to raise Lazarus from the dead ..."This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."  v. 4, he still was moved by how Lazarus' death was affecting Mary and Martha who he dearly loved, "Jesus wept". v.33-35

It is reassuringly  to know that Jesus understands our emotions and has a desire to comfort us when we are grieving.   He offers those who are grieving this blessing:

Blessed are those who mourn,
      for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4

We can be thankful for a Lord who is moved to love us and comfort us in a time of need.