a new opportunity

Well, it was my first day at LLM. I really wasn't sure what to expect. I was simply there because God called me to be, so I had already decided that I was up for whatever task came my way. It was food pantry day, so I helped sign people in and have the bags of food ready to be carried out to the cars of those receiving the groceries. We served close to 45 people. For each person that came through, I wondered what their story is, how they got here, where they are going. Do they have a relationship with God? Do they have close family? Are they lonely? I bet some of them have pretty amazing stories. I am sure there are some who know no other life than to wander the streets and hope to find food, as well as those who thought they would never be there.

I have fallen into situations and wondered how in the world I got there. Some of them have been positive, but some negative. I have to give God the glory for still being there to offer grace when I have found myself in the negative ones that I caused. This passage explains it better than I can (It's really not that long, and worth reading!):

Psalm 32

Of David. A maskil.

 ¹ Blessed is he
       whose transgressions are forgiven,
       whose sins are covered.  ² Blessed is the man
       whose sin the LORD does not count against him
       and in whose spirit is no deceit.
 ³ When I kept silent,
       my bones wasted away
       through my groaning all day long.
 ⁴ For day and night
       your hand was heavy upon me;
       my strength was sapped
       as in the heat of summer.
       Selah
 ⁵ Then I acknowledged my sin to you
       and did not cover up my iniquity.
       I said, "I will confess
       my transgressions to the LORD "—
       and you forgave
       the guilt of my sin.
       Selah
 ⁶ Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you
       while you may be found;
       surely when the mighty waters rise,
       they will not reach him.
 ⁷ You are my hiding place;
       you will protect me from trouble
       and surround me with songs of deliverance.
       Selah
 ⁸ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
       I will counsel you and watch over you.
 ⁹ Do not be like the horse or the mule,
       which have no understanding
       but must be controlled by bit and bridle
       or they will not come to you.
 ¹⁰ Many are the woes of the wicked,
       but the LORD's unfailing love
       surrounds the man who trusts in him.
 ¹¹ Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
       sing, all you who are upright in heart!

I hope to share this with as many people in my life as possible. If it wasn't for God, there would be no reason to live. This is what gives me hope, purpose, and a heart for those who need him (everyone). I am so excited to have a new opportunity to be used as a tool for God. I have given up the opportunities for far too long. It is pure joy to be in the center of his will!

P.S.
I used a really cool paper-folder today that was $5 from the thrift store. It was amazing! Small joys. :)