“Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances,

 for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Today I am thankful for: 

1. My giant brick of a study Bible. People in other parts of the world would do just about anything to have unrestricted access to this book. I should be more grateful. 

2. The religious freedom we still have in America. 

3.  Rain that held off long enough to get through both tutoring sessions. 

4. The joy of kids who love to read. I so enjoy having to tell the children that yes, it’s really time to stop reading now and no, we don’t have time for one more story because I really don’t want them to walk home in a downpour. They love books and I love that they love books. 

5. The joy of reconnecting with the same children I tutored in 2011. Zinhle, for one, has grown up from a shy, quiet, pretty serious little girl into the sweetest, talkative, thoughtful young lady—or slightly older little girl! I’ve said so many goodbyes that I thought would be forever, or at least this side of heaven. What a blessing to meet again much sooner!

 I’m in deep trouble, falling in love all over again. I don’t want to think about the goodbyes to come.