Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:4-7

Today I want to draw our attention to this amazing passage from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. The first part here at the beginning, and then the second as the perfect conclusion to my thoughts.

In a hugely difficult week, challenging in every way, Friday almost managed to come through as a day when everything went just right… well, at least in the world of Geoffrey.

Rebekah and I have been working hard all week long to establish his routine with straightforward and consistent expectations. Both Thursday and Friday went really well, with our four-year-old grandson donning his backpack, making sure to put five “Sonic Power Rings” in his pocket, grabbing his water bottle and strolling confidently into the school.

Friday started with my usual walk and some arrestingly beautiful views as the first rays from the sun leaked over the horizon, gradually beginning to flood Central Florida with light.

It is good to catch glimpses of what this part of the state is supposed to look like, echos of what Rebekah grew up enjoying in the late 60’s and early 70’s, the Florida I grew to love during my four years at Stetson University in DeLand.

Geoffrey had the very best time at his VPK program, and when the big kids came home from Middle School we took them all out to meet Naomi for dinner at Applebees.

Then it was an evening of cleaning and tidying and making sure the house isn’t too much of a wreck for when the other grandparents come in to take over our role for the next week.

Rebekah and I are traveling back to North Carolina this weekend, but will return in Mid-October for a few days.

In the meanwhile, these amazing grandchildren will continue to grow like crazy. And we pray such peace and healing and blessings on this family.

In love, and because love is so strong – DEREK

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. – Philippians 4:8-9