“Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”

So God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth.” – Genesis 9:16-17

Several factors have made this past weekend most enjoyable. First and foremost, of course, is the simple fact that Rebekah and I are alive, we love our home here in Tarboro, and we are happy to be in one-another’s company.

Then, and this was on Friday, we were pleased to see continued – albeit small steps at a time – progress on the driveway portion of the front garden project. This time it was the application of sand on top of the aggregate, suggesting that the next step may possibly involve the actual parking surface.

Let me check my calendar… Yes, I believe Monday and Tuesday look good.

Saturday was our daughter Naomi’s birthday. My message to her (You’ve Got This…) was viewed a record number of times and she received affirmation from so many of the good people who love her and who believe in her – especially her friends. We are glad she enjoyed a such a good day.

Best for us was this photograph of Naomi with her three wonderful children. We may have had them for two and a half weeks, nine states, 3,200 miles and too many hotel rooms in the middle of July, but we miss them already.

Naomi was also thrilled to have been presented with what she says was “My own personal rainbow” Saturday evening.

God Hangs Rainbows for a Reason:

We have to remember that rainbows are not just pretty, they are the visual underscoring of God’s faithful covenant with and commitment to us. And, as we move forward into tomorrow, it is this promise of God’s constant love and encouragement that is, I believe, the most compelling factor in play.

Church this weekend, as always, served as an inspirational affirmation. Sunday morning is all about being in worship with so many good people, and the very real sense of community. Here at HMPC, community is consistently paired with excellent preaching. Our “Bridge Interim” pastor, Kathryn Lester-Bacon, is thoughtful, intelligent, interesting and full with both the life and the truth of the good news. I recommend church to anyone (and our church in particular) to believer or seeker alike.

So this is my glimpse of our weekend here at Maul-Hall. As always, it has been full with blessings. However, and I say this with a great deal of conviction, quite often we only receive/perceive these blessings if – first – our eyes and our hearts are wide open.

Grateful, always – DEREK