For Suncay, April 16th, 2023

 

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE 

SUNDAY, APRIL 16TH, 2023

The moments of our lives may be bright with possibility, dark with fear or sadness, or even plain everyday gray, but God's glory never fades.  May God's glory shine into the exciting lights, upsetting darks,  and boring grays of your every day.

Slightly adapted from one of my morning devotionals

66 DAYS UNTIL SUMMER

In Ohio

 Sunrise:  6:47 am

 Sunset:   8:09  

pm

Life is a special   

occasion!

Hallmark!

Today is National Stress Awareness Day which was started by the Health Resource Network, HRN, in 1992 to raise awareness of stress.  It’s a good day to take a deep breath and relax. 

 Much research has shown a negative effect stress has on the immune system, mostly through studies where participants were subjected to a variety of viruses.  In one study, individuals caring for a spouse with dementia, representing the stress group saw a significant decrease in immune response, when given an influenza vaccine compared to a non stressed control group. 

Chronic stress takes a more significant toll on your body than acute stress does.  It can raise blood pressure, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, increase vulnerability to anxiety and depression, contribute to infertility and hasten the aging process.  For example results of one study demonstrated that individuals who reported relationship conflict lasting one month or longer have a greater risk of developing illness and show slower wound healing.

To celebrate today, take a deep breath and relax awhile, or remove yourself from stressful situations.

If you cannot see the bright side, polish the dull side

COUNTING MY BLESSINGS 

Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths, or the turning inwards in prayer for five short minutes. 

Etty Hillesum 

Counting at least 3 things every day that I'm thankful for.  There is truly is always something to be thankful for.

11,224 for a day to rest and relax

11,225. for a nice recliner chair to take a nap in 

11,226.for online streaming of church services.

Enter into His courts with thanksgiving — and in His presence is fullness of Joy!

PRAYER FOR OUR TROOPS

Please pray for God's protection of

our troops and HIS wisdom for their

commanders.

 

Almighty and eternal God,

Protect our military

as they discharge their duties

with the shield of your strength,

may the power of your love

enable them to return home in safety

that with all who love them

they may ever praise you for your loving care.

AND bless our Police Officers, Firefighters and EMT’s.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

GOD BLESS YOU ALL !

ADVICE FOR TODAY

Rest when you’re weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work.

Ralph Marston

A little smile, a word of cheer, 

A bit of love from someone dear…

 

Love,

ma

 You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought

Matthew 5:5 (MSG)