the kingdom

So, we have been learning this week all about the kingdom of God, what that even means, and what our role is in "kingdom living". To do this we've looked at the parables that describe the kingdom (lots in Matthew), and if I had to write my own parable right now, it would go something like this:

The kingdom of God is like Thanksgiving with no turkey, but plenty of love & thankfulness to make up for it.

or

The kingdom of God is like a pie maker, who when finding that there's no canned pumpkin in New Zealand, gathered his friends and celebrated anyway.

Yes, it's true, we didn't have a Thanksgiving meal (for various reasons), which broke my little American heart, but somehow I have survived, drowning my sorrows in cappuccinos and carrot cake (the most fall-ish item on the menu). We had a great time though, all gave thanks for various things in our lives, not the least of which were our families and friends back home that love and support us, especially now.

So, I just wanted to write and say how thankful I am for all of you - your support, your love, your taking the time to write me, your prayers -- just your being in my life. You'll never know what an impact it has, and how much gratitude I have in my heart for you guys!

Happy Thanksgiving!