30Jul 07
20 Hours, 20 People, & more than 20 Blessings!
posted by
As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so are good news (and friends) from a far country (Proverbs 25:25)! The Lord in His Sovereign and Providential plan disperses His people across the world to spread the Light of Christ, live faithfully, and be a resource of hope to the hopeless. He then orchestrates events to allow fellowship with one another 
for inspiration and accountability. Do you ever feel though that the time and distance between such fellowship with like-minded believers is too long?
Over the past 20 hours our spirits were rejuvenated with a last minute visit by the Staddons from West Virginia. They were on a return trip from Pennsylvania and took a little detour 
to stop by our house. We’re glad when friends and family make these kinds of detours. Almost the the moment their van hit the driveway, fellowship began. There was much to cram into the 20 hours we had with them. This included testimonies, conversations on the Providence of God throughout history, singing, bowls of ice cream from the in-house ‘Baskin Robbins’ 
, an inspiring Wisdom Search, 9 hole golf (a hilarious card game), volley ball, and both smiles & joyful acclamations in abundance. It is pleasant when the brethren dwell together in unity.
We appreciate their focus on discipling others, especially those who are younger. As I look back on my life, there are several promiment memories I have of when older children took time to be with me. 
These will forever stand out in my mind and are constant reminders of the need to reach out. 
May each one of us look for those around us who we can spend a moment with and impact. When done unto the glory of God and edification of the saints, the rate of return on such investments will exceed our expectations.
Thank you Staddons for a very rewarding 20 hours!
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver!” Proverbs 25:11
Wow, Josh. I can hardly believe that was only 20 hours! It sure seemed longer than that to me. I think every one must have been working together to make the time as worthwhile as possible.
You are so right about the powerful impact older children can make by taking time to love younger ones! I am eternally grateful for those who did that for me. They had a significant part in shaping my life!
Thanks so much for letting us come. It was beyond doubt one of the biggest highlights of our trip. We sure packet a whole lot in just 20 hours! Thanks again
Grandpa and Grandma enjoyed reading your blog post with us. Grandpa shared some words of wisdom and said, “Well, son, it doesn’t have to be a long visit to be a good one.” Very true. Thanks for the fantastic hospitality and delicious bubble gum ice cream!
It sure was a blessing to see you all! I’m always amazed with how much we pack into our visits.
The joy of spending time with like minded families is beyond words.
Grandpa Brannon said it well. And I concur with Jennifer, that fellowship with the body of Christ brings great joy (the spontaneous enthusiasm of my spirit when our souls are in fellowship with our Lord). Thank you once again for winding up at our house for the day. Onward now!