Scripture:  I Peter 5: 1-4:  "To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed:  Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.  And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."

Hurricane Isabel, September 2003.  Enough said to bring back memories for many of this community regarding losses suffered by friends, neighbors, family members, church members and by many personally.  We are appealed to, in 1 Peter 5:2, to be shepherds of God's flock.  To me this means being Christian examples, assisting others when they falter or are otherwise in need.

When our daughter and son-in-law, Crystal and Mitch, first faced the reality of their losses due to the flooding of their home in South River during Isabel; Crystal said they knew their relatives and church family would help care for them.  She was absolutely right!  Praise be to God!

Crystal and Mitch's thoughts and prayers were also with other residents from "Down East" whose entire families and church families suffered losses.

God, through you, the congregation of St. Peter's and others; took care of Crystal, Mitch and Logan, the Daniels family and many others.

Howard, Crystal, Mitch and I thank God for each act of kindness and the generosity of your time, prayers and gifts.  Just a few examples of your kindness and generosity are:  Our pastor came to our home to pray with Crystal, Mitch and Logan twice, offering the assistance of the church; even at a time when his family had a different kind of need, also.   One kind lady brought clothes for Crystal from a clothing closet she keeps for a club, I believe.  Two families gave up their Saturday mornings to bring two beds (one for Crystal and Mitch and another for Logan's his first "big boy" bed) and other bedroom furniture.  Logan's furniture was donated by the Middle School Sunday School Class.  Another family went to South River and took some salvageable belongings to their house for storing.  Another caring lady searched her house and attic until she found a book shelf and table that were needed.  Many donated money and offered prayers!  Many made sacrifices to be able to participate in the care for those in need of the church and community!  All were eager to serve and freely gave!

I'd be remiss if I didn't reflect upon the goodness shown by Bogue Sound Elementary School during this time, also.  A lady who attended St. Peter's as a child is now a Teacher's Aide at the school and has a child in Day Care with Logan.  She brought bags of items to Crystal at the Day Care daily for a week as the school staff and children brought cleaning supplies, food, toys, diapers, and many necessities for the family they adopted (Crystal, Mitch and Logan) and many other Carteret County residents.  The parents of one of the teachers also donated a sofa, loveseat, and chair to Mitch and Crystal.  What blessings!

As the scripture says, "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."  Thanks be to God!

Prayer:  Dearest Lord and Heavenly Father, Thank you for the blessings You pour out to those in need through the acts of kindness of others.  To You we offer all the honor, glory and praise forever!  Amen.  

--Vicky Williams