March 2006 Newsletter

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for
and certain of what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1


I’ve been thinking a lot this week on our theme for this year, “Hope in sight”. 2005 was a year of many ups and downs for us. Sweet Aroma events provided many of the “ups” while daily life seemed to produce many trying circumstances. We loved being involved in ministry because when we played, we focused on the Lord and on connecting with others; discouragement seemed to fade away. As we started this year and we worked on completing our scrapbook, we rejoiced at God’s faithfulness and at seeing His hand in our lives and it made us anticipate a 2006 with much hope in sight. Well, the truth is, sometimes hope is not always in sight. With Linda recently leaving Sweet Aroma, Karen and I are left wondering and praying about what direction we should take – actively seek another person to help with the singing and playing or continue with just the two of us to see what doors the Lord opens – providing someone or using Sweet Aroma as it is now?

It’s just not something we can “see” yet, but isn’t that how it often times is in life? We think we have our plans all set and them something comes along to knock them off track. But that doesn’t mean that God still doesn’t have plans for us – He does – just not what we can imagine. We can’t see what they are but we still have hope. I am reminded to keep my hope and focus in Him – not on the blessings He gives.

Karen and I just got back from visiting my grandmother and aunts in Colorado. We decided to try snowshoeing in the Rockies and would recommend it to anyone. The most difficult part for us, as usual, was following the map and actually getting to where we wanted to go! The scenery was so beautiful. I’m amazed at the beauty of God’s creation – if this earth is going to pass away, I can only wonder at what the new heaven and earth will be like. Wow

Please keep Sweet Aroma in your prayers, that we be effective ministers to those who need hope and encouragement, and that we be open to following God’s map to get us where He wants us to go.

Hope to see you at our upcoming events- especially the Praise and Worship night at the Elmira Heights Theater (www.heights-theater.com) on March 14. Also, if you haven’t seen “End of the Spear” yet, try to check it out before it leaves theaters.
~Marie