Providence...

While my life has somewhat turned upside down, and the reality of it changing anytime soon is yet to be determined, I have one joy that I can rely on.... God's providence.

He spreads the path before me, loving me always, divinely interceding on my behalf and on the behalf of those around me.  A very precious friend of mine has now found the path God has chosen for him.  Growing up in a home where his father was the epitome of Paul, walking out his salvation, and showing his son how to do the same; my friend has seen that he is to share the book of Philippians with all who will listen.  He has started an incredible ministry that will blow your mind if you ever get the chance to see it.  He felt called to share God's and Paul's love for the church by memorizing the entire book of Philippians and presenting a dramatic interpretation of it.

Ironically, this friend's name is Philip.  Philip Smith (Phil, as I get to lovingly refer to him).  Phil majored in theater arts and is a PHENOMENAL artist.  He and his wife own their own painting business, Walls Across Texas, and have even developed their own peg board design, NoSho Pegboard, that many commercial businesses (and individuals) have discovered is a fabulous camouflage for their display modules.

Not only is Phil incredibly talented in the artistic side of theater and set design, he is a FANTABULOUS dramatic speaker!  We joyfully got to participate in a Sunday school class where he energetically read the Narnia books to both children and adults alike :).  Amazing, fantastic, preciously sweet; Phil is a man that I will always count as a friend.

I was blessed recently to see Phil's presentation on the book of Philippians and was unbelievably moved.  He "becomes" Paul as he presents it to the church, us, me.  He shared his God given vision for this with me after wards and asked if I would help him take some photographs for his brochures.  I was thrilled he'd even think of me and all too happy to agree.  We tried to get together several times before the holidays and find the perfect setting.  I really wanted to do it at a certain place (very authentic looking for a backdrop) but unfortunately it never panned out.  We decided we would attempt it again after the holidays were over and things settled down.

This is where God's divine hand comes into play.  Last weekend I went to my CBS (Community Bible Study) leadership retreat at the Highland Lakes Camp & Conference Center.  I had just arrived, checked in, put my stuff into my room and was headed to the dining hall for dinner when who do I see?  PHIL!  He was there to do his presentation for our group!!!!!!  He even had his new set (which he had designed and painted) that we were hoping to use for the pictures!!!  God REALLY surprises me sometimes :D

After Phil's moving rendition, I was privileged to hang back with them and snap a few shots.  Funny thing, I almost didn't even bring my camera with me!  God's voice rang in the back of my mind before I left, "you know you'll find something you want to take a picture of and then you'll be kicking yourself for not bringing it".  I've done this enough, you'd think it would be automatic for me to grab that bag and not have a second thought about it.  Apparently I'm still learning, lol!

It amazes me how God's hand was continually on us during our vacation, while I was on my retreat, and during every day of my life.  His providence rings true in my daily travels and trials.  He is God and He loves me.  Thank you Father God for NEVER leaving me nor forsaking me.  For always guiding me and answering prayers, even the tiny ones.  I love you!

Forever and for always,

Your little girl.

(By the way, you know I'm His favorite right?)  ;)