“What is really important? A Christmas opportunity.” (December 24th, 2020)
"A thrill of hope,
the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks
a new and glorious morn."
from the hymn, "O Holy Night"
Even in this pandemic life still seems very busy --- have you found the same thing true? With the needs increasing around the world (especially in Africa and at Daystar), it seems so does the work. But does this mean life has to be busy all of the time? The photo above is of my family and me a couple weeks ago visiting the lift bridge in Stillwater, MN. Here in Minnesota nice days this time of the year are rare; this was a "warm" day (above freezing).
I think one of the lessons of this pandemic is the importance of time with family. It seems we are almost forced to be more together as families, but are we really taking time to be present in the moment? This is something I have really struggled with, especially as our work is so important to so many in Kenya. The trip above was an attempt at making time to be with my family-- it only took a few hours, but it created a great memory. The photos below are from a quick fishing visit to a pond near our house-- this was with our "littles"-- in just 15 minutes each had caught seven sunfish and it took just over an hour total. Friends have reminded me that there will always be work to do but that the children grow up too fast.
Christmas gives us that pause we need to realize what is really important. Let’s take a few minutes and visit someone, call or "zoom" with a friend, go for a walk with a family member, call someone who is at home alone, or take a child fishing. If you are home alone and need someone to talk to, please call us! (after Christmas, as we are spending time with our families) If you want to ask my kids about fishing, please let me know!
Office number: 952-928-2550 (please call to chat with Liz, Mailou, Nancy, Walt or myself)
My direct number: 952-848-4209
With our Christmas blessings,
Alan (for my family and the Daystar U.S. team)
Executive Director, Daystar U.S.
