Well, at practice tonight we rehearsed some of the new background harmonies, but mainly we talked about the need to renew our individual commitments to the ministry. As is the case for anyone involved in any ministry, we must go before the Lord and seek to discern if it is His Will that we continue in this ministry. We acknowledge that all things happen in seasons and that sometimes God places people in a ministry for a period of time and then calls them to serve in another ministry. We realize that where He has placed us in the past is not always where He is leading us in the future and where we are at the present is not a reflection of where He may want us to be permanently.

Michael ended the practice by informing us that we would be taking the rest of the month of May "off" - meaning that we will not be holding Wednesday and Friday night practices. We will continue the nursing home servces on Sunday morning, but as of this moment we will not be performing anywhere the remainder of this month. We are to take this time to take care of ourselves and grow both spiritually and vocally.

After practice we went upsatirs to celebrate Scarlett's 54th birthday. Scarlett is an amazing testimony to the goodness, mercy, love and grace of God. Although her disease (MS) keeps her in bed or in a wheelchair and it limits her physical movements, Scarlett is always generous in her praise and love that she pours out to other people. She never resents the fact of what is happening to her body, but always makes sure to give God glory, honor and praise. She is always quick to tell you how much she loves you and is always ready to give you a smile.

The life-changing power of God is evident through Scarlett because she is able to give a heartfelt testimony of God's goodness to her and her life. I praise God for allowing Scarlett to be such a wonderful example of praising God through hardships and honoring Him in your current situation.