Welcome! How did you fare during the horrible storm on November 5? I don’t think I’ve ever seen a worse lightning storm. A couple tornados touched down in our area. I know there was an EF-2 in Williamsfield, Ohio, fewer than 20 miles from Atlantic. Fierce wind snapped and uprooted trees in the Atlantic community, too. You wouldn’t believe the damage on Townline Road. It looks like a milder version of the 1985 tornado aftermath.
I’m so thankful my property didn’t sustain any damage. It’s amazing how a storm can devastate one area and bypass another, isn’t it? This reminds me that while storms rage around us, God sometimes shields us from the worst of it.
There is a lot of strife and sadness these days. Our country is deeply divided over politics. The horrible shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, sickens me. There were major upheavals in last week’s local elections. School districts are struggling. The list is endless.
Darkness and storms go hand-in-hand. It’s hard to stay positive when everything seems to be going wrong in the world around us. It’s easy to slip into a gloomy mood. So how can we prevent this? I have a few suggestions.
First, ask God to give you peace about the storms raging around you. He will.
Purposeful activity helps, too. Volunteer to work at Holy Ground Thrift Shop or Stone United Methodist Church’s soup kitchen, maybe. Rake a neighbor’s leaves. Visit someone who no longer drives or who is ill. Good deeds, especially if you’re motivated by a desire to serve God as an encourager, will lift your spirits.
Another thing that helps me tremendously is walking. Exercise and fresh air can transform my mood.
If you’re looking for something to lift your spirits, stop by Fallowfield United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 17. Ernie Couch and Revival will perform. According to their website, they play “Americana Gospel” that appeals to all ages. A love offering will be taken. I’ve heard good things about this group. I hope you will make plans to attend.
Fallowfield United Methodist is hosting its annual Fellowship Dinner on Sunday, November 19, at 6 p.m. Anyone who helped with our Crawford County Fair pie project is welcome to attend. Meat and beverages will be furnished, and the food is always delicious. Everyone brings a casserole, vegetable, or dessert. Last year we had several kinds of homemade (you guessed it) pies.
Have a wonderful week. Blessings!