| I recently read an article about Vincent Dransfield. What drew me to this article was that Vincent just celebrated his 109th birthday. He is still very active in his community and drives his car every day. With my interest piqued, I wondered what was his secret to longevity. I expected to read that he ate a healthy diet, never smoked, exercised frequently, and did all the things suggested by physicians. To my surprise, he didn’t focus on his diet, smoked for a long portion of his life, and seldom exercised for much of his life. In the article, he actually joked about someone who frequently runs. However, there was something that stood out as his secret—He spent much of his life doing what he loved. He served in his community which brought him great joy and fulfillment. In addition, he surrounded himself with friends and family. Even at 109 he still spends much of his day staying connected with neighbors and family. The Bible has long illustrated the importance of service and fellowship. For the Christian, they are characteristics of a Gospel-Driven life. As one has received, he or she gives in ways that not only glorify God but better God’s world. Likewise, the bond of faith binds people together as one family sharing in the body of Christ. Who knows how long another will live for the odds are it won’t be 109 years. However, how we live does determine the days of our lives. It might not determine the number of days, but it definitely determines the quality of our days. Therefore, live a life of service and fellowship. Surround yourself with people you love enjoying the closeness of each other and give yourself in ways that better your world.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – Luke 6 *Tuesday – Luke 7 *Wednesday – Luke 8 *Thursday – Luke 9 *Friday – Luke 10 Prayer Requests: -Our unwillingly absent members. -Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. -Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. -Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. -Guidance for those seeking to find their way. -Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |