To quote a character from an old, old movie, "What a world, what a world, what a
world." Sue and I left home yesterday morning and got wi&in a couple of miles of
church when I realized I had left my phone at home. 40 years ago of course I left it at
home- it was hard wired into the wall. 20 years ago no problem, they will probably call
on the land line anyway. Today, immediately stop, turn around, go back and get it
before the world ends. How did it turn out-I could have left it at home.

Then there was this morning. I double checked and had my phone. When I got to
the church there were messages waiting on me that had been left on the church's
answering machine. The first from a former neighbor who had moved several times in
the last 25 years (Ken & Teresa). I figured it was just to catch up. We talked at 10:15,
Yes and No. Yes to catch up and no there was other business-could I officiate at his
little brother's memorial service in May, and have it at Belview? I can, & we can (No
meal involved on a Saturday morning.)

Cool, back to business...then, less than 30 minutes later, my phone rang again. It
was from a Funeral home. Could I officiate at a service next Wednesday morning, oh by
the way, the family has several Jewish members as well as Christian members-you
know, strike a balance. WoW two funerals in about an hour, and it's not even noon. I
started praying for the health of everyone I could think of.

30 minutes my phone rang again. It was a funeral home again. Since I was committed
for a service on Wednesday, would I be able to assist the family of a career Air Force
Officer with his graveside service on Tuesday? I knew it had been quiet lately but things
were picking up preffy quickly. I agreed to do the service. I never served in the military,
but I have & had a lot of family that has. It is an honor to make sure that his remains are
treated with respect and care, that his service and sacrifice are remembered with dignity,
and that his family are thanked and comforted.

And it still wasn't noon. I was honestly thinking of driving my phone back to my
house and leaving it there for the rest of the day-then it rang again. I hesitantly
answered it and was happy to find out that no one else had died. It was the pastor of a
church in Collinsville. He has a member who has moved into Cornerstone Village
across the street from Belview. He is unable to drive and walks with a walker, but needs
assistance crossing the street. Could we help him get to Belview. Thank you Jesus, we
got us a live one!! His name is Jim, and I believe he will be with us Sunday Morning if
we can find someone willing to drive across the street and drive him to our doors. (I'm
betting we can,-probably before you read this, but call just in case..)

So, check your phones and answer your phones, you never know who may be
calling, or why. And if you call me, I may or may not answer, but you can alwaysleave a
message. Love and blessings,

                                                     Bro. Tom and Sue