Life is always full of good and bad news. Almost everything in my life has been full of joy lately -- family life, relationships in the church, the street ministry - it is hard to imagine how good it is. It's all far better than I deserve or could even ask for.

The bad news I got today -- and it really was not a surprise -- is that my health isn't what it ought to be. My diabetes panel and blood work revealed that I am not focused enough on my sugar control and other diet/exercise factors. So I have to find a way to lower my blood sugar on a regular basis, and besides that I am anemic.

Work is a way of life that keeps me happy, and that means stress levels remain high, which is one factor in sugar level. I have to learn new habits. It will mean about an hour less work each day given to exercise. And it will mean saying "no" to many meals that are offered to us as we travel around.

So...please pray for me -- that I will have the will to change. Most of my life I have called others to change, and I do know that real change is very difficult, and it seldom happens through will and decision.

Be blessed -- may all your changes be happy ones,

charles

Thoughts 8/29/07

I am sitting in a coffee shop. I love finding these places that have free internet access. I can drink coffee and work at the same time. Given my age and upbringing, I always feel better when I am working. Today I feel truly blessed -- my granddaughters are waiting at a nearby "muffin place" for me to finish this and come. Friends and churches who care deeply about street kids are taking part with us in bringing new life to young people in desperate circumstances. I just finished an update of the Made in the Streets web site. This Sunday I have opportunity to preach at the Conejo Valley Church of Christ in Thousand Oaks, CA, and there will be an adult class presentation of the street ministry. On the 16th Darlene and I will be at Campbell, CA, where I will preach and Darlene meets with young people. We will do a class at the ACU lectures on Sept 19 and I will preach at Redwood City, CA, on the 23rd.

Last night was a full moon. Makes me think of the fulness of Christ and of life with Him.

May your life be full today.

peace and joy,

charles