dec2001jan2002

What a year? After a "shakeup" of our nation and I'd sincerly hope, a "wake up call", we at the Helsel home trying to focus on steadily staying "on course" in our walk of faith with the Lord Jesus Christ. Maybe like you, I have had more thoughts go through my mind for words to even address of the September 11 day and thereafter. The only summary I can give is that there is nothing sure or secure in our world.

There is nothing that can give peace, hope, or strength other than found in a relationship with Jesus Christ, the risen Savior and Lord of all. Father, Son & Holy Spirt- 3 in 1. In absolute control. Awesome, holy and unfathomable to our human mind. But yet we get a glimpse of Him from His word. "In the beginning was the word. And the word was with God and the word was God" - I John 1:1-4 Throughout the OT, we see a Holy God, a God of Judgement, God of rightousness, God of mercy. With the birth of God incarnate into His Son Jesus Christ, we find GRACE. "For God so Love the world, He gave His only begotton Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life." - John 3:16

Many of us know this, but why is it that we don't seem to have victory, peace, hope or strength?
Can I answer that with another question? Do you have a relationship with the Lord? Do you KNOW Him? (If not, go back to home page and click on link "Who is Jesus & What does He have to do with me?".
If you do have a relationship... What is the status of that relationship? Spending time alone with Him (in His word)? Praying/communicating with Him? Are you really trusting Him?

For December....
Had high school teens over to decorate cookies & fellowship! Had fun. Pictures to be posted on the Calvary High school page within the month. Had offer to give us a FOLD AWAY PING PONG TABLE!!!!! As God would will, we hope to have it brought in and set up by second week of January!!!! Crystal came down for overnight. Michelle Stumbo came for overnight. Th house filled up with smoke while we went out for dinner and almost had fire that night Michelle was in. Our electric had went out. We left and I had left the stove burner on with western spareribs boiling. The ribs had turned to ashes and the teflon melted and was buring. Which is what made the wonderful "chemical smoke". We slept in the basement that night with the windows on the main floor open and freezing cold! Had opportunity to have lunch with Galye, Chris Travis and his to be bride, Andy. Had family Christmas at Doug's brother's home. Then had my family in for Christmas at our home. We had a blast with the new baby in the family- Abigail Marie (10 months) (my brother's daughter).

On December 27, our Pastor from Bethesda Baptist church, Columbus, Ohio, went into glory to be with the Lord. How missed he will be. A sad parting of those with close relationship. But how awsome to not be in this present body, but with the Lord. Another such event, I don't have the right words of adquately express my own feelings. So as said before, much change and transition in the uncertainity of this world. But yet, in view through the Lord Jesus Christ, He is in control and His hand moving in the lives of many, including our own. I do firmly believe that keeping an "Eternal perspective" on daily living sets our thoughts, priorities, words and actions in order.

January is already slated with being in charge of church nursery, hosting a bridal shower, Cedarville students overnight, going to SEARCH Lockin at Rio and also to a wedding for Daniel & Micah. Our home being used for God's glory - in training , family, investing the word, encouragement and fellowship. My prayer as I apply Titus 2:3-5 to my own life.

Looking for His return!!!!!!!