My time in Ducktown went well. This is the third or fourth time I have done this and the first time I actually drove the rental car. Normally the Leonards rent a car and I drive theirs. However, I did drive the rental from Ducktown home and the returned it this morning. I remain convinced, I no longer like to drive or even be in a car.

Suddenly I have been involved with two families with significant marital issues and indiscretions is a light word. I point to the Lord’s clear definition of marriage and the huge offense it is to violate the Lord’s commands, but then point to the Lord’s grace, in particular 1Co6:11 which I use a lot. It is a verse that gives me hope for many, including some in my own family. But there is the “some of you” aspect, and not all of you. I remain concerned, and I have not given up.

I have often mentioned that for whatever reason, my heart is in Syria. As I settled back home I watched “Enough! A Syrian Silent Film” that is at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyMeUORcwO4. It is 10 minutes, no words, but serious emotion and an optimistic end, or as termed in the film “to be continued”. While there is a strong institutional patriotic theme, which I have grown to have issues with, there is the optimism after such a serious tragedy. I have listen to interviews with many families who have been ripped apart, but often find remarkable resilience and a basking in grace. There is a massive Christian population in Syria and it is clear that they are one of the primary targets of ISIS and others. So many report of the horrors of being brutalized or watching family being killed, but still offer grace and look to the future with hope. While there are so many models like that in the Scripture, this is happening now. As with the Scripture, this model is what I want to follow, offering grace even in tragedy. I love you!