Grace Explosions....

Last night, the NYPD escorted a large group of us from the Ronald McDonald house, with sirens and lights, to a waterfront location to watch the fireworks.  And even though my heart ached, missing my own little firecrackers at home, I was overcome with the kindness, the generosity and care that the NYPD showed to us all.  It was truly a special gift.

This morning, I got up early to adventure over to the West Side to meet a friend for church.  The other day, as I walked through Central Park, I had seen signs for Belvedere Castle, and I wanted to check it out (I thought my boys would love it!). Unfortunately, there were many stairs, so I couldn't get there with the stroller. Imagine my surprise when I got this beautiful view from another angle:

I went to church at Redeemer Presbyterian on the West Side.

It was beautiful and lovely, and life-giving. But the coolest part....check out the new sermon series that started this morning:

"FAITH IN AN AGE OF UNBELIEF: Elijah and Elisha."

So. Cool. 

And then, I had a fabulous brunch with my friend and her daughter, followed by walking through more of Central Park.

Sometimes, even in the difficult times there are grace explosions. Oh Lord, help me not to miss them.

So beautifully and appropriately, church ended with one of my favorite hymns:

1	“Great is Thy faithfulness,” O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
	“Great is Thy faithfulness!” “Great is Thy faithfulness!”   Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—     “Great is Thy faithfulness,” Lord, unto me!
2	Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon and stars in their courses above, Join with all nature in manifold witness To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
3	Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!