Victory in Loss

Many have contacted me since our common council voted down our proposal for a homeless plan for this winter.  People who were neutral have become enraged and supportive of the efforts.  Is that a bad thing?

Our local organization which has been working on a permanent solution to the homeless problem is quickly gaining momentum and support in a community which sometimes shunned and criticized them.  Can they have hope that their next attempt to open a home for the needy will be better received?

There appears to be a level of guilt in those opposing the plan as they wonder where to send dollars to help the homeless this winter.  Can that guilt generate enough money to make a difference?

When people ask me how I feel about all my hard work being for naught, I'm ok with it.  Nothing is in vain when it's what God has called us to do.  I find myself comforting others more than I need comforting. 

What have I gained? 

• I've been given the gift of deeper faith...the faith of Elijah to call down fire from heaven.  I know it sounds crazy because I didn't get what I'd set out for, but faith in something doesn't mean it's going to turn out how I expect or hope.
• I've learned that even as I age and tire more easily...God provides strength (maybe only "enough") to do what He's asking me to do. 
• That even when it appears we've "lost" a battle, God is still in control and will come out more victorious than we ever imagine!

Thank you everyone for your support and prayers.  Just watch and see what God has planned for this. . . .