My encounter with Christ daily is through my sister.  She has shown us everything. She has opened so many doors. I think the best way to encounter Christ is through the people you love most.
(age 18)

I was somewhat reprimanded at my workplace this week for being careless and inconsiderate.  After a heartfelt and honest apology and a sincere promise to change, my supervisor extended unexpected mercy, understanding, and grace to me- just a tiny glimpse of God's amazing mercy, grace, and love towards us - and the same that I should extend to others.

A class of First Communicants aged 7 and 8 was asked, "How did you encounter Christ this week?" (though prayer, scripture, an act of kindness, a peaceful, joyful, scary moment, etc) and here are some of their oh, so sweet responses:

*  My friend gave me chips at a soccer game.
* At the dinner table and at bed when we prayed I felt God. Each time I prayed he was there.
* I know he was with me when I fell face first on the cement and it hurt a lot.
* When I was scared.
* I won a soccer game. I know what the score was - it was 8 to 1-  and we gave a fist bump to the referee - it was God.
*  My encounter with Christ was when last night we watched Dolphin Tale and my family watched, too.  It was relaxing and fun.

We were driving with a van full of girls, ages 10 and under, windows rolled down, and all singing "All the People Say Amen" at the top of our lungs.  There was Christ right at the center.

My encounter with Christ today was in music and entertaining at a nursing home, including beautiful hymns.  Also in teaching children to play music and sing.

Always be helpful to people when they need support. God does not make junk. They come unglued. But God re-glues them before they leave this life. Love, care and share when one needs our support. God puts us here to do a job. When it is complete, we will leave.    - (age 81)

This week, we experienced the death of family member,  Ron, who brought a lot of laughter to our lives, and who loved finches.

All spring and summer I've been awestruck by the coneflowers in my yard as I've taken pictures of the butterflies and bees that come to feed.  For the first time today a finch sat still long enough for me to take his  picture.  When I look at the fading flowers and the bright yellow finch, I am reminded and forever grateful that with death comes new life.

Please pray for Ron and his family.