This is the day the Lord has made, Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The Thoughtful Christian posted the title to this post on on its Facebook page this morning.  This is a list of a few of the many blessing of the the past few days.

1.  The blessing of the congregation of McKeesport Presbyterian Church, hosts to about twenty of for worship and lunch on Sunday.   I have heard the term "Rust Belt" refer to the social devastation of the decline of the steel industry, but had not seen its effects until yesterday.  It was striking to see rows of houses, two-thirds abandoned.  Most of those in the community who could afford to move away have done so.  Those who could not, remain.

The congregation is working in its  community to serve those in its community and neighborhood.  One way they hope to do so is to be part of a city demonstration neighborhood revitalization project.   Keep the region, city, neighborhood, and congregation in your prayers.   Also, if you know of likely sources of funds to assist in their capital funds drive, communicate suggestions to the church.

2.  The blessings of good Samaritans. Roger's bag with substantially all his need for nine days  in Pittsburgh fell out of the shuttle from the airport.   The bag and contents were delivered to Roger intact by Sunday.  Thanks to those who assisted Roger in the interim and to the person who found and returned the bag.

3.  The blessings of varieties of service.   I am part of the leadership team for one of the committee of the General Assembly.   I am impressed that our moderator, vice moderator, committee assistant, resource coordinator, and I bring different talents, each appropriate for the work of the committee.  Also, Edward reminded me this morning of the numbers and varieties of talents of those who serve to bring us to this spiritual and physical space and to assist us while we are here.

In addition to the varieties of the things we do, we are blessed by the varieties of who we are.  Who we  are includes the varieties of our physical abilities, our backgrounds, and spiritual experiences.   These make the diversity that is the strength of God's kingdom.

For these and many more, for all of our blessings, give thanks.