A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
-Proverbs 25:11

Heritage Community Church and Chick-Fil-A joined together to present the "Pacesetter" award at two local school campuses.  Many years ago, I was part of a team that developed this award to be able to partner with schools in an effort to encourage students and help them see the importance of making right choices.  The "Pacesetter" award was created to:

Recognize students whose character is beyond reproach, morality is unquestionable, and leadership is forthcoming.  The award also promotes those students whose lifestyle portrays honesty, courage, and dedication.  

The "Pacesetter" award is chosen by school staff and then we are given the privilege to be part of their school award ceremony and make the presentation.  This year's winners were Miss Karah Osborne of The Villages Elementary at Lady Lake and Andrew Terry at Wildwood Middle school.  Congratulations on a job well done.  We celebrate with you!  Along with a certificate, both young people recieved a $25 check as well as a book on leadership and a certificate for a milkshake party at Chick-Fil-A for the winner and 5 friends.

As Paul said, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders;  make the most of every opportunity. "  Colossians 4:5

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and in truth.  This is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in His presence.  
-1 John 3:18-19

While sitting at a table in a restaurant this week,  an older gentleman walked in and sat down at a table nearby.  I noticed him as he entered the door and watched as people gave him space to walk due to his dress and smell.  After being seated, he proceeded to order coffee and when it was delivered to the table, he fumbled around to find enough change to pay the bill.  I was captured by the activity and sensed that the Lord wanted me to pay his bill.  Immediately, I was thankful that he didn't order a steak, but there was confidence that I could afford his cup of coffee.  I caught the waiters attention and with that contact, took care of his bill..all $1.00 of it.  There was a great deal of satisfaction in helping this gentleman out.

A little later, the restaurant cleared out and I noticed the older gentleman was still sitting in the booth reading a book.  Again, I sensed the Holy Spirit nudge my heart and tell me to go sit down and talk with him. I came up with every excuse of why I didn't have time to spend but finally gave in and proceeded over to his table.  I introduced myself and with that introduction met a new friend name Joe. After our conversation, I went back to my table and thought about how many people that I come in contact with daily that are like Joe, but I fail to meet them because of my hurried lifestyle.

Father, may I be very mindful of what goes on around me and not miss opportunities that You present me daily to influence the world around me by loving people as You first loved me.