JULY 2024

Dear Kind and Gentle People,

Oh My Soul! Recently, during an early morning prayer and meditation, the blessings of the Universe became almost too intense to receive. Perhaps the giant maple leaves, baby wrens in the old wren house, gaggle of geese on the mill pond and the almost deafening sound of the bullfrogs touched this soul in the right perfect place. All time ceased and suddenly Dottie People’s “On Time God” started dancing through my head. We are so blessed to have a Holy One who takes good care of us and pours out blessings in infinite ways. Here it is for your enjoyment. Dottie Peoples - He's an on time God.

As we approach Independence Day, I hope that you will all take time to offer thanksgivings for the freedom to practice our faith openly and enjoy any music that we wish. Not all are so blessed. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released a report on May 1, 2024 highlighting the countries with the worst religious persecution in the world. This year, the countries topping USCIRF’s list of the world’s most egregious religious freedom violators were Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Burma, China, Cuba, Eritrea, India, Iran, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Vietnam.

We all have a responsibility to summon our “On Time God” with prayers of intercession for those who do not enjoy religious freedom; indeed, for all those who are oppressed and suffer for who they are and what they value. You have been given many gifts and perhaps now is the time to give back with a prayer ministry of intercession. Remember, our “On Time God” will be on time!!! Are you “On Time” with your God’s work?

Gobs of Blessings and Heaps of Happiness,

Petah

P.S. Happy Independence Day!

Photo by Jason Harris