March 10th, 2026

Hi Friends,

It began with an airplane flight like I haven’t experienced in years. Sharon and I were the only two in our row. Fancy headphones sat in the seat pocket in front of us, awaiting our use. Before takeoff, our flight attendant brought around a menu and took our beverage order. Our seats not only reclined but produced a footrest as well. The meal we were served (Yes, we received a meal!) was not only hot and delicious but was served with actual steel flatware and real glasses for our beverages. After claiming our baggage, the rental car agent treated us like family. The next day, two different store clerks went above and beyond the call of duty to serve us more fully. 

That same day, I made my first attempt at snorkelling. Aside from my wife taking the feet out from under me because of the undertow, and my spluttering attempts to swallow enough saltwater to lower ocean levels, I found myself within feet of a sea turtle and viewing numerous other fish as if I was Jacques Cousteau himself. Yesterday, I went to a different location and was surrounded by more varieties of tropical fish than I could count or name. I was so excited that I, once again, attempted lowering ocean levels by swallowing (when you are snorkelling, it is not wise to open your mouth to express your excitement).

Then it was off to a whale watching dinner cruise. While waiting for this to begin, I stood on the sea wall and spied 20 to 30 very large sea turtles surfacing to replenish their air supply. That was followed up with a succulent five-course dinner while we watched giant humpback whales blow and roll. We even saw a couple actually breach the surface of the ocean, revealing their remarkable size. All of this is possible because of the generosity of dear friends.

But what does this have to do with Lent? I’m glad you asked. 

Typically, we use Lent to examine ourselves. We highlight things that need changing and pray that God will bring about that change. But the bible also says, “the goodness of God leads to repentance. So, while you are taking inventory of your struggles and failures, take time to count your blessings as well. Think of how God has authored all that blessing! Let that blessing draw you back to its Source.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some snorkelling to do. I  also have a luau to attend. I have been so richly blessed and so have you. May God give us eyes to see!

Blessings!

Doug