Before I was married, I had a list of things that I was used to ask God for my future husband to be. "Number One" on the list was that he would be a spiritual leader. God answered that prayer in a way that was "exceedingly, abundantly above all that I could have asked or thought." My husband is so fantastic in the area of prayer and faith and leading and I often feel that I don't deserve him. In fact, as I look around at the lack of spiritual leadership that has existed in every church we have ever served, (it's a nationwide epidemic, I believe) I feel so incredibly lucky. I know- Christians aren't supposed to use the word lucky... we are "blessed." But I use the word lucky, because it carries with it more of a feeling of surprise. I guess the "Wow Factor" is what I'm talking about here, you know what I mean? I look around at so many men who aren't leading their families much less taking any sort of real spiritual responsibility in the church, and I think "Wow! How did I "luck out" when the odds are so overwhelmingly against it?" I'm so undeserving of this kind of grace. Last night, a newer member of our congregation, Ken, was asked to speak for our evening worship service in lieu of my husband who has abandoned his wife with five children for an entire week, er, I mean, gone to a much needed time of refreshment at a pastor's conference. The thing I liked about Ken was that I could tell that he really READS HIS BIBLE. A lot. Oh, don't get me wrong, I've heard better preaching before. He didn't even have an outline-- but his love of God's Word was so apparent, and it thrilled my heart. I have to admit, I get tired of sitting at church fellowships and (only) talking about: the schools, the weather, the Chiefs, the economy. I like talking about all of those things too but there's not enough spiritual conversation going around for my appetite. I just love a man whose mind and mouth are overflowing with Scripture. So-- I feel blessed today. God has brought a man to our congregation who has a burning desire to teach the Word. Not just facilitate discussion, or take prayer requests for everyone's sick distant cousins, but really teach the Word. It's easy to take things for granted, and I wanted the record to show that I am really thankful. Thank-you, Lord.