Here in Kershaw, SC the town is abuzz over the reopening of the old Haile Gold Mine. Forecasts predict it will provide about 200 permanent local jobs plus hundreds more contract positions. The final numbers are not in yet and the official opening date has not been named, but the whole situation has generated a lot of excitement in our little town. People here need work and 200 plus jobs equals hope.

There is another source of hope that is without limits. He goes by the name God. Now I know that sounds cliche, but bear with me while I make my point. All of us currently reading this blog are alive. Regardless of the mistakes you or others have made that have affected you, you are still drawing breath. That in itself is hopeful. When I look back at all the dumb things I have done and the bad choices I have made, I see it as a miracle that I am still among the living. That is cause for hope. When I am hungry I can almost always find food. That is a miracle and a reason for hope. When I am lonely I have family and friends that love me (and if you know me that really is a miracle!). I could go on and on and on with the blessings of this life that we forget because of our worry. And I am not saying it is easy to forget our cares, but we are told to “cast our cares on Him”.

So whatever gold you are digging for in your life, look around first. It may be piled up right beside you.

Have a great weekend and I hope to see you Sunday.

On the Journey with You,
Scott