As August began, we were at my Mom’s and I continued helping build that deck. Most of us were sick while we were there. We were blessed in so many ways during this trip. Came back to town and was immediately hit with some issues and felt swamped pastorally, but God was faithful to focus my attention back on Him and to give me encouragement through His Word and others. Continued preaching through Ruth in AM and on God’s Word in PM. Read Radical Reformission, Whiter than Snow, and Addictions by Ed Welch. Ended up being dealt with by God in huge ways to reconsider why I eat and how I eat. This led me to strict discipline in eating during the Fall (which would result in some 53 lbs. being lost). Celebrated my 4th Anniversary with Meg. So grateful for God’s gift of her as my wife. Ended month reviewing Mark’s Gospel (chapters 1-10) in a sermon.