The Great Banquet of Southwest Florida # 20

Everyone knows that a butterfly is beautiful, but what it takes for the butterfly to get through that "ugly" caterpillar stage is forgotten when you see the beautiful result of the metamorphosis. An example of what Jesus has done for all of us by His grace.

Transformation is only one word I would use to describe the experience. This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend the Great Banquet of SW Florida # 20. The event  was indescribable - or rather, the multitude of words I used to describe it were incomplete. The picture tells the story.

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Jeanne pointed out this monarch butterfly when she saw me photographing this rose that had popped up overnight in the garden outside the Great Room at the First Presbyterian Church in Bonita Springs where the Banquet was held. I experienced great love and was honored by many friends and family - old and new. Heartfelt thanks to the organizers of this wonderful event that was such a blessing to me.

Early this morning I spent a lot of time listing all the people's names that I could think of to thank them for honoring me in such a beautiful way. I did not want to forget anyone, but wanted to include those who have supported me over all these years. So then I asked the Lord if I should risk putting in individual names and perhaps offend those I might forget to list. He said to just give thanks to Him in the name of Jesus. I could have saved myself a lot of time if I had just asked Him first. Still, it was a joy to think of all those who have helped me to get to where I am.

So, I have shortened the list. Thank you to all my friends and family and to all those who have participated in any way in my life transformation from the "one who did not know the love of God" stated on the "Bio" page to this new butterfly stage. It would not be possible for me to be at this stage without the support of EVERYONE who has stood with me through trials of every kind throughout the years. This is my opportunity to say THANK YOU to every person who has EVER been there fore me, and for those who have purchased or given a Tabernacle for a Shadow Book. I love you because He first loved me. I pray that I am the reflection of Him that He has called me to be. Praise and Glory to God, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Creator of everything beautiful in the world - especially people.

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1Thessalonians 5:18

 You may want to read about the banquet in Luke 14:15-24

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