Putting on the Armor of God

When we first arrived in Jacksonville, Gavin and I visited the library a handful of times before it closed. Yes, due to a lack of funding, the entire valley is without a library system. During one visit we saw a great exhibit which included chain mail worn during a reenactment of the battle of Hastings. The chain mail was hand-made by a local man, and we thought it would be great to visit him and learn more. I emailed him immediately, however, it took several months to connect due to schedules, weather, and having a new addition to the family.


On Saturday, along with the Thompson’s and their four boys, we were finally able to met Arild. We learned that it took 3 years of part-time work to make the chain mail so that he could participate in the October 14, 2006 reenactment in England. Arild has two boys of his own and they, too went to the reenactment. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Hastings_reenactment


We learned a lot, the kids got to duel with Arild’s boys, and we actually got to make a few of the chain mail “rings.” After we left, we went to a local Mexican restaurant in Jacksonville, as we were waiting to order in walks Arild and his family.


The next day, we decided to, once again, try out Apple Gate Christian Fellowship http://www.applegatefellowship.org/. During this time of year they have all services in an outdoor amphitheater. The entire hillside is carved into steps about 4 feet wide, and covered in lush grass. As we sat at the top of the amphitheater we looked down on baskets overflowing with flowers and nestled between trees providing a constantly changing canopy of shade. The band is located in the middle, near a rock waterfall that flows into a small shallow pond. The basic message was to seek God’s hand in everything we do, remembering not to proclaim His involvement, but humbly appreciate His help. During the service we saw several people running toward one end of the amphitheater yelling “CALL 911”. It turns out that a gentleman had a heart attack just as the service began. Thankfully, the church consists of several cardiac surgeons who were able to help him until the ambulance arrived.


During the warm months, they serve hamburgers and hotdogs after the service for $2.50 each. As we made our way down the grass steps we were stopped by Lora, Arild’s wife. We talked for several minutes and she shared more about Applegate Christian and why they have made it their church. Running into Lora and her family, yet again, reminds us of the smallness of our town.


Later at home while reflecting on the church service, Gavin comes to me and mentions that he use to not be able to get his own water glass from the cupboard, but has now figured out how to do it himself. Then he says, “But Dad, I realize that it is not just me, but God helping me figure it out. I can see God in everything I do.”


Another reminder that Gavin is always listening and thinking.