The Neely Team

It was dark. It was loud – at times. There was lots of activity. We had to carry water from the spring. Washing dishes (of which there were not a few!) became a very interesting experience. There were nine children ages 10 and under . Eight young adults. Four adults. But most of all, there was abundant joy and enthusiasm in every heart!

Where were we and what was happening??? This last weekend, we had the joy to host the Stelzl family at our house! After their arrival on Thursday evening, we had an absolute blast getting to know this dear family better, even though we did go over 30 hours without electricity (caused by a rain storm )! We filled the precious time with playing games, talking, doing electrical work, talking, having a few picnics,  making music, talking, carrying water from the spring up to the house, enjoying delicious meals together (some of which were in the dark ), talking,  taking hundreds of pictures, talking, breathing deeply of the beautiful, crisp fall  air, fellowshipping around a bonfire, talking, and many other things. (Do you get the picture of  what we did the most of anything?? )

On Saturday morning, we left our without -electricity house and went to view the moving Vietnam Veterans Wall, which was passing  through our area at the time. How precious to see list after list of all the soldiers  that willingly gave up  home, family, and future to go to another world and fight so that we, a few generations later, could have those things that they sacrificed!! It was an excellent reminder that freedom is not free – many have fought and died for it on our behalf!

On Sunday evening, we loaded up and drove to Brasstown Bald, the highest mountain in GA, for a refreshing hike and time of fellowship around a picnic supper. When we got to the top, we were greeted by an exhilarating breeze and a clear view of the surrounding mountain ranges. At the excellent suggestion of Mrs. Stelzl, we did something we have never thought to do up there: we lifted our voices in one accord in  many a song of praise to our Creator! Songs like “How Great Thou Art,” “Amazing Grace,” “It Is Well With My Soul,” “Trust and Obey,” and many others filled the air and reminded us of the Almighty, Unchangeable, Loving God that we serve! That will stand out in the memories of all who participated for years! Thank you, Mrs. Stelzl, for  the great idea!!

After their departure, we were left with a too empty, too quiet house (though by then the lights were working again ) but we treasure the memories of all that was said and done! We praise the Lord for opportunities, like this, to be encouraged by sweet fellowship with like-minded believers!

A few weeks ago we were blessed by a visit from the Hynes family – what a joy to get to know this dear family in a deeper way! After their arrival on Friday night, we spent the evening talking, laughing, and playing some exciting games. On Saturday, after a late and scrumptious breakfast, we did a few prep things and then all loaded up and headed south – our destination: Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest mountain peak. We drove about half way up, and then enjoyed a wonderful picnic lunch. With energy restored, we began the hike. What a blessing to spend time talking, encouraging each other in the Lord, and learning more about each other while we climbed higher and higher! At last at the top, we were greeted by a gentle breeze and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. After a visit to the museum and many pictures, we descended and made our way back home.

On Sunday, the Hynes allowed us to “put them on the spot” in church, and they sang “Did You Think to Pray?” – an excellent reminder to take everything to God in prayer, knowing that He cares and will answer in His perfect timing! One particular highlight of their visit was Sunday night when the kids played Team Bible Charades! We divided into two teams and then separated to form our plans. We each decided on a Bible story to act out, dressed up, gathered props, etc., and then both teams met together for a Sword Drill to determine which team went first. After arriving at a conclusion, the first team made final preparations and then presented a thrilling, though silent, tale of Samson, when he set fire to the Philistines corn. The second team did an excellent job with the story of Hannah and her prayer for a son, and then we split up again to prepare a second round. Phase two presented the stories of Paul preaching, being stoned, and thrust out of the city, and finally we ended the night with a hilarious  show of the Philistines returning the Ark of the Covenant to Israel after God cast down their image of Dagon. The creativity that was displayed was unbelievable, and most of the stories ended  with a burst of laughter!

Suzy added many giggles to the weekend by, one night at supper, putting her  spoon up to her eye, holding it there, and then staring at all of us through it. Well, the power in influence was quickly realized, because once one or two people followed her example, almost the whole group was doing it! Absolutely hilarious!! (Maybe a little weird, too??? )

One particular blessing we received from the Hynes was their spirit of initiative. Whether is was in clearing the table, washing dishes, slicing fruit, carrying things from place to place, or Mr. Hynes decision to help us out tremendously by weed-eating our creek banks, there was always many willing hands extended to help share the load, which did indeed make light work!

Thank you, Hynes family! May God bless you as you continue to live for Him and shine His light to the world!