A DAY OF REFLECTION (THE EASTER MESSAGE)

 

 To many throughout the world today, this is a special week. Because this is Holy Week. Holy Week is the name given to the week beginning on Palm Sunday and ending on Easter Sunday.

During this Holy Week around the earth, many churches have streamed their Good Friday services, and will stream their Easter Sunday Service. This is the time to reflect on the long day of shame, torture, and crucifixion of Jesus on the cross of which we call Good Friday.

This is the time to reflect on when the last rays of the setting sun on Friday ushered in the Sabbath. This is the time to reflect on the way the Son of God lay in quietude in Joseph's tomb. His work completed, and His hands folded in peace.

This is the time to reflect and ask the question, why did Jesus rest from His work of redemption? Though He rested through the sacred hours of the Sabbath day, “there was grief among those who loved Him on earth, yet there was joy in heaven. Glorious to the eyes of heavenly beings was the promise of the future... With this scene the day upon which Jesus rested is forever linked. For “his work is perfect” (Deuteronomy 32:4); and “whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever” (Ecclesiastes 3:14). When there shall be a “restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began” (Acts 3:21), the creation Sabbath, the day on which Jesus lay at rest in Joseph's tomb, will still be a day of rest and rejoicing. Heaven and earth will unite in praise, as “from one sabbath to another” (Isaiah 66:23), and the nations of the saved shall bow in joyful worship to God and the Lamb.”

This is also a time to reflect on the day, the first day of the week, when a mighty angel with exceeding great glory descended from the heavens to the earthly sepulchre or burial place where Jesus body was.

This is a day to reflect on how he lay hold on the sealed stone, and removing it like a pebble. This is the week to take time to reflect on how the mighty angel, with a voice that caused the earth to quake, was heard to say, “Jesus, Thou Son of God, Thy Father calls Thee.” Then He who had earned the power to conquer death and the grave came forth, and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.”

In all of our reflections on this today, let us find time to go to a service in person, or an online service if that is the best you can do, and praise the Lord for sending us His son. Happy Easter weekend to you and your family. Blessings, Blessings, Blessings

By GARDEN MINISTRY – Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

THE PALM SUNDAY DRIVE AND WALK

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons, (and daughters) of God. Romans 8:14. 

 

If you live in Bermuda around this time of the year. You can join and be a part of many activities, like the Bermuda National Trust Palm Sunday walk. 

Instead of walking with the Palm Sunday walkers. I spent the morning picking vegetables, and then with my wife, driving and walking a little through five parishes in Bermuda, giving away vegetables for free to everyone the Holy Spirit put in our heart to call or stop too.

 

We are so thankful that God held back the rain for us to go out, and come back without getting wet. This was a great day to reflect upon the entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem, many years ago.

 

The word of God reminds us, “Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.” Zechariah 9:9. For many years, people have asked the question, why did Jesus ride on the donkey, and not something more fancier?

 

Inspiration tells us, “Christ was following the Jewish custom for a royal entry. The animal on which He rode was that ridden by the kings of Israel, and prophecy had foretold that thus the Messiah should come to His kingdom. No sooner was He seated upon the colt than a loud shout of triumph rent the air. The multitude hailed Him as Messiah, their King. 

 

Jesus now accepted the homage which He had never before permitted, and the disciples received this as proof that their glad hopes were to be realized by seeing Him established on the throne. The multitude were convinced that the hour of their emancipation was at hand. 

 

In imagination they saw the Roman armies driven from Jerusalem, and Israel once more an independent nation. All were happy and excited; the people vied with one another in paying Him homage. They could not display outward pomp and splendor, but they gave Him the worship of happy hearts. They were unable to present Him with costly gifts, but they spread their outer garments as a carpet in His path, and they also strewed the leafy branches of the olive and the palm in the way. They could lead the triumphal procession with no royal standards, but they cut down the spreading palm boughs, Nature’s emblem of victory, and waved them aloft with loud acclamations and hosannas.

 

As they proceeded, the multitude was continually increased by those who had heard of the coming of Jesus and hastened to join the procession. . . . They had all heard of Jesus, and expected Him to go to Jerusalem; but they knew that He had heretofore discouraged all effort to place Him on the throne, and they were greatly astonished to learn that this was He. They wondered what could have wrought this change in Him who had declared that His kingdom was not of this world. . . .

 

Never before in His earthly life had Jesus permitted such a demonstration. He clearly foresaw the result. It would bring Him to the cross. . . . It was necessary, then, that the eyes of all people should now be directed to Him; the events which preceded His great sacrifice must be such as to call attention to the sacrifice itself. After such a demonstration as that attending His entry into Jerusalem, all eyes would follow His rapid progress to the final scene.” Which would be the cross! As you go through the remainder of this day, let us remember as Jesus prepared to give his life a ransom on the cross, let us be willing to give, than to receive.

 

By GARDEN MINISTRY - Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci 

THE BENEFITS OF SEAMOSS AND THE BIBLE

 

THE BENEFITS OF SEAMOSS AND THE BIBLE

 

Today’s devotional is a little long. It is dedicated to those who have gone through something, those who are going through something, and those who are about to go through something. Remember, your test will be your testimony.

If you would like to go on a new venture of better health. I encourage you to start adding Sea Moss or Irish Sea Moss to your diet. 

Doctors are saying sea moss is one of the most effective natural remedies to give your bones all the essential nutrients so they get healthy and stay healthy and strong.

This wonderful herb from the sea has many other health benefits that can help you. I found out that you can obtain it from the Caribbean Market Cousins Shop On Court St. or you may find it at a market near you. 

Although I am not a professional at making sea moss yet. I will try, and try some more. 

 

Look at the top ten benefits of sea moss. By Bhupesh Panchal. Note, there are much more benefits that are not listed.

“Often claimed to be a brand-new superfood, there are some possible health benefits to adding sea moss to your diet. However, before you start taking sea moss in any form, it's important that you check with your GP to make sure it is safe for you to do so. 

Here are the top 10 potential benefits of sea moss:

1.   It might support your digestive function

Sea moss is a good source of live bacteria and fibre, which are known to support gut health.

2.  It could support your thyroid 

Sea moss contains iodine, which is good for your thyroid and potentially provides support for weight loss. However, if you're already taking medication to support your lack of iodine it's probably worth researching this further.

3.  It could give you more energy

Sea moss contains iron, which is a great way to support your energy levels. A lack of iron can make you feel tired and lethargic.

4.  It could help to nourish your skin

Sea moss contains magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin K, and omega-3 fatty acids that hydrate and support healthy skin cell function.

5.  It could support your immuity

While there's no specific human study, one study into salmon suggested that sea moss can help build the body’s immune response.

6.  It's thought to help support your mood

Sea moss has about two times more potassium than an average-sized banana. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps to support mental and emotional health.

7.   It could support your heart health

Some studies suggest that sea moss can lower cholesterol and help thin the blood. However, this isn't proven and requires more human research.

8.  It may help manage your blood sugar

One study into seaweeds, like sea moss, found the compound fucoxanthin, which is thought to normalise high blood sugar levels.

9.  It’s believed to be an aphrodisiac

Caribbean natives have been using sea moss as a natural aphrodisiac for many years. Its high zinc content is thought to increase sex hormones that play a key role in libido levels.

10.                 It could support your overall health and wellness

Sea moss is a powerful superfood that is full of minerals and nutrients that can help your body run healthy.

However, it’s worth remembering that there isn’t a lot of research around the benefits of sea moss, and it can’t provide all the nutrients you need. Stick to a healthy and balanced diet and use sea moss as a supplement if you want to.

Summary:

There are many claims to the health benefits of sea moss, but my word to all is, try it and see what benefits you receive. 

 

Like sea moss, the Bible has many benefits for those who are seeking help and comfort in dealing with tough questions..

The Bible says:

God can help is in the midst of our storms. - Psalms 107:28-30, NKJV. “Then they cry out to the LORD in their trouble, And He brings them out of their distresses.  He calms the storm, So that its waves are still.”

Wait in trust when things are not going right; God will help you. - Psalms 33:20, NKJV. “Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield.”

We can look to God for deliverance from our enemies. - Psalms 37:39-40, NKJV. “But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.”

God is the help of those who are in need. - Psalms 40:17, NKJV. “But I am poor and needy; Yet the LORD thinks upon me. You are my help and my deliverer; Do not delay, O my God.”

No matter the circumstances in life, you can still have hope and praise God. -Psalms 42:11, NKJV. “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God."

God will help those that seek Him and keeps them close to Himself. -Psalms 63:7-8, NKJV. “Because You have been my help, therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. My soul follows close behind You; Your right hand upholds me.”

God hears your cries and is ready to help if you call. - Psalms 72:12, NKJV. “For He will deliver the needy when he cries, the poor also, and him who has no helper.”

God is your defense. - Psalms 94:16-19, NKJV. “Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence. If I say, “My foot slips,” Your mercy, O LORD, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.”

Sometimes we must look higher for help, than what any person can help us with. - Psalms 108:12-13, NKJV. “Give us help from trouble, for the help of man is useless. Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He who shall tread down our enemies”

We can find hope in God’s Word. - Psalms 119:147, NKJV. “I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help; I hope in Your word.”

We can trust God in His justice and mercy to help us at all times. - Psalms 146:5-7, NKJV. “Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever, Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners.

What is God’s promises about money, finances, prosperity, employment, and filling your needs? - Psalms 34:9-10, NKJV. "Oh, fear the Lord, you, His saints! there is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.”

God will take care of your day-to-day needs. - Matthew 6:31-34, NKJV. “Therefore, do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

All of our needs will be supplied. - Philippians 4:19, NKJV. "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

God does not hold back anything that is for our benefit or good. Psalm 84:11, TLB. "For Jehovah God is our Light and our Protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will He withhold from those who walk along his paths."

 

 

God is our strength. - “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

What is God’s promise to hold your hand at all times. - Isaiah 41:11, NKJV. “For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’”

What have we to fear? - Hebrews 13:6, NKJV. “So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’”

Afraid – Psalm 34:4; Matthew 10:28; 2 Timothy 1:7; Hebrew 13:5-6

Anger
Proverbs 15.1; Matthew 5.21-26, 6:19-34; 43-48;
Ephesians 4.26,27,31,32; James 1.19-21;

Anxiety/Worry
Psalm 25; Psalm 46; Luke 12.22-31; John 14.1-7; 1 Peter 5.7; 1 John 4.13-18; 1 Peter 5:6-7

Confusion
Psalm 37; Ephesians 4.14; Colossians 2.8; 2 Thessalonians 2.1-17;
1 John 2.3-6; 1 John 4.1-3; Jude 3,4, 17-25

Depression
Psalm 16; Psalm 130; Lamentations 3.18-24;
Romans 3.21-26; Romans 5.1-11; Romans 8.31-39;
Ephesians 3.14-21; Hebrews 4.16

Disappointment
Psalm 55; Jeremiah 15.10-21; Matthew 5.1-12

Discouragement
Psalms 42;6-11, 43, 55:22; 62;
2 Corinthians 1.3,4; 2 Corinthians 4.1—5.10;
Philippians 3.12-16; Philippians 4.10-13

Doubt
Psalm 8; Psalm 146; Proverbs 30.5;
Mark 4.35-41; John 14.8-14; John 20.24-29; James 1.5-8

Fear
Psalm 27; Psalm 46; Luke 12.4-7; John 6.16-21

Frustration
Job 36.1-33; Matthew 7.7-11

Jealousy
Exodus 20.17; Proverbs 23.17; Proverbs 27.4;
Romans 13.11-14; 1 Corinthians 3.1-3; James 3.13-18

Loneliness
Psalm 22; John 10.14-16, 27-30; John 14.15-21

Procrastination
Proverbs 18.9; Proverbs 21.25,26; Matthew 25.1-13; Titus 3.14

Rejection
Psalm 38; Isaiah 52.13—53.12;
Matthew 9.9-13; John 15.18—16.4;
Ephesians 1.3-14; 1 Peter 2.4-10

Revenge
Leviticus 19.17,18; Isaiah 25.1-5;
Matthew 5.38-42; Romans 12.17-21

Sadness
Psalm 34; John 16.16-24; 2 Corinthians 1.3-6

Stress
Numbers 6.24-26; John 14.27; 1 Corinthians 1.3;
Philippians 4.8,9; Colossians 3.1-4, 15

Weariness
Isaiah 35; Isaiah 40.28-31; Matthew 11.28-30

Dealing with tough situations

Addiction/Substance Abuse
Psalm 40.1-5, 11-17; Psalm 116.1-7; Proverbs 20.1; Proverbs 23.19-21, 29-35;
Luke 15.11-32; Romans 7.18-25; Ephesians 4.22-24; Hebrews 12.1-3

What are some of God’s promises to all at the Death of a Loved One?
Psalm 23; John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15.20-24; 51-58
1 Thessalonians 4.13-18; Revelation 21:1-4

Gossip
Proverbs 10.18,19; Proverbs 11.13; Proverbs 16.28; Proverbs 18.8; Proverbs 20.19; Proverbs 26.20-22;
Matthew 15.10-20; James 3.1-12

Peer Pressure
Proverbs 1.8-19; Romans 12.1,2; Ephesians 5.1-20; 1 Timothy 4.12

Temptation
Proverbs 1.8-19; Matthew 4.1-11; Matthew 6.13; Ephesians 6.10-17;
1 Timothy 6.6-10; 2 Timothy 2.22-24; Hebrews 4.14-16;
James 1.13-15; 1 John 2.15-17

Courage
Joshua 1.1-9; Philippians 1.28-30; 1 Thessalonians 2.1-4; 2 Timothy 1.7

Faith
Deuteronomy 4.1-14; Matthew 15.21-28; Romans 10.5-13;
Colossians 2.6,7; Hebrews 10.35-39; Hebrews 11.1-3; James 1.12

Forgiveness
Psalms 32, 51, 103; Proverbs 28.13; Micah 7.18-20;
Matthew 6.14,15; Matthew 18.21-35; Ephesians 4.32; Philemon

Friendship
1 Samuel 18.1-4; Proverbs 17.17; Proverbs 24.26; Proverbs 27.6;
Romans 16.1-16; Philippians 2.19-30; 1 John 2.7-11

Generosity
Deuteronomy 15.1-11; Proverbs 11.25; Proverbs 22.9;
Matthew 6.1-4; Luke 21.1-4; Acts 2.43-47;
Acts 4.32-37; 2 Corinthians 8.1-15; 2 Corinthians 9.1-15

Gratitude
Psalms 96, 98, 100, 107, 111; Luke 17.11-19;
Ephesians 5.19, 20; Philippians 4.6; Colossians 3.16,17

Happiness
Psalms 1, 30, 84; Galatians 5.22-26; Philippians 4.4

Honesty
Exodus 20.16; Deuteronomy 16.18-20; Deuteronomy 25.13-16;
Proverbs 10.9; Proverbs 28.18; Ephesians 4.15,16,25

Hope
Jeremiah 29.11-13; Psalm 33; Psalm 119.114;
Romans 15.4,13; 2 Thessalonians 2.16,17;
Hebrews 6.18b-20; 1 Peter 1:3-7

Kindness
2 Samuel 9.1-13; Matthew 7.12; Matthew 25.31-46; 1 Peter 3.8-12

Patience
Proverbs 15.18; Proverbs 25.15; Proverbs 29.11; Ecclesiastes 7.8;
2 Thessalonians 1.3-5; James 5.7-11; 2 Peter 3.8,9

Persistence
Genesis 18.16-33; Numbers 14.11-25; Luke 18.1-8

Serenity/Peace
Psalm 85; Isaiah 2.1-5; Isaiah 11.1-9

 

Summary:

“There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than a study of the Bible. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's Word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, that is rarely seen in these times.

No knowledge is so firm, so consistent, so far-reaching, as that obtained from a study of the Word of God. If there were not another book in the wide world, the Word of God, lived out through the grace of Christ, would make man perfect in this world, with a character fitted for the future, immortal life. Those who study the Word, taking it in faith as the truth, and receiving it into the character, will be complete in Him who is all and in all. Thank God for the possibilities set before humanity....

The time devoted to a study of God's Word and to prayer will bring a hundredfold in return.

The Word of God is the living seed, and as this seed is sown in the mind, the human agent must give diligent care to the successive stages of its growth. How is this to be done? After the Word has been prayerfully received, it is to be cherished, and practiced in the daily life. It is to spring up and bear fruit, putting forth first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear.

It is not enough to study the Bible as other books are studied. In order for it to be understood savingly, the Holy Spirit must move on the heart of the searcher. The same Spirit that inspired the Word must inspire the reader of the Word. Then will be heard the voice of heaven. “Thy Word, O God, is truth” will be the language of the soul.

The mere reading of the Word will not accomplish the result designed of Heaven; it must be studied, and cherished in the heart. The knowledge of God is not gained without mental effort. We should diligently study the Bible, asking God for the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may understand His Word. We should take one verse, and concentrate the mind on the task of ascertaining the thought which God has put in that verse for us. We should dwell on the thought till it becomes our own, and we know “what saith the Lord.” ...

The Word of God is the bread of life. Those who eat and digest this Word, making it a part of every action and of every attribute of character, grow strong in the strength of God. It gives immortal vigor to the soul, perfecting the experience and bringing joys that will abide forever.”

As you go through your day, remember, “Whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4.  

By GARDEN MINISTRY – Chaplain Kevin J.T Santucci

 

 

 

COURAGEOUS

 

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6.
 
As I got up about 3:00 am. this morning to reflect on the goodness of God. The spirit of God said, "Go back in your bed." As the time went on, I heard a loud pitch noise like a scream flying overhead. 
 
As I got up for the second time, about 5:00 am. A message from a good brother who lives in England was on my phone. It said, "Be courageous in Jesus, His grace is sufficient, and His love is eternal." As I finished reading these words. The spirit of God said to me, "Tell my people that they must stop worrying about tomorrow." Because, "Christ has given us no promise of help in bearing today the burdens of tomorrow. He has said, “My grace is sufficient for thee”; but, like the manna given in the wilderness, Exodus 16, His grace is bestowed daily for the day's need. 
 
Like the hosts of Israel in their pilgrim life, we may find morning by morning the bread of heaven for the day's supply. But in order for it to be of any use to anyone, you must eat it for yourself.”
 
My friends, “Success in any line demands a definite aim. He who would achieve true success in life must keep steadily in view the aim worthy of his endeavor. Such an aim is set before all today. But in order for us to be successful, old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong will have to be given up. If we will strive for the mastery, we must be ever on guard, and strive in God’s strength for victory.
 
In Proverbs 16:3, we are told to "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. In Proverbs 16:9, the theme of committing our plans to God is repeated, "The heart of man’s plans and his ways are established by the Lord’s steps. Thirdly, if you are seeking success for your plans, in Proverbs 15:22, it says, "Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed."
 
As you go through your day, remember, "One day alone is ours, and during this day, we are to live for God. For this one day, we are to place in the hand of Christ, in solemn service, all our purposes and plans, casting all our care upon Him, for He careth for us. “I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil.” As you prepare for a weekend of worship, family, reflection, and good old fashion fun in your community. Be courageous in the LORD, and know that His grace is sufficient and His love is eternal.
 
Have a HAPPY DAY! Blessings, Blessings, Blessings 
By GARDEN MINISTRY - Chaplain Kevin J.T Santucci 

 

THERE IS SUNSHINE IN MY SOUL TODAY

Good morning, family, friends,  and colleagues. Today, we have so much to thank God for that we can't keep it to ourselves. 

It is a known fact that pure air, good water, sunshine, and the beautiful surroundings of nature are God's means for restoring the sick to health.

The Bible reminds us in Psalm 121:1–2, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth." The word for help in Hebrew is found in Genesis 2:18-20 as a description for the first woman, who was created to be the helper of the first man. 

The Lord will be our helper in all things,  and at all times. He does not abandon His children. He promises to come and assist us as a helper through the difficulties of life's journey.

I pray that through His grace, we shall all learn to cultivate love, to educate ourselves to speak kindly and tenderly to one another. Through His grace, our cold, harsh manners can be transformed so we can be there for one another. 

Through His love, the law of kindness will be upon our lips, and those who are under the precious influences of the Holy Spirit, will not feel that it is an evidence of weakness to weep with those who weep, nor to rejoice with them that rejoice. 

We live in a world of hurting people who themselves at times hurt people. Today is our day to break this downward spiral and look up. 

Let us ask Jehovah to help us cultivate a heavenly excellence of character. Through the new birth experience, which is a spiritual rebirth, "or a regeneration of the human spirit. We can learn what it means to have good-will toward all men, a sincere desire to be as sunshine and not as a shadow in the lives of others.

Today, let us seize every opportunity to contribute to the happiness of those around us, sharing with them our affection. Let us ask the Lord to help us share loads of kindness, looks of sympathy, and expressions of appreciation. 

If we do this, we would be to many a struggling lonely person, an oasis in a desert with fresh water and dates to refresh their soul. May God bless us all to this end today. 

Song of the day: "There is Sunshine in My Soul Today - By The Tabernacle Choir."

https://youtu.be/WPuLP6KFvFA?si=5nWQMngsUpUWMtT0 

Have a Happy Day. Blessings, Blessings, Blessings 

By GARDEN MINISTRY - Chaplain Kevin J.T Santucci

Bermuda Launches 2024 Parish Garden Competition: Cultivating Health and Self-Sustainability

Phone number is 441-278-6469

Hello Family and Friends,

Oscar Wilde once said, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” This quote was stated so all can explore the idea that, in business and charity, there is too much of a focus on the intentions rather than the solutions.

Click on for news on the Parish Garden Competition: https://bnnbreaking.com/world/bermuda/bermuda-launches-2024-parish-garden-competition-cultivating-health-and-self-sustainability 

 

Today, I am taking this moment to pause, and thank GOD for giving me wisdom and strength to minister and work with so many great people across Bermuda and the world. Ever since 1996, God has blessed me to be able to give back for free to areas in Bermuda, and the world. These past 26 years have been so rewarding that words cannot express the feelings of my heart. One other great thing I have learned is, my family have not saved a lot of money in this life, but we have saved a lot of heartaches for many. With that said, we are a pretty rich family.

 

Today, I am also thankful to GOD for so many other people who give freely of their best to encourage and strengthen our country or another country. This is a great day to give thanks and celebrate all the wonderful volunteers in our country and the world.   

“Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…. You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” By Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

In a special way, I thank GOD for the volunteers of the GROW, EAT, AND SAVE GARDENING PROGRAM, AND THOSE FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH, THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS, THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES, AND THE MINISTER OF HEALTH IN BERMUDA, MRS. KIM WILSON, who go the extra mile in making a great contribution in sacrificing time, energy, knowledge, and wisdom to work where they can to strengthen and support Bermuda. 

  

“You can study government and politics in school, but the best way to really understand the process is to volunteer your time.” By Rob McKenna

 

It was said by Albert Schweitzer, "Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don’t live in the world all of your own.”

 

People have asked for years, “Chaplain, where do you find the time?” The truth is, I do not necessarily have the time; I have the heart.

 

If we are going to make it in this world, we must move from the spirit of making a living by what we get, to making a life by what we give.

 

Lastly, special thanks going out to my wife and family, for supporting the vision God has given me to help the people of Bermuda with others.

 

Let us all remember, “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” By Author Unknown

 

Today let us take a moment to celebrate all persons who are freely giving of their time, and money weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly to help someone. 

 

It is my prayer that one day, there would be more people walking the talk, of helping their community for free for two or more hours a week. If you volunteer in any area of life, keep up the great work you are doing. Blessings, Blessings, Blessing.

 

By GARDEN MINISTRY - Chaplain Dr. Kevin J.T Santucci