I am feeling overwhelmed this morning. Last night we received the news that my 17 year old nephew, Stephen Arnold, passed away very suddenly. He collapsed during a basketball game with some friends. At this point, we do not know any further details.

It is final examination time at the high school and common assessment testing at the middle school. I thought it would be impossibe for our younger boys to miss any claasses. I was wrong. School officials could not have been more supportive or helpful. My co-workers eagerly took on preaching duties with virtually no notice. When I let the police department know that I would need to be relieved on call chaplain status for a few days, their only concern was what they could do for us. Friends have called with offers of assistance in various ways. Everyone I have spoken with has been extremely supportive.

We have lived in Granbury for 5 years now. People have been welcoming from the first day we unpacked our bags, but it has never felt more like home than it has today. We are blessed with an indescribable church family and the best friends imaginable. I suspect that I will come home with a far more grateful spirit. There is no place like home.