Well, it is hard to believe that 18 years ago the first issue of  Cornerstone Connection went on the racks all over Central Florida. We are so thankful to God to be able to celebrate another year. We are especially thankful to survive this past year. What a ride; not only did we suffer one of the toughest economies I have ever experienced in my lifetime, but I personally suffered with  pneumonia for five months. Yet, our God, as always, is faithful through all our circumstances and we are growing, as you will notice in the next few months. Many changes are taking place, as we birth a new look and a new season to be a light in our community. We hope to inspire all to join as a family to help support one another, as we regain our strength and momentum through our circumstances. It is through difficult times like these that we grow and learn to put our faith in God and not our own capabilities. He is the only sure foundation. And He provides for all our needs. As we celebrate this 18th year, we consider our Greatest Gift of all is our Lord Jesus Christ. His love abounds and supercedes anything or anyone this world can offer.

We are beginning to spotlight our clients with feature stories each month to help you get to know them a little better. Without them, you would not be reading this now. Please go out of your way to support our advertisers. When you support them, you support us.

By this time next month, we will have a virtual Cornerstone Connection magazine on our website for you to flip through and enjoy at your leisure, for the times you forget to pick it up at your local church, business, or restaurants.

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine brought to my attention a scripture in Malachi 3:9- You are cursed with a curse for you have robbed Me, even this whole nation1. Most of us associate this with tithes and offerings, but the very moment she read this scripture, I felt God inspired me to consider not only the tithe, but most of us rob Him of the use of our vessel, either by being too busy or not taking care of our bodies properly, making them short circuit. A few days later, another God moment occurred. During my devotion, the Lord inspired me to consider this vessel He created and its purpose. So many times we think and ask,  “What do you want me to do Lord; what is your purpose for this vessel?” We think we need to be a minister or missionary or author, which are all great positions, but suddenly it seemed so clear all He wants to do is find pure, healthy, willing vessels He can love others through. How does God love us and help us through difficult times, but through one another. The word of God is the Greatest book on love and the basis of its foundation. Love your neighbor as yourself. If we are running so hard and heavy and abusing our bodies, that doesn’t really show much love for ourselves, and it seems to be the main component from His Word to be able to love others.

In closing, I felt as though He illustrated this message without my making a conscious effort. But still feeling pensive of the depth of the message, I went to my local grocers, and when I went through the line, the cashier said, “ How are you today?” And instead of talking on my iPhone and rushing through the line, I looked her in the eyes and said, “Great, and you look so pretty today. Those earrings match your top beautifully.” She lit up like it had been awhile since she had heard a compliment or encouraging word.

Then, as I went through the double doors, this sweet old woman was sitting on a bench looking a little forlorn.  I told her how beautiful she looked in that yellow blouse, and her face lit up.

I felt the Lord say, “This is what I want to do through your vessel.” Something so simple as this to love one another. It occurred to me there are people in this world that walk this message out, like Mark and Linda Derringer of Bob Heinmiller Air Conditioning. They have been nothing but a constant support and encouragement since they started advertising with us eight years ago. They get how to be a vessel for God’s love. Thank you for your undying support of this magazine. You have been a great example of how God loves us through others if we let him.

Let’s consider all we have to be thankful for this year and start taking care of our vessels that we may go about our Father’s business.

Love and Appreciation,
LuAnne Anderson
Publisher