A Message to the Manna Family

​Dear Manna Family,
 
It is difficult in these days to focus on much other than the worry, concern and, ultimately, fear that seems to be plaguing so many. All of us can become preoccupied with our daily circumstances, and when it seems the media, Wall Street, and the politicians of our day have lost their way, those fears are only magnified. I know, as many of you do, how life can change in an instant and seemingly out of nowhere our world can be turned upside down. Whether it is the unexpected loss of a loved one, disease, or today’s Coronavirus crisis, life can overwhelm and even paralyze us.
 
I want to assure you again that the Manna Family is here for you. We are praying that you will know that all will be well in spite of the momentary afflictions that surround us. The Manna Family is a strong group of caring individuals, from Colorado to California to Indiana, Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming, and I want each of you to know that leadership is available, whatever your needs, even if it is just some time to sit down with you and calm your fears. Too often in the midst of the storms of life we lose sight of what we should be focusing on. Like the Apostle Peter, when Jesus asked him to get out of the boat and walk across the water to Him, we focus on the circumstances rather than keeping our eyes on Him.  
 
I have been in business since 1981 and during that time have witnessed several financial crises -- SARS , Bird Flu, H1N1, HIV/AIDS, and 9/11. And I, like some of you, have lost loved ones and sat at the bedside of ailing family members or friends. Somehow, by God’s grace, I came through it all, and you will too. Since that time, I met the most wonderful woman in the world, inherited a family and brother through marriage, had two amazing children, was blessed with a son through marriage, and formed several companies, none greater than the one I now have the privilege to lead.
 
Life has been full of mountain tops and valleys, and through it all, I would not have changed one thing because I know God has been and is in control. I have tried to live each day as though it were my last, knowing I could have been kinder, more helpful, less selfish and worried less, and praying if I woke up I would start afresh in the knowledge that God’s mercies are new each and every morning.
 
So, I encourage you today, in the midst of the fear and panic that grips so many, to find ways to help others, love more deeply, and worry less. Keep your eyes off the circumstances and remember that the Lord did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt stated in his first Inaugural Address to the nation in 1937 and in the midst of the Great Depression years, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
 
Jesus’ promise to His disciples, and to us is, “Peace I Ieave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27).  This is the peace that is capable of resisting the pressures of fear. It is the peace that allows us to be calm and caring in the midst of whatever fears there may be in the world. It is the peace we need at this time, and I pray you will know this kind of peace.
 
Thank you for your efforts each day and your dedication to honor our core value, the Golden Rule. And please don’t forget to reach out to one of us in leadership if you have any extraordinary needs at this time. If you have time over the weekend, I would ask you to click on the link below and read the articles and scripture references, as I believe they will ease your minds. God bless each and every one of you.
 
https://billygraham.org/story/confronting-fear-in-the-face-of-coronavirus/
 
In His love and His care for each of us,
 
Paul
 
Paul Saber
President/CEO Manna Development Group
1 Peter 4:8-11
Every Guest Every Time