Are we FIRST RESPONDERS?

 

We live in a 60+ community. It isn’t uncommon for there to be first responders seen here.  Oftentimes, there are firemen and paramedics onsite because someone has a severe issue. Thank God for first responders!

A First Responder are professionals who are likely to be among the first people to arrive and assist at the scene of an emergency, such as an accident, natural disaster, or terrorist attack. THANK YOU, First Responders, for your service, commitment and dedication to others.

Perhaps your heart is so big that you too, could be considered a First Responder because of your willingness to run toward a need instead of running away from it. I've been around many First Responders in my lifetime.

I've witnessed big-hearted people who are First Responders. They put aside their agendas to serve and help someone in need.  For example, a precious couple at our church, with their own two young children, have stepped up to care for a friend’s two young children while the mom is being rehabilitated. 

As beautiful as that is – I’ve watched how others have stepped up to help them with food, provide a team to come in and clean their home. 

 And, while I've seen others be the recipients of the care and love of First Responders, I, too, embraced the times when beloved friends went to immediate prayer, brought over meals that showed, "We care", those who called and said "What can I do to help?"

There were First Responders who offered advice to me during critical times.  There were those who mowed our lawn or cleaned our home.  There were those who sent cards and words of encouragement.  

No doubt, we are blessed with professional First Responders who daily risk their lives for others.  In a "self-serving" and "what's-in-it-for-me?" world, how commendable and encouraging it is to see there are those out there who do put others first.

They are like the Good Samaritan who stopped to help a beaten man, put him on his donkey, took him for medical care, and even paid his entire bill. (Luke 10:25-37). That was the response after Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as you love yourself."

The question for us to answer is: “Who are our neighbors?”  It shouldn’t matter if we are diverse in our religious, ethical, and political persuasions.  Like my friend who opens her doors to whosoever may come, shouldn’t we all be FIRST RESPONDERS – just like our Heavenly Father? 

“Call on Me and I will answer you!”  Psalm 91:15

The Gift of Love

 

Aw, the Thanksgiving and Christmas season is fast upon us! It's getting close to the time for baking marathons, endless lists, gift wrapping that could rival the elves, and the annual budget “discussion” over what gifts we can actually afford to give.

If you’re anything like me, there’s joy in giving, but let’s be real: the last thing we want is the gift of debt tagging along into the new year!

This time of the year, I get googly feelings in my tummy as I face the same conundrum. I want to shower my family with love, find something meaningful, and avoid feeling like Scrooge while doing it. And yet, sometimes I wonder if the best gifts can’t be wrapped or boxed up at all.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the gifts that mean the most are often the ones that cost the least. And when we let go of the perfect gift pressure, peace and joy find their way back into our hearts.

So here’s what I’ve been thinking. Maybe this year, the best gift is time. Instead of stressing over shiny objects, what if we give the gift of undivided attention, a heartfelt letter, a homemade dinner, or a long-awaited family game night?

For those who need to laugh, a handwritten card filled with favorite memories can be priceless. And for loved ones with hearts aching for hope, how about a prayer written down, a reminder of God’s faithfulness?

Let’s take a deep breath together this season. Maybe we won’t have Pinterest-perfect gifts or the grandest holiday spread, but what if we focus on making memories, not just purchases? What if we find joy in the simple things—a cup of hot cocoa, a warm hug, a good laugh around the dinner table?

So here’s to celebrating with our whole hearts and a peace that no price tag can buy. May we remember that love doesn’t need ribbons and bows—it just needs us to be present, in the truest sense.

And let’s hold on to this: the gift of God’s love, which brings us peace and joy, never needs to be earned or bought. Now that’s a gift worth celebrating.

You Matter!

Some things just don't change.....but wouldn't it be great if they did? The first two kids, Cain and Abel, born from the first two parents, Adam and Eve, couldn't get along. In fact, their sibling rivalry led to the death of Abel.

Fast forward to the dad, Jacob, and Joseph, his son (his favorite son -- okay, that's already screaming "TROUBLE"). Why would a dad ever favor one of his kids over the other? But he did, and young Joseph became the target of his 10 brothers -- to not just bully him but to kill him. Fortunately, their evil plot was thwarted.

Obviously, people’s issues -- judging, bullying, gossiping, jealousy, arguing, etc. have been a part of humanity from the beginning. It's unfortunate what all those "issues" do to people. That's why it's so important that we go to a higher level -- a place of love, care, and compassion for each other.

Jesus said, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Luke 6:31. And He reiterated, in John 13:34, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other."

Maybe you're the one who is being judged and bullied or lied about. Maybe you feel like no one really cares about you and you think that you don't really matter. Here's the truth about MATTER:. YOU ARE LOVED! Don't let people get inside your head to make you think otherwise.

You are loved. You are a one-of-a-kind original and no matter what you think and what others say about you, God loves you so much and you are His masterpiece. He sent His one and only Son to pay the ultimate price for YOU. That's TRUE LOVE! He took the high road. It's time for us to take the high road, too.

The psalmist says that God formed us with great care. It's the picture of a potter expertly crafting his art at the potter's wheel. You and I were formed by the Creator for a purpose. He formed us and filled us with unique gifts and talents.

God filled our lives with a supernatural destiny. Never should we believe that we were overlooked or forgotten by God. Destiny and purpose was given to all of us.

We really do matter! So don’t even think about giving up! WE ARE LOVED. Now, let’s get out there and own our places on this earth, at this time, to stand out and be the best we can possibly be!

Singing Our Faith

My mama had a way of getting through the toughest days -- she sang her faith. Whether she was caring for my sick daddy or guiding me, her songs were like prayers set to melody. They carried her through sleepless nights and busy days, reminding me that singing is one of the purest ways to connect with God.

The Bible has much to say about singing. Psalm 147:7 urges us to “Sing out your thanks to Him; sing praises to our God.” Few things bring us into God’s presence more quickly than lifting our voices in praise.

And here’s the beauty of it: we don’t have to be a Grammy-winning vocalists. The Bible doesn’t demand perfection, just joy! Goodness! I’ve even heard pigs make joyful oinking noises when they eat. If they can do it, surely, we can too!

Christianity is a singing faith. There are more songs about Jesus Christ than anything or anyone else, even love. Isn’t that remarkable? Singing isn’t just an emotional outlet; it’s a spiritual necessity.

That’s why being part of a local church matters so much. It’s not just about soaking in sermons. A healthy Christian life requires both the Word and the expression of worship through music.

I love that our church has a 55-member choir and full orchestra! You'll see me raising my hands in worship and even clapping to the beat!

I’ve learned that the moments when I least feel like singing are the moments, I needed it most. When my life seems overwhelming, singing thanks to God renews me.

Sometimes, when life is spinning fast, I’ll turn on my favorite worship songs or turn my Christian radio station on. Before long, my soul begins to shift. A spark of gratitude takes root, and suddenly, I’m not just listening -- I’m singing. And I’m thanking God for everything He’s given me.

So here’s my encouragement to you: let your heart sing. Whether it’s in the car, the shower, or with your church family, make a joyful noise to the Lord. Even if it’s off-key, it’s on point for worship. Let’s sing our faith, just like my mama did!

If I Were God, I Would Have....

 

Thank goodness we’re not God! Imagine the mess we’d make, driven by our own limited understanding. Garth Brooks had it right: sometimes we have to thank God for unanswered prayers.

If every one of my prayers had received a “yes,” I shudder to think where I’d be now. In Isaiah 55:8, God says, “My ways are higher than your ways,” and how true that is.

I love Kimberly Henderson's take on thanking God for unanswered prayers. "If I were God, I would have pulled Joseph out of that pit, away from his prison sentence. But then, Egypt would have starved."

"I would have rescued David from Saul’s fury and endless caves, but Israel might have missed its shepherd king. Esther? I would have kept her safe with her family, but a nation might have perished."

"And I would have taken Jesus off the cross, shielding Him from pain. But, oh, how much we would have lost—our Savior, our salvation, our eternity."

So often, we’d rewrite the script, sparing ourselves and others from hardship. But God knows the beauty that will emerge from our trials. He knows the strength this pain will yield, the good that will come from the struggle. Instead of rescuing, He sustains, promising us His presence and purpose.

So today, instead of asking to be pulled out, I’m praying for you to be lifted up. I ask Him to give you strength and hope, to guide you in His perfect time, and to let you see the good He’s working through even the hardest of days.

And one day, I believe you and I will look back, and are extremely grateful for this road, knowing He was with us every step of the way.

Saving the Ones We Love the Most

We all have inbred instincts to save the ones we love the most. We are passionate about making sure our children don’t touch a hot stove, and they look both ways before crossing a street.

But what kind of true grit do we possess for our children and grandchildren that will save them from the enemy of their souls?

I hear parents express immense concern about the negative influences their children may encounter in school, on social media and the entertainment world. Parents wonder how their children will grow up with integrity, respect, and self-esteem when those are their influencers.

WHO are their most significant influencers? There is no one or no-thing that should ever supersede a parent’s responsibility and their own leading-by-example. Our children learn to love or hate, be respectful or disrespectful, wise or foolish by the family in their house.

My character was molded by my Mom and Dad, my Sunday School teachers, Vacation Bible School leaders and Christian Camp counselors who modeled how to relate to the God of the Bible in my everyday life.

Please don’t let the high-profile characters we saw in the left’s campaign be your children’s and grandchildren’s standard. Do those in the public spotlight conduct themselves in an honorable way with utmost integrity? I don’t know. But it isn’t the responsibility of the President OR Oprah to set the example of moral conduct.

It is not the government’s responsibility to ensure children have a good example. It is our responsibility, as American citizens and Christians, to ensure that we lead our youth in modeling what is right, good, honorable, and true.

One God-fearing, respectful sports coach can do far more to shape the hearts and minds of boys and girls than a professional athlete. If we want to make a difference, let’s stop worrying about the moral example of others and let us take an active role in our classrooms, churches, youth groups and programs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities.

Being cheerleaders, advisers and overseers of God’s gifts (our children and grandchildren) is our calling and mission. Those children are our gifts from God and what we do to instill a love for God, their fellow man and country is our gift back to God.

Our success as a nation -- depends greatly on what happens in the White House. And even more importantly, on what happens inside our houses. May our homes resonate truth, fairness, kindness AND all that is exemplified by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

AND may the White House turn over a new leaf that DOES exemplify God's Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven!

Were You There?

Yes, I was there -- glued to the presidential returns that came in. Even my children and grandchildren had a Watch Party – waiting for the big announcement. The history books will long declare "Donald Trump became the 45th President AND the 47th President-Elect of the United States of America.

Who woulda' thought that after all the negativity that has surrounded him (truths or untruths – only he knows the real truths), that President Trump, outwitted, outplayed, outlasted (thanks, Survivor show) to become President Elect for a second term.

Most importantly -- "The people's voice was heard" and now, he is building his cabinet and moving forward to fulfilling what he promised in his campaign. Daily we should be praying for his presidency. Daily we should be praying for a turnaround of ethics, God’s standards and our Country being blessed beyond measure.

It sure has been a wild and crazy several months -- so much nonsense in words, deeds and actions by, not just the candidates but by those of us that somehow forgot God's desire for us to be lights in the middle of it all.

We've had opportunities to exercise our patience, temperance, gentleness, joy, kindness and, most of all, our love. The question isn't how the candidates fared through it all....but "How did we handle ourselves as Christs' followers during this process?"

Regardless of the side we were on, was God's light shining through us? Though "the people's voice was heard" -- was it the voice of goodness and mercy"?

Whether you are sad or glad about the outcome of this election, here's what matters most: God wasn't surprised by the winner. He is, after all, a KNOW-IT-ALL. He knew Donald Trump would be "the last man standing" here today.

The best news is -- God is already King and HE REIGNS supreme — and He will work with our fragile, imperfect ways and bring calm to the chaos of our lives and our world. Now, may our voices of compassion and sensitivity be heard to our fellow man. May our voices declare "We are the UNITED States of America and UNITED we stand!"

Lots of folks talked about moving to another country should Donald Trump become President. WOW!! Wonder if they’ve booked their tickets to a better place to live than this beautiful and gracious United States of America where we are free.

“Be careful little mouth what you say – you may have to eat those words!” May our voices be heard around the world that ROCKS this WORLD with love that knows no bounds and may we get behind our new president-elect in prayers, support and courage!

God bless the U.S.A.!

How Cute is that Squirrel?

 

Where I live, the squirrels have populated. After all it is Fall and this is their go-to time to fetch as many nuts as they can to tide them over for winter. They are as cute as they can be……until they are gnawing through the cushions in our outdoor sitting area! Argh!

I remember a sandwich-snatching squirrel we met up with at Sea World. We had just sat down in a shady spot to eat our peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. My six-year-old granddaughter was just about to take a bite of hers when this heister squirrel grabbed the sandwich out of her hands.

My daughter, Staci, recalls: “Mom, you were like a kamikaze, wonder woman, freak of nature, princess warrior, Joan of Arc, ready to die at the stake for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Hell hath no fury like a woman whose grandchild had her sandwich stolen by a squirrel!”

My daughter embellished that story just a tad, but I remember my first instincts were to let that squirrel know he had messed with the wrong grandmother.

As I thought about that hilarious scenario, I started thinking about the enemy of our souls and how he is always trying, and often succeeding, at stealing from us. For example, we woke up this morning with an overwhelming sense of great expectation that something good is going to happen to us today.

But then, the car doesn't start. The kids are late for school. We are late for work. That's the heister squirrel, rather the enemy of our souls, endeavoring to steal our joy and great expectations.

What about the argument we had with our spouse or child or friend? We shouldn't think it was just a random disagreement. It was the enemy trying to steal our peace. Realizing it's the enemy who is out to steal our joy and peace, is the first step in apprehending him before he gets away with it.

Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10:10). According to those words of Jesus, the thief is out to steal everything good in our lives – our job, our joy, our happiness, our health, our finances, our marriage, and our kids.

But hold it right there! The thief is a loser, and we ARE winners! God wants us to live life in all its fullness. It’s time to be on the offense against the enemy. Grab hold of God’s promise of abundant living. Don’t settle for less! Let’s fight for what is ours with relentless, kamikaze determination!

Being a Self Leader

You’d think after all these years I’ve had on Planet Earth; I would have more leadership sense. But, oops, I did it again – I still need more instructions. Once again, I need a refresher course on being a good leader FOR MYSELF!

We may think we are a good leader for others, but, numero uno – we had better be a good leader to ourselves first. Here's an example: Someone tells a lie about us. As a self-leader, we can think "I'll get even with them. I'll expose the truth about them." Or, we can have a little visit with ourselves about patience and love and be quick to forgive them.

I recall the story of David in 1 Samuel 30 when this future king of Israel was learning to lead his troops. Even though God poured His favor on David, one terrible day, he and his troops returned home from fighting another enemy and discovered their camp was destroyed and their women and children had been dragged off.

That would be defined as a bad day for any leader. His soldiers were tired, angry, and worried sick about their families. They were miffed at God. Some of his men spread word that they'd had it with David's leadership. They figured it was all David's fault.

Eventually, David had to decide who needed leadership the most. In that critical moment David realized he had to lead himself first, before he could lead anyone else. Unless he had his mind and spirit together, he had nothing to offer his team. So, in 1 Samuel 30:6, we read that "David strengthened himself in the Lord his God".

David understood the importance of self-leadership. And although self-leadership isn't talked about much, I assure you, it is the leadership that our world seems to be most lacking.

How can we expect someone else to fix what's wrong in our world, if we can't fix ourselves? How effectively can any of us lead others if we respond with knee jerk reactions instead of weighing what our next words will be, or should be?

I want to self-lead myself to be laser focused on others and I want my first response to be love, kindness, patience, gentleness, and love.

I'll probably have to take myself into my mind's conference room to keep striving to get it right, but like David, I’ll keep strengthening myself in the Lord my God, until I get it right. How about you?

Saluting our Veterans

A hero is someone who has given his or her life for something bigger than oneself! Today is Veterans Day. Our utmost appreciation and respect for our Veterans, alive, and for those who made their ultimate sacrifice for us and our Country.

Freedom really isn’t free – especially the high cost of those who keep us safe, protected and free. Indeed, we are the land of the free and the home of the bravest men and women who served and serve so selflessly.

At our church yesterday, the flag was the backdrop to our choir singing and our orchestra playing patriotic songs that expressed our appreciation for those who served us. Among these heroes is my dear husband, Carl, a 21-year Army Reservist Veteran, served this Country with honor and unwavering dedication.

Also, in our church’s foyer was the Wall of Honor, where Carl’s picture stood beside many others who had also worn their uniform with pride and served our Country.

I beam with pride and gratitude, knowing that each face tells a story of bravery, sacrifice, and a love that mirrors the words of Jesus: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).

Then, after lunch we drove to the City of Georgetown, Texas where the 8th Annual Rotary Club Field of Honor was lined with over 2,000 plus flags stretched across acres of land. It stirred something profound in my heart.

It was a beautiful reminder that we live in a country where freedom is protected by those who serve, even to the point of sacrifice. For all they have given, we take a moment to remember and honor the veterans -- those brave men and women who stepped forward with courage and conviction.

In return for their acts of courage and commitment, I pray that we show up on the side of our veterans to love and appreciate their sacrifices. From the bottom of my heart, I shout “Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for believing in the stars and stripes. Thank you for standing up for us on the battlefield. Thank you for singing the “National Anthem” with your head held high, your hand saluting the flag and the freedoms that you fought so violently for.

Thank you for your service to the United States of America.” I stand with you, with my hand held over my heart in allegiance to our flag, I sing loud and strong “o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave! I thank God for your great love for us all.

God bless America – our home sweet home! And God bless our Veterans!

Fighting our Battles on our Own

Imagine. We’re on a boat drifting down a calm river. Suddenly, the wind picks up. Waves begin tossing us around. Boatloads of water are coming in the boat. In a panic, we grab a bucket and start scooping water overboard as fast as we can.

We’re sweating and wearing ourselves out, convinced that if we scoop hard enough, we’ll keep afloat. Meanwhile, the Captain approaches and asks, “What are you doing?” We look up, a little frantic, and say, “I’m saving us from going under!”

Silly, isn’t it? Yet, how often do we try to take on burdens that belong to God?

“The battle is not yours, but God’s.” (2 Chronicles 20:15) This verse reminds us that, despite our best efforts, it’s not up to us to calm the storm. We’re not the Captain. We were never meant to hold the ship steady. That’s God’s role.

We’re worn out from trying to bail water from sinking marriages, financial worries, health issues, even the world’s crises. We jump in with all we’ve got, desperately trying to control what only God can.

We know we weren’t built to carry it all, so we finally throw up our hands and say, “God, I can’t do this anymore!” That’s when we realize truth -- He’s got us, firmly and lovingly in His hands.

God isn’t disappointed in us for not being able to do what only He can do. The load isn’t ours to bear. When we surrender, we aren’t failing; we’re allowing God to take His rightful place as Captain of our lives. And only then can He steer us through any storm with His power and grace.

So, let’s let go of the bucket, take a seat, and trust the One who commands the waves. When we say, “Lord, I’m done trying to do what only You can do,” He says, “Good. Now, let’s get something done.”

Shut the Door

Every day we can choose life. A friend explained some of her health issues. She said that she feels optimistic yet fear creeps in with “What if?”

I told her that when the enemy taunts her with his fear tactics to remember, “The enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy, but Jesus came to give abundant life” (John 10:10), so “Shut the door!”

We’ve all been there. In fact, during the recent election process, I “shut the door” (aka, the TV and social media) many times to so much rancor and negativity.

Every day we must choose to shut the door to negativity, fears, doubt, and unbelief. When those stressors come, we know who is behind them. And it isn’t our Father Who is our peacemaker and burden remover.

In 2 Kings 4:32-37, Elisha was called upon because the son of the Shunammite woman had died. “Elisha entered the house and behold the boy was dead. So, he entered and SHUT THE DOOR behind them both, and he prayed to the Lord." We know that Elisha's prayers led to a miracle and Gehazi, the boy's mother received her son back to life.

And, then there is Jesus showing up after He had risen from the dead. “So, when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the DOORS WERE SHUT where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

Outside the closed doors of our lives is fear lurking -- fear for our lives, doubt and unbelief, but, inside those closed, locked doors, Jesus shows up and PEACE prevails.

SHUT THE DOOR to negative voices. Proverbs 4:23 says “More than anything guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it.”

We control the doorway to what we’re allowing in. We can dwell on every negative thought imaginable OR we can shut AND lock the door, and dwell on what God says.

Let’s shut the front door, the back door and ALL doors where the enemy tries to sneak in and infiltrate his lies. WE are WINNERS! He’s the LOSER!! Now SHUT THOSE DOORS!!

Our Race and the Election Race

I was once a long-distance runner. I remember the intensity I had for that relentless training to run 13.1 miles. Running a mile in the beginning was so intimidating. And then it was three miles, then six, nine and the full 13.1 miles. By the end of my training, I was mentally and physically prepared. I went on to run several half-marathons around the U.S. and Canada.

What did I prove to myself? That it was worth the time, the pain, and the mental fortitude to prove to myself I could do it. I learned to expect pain and to build the mental toughness to power through it when stopping was all I wanted to do.

The monotonous regularity of running grated on me. But my commitment to show up, run daily and stay consistent meant I wasn’t a quitter.

Now, I’m in another race – it is to finish this life race strong with true grit, consistency and determination. I think that was Donald Trump’s attitude.

This election season has been a race for all the candidates and all of us — the voter base. It has taken mental toughness for us to be confident and undaunted in our belief that our country needed changes. There were plenty of hurdles to jump over and many hills to climb.

When it was marathon day, I remember the googly-nervous feelings in the pit of my stomach. I had those feelings on Tuesday, Election Day. While I knew God was in control because He already knew the outcome of the election, I had no idea that President Trump would win or not!

I’m sure the Apostle Peter had those googly-nervous feelings when he was getting out of the boat to walk to Jesus on the water. Daily, we, too, are faced with “walking on water” opportunities. The more we keep our eyes on our running and walking coach, our Lord Jesus Christ, the more we'll be willing to take leaps of faith!

The Psalmist says in Psalm 119:165, “Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble”. What are a few hurdles when we are God’s beloved children running this race of life?

God assures us that He is with us and when we place our trust and confidence in Him, He will ensure we will cross our finish line with rewards at the end. We win AND we win BIG!

A New Day for America

Yesterday's headlines were: Donald J. Trump Wins Presidency; to Become the 47th President of the United States."

May we pray for President Trump and other elected officials to seek God’s wisdom and to lead with biblical priorities and servants' hearts. May we pray for God to use our leaders to unify our nation and to protect them from evil and to empower them for good (1 Timothy 2:1–2).

We are stepping into a new season -- one that we can't help but marvel at the sovereignty of our God, who rules over heaven and earth. It is truly not just about who sits in the White House or the color of the political map. We are reminded that our true leader is God Himself, whose authority is unmatched and whose wisdom knows no bounds.

This election, in all its intensity, has drawn many to reflection, and we find ourselves humbled by God's unmerited favor. I pray that the bickering, the backstabbing, the name calling, and ugly memes and jokes and tacky remarks are left to the past. It's a new day to rise and shine and be the children of Almighty God who make Him proud by loving as He called us to love.

This is not a time for division or boasting. Rather, it’s an invitation to bring healing to a nation that has seen its share of division and hurt. May God unite our hearts, not in the name of any one leader or party, but in gratitude for His grace and guidance.

As we move forward, let us commit to praying for our leaders -- all of them. Scripture calls us to lift up those in authority, that they may act with justice, compassion, and wisdom. We pray for policies that uphold what is true and just and for decisions that reflect God’s love for all His children.

This is the time to stand together as Americans, but even more importantly, as children of God who play fair, who act rightly, and who love one another.

Let us seek to listen, to understand, and to honor each other as we press on into the future. Our unity and peace don’t come from a victory or a loss but from the One who holds it all together.

Today is a new day, and by God’s grace, may it be the beginning of a fresh season of unity and hope. Let us rise and shine with love and grace and show the world how God's good kids act!

A New Morning -- A New Hope

Good morning, friends. I wrote this blog last night -- not knowing what tomorrow would hold. But, I believe we can wake up to a country ready to move forward.

No matter who holds office, we can be assured of one truth that stands above it all: God is still on His throne. His plans are eternal, His wisdom beyond understanding, and His love remains unchanging.

Today may bring a blend of emotions for many -- some might feel relief, while others feel disappointment or uncertainty. But as we face this day, let us remember that our hope is not anchored in who leads us but in who created us.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23). God’s mercy and grace are fresh with the dawn, reminding us that He is with us, guiding our nation forward in ways only He can.

In times like these, it’s more important than ever to come together, pray for one another, and extend grace to those with different views. Our nation’s strength is not found in agreement alone but in the unity that comes from respect, compassion, and faith.

Let’s commit to lifting each other up and being sources of light, remembering that healing and hope begin with each of us.

As we step into this new chapter, may we ask God to bless our leaders with wisdom, our communities with peace, and our hearts with the courage to love unconditionally. Let us look to Him, our constant and unshakable foundation, as we walk together toward a future full of hope.

No matter what yesterday held, today holds new opportunities to be a light, a voice of kindness, and a heart of compassion. Let’s embrace this morning with gratitude, with love, and with faith that God is writing our story, and His plans are always for our good.

Election Day – God is Still in Control

We are off and running to our “last stand” (literally) as Election clerks this morning. We anticipate voting lines out the door. Heartfelt passion and commitment has been sensed during the days leading up to today.

It’s Election Day, and the nation is buzzing. But before the votes are counted and decisions announced, let’s settle our hearts by remembering that God still reigns supreme -- no matter the results.

We may feel a mix of hope and tension. After all, Election Day stirs up strong feelings on all sides. Let’s be grateful for the privilege of choosing leaders and shaping our future with God’s mighty hands still in control.

I know exactly what this day will bring — another day of God’s perfect sovereignty. He will still be in charge. He will still manage the affairs of the world. Never, has His providence depended on a king, president, or ruler. “The LORD can control a king’s mind as He controls a river; He can direct it as He pleases.” (Proverbs 21:1)

When we realize that God influences the hearts of all rulers, we can then choose to pray for them rather than fret about them. Rather than wring our hands, we bend our knees, we select prayer over despair.

Jeremiah did this. He wept at the condition of the people and the depravity of their faith. But then he considered the work of God.

Note the intentionality of his words: “I have hope. The LORD’s lovingkindness never ceases. His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentation 3:21-23

Let’s imitate Jeremiah. Let’s lift our eyes. Let’s dare to believe that good things will happen. Let’s dare to believe that God was speaking to us when He said: “In everything God works for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28).

Even greater than any election: our real hope is anchored in a kingdom that cannot be shaken. Leaders and policies may come and go, but God’s reign endures forever.

Philippians 4:7 tells us of “peace that surpasses all understanding,” a peace that can quiet our hearts no matter what the headlines say. God is not only aware of this moment; He’s already woven His goodness through it.

So, when the results start to roll in, let’s remember the One who holds every leader and every nation in His hands. This is our assurance. No ballot box can contain the plans of the Almighty.

No matter who “wins” tonight, we have a King who already reigns -- steadfast, unchanging, and good. Let’s lean into that peace and walk forward in faith and joy because God is still in control!

Never Would God Unfriend Us

Back in the day, when we unfriended someone, we walked away, erased their name off our notebook or wrote a “Dear John” letter.

Here we are – decades later and we can unfriend someone with the tap of a button. I don’t “unfriend” but rather “unfollow”, usually because of their language, their rants, their lack of self-control. I still want them to follow me – hopefully, so they’ll catch some Light if they pass by my blog.

Our lives are about relationships -- with Jesus and with people He’s created. Period. What concerns me most is that people fail, disappoint, act up and act out, they let it rip – their language, I mean, without a thought or concern. I really do want to unfriend them because my little Pollyanna world needs to stay all peaches and cream. Right?

Good thing I’m not a god who carries a big stick. I’d be whack-a-moleying those ornery folks all over the place. I’m done with their lack of love, lack of decorum and lack of common sense. If some of them were my friends, I would unfriend them without a second thought. Go ahead, God! Let ‘em have it!

Then comes along the full-volume, yet gentle voice of God, with His personal guarantee, "I will NEVER unfriend them." Argh! But, please, God! Then God’s gentle tap on my shoulder reels me back into what His grace is all about.

Our God would die before He would unfriend anyone. Fact is: our God did die rather than unfriend us. “Greater love has no one than this: than to lay down one’s life for His friends." (John 15:13)

Jesus didn’t leave, unlike, or unfriend one of his twelve closest friends. Not even when they deserved it. He’s not about to start with you and me. Instead, He kept on keeping the promise He first made that He would never leave or forsake His people.

This is the God who moved into our neighborhood to be our friend. To know all about us and still love us. This is the God who has pursued you and me since before time and who never considers us a waste of time.

This is a God who died on a cross to reach our hearts and souls to rescue us. We are loved – in spite of, because of, and instead of, but – do we believe it? Do we believe ours is His Love Story and in His Love Story – the Lover never leaves us.

My precious and beloved friends – let Him love you and wrap you in His grace and mercy. Just say “yes” – ACCEPT His “friend” request. He will take away all your sin, failings, fear and give you His own life – life to the full. "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." (John 10:10) You are loved!

Tired Baby? Tired YOU?

 

In case you’re reading this at 5:00 am this morning when this blog will be posted, you should know that Daylight Savings Time to FALL BACK happened at 2:00 am this morning!  So, maybe you can go back to bed for another hour’s sleep!  You’re welcome!   

This photo is one of my all-time favorites and so very dear to my heart. The little guy is my, now 24 year old grandson, Payton Wallace. Our little Payton was beyond tired -- he just couldn't make it through his meal.

It was our weekend with Payton and Alexia and that meant action-packed, non-stop fun from morning until night. We made the most of our time with our grandchildren, making lots of memories.

And, like that precious boy falling asleep after a busy day of fun, so did Nana and Papa when the kids' Mom and Dad came to pick them up. We would drop into our recliners, and  fall fast asleep. God gives His beloved sweet sleep.... right when we need it most.

Precious Payton didn't have a care in the world so he could just rest in happy freedom. And, through faith and complete trust in our Lord, we, too, can rest in happy freedom from care.

Those whom the Lord loves are delivered from the fret of life. Like how we want to give the best things to our children and grandchildren, God is sure to give the best things to His beloved, and like this photo, we know He gives them sweet sleep -- that is a laying aside of care, a forgetfulness of need, a quiet leaving of matters with God.

This kind of sleep is better than riches and honor. Remember how Jesus slept amid the ups and downs of a storm at sea? He knew that He was in his Father's hands, so He could be so quiet in spirit that the billows rocked Him to sleep.

Take it from me. There are times when I wake up in the night and sleep is far from me. I toss and turn.  But, then I visualize being in the bow of the ship and think about the sweetness of God's love and I remind myself of His words. "I give my beloved sweet sleep."

Yes, we are His beloved.  Need sleep?  Let’s remind ourselves of Isaiah 26:3  "Him I will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me." Between that rocking boat, and thinking about my Father, before long I'm back to sound sleep......just like my little grandson......with not a care in the world.

The Whatevers

 

I still chuckle when I think back to my teenagers’ classic retort: “WHATEVER!” It was usually delivered with a hefty dose of eye-rolling and a sigh that could fill a room. A harmless way of saying, “Your opinion doesn’t quite make my playlist, Mom!”

But today, I want to talk about a different kind of “Whatever”— one that brings us back to the wisdom of Paul in Philippians 4:8.

When Paul said, “Brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy --think about such things,” he was giving us more than a sweet suggestion. He was handing us a lifeline, a roadmap to navigate the wild twists and turns of life.

And what a timely reminder as we get closer to Election Day, where “whatevers” seem to drift toward chaos and negativity. It’s so easy to get tangled up in debates and headlines that sap our joy, forgetting the truly excellent things around us. But here, Paul challenges us to sift through the noise, to find the praiseworthy things and hold on tight.

So, what are some of these “Whatevers” that can steady us during the speeches, the signs and the slogans? l tell you what’s excellent and praiseworthy: kindness still shines brighter than any campaign slogan, families still come together despite their differences, and God’s promises are still true even in tumultuous times. Those are “The Whatevers” we can stand on.

Think of “The Whatevers” as our personal playlist for peace. By focusing on what’s true, noble, and pure, we align our hearts with God’s wisdom, choosing peace over pandemonium. So, when the headlines start to blur and opinions fly like leaves in a windstorm, remember this gentle instruction: Whatever is excellent, whatever is praiseworthy -- think about such things.

And let’s make “The Whatevers” contagious! Let's share them, reflect on them, let them seep into our conversations, lifting our spirits and grounding our thoughts.

Let’s be the people who walk in the wisdom of “The Whatevers,” showing a world that there is a light worth looking for -- even when everything else seems to shout, “WHATEVER!”

Are We Good at “Christianing”?

 

We, Christian (Christ-like) folks think we're decent people. You know, we have all those "good" things to our credit: going to church, tithing, giving offerings, wearing a cross necklace, attending a Bible Study, volunteering for a charity. How could anyone think we are anything but wonderful?

I think of myself as being a good girl -- kind, sweet, loving, honest, and trustworthy. I felt like I was measuring up -- until God gave me insight to my true nature. I’ve come to terms with myself – that I am anything but those things.

I was taken back when I read the Apostle Paul’s words: “in my flesh dwells no good thing." (Romans 7:18). And even Jesus replied to the ruler who called Him “good teacher”: “Why do you call me good? No one is good--except God alone.” (Luke 18:19) Oh. My. Goodness. Jesus, in all His perfection Who merits the “What Would Jesus Do?” quote award and Who emulates His Father in every way, said those words.

Like many believers, I thought my efforts to do good were keeping me straight. But my being a do-gooder isn't what it's all about. It is all about God’s amazing grace and not any of my merits. While I'd like to get one of God's supernatural embraces -- you know, one of those "handwriting on the wall" types of experiences, my “good, good Father” wants me to be the best version of a daughter of His – gently and lovingly teaching me yet another life-lesson.

I'm so thankful that God keeps me on a short leash and when I start to meander through the slightest boastful or unbecoming ways -- that He reels me back in with the sweetest and tender "time-out". I often have little talks with Jesus about the "issues" of someone else, but then God sets up an incident that humbles me or He sets up divine set-ups to help me grow up.

There is no better way for God to increase my understanding of His great love for me than for Him to reveal to me my weaknesses and remind me that Christ gave His life for me and every day I must purpose to model Him.

God loves us despite our not always being “good”. And as we continue to acknowledge our true condition, He will ensure that by His grace, we will be transformed into the image of His Son.

When we choose the way of redemption, we change our destiny. We move from the darkness of the world into the light of the Lord. That’s when we walk the path of goodness and truth so that we can produce the fruit fitting a child of the King.

 

Savoring the Quiet

Our lives rarely settle into quiet these days. We get absorbed in the music on our ear pods, our eyes glued to the computer or TV screens where we are getting our daily dose of entertainment or information.

My blogs share a lot of “God-information” online. I often wonder if I am listening to way too much noise and am missing the voice of God in my thoughts.

In 2021, I was all prepared for the movers to show up and load all the boxes and furniture to take to Austin – my new place of residence. BUT a crazy ice and snowstorm came through Frisco AND Austin. All was at a stand-still!

I lost power for a few days in my Frisco home, and the quiet settled in like a blanket. And let me tell you, it was a strange kind of quiet. No hum from the fridge, no whirl of the washing machine—just the eerie silence of a world unplugged.

Even as I type these words now, I’m surrounded by the familiar sounds: the A/C humming, the washing machine swooshing, the gentle click-clack of my keyboard. We’re seldom without noise.

The kind of quiet that seemed strange to me that winter was every day in the first century. No traffic, no high tech, no hum of household appliances. That quiet would have been as natural to David, the shepherd boy, as the stars over his head.

David was no stranger to solitude in the fields watching sheep graze, miles away from his brothers’ battlefield shouts and clamoring swords.

I imagine there were days he thought, “Sheep again?” Perhaps he longed for the thrill of battle or the bustle of the city, while he spent days watching clouds drift and learning to play his harp.

He couldn’t have known then that the quiet days were forming a heart tuned to God’s voice. He couldn’t have known that the boredom, the quiet, the hours with only sheep as company would shape him into Israel’s great king, and that his words would comfort generations through the 23rd Psalm.

What David might’ve thought was monotony, God saw as preparation. Perhaps God wants us to embrace quiet. There our calling can be revealed. When we step away from the clicks, the screens, we find the space to hear our Heavenly Father.

It’s as if God Himself is whispering, “Take time to breathe. Take time to be. In the quiet, I’m here.”

Today, I am offering us sweet respite. If we’re walking and tempted to put in the ear pods, or browsing the TV for the news or show, let’s try pausing! Let’s be still and listen for God’s voice. Let’s invite God into the quiet with us. We’ll probably be surprised by what He has to say.

Because when we’re quiet, He’s still speaking. And His words? They’re worth hearing.