God Will Calm Our Hearts

HEART TROUBLE! Oh, how many people are dealing with it today! Some have hearts that need medical attention. Others have hearts aching from grief, disappointment, anxiety, or broken relationships.

Whatever the cause, our hearts sometimes need a little CALMING!

I remember living in Tulsa, Oklahoma -- tornado country! One minute, beautiful blue skies. The next, sirens blaring, winds howling, and tree limbs flying!

Our family knew the drill. Head for the central closet and hunker down!

I didn't have the power to stop those storms, but I knew where to find shelter!

That reminds me of Jesus and His disciples crossing the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly, a fierce storm erupted. Waves crashed into their boat. Water poured in. The disciples PANICKED!

And Jesus? He was SLEEPING!
"Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?" (Mark 4:38)

Jesus arose and commanded, "Peace, be still!" (Mark 4:39)

And immediately, the winds ceased!
Oh, how we long for that kind of instant peace when our hearts are troubled!

Maybe you're awaiting medical results, grieving someone you love, facing financial uncertainty, or lying awake wondering how everything will work out.

Jesus understands!

He said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." (John 14:1)

Sometimes our storms don't disappear overnight. Medical treatments continue. Tears still fall. Difficult circumstances remain.

But here's our assurance. We don't have to face them alone!

God gives us wisdom to seek help, courage to face tomorrow, and peace that circumstances cannot manufacture.

Philippians 4:7 promises God's peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

So, dear friend, whatever is troubling your heart today, take it to Jesus. Keep praying. Keep trusting. Keep breathing. And take the next step.

Sometimes God calms the storm. Sometimes He calms His child in the storm.

Either way, HE IS OUR SHELTER!

#GodsPeace #TrustInGod #keeppraying #shelter

Long Lines, Big Smiles, and a Little Red, White, and Blue!

Goodness! If there's one thing I've learned during last week's early voting, it's that Americans are showing up!

LONG LINES! And would you believe it? SMILING FACES! Instead of grumbling about the wait, voters are patiently standing in line, ready to exercise their precious right to vote.

And I LOVE it!

I've served as an election judge, alternate judge, and now an election clerk. This year, I'm checking photo IDs, verifying voter information, and helping people receive their ballots. I am proudly wearing my red, white, and blue attire daily!

Our team arrives before the polls open at 7 a.m., preparing equipment, setting up signs, and getting ready to welcome voters.

But what touches my heart most?

The veterans. The elderly with walkers and canes. Those in wheelchairs. People who could easily decide the lines are too long or the effort too great.

But they COME!

They understand something precious. Our right to vote is a privilege worth exercising!

I especially enjoy watching voters proudly wearing their "I VOTED" stickers. Those little stickers represent something BIG!

We may disagree on candidates, policies, and propositions, but we can respect one another's right to make thoughtful choices.

Voting gives us an opportunity to consider the issues affecting our families, communities, state, and nation. And those choices deserve our attention!

As a Christian, I also believe we have another responsibility — PRAYER!

First Timothy 2:1–2 urges us to offer prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for everyone, including those in authority, so that we may live peaceful and godly lives.

And believe me, I've been doing some undercover praying while greeting voters!

I'm praying for wisdom, integrity, peace, and God's guidance for those who serve our country.

So, as our second week of early voting begins today, I hope we'll continue to appreciate this remarkable freedom.

Be informed. Be prayerful. Be respectful. And exercise your right to vote!

And when you see those election workers, give them a smile. They're happy to serve!

God bless America!

#vote #GodBlessAmerica #prayer

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Sometimes He Calms the Storm!

We're still waging war in prayer for our dear Jack Malouff, believing God for breakthroughs, healing, and miracles!

Recently, Jack was struggling with nausea. Then a light came on! His parents remembered stomach issues he'd experienced years ago and the physician who had helped him become pain-free.

Another possible door to answers! Thank You, Jesus!

I've been remembering our family trips to Cabo, watching my grandsons and Jack riding waves, water bikes, and wave runners.

They were having a blast while I watched safely from my lounge chair under a HUGE umbrella! This girl and the blazing Cabo sun aren't exactly best friends! Seriously!

Those boys learned that water is beautiful, exhilarating, and deserving of respect.

And my heart aches thinking about Jack, who loved water adventures. One tragic dive into shallow lake water changed everything.

I'm reminded of Jesus and His disciples crossing the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly, a fierce storm threatened their boat. Waves crashed! Water poured in! The disciples panicked!

And JESUS? He was SLEEPING!

"Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?" (Mark 4:38)
Jesus arose and commanded, "Peace, be still!" (Mark 4:39 KJV)
And the storm obeyed!

Oh, how we long for those words over Jack's body! Over every nerve, every muscle, every challenge!

PEACE! BE STILL!

But here's what I'm learning. Sometimes Jesus calms the storm around us. Other times, He calms the storm WITHIN us.

We don't know how long this journey will be. We don't have tomorrow's answers. But we know WHO is in the boat!

And He hasn't abandoned ship!

Perhaps you're facing your own raging storm today. Fear whispers, "What if?" Faith answers, "BUT GOD!"

God is still God in every moment!

We're still praying, still praising, still believing for Jack's complete healing!

And while we wait for the winds to cease, we're holding tightly to Jesus!

Because even when the storm rages, our Savior remains our PEACE!
SOMETIMES HE CALMS THE STORM

And beneath it:
Sometimes He calms His child.

What a wonderful reminder for Jack's family and for every person waiting for a breakthrough. The storm may still be raging, but Jesus is still in the boat! ❤️🙏

When We Don't Know What to Pray

September 26th was my grandson's wedding day on the beautiful Epiphany Ranch. A day we had anticipated with joy!

But in the early morning hours of that day, my phone rang. My son was calling with heartbreaking news about our dear Jack Malouff's terrible accident.

At 3:30 a.m., my grandson Bryson, Jack's lifelong best friend, was on his way back to Austin to be beside him.

And what did we do? WE PRAYED!

Calls were made. Messages were sent. Family and friends began calling on heaven!

But here's something I've been thinking about. Sometimes we know exactly WHO needs prayer, but we haven't the slightest idea WHAT to pray!

Romans 8:26 says, "We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans."

Oh, praise the Lord -- the Greater ONE intercedes for us!

Can you imagine your pastor standing before the congregation saying, "Let's bow our heads. I haven't a clue what we should pray for!"

Yet, that's exactly what the Apostle Paul was teaching us!

We don't always have the right words. We don't know every medical detail, every challenge ahead, or even what tomorrow holds.

BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES!

Romans 8:27 assures us that the Spirit intercedes for God's people according to God's will.

Oh, what comfort!

Since that September morning, we've prayed for Jack's breathing, his surgeries, his healing, his family, and his medical team.

Sometimes our prayers have been long. Sometimes they've been nothing more than, "Jesus, HELP!"

And every one of those prayers matters!

Then comes Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."

We may not understand the HOW or WHEN, but we can trust the WHO!

Perhaps you're carrying someone on your heart today. You want to pray, but words won't come.

PRAY ANYWAY!
Whisper their name. Shed your tears. Call on Jesus.
Because when words fail, the Holy Spirit doesn't!

And THAT, my friends, is the power, protection, and purpose of prayer! So let's keep on praying and believing!

#AllThingsWorkTogetherForGood #JesusHelp #praying

Don't Let Go of the Rope!

I

It's been nearly a month since our dear Jack Douglas Malouff's tragic dive into shallow water changed everything.

Oh, how we wish we could rewind the clock! Go back to that moment and somehow change what happened. But life doesn't offer do-overs. Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow remains unseen.

Meanwhile, the Malouff family has had to put their ordinary lives on hold and navigate a journey none of us could have imagined.

Wouldn't it be wonderful to peek into tomorrow and see Jack healed, walking, and traveling the world telling his miraculous story?

Oh, how we're believing for that day!

But here's the challenge. We want NOW answers from a God who sees the WHOLE picture!

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Sometimes I want to say, "Lord, could we PLEASE fast-forward to the good part? The healing! The celebration! The HALLELUJAHS!"

But faith doesn't come with a fast-forward button!

Instead, I hear that gentle reminder: "Be patient, My child. Trust Me."

Galatians 6:9 says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

And THAT'S where we are!

Still praying. Still believing. Still trusting. Still holding on!

We don't know what tomorrow holds, but we know WHO holds tomorrow.

And while we wait, we're grateful for every little victory, every dedicated medical professional, every prayer warrior, and every evidence of God's sustaining grace.

Maybe you're waiting for your own breakthrough. A healing. A restored relationship. A financial miracle. An answer to a prayer you've whispered a thousand times.

DON'T LET GO OF THE ROPE!

Even when your hands are tired and your heart is weary, keep trusting the One who will never let go of YOU!

We're not giving up on Jack. We're not giving up on miracles. And we're certainly not giving up on GOD!

In due season, we will reap if we faint not!

Hold on, LIKE Jack!

Everything Has Changed. Nothing Has Changed.

Those powerful words came from Ryan Malouff, father of our dear Jack, who continues his healing journey at Craig Hospital in Colorado.

Twenty-four days ago, one terrible accident changed everything. Plans, schedules, dreams, and everyday routines were turned upside down. But Ryan's heartfelt tribute reminded me that while circumstances change, LOVE DOESN'T!

Ryan calls them his "GIANT KILLERS!" Three extraordinary people who stepped onto a battlefield they never expected and refused to retreat.

First, Dana — Jack's mother. For 24 days, she has been his constant advocate, encourager, and protector. When Jack couldn't speak, she learned to read his eyes. She's stayed through surgeries, sleepless nights, and even the flight to Colorado. Like Esther, she has stepped into her assignment "for such a time as this." (Esther 4:14)

Then there's Emma — Jack's sister. She put her New York life on hold to stand beside her brother. She's brought worship, prayer, encouragement, and even a little beauty treatment to his hospital room! She's loving him with everything she's got!

And then there's Bryson — my grandson and Jack's lifelong best friend. Since they were two years old, these boys have been inseparable. Bryson stepped away from college to stand beside his buddy. Through sleepless nights, he's watched Jack's eyes, understood his needs, and made certain his best friend still had a voice.

Oh, this grandmother's heart!

Ryan compared these three to David facing Goliath. They didn't know how big this battle would be, but they knew WHO would go before them!

And here's what touched me most. At 3 a.m., Ryan wasn't counting what they'd lost. He was counting the blessings standing beside his son.

What a lesson for all of us!

Life can change in a heartbeat. But God's faithfulness doesn't. Neither does genuine love.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8)

Everything has changed. Nothing has changed.

We're still praying. Still believing.
Still trusting our GREAT PHYSICIAN!

FIGHT LIKE JACK! ❤️

#nothinghaschanged #EverythingHasChanged #GiantKillers

We'll Leave the Light on for You!

Early voting began on Monday, and I was right there in the thick of it! This time, instead of serving as an election judge or alternate judge, I chose to be a clerk. My job? Greeting voters, checking their photo IDs, verifying their information, and helping them take the next step toward casting their ballots.

And I LOVE it!

What a privilege to exercise our right to vote! We may not agree on candidates or propositions, but we can certainly agree that voting matters. And if we don't vote, perhaps we should think twice before complaining about the results! Just saying!

But something else matters to me while serving — being a LIGHT!

Remember that familiar hotel commercial? A lonely building stood in the darkness with one little porch light shining brightly. Then came those comforting words: "We'll leave the light on for you."

What a beautiful picture of our Christian calling!

Jesus said, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden." (Matthew 5:14)

A porch light doesn't ask who's coming, how they vote, what they believe, or whether they agree with us. It simply SHINES!
And shouldn't we?

In a world filled with disagreements, frustration, and sometimes downright ugliness, we have opportunities to offer something different -- kindness, patience, encouragement, and LOVE!

Jesus continued, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

That's my prayer as I greet voters. May they encounter more than a friendly election clerk. May they experience a little of Jesus through me!

After all, Jesus declared, "I am the light of the world." (John 8:12)

We don't have to be the brightest bulb on the porch! We just need to stay connected to the One who supplies the LIGHT!

So, have you left your light on today?

Someone walking through a dark season may be looking for the very light YOU carry.

Keep shining! Keep loving! Keep doing what's right!

And by all means — GO VOTE!

#letyourlightshine #election #lightoftheworld

Let's Round Up!

Many years ago, I directed a children's choir called the "Round-Up Corral Singers." Those precious little cowboys and cowgirls sang their hearts out at church, nursing homes, and even our town's Western Days celebrations. We were rounding up smiles, joy, and a whole lot of love!

Who knew that years later, "rounding up" would take on a whole new meaning?

You know the question at the checkout counter: "Ma'am, would you like to round up your purchase to support a children's charity?"

Sometimes, without even thinking, I've answered, "Not this time!" After all, I've already given here, donated there, and supported plenty of worthy causes.

But lately, something has been tugging at my heart. What if those few extra pennies are another opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus?

It's not about the amount. It's about the heart!

Jesus said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." (Acts 20:35)

And remember the widow who gave her two small coins? Jesus noticed! While others gave from their abundance, she gave sacrificially. Her little became much in the eyes of God.

I've been watching an extraordinary "round-up" of love surrounding our dear Jack Malouff and his family. Prayers, meals, encouragement, financial gifts, and countless acts of kindness.

People giving what they can, doing what they can, and loving BIG!

That's what happens when hearts come together. Little things become BIG things!

Maybe we can't change the whole world today, but we can change somebody's world with a little generosity.

A smile. A phone call. A prayer. A meal. A few extra cents at the checkout counter.

Galatians 6:10 reminds us, "As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people."

So, the next time someone asks me to round up, I hope I'll remember those little Round-Up Corral Singers and the joy of giving.

Let's round up a little more kindness, a little more love, and a little more generosity!

After all, when we give from the heart, God has a wonderful way of multiplying the blessing!

#Roundup #dogood #generosity #giveanditshallbegiven

Early Voting Begins Today!

Today, Monday, October 19th, 2026 -- early voting begins! I'm stoked to have the privilege to serve and to vote. It's a big deal to serve our country and it's a major right and privilege.

There’s one thing I know for sure -- it’s time for us all to muster up, use our voices, and finish 2026 strong.

I'm not giving political commentary or insider analysis here. But, I am encouraging everyone who can -- to vote for the platform that aligns closest to God's Word.

People are flawed. They have been flawed since the beginning of time. God used flawed people -- kings, disciples, and leaders throughout His Word. God's Word provides spiritual encouragement, something we’re all in desperate need of these days.

Let’s be real. This year has been exhausting. The headlines, the tension, the divisions. It feels like every day there’s something new to weigh on our hearts. And with November 3rd looming, it’s hard not to get caught up in the noise of it all.

The ‘He said, She said’ debates, the endless chatter -- sometimes it’s too much. We might even be asking, “Where’s the hope?”

Here’s the good news: hope is just four words away -- "Lift up your eyes."

When everything around us feels uncertain, we lift our eyes to the One who is unshakable.

When confusion and chaos try to steal our peace, we look to the Lord, the Rock Who never changes. The One who reigns over all creation is still on His throne.

He’s not moved by political sound bites or the latest crisis. He is perfect light, without a shadow of darkness.

Psalm 121:1-2 reminds us, “I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

In the midst of the craziness of this world, let's lift our eyes and worship the One who loves us. May our hearts be lifted, our strength renewed.

And instead of seeking an escape, let's find our calling in serving and loving others right where we are.

So, let's take a deep breath and look up. There’s hope waiting for you AND me, and while breathing deeply, go VOTE! Every vote counts! Yours matters! God bless America!

Today He Rolls. Tomorrow He Walks!

PRAISE THE LORD! Our dear Jack Malouff has arrived safely at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado! Day 18 since his accident, and we're celebrating another answered prayer!

Jack and his mom, Dana, traveled by medical flight from Texas while his dad, Ryan, sister Emma, and best friend Bryson and Cheeks made the 14-hour drive.

Their mission? BEAT JACK TO THE HOSPITAL!

Ryan laughingly reported, "WE WERE LATE! -- Only ONE JOB!" And it all worked out, and most importantly and greatest news -- "We are all here together!"

Ryan expressed heartfelt gratitude for Jack's extraordinary Texas medical team, especially Dr. K, whose compassionate care made an everlasting impression.

Now, at Craig Hospital, specialists are already evaluating Jack and developing his rehabilitation plan.

And OH, the FIRSTS!

Jack woke up cheerful, excited, and ready! His breathing continues to strengthen. He enjoyed a special visit from his Austin Christian University president, Connor Champion, and was fitted for his first wheelchair -- complete with McLaren racing-inspired orange accents!

Ryan shared how proud they are of Jack's positive attitude and determination.

Of course, questions remain. Recovery won't be measured by a calendar. Some days will be taken one day at a time. Others, one hour at a time.

But here's the family's declaration:
"TODAY HE ROLLS. TOMORROW HE WALKS!"

That's what we're praying and believing for!

Ryan also shared these profound words:
"Everything has changed, but nothing has changed."

Their location has changed. Their circumstances have changed. Their daily lives have changed.

But their faith in Jesus? UNCHANGED!

And their gratitude for YOU -- faithful prayer warriors, generous supporters, and loving friends -- is immeasurable!

Philippians 1:6 reminds us, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

So, dear friends, let's keep praying, encouraging, giving, and believing!

We're celebrating today's victories while trusting God with tomorrow's possibilities.

One day at a time. One prayer at a time. One miracle at a time.

The journey continues, and we're not putting away our praying knees!

FIGHT LIKE JACK! 👊❤️ TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY!

#fightlikejack #craighospital #gratitude #faithunchanged

Watch Where You’re Walking!

Colorado is on my mind -- especially for our dear Jack, but today I'm seqwaying to a personal story.

I was remembering our trip to Crested Butte, Colorado. One morning we followed our leader -- Carl’s daughter, Amelia -- through some pretty rough terrain.

Oh, but it was so beautiful! Magnificent trees towered above us, evergreens surrounded us, and every turn seemed to offer another breathtaking view.

Along the way, I found a long tree limb, trimmed off the scraggly little branches, and made a walking stick for Carl’s sister. It helped steady her steps, but there was something else all of us needed even more:

We had to watch where WE were walking! YES! Keeping our eyes wide open! I have had some major falls -- when I wasn't being careful -- with rises in a sidewalk or street!

And, in Crested Butte -- we had to watch out for the beautiful trees that had roots that stretched right across our pathway. One distracted step and -- WHOOPS! -- down we could go!

Isn’t that a picture of life?

We can be walking through a beautiful season and still encounter something unexpected across our path. A disappointment. A hurt. A financial concern. A troubling report. An offense. Even our own fear or worry can become a “root” that trips us up.

Some obstacles are obvious. Others seem to appear out of nowhere.

That’s why we need to keep our eyes open -- but even more importantly -- keep our eyes on God.

God never promised every pathway would be smooth. But He did promise to walk it with us. Sometimes He removes the obstacle. Sometimes He leads us around it. And sometimes He simply gives us the strength and wisdom to step right over it.

Isaiah 42:16 says, “I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth.”

What a promise!

Maybe there’s a “root” across our path today. But, let's not stare at the obstacle so long that we forget Who is walking with us.

Let's take God's hand. Let's watch our step. Let's keep moving forward.

And let's remember -- the rough places don’t mean we’re on the wrong path. They may simply remind us to stay close to our Guide.

#watchyourstep #Strength #pictureoflife

The Miracle Journey Continues!

PRAISE THE LORD! The day we've prayed for has arrived! Our wonderful Jack Malouff has officially arrived to Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, for specialized spinal cord injury rehabilitation!

THANK YOU, JESUS!

Yesterday morning, Jack's dad, Ryan, announced: "WE ARE ON OUR WAY!"

Jack and his mom, Dana, were picked up by medical transport for their flight to Colorado, where a new chapter of healing and rehabilitation begins.

Ryan shared these powerful words: "Everything has changed, but nothing has changed."

New surroundings. New challenges. New medical teams. But the SAME GOD, the SAME FAITH, and the SAME determination to believe for Jack's complete healing!

And here's a beautiful God-wink! Some of their family already lives in Colorado, ready to surround them with love. God knew what they would need before they ever knew they needed it!

What an army of love has carried this family!

Ryan's supportive employer, Dana's best friend Shawntel, my son who coordinated countless logistics, and my grandson Bryson, Jack's lifelong best buddy, who has faithfully stood beside him.

And Lee aka Popi, Jack's grandfather, who became the hospital's unofficial greeter, encourager, and prayer warrior!

We thank Jack's extraordinary medical team, City Reach Church, its pastors and members, and countless prayer warriors worldwide.

And the generous hearts who have contributed over $250,000 toward Jack's enormous medical and rehabilitation expenses!

This isn't boasting about people. It's boasting about GOD'S LOVE working THROUGH people!

Jesus said, "With God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Ryan calls this faithful army "JACK'S PRAYER FIGHT CLUB!" I LOVE THAT!

And prayer warriors, we're not hanging up our boxing gloves!

The journey ahead will require courage, patience, rehabilitation, and unwavering faith.

We're not closing the book. We're turning the page!

Genesis 50:20 reminds us that God can turn what was meant for evil into good.

We're believing for that GOOD!

So keep praying. Keep encouraging. Keep believing!

One day at a time. One prayer at a time. One miracle at a time.

FIGHT LIKE JACK!

And to God be ALL the glory!

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Colorado Bound -- And God is Leading the Way

Oh, happy day! I could hardly contain my emotions when I received the news! Jack Malouff is Colorado bound! PRAISE GOD!

Yesterday, three vehicles headed toward Englewood, Colorado, home of Craig Hospital, a renowned rehabilitation center specializing in spinal cord and brain injuries.

Jack's dad, Ryan, drove a truck. His sister, Emma, and Bryson's girlfriend, Cheeks, drove Emma's car. And my 19-year-old grandson, Bryson? He's driving his own car!

Why? Because his best buddy since they were TWO YEARS OLD needs him! Talk about loyalty, devotion, and friendship! My grandmother's heart is overflowing!

Today, Jack and his precious mom, Dana, are scheduled to fly to Colorado with an experienced medical transport team, arriving between 2 and 4 p.m. And waiting for that plane? Jack's own personal cheering squad!

Isn't that just like God? He makes a way for family and friends to be close when they're needed most. Even Bryson has a place to stay at Ryan's mom's home. Doesn't that sound like God had a plan all along?

I keep thinking about the four friends who carried their paralyzed friend to Jesus. When they couldn't get through the crowd, they lowered him through the roof! That's friendship that refuses to give up! (Mark 2:1-12)

And that's what I'm witnessing today!

To the hundreds, perhaps thousands, who have prayed around the world for Jack, THANK YOU! Your prayers, encouragement, and unwavering faith have carried this family through some incredibly difficult days.

We aren't at the finish line. There is still a journey ahead. But what a milestone this is!

Craig Hospital has skilled medical professionals ready to help Jack take his next steps toward recovery. And above every doctor, therapist, and treatment plan, we continue trusting our Great Physician!

"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." — James 5:16 (NIV)

So, dear prayer warriors, PLEASE DON'T STOP PRAYING!

We're believing for healing, restoration, renewed strength, and miracles yet to come.

Colorado bound! Hope rising! Faith standing!

And God is going with them every mile of the way!

#craighospital #dontstoppraying #GreatPhysician