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Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Step into Spring

 




Spring begins today, March 19, 2024. Usually, it's March 20 or 21, but because it's a leap year, February gets an extra day. The season moves up a little on the calendar. Either way, the first day of Spring is always a little over a week after daylight saving time.

But, with all that info, it has still felt like Spring long before today. The red bud trees and white dogwood trees have been out in their grand array of beauty for a couple of weeks! Those are the first signs of Spring for me. Our winter in Austin has been extremely mild. Thanks be to God – no ice or snow this year and I am not complaining!

Aw! New life! And, that new life causes me to step it up with Spring in my steps. SPRING: to move or jump suddenly or rapidly upward or forward, leap, arise and evolve.

Did you ever hear that phrase -- a SPRING in your steps? It means we're walking with a bit of a bounce in our steps, implying that we're in a good mood or something good has just happened to us.

Ever been weighed down with a heavy situation, and suddenly good news comes, and you felt light as a feather? Suddenly you had SPRING IN YOUR STEPS!

This time of year, helps with adding spring to our steps and we get a fresh new perspective on life. Spring marks a new beginning. I love that it brings Easter -- the celebration of our resurrected Lord!

All of nature is renewed and it reminds me even more of God's great love for us. Everything starts to come alive with color all around. Isn't that reason enough to have SPRING in our steps?

We have plenty of reasons for joy and life that should exude from us. We should be like a ray of sunshine because we have good news of our mighty God Who loves and cares for us.

We have some wonderful things in our lives that make us different and because of it, we should have that extra bounce to our gait. GAIT. Heard that word before? It is the pattern that we walk like our pace, speed, or tempo. I desire that my “gait” reflects spring in my step and the joy of the Lord that is my strength to be my gait.

In addition to my gait, I want to be like the birds that come singing in the Spring -- singing songs of praise and thanksgiving with a "spring in my step” everyday!

Won’t you join me? With each step, we can bear a striking resemblance of our Creator of Springtime. A big smile planted our our facess and love in our hearts! After all, we KNOW the CREATOR of Springtime. He is our Maker Who made us with "built-in" springs that enables us to always rebound with God’s peace, joy, and love every day!

Got YOUR springs on? Let’s bounce our way into Spring and be reflectors of our Creator Who looks at us and says “That is good. They are good.”

Monday, March 18, 2024

Our First LINE of Defense



In February 2021, I moved to Austin. My son tried to persuade me to take a fourth-floor apartment because the wildlife habitat next door had a beautiful view. That view didn’t matter to me. I didn’t want to wait for an elevator, and I wanted an apartment easily accessible to my car.

I’m glad I followed my instincts. Within a few months living here, I heard the clamor of the loudest earthmoving equipment breaking through boulders and taking down trees. The new Texas Children’s Hospital would be our next-door neighbor.

Now the hospital is completed. It is a joy to know many children have this beautiful facility and team to bring them healing and wholeness. I wanted to volunteer there. I was interviewed and attended their training that included their first line of defense procedures.

The first line of defense is knowing where the fire pulls and extinguishers are, as well as knowing the color codes and alerts in case of security issues as well as many other emergency procedures.

In my personal life, I have known my absolute first line of defense when words I hear shake me to my core, like: “Your daughter has cystic fibrosis!” “Our house is on fire!” “Your mother only has hours to live!” “He was in a car accident!” I wish my first line of defense in all those instances had been “I will not be afraid. I believe God has me and He will work all things for good!”

A great lesson comes from Mark 5:35-36. Jairus, a synagogue leader, came to Jesus begging him to go with him to heal his dying daughter. As Jesus was going with him, people from Jairus' house came saying, “Your daughter is dead. Why bother the teacher anymore?”

Here’s my favorite line (the first line of defense) from Jesus to Jairus when He overheard their words: “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” I can visualize that setting -- Jesus putting a finger up to his lips (“Shush -- don’t speak!”).

“Why bother?” Isn’t that what the naysayers and doubters say and isn’t that what the enemy of our souls wants us to say? It’s the whisper we hear when the bad news comes. "Give up. It’s hopeless.”

Two little words change everything. “But Jesus.” His message is different. “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” WAIT! Jesus isn’t finished. He took her by the hand and said: "Little girl, get up!” The girl stood up and began to walk around.” (Mark 5:41-42)

Above, I quoted lines from “my story”. “Your daughter has cystic fibrosis!” But Jesus -- that little girl was dramatically healed, has a 5-½ octave vocal range and daily lives to share the good news of Jesus. “Our house is on fire!” Those were our daughter’s words when their home was burning. But Jesus -- they were all safe, their insurance covered their losses, and they rebuilt the home.

“Your mother only has hours to live!” But Jesus -- Mom recovered and lived a full life for another eight years. “He was in a car accident!” But Jesus -- our son survived what could have easily been a fatal car crash.

Jairus’ “little girl” was his “But Jesus” moment. What is your “little girl” today? What is your first line of defense when those riveting times come? My first line of defense is Jesus’ words “Do not be afraid. Only believe.” It's not over until He says, "It's over!"

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Happy St. Patrick's Day


I am wearing “green” today! After all, it's St. Patrick's Day and the most important thing about this day is that we wear green, so we don't get pinched!! NOT! I am also wearing my Celtic cross!

It is said that the Celtic cross was introduced by St Patrick, who was attempting to convert the pagan Irish to Christianity. Some of the pagans worshiped the sun, so Patrick combined the Christian cross with the circular pattern of the sun to associate light and life with the Christian cross in the minds of his converts.

We’ve been celebrating this day since March 1st with this pictured display outside our door, the wreath and St. Patrick's Prayer. We’ve honored what this day is really all about.

With all the good-hearted fun and celebrations worldwide, I know, like other religious holidays, this is another "watered down" day, I don’t want to be distracted from what the true meaning of this day is all about, so I am sharing the back-story of St. Patrick.

St. Patrick was born A.D. 389 in England. At 16, he was kidnapped and sold as a slave in Ireland. Six years later he escaped, returned home to Britain but became burdened for the spiritual condition of the Irish.

Eventually, he returned to Ireland as a missionary for 30 years. He established more than 200 churches. He led more than 100,000 to faith in Christ. He used the 3-leaf shamrock to talk about the Trinity. His death on March 17, 461 is remembered as St. Patrick's Day.

Like Joseph in the Bible, sold as a slave, so was Patrick, and like Joseph "what the enemy meant for evil, God turned for good". Genesis 50:20.

Can you imagine what must have gone through Patrick’s mind when he heard the Lord’s call to return to the land where he was once a slave? Instead of running to his safe place, he followed God’s plan for his life.

And isn’t that what we are called to do? Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

On the wall by our door shelf, we placed the prayer of St. Patrick. It shows how utterly consumed St. Patrick was with his relationship with God:

"I arise today through God's strength to pilot me,
God's might to uphold me, God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me, God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me, God's hand to guard me.
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down, Christ when I arise.
Christ in the heart of everyone one who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me.
I arise today through His mighty strength."

Oh that we became thoroughly saturated through and through with Christ, as was St. Patrick.

St. Patrick listened to God’s call for his life and achieved so much for God’s glory. His witness, his prayers, and his example should be celebrated today. This blog, the Celtic cross and the green I wear today honors him and honors the God he served.

I’m in good company with St. Patrick today because I also desire to be consumed by Christ. St. Patrick’s prayer is my prayer, too!

Saturday, March 16, 2024

A Whisper Will Do

 





Oftentimes, my husband speaks to me in a whisper so I’ll say, “What did you say?” Not because I didn’t hear him, I wasn’t paying attention to what he was saying. He not only repeats what he said, but he raises his voice a decibel louder. It’s hilarious – especially when I think the neighbors might hear him! Yikes!

And, sometimes when I am talking to God, waiting for His response – He often speaks in whispers, too! But I assure you this – God has a message for us – especially when we keep our ears open to His voice.

The photo here is one I treasure. I was in Cabo San Lucas, early in the morning, and found myself taking photos of the rock clefts at the ocean. God was whispering to me. I sensed His presence. I took this photo of me in the rock cleft and used it for a Christmas photo and scripture for my family.

Scripture records God’s whispered voice in 1 Kings 19 to the Prophet Elijah. Elijah’s experience with God took place after his public stand against the prophets of Baal. The Lord had shown himself to the people when Elijah’s altar was consumed by fire from heaven. Everyone witnessed the power of God, and the prophets of Baal were defeated and killed. But, when Jezebel threatened Elijah’s life, the prophet was afraid and fled into the hills.

Elijah traveled for forty days and ended up in a cave on Mount Sinai. When God wanted to whisper to his prophet, he had to take him to a place where he knew Elijah would listen.

What about us? God is whispering but we are so caught up in the news, our social media feed, and so many other distractions that we can’t hear Him.

In 1 Kings 19:11 Elijah was in a cave when an angel of the Lord came to him and said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord” (1 Kings 19:11). God wanted to speak a personal message to Elijah, meet his needs, and direct his path. He wanted Elijah’s undivided attention.

God still whispers his purpose and plans to his people today. When I go to the “cleft of the rock” – my sanctuary or my sweet spot (as I have recently written about in former blogs), I not only get a download from my Lord, I start seeing things differently. Especially those things that are blurring my God-vision.

Are we supposed to look for God in the news, the government, the storms? No. He wants us to seek His voice in the quiet. After the wind, the earthquake, and the fire, there was “the sound of a low whisper” (1 Kings 19:12). And, Elijah heard that whisper.

God’s words to Elijah were whispered because the prophet was close and listening. In that moment, nothing else mattered except hearing God’s quiet voice.

When God whispers to us, it is for our ears only. We should strain to catch every word. Our generation of faith is blessed to have access to His word every moment of every day. We can Google a verse or grab our Bible. We can find God there – in a whisper.

It’s time to go to the Cleft of our Rock! It’s time to draw close to Jesus and let His whisper His words to us. God still whispers His words to those who will listen. God’s whisper is His word to us. Let’s find our “cleft” today, then nestle in, draw close AND listen. Shhh! I think I hear His whispers right now!

Friday, March 15, 2024

Where is YOUR Sweet Spot?

 


A few days ago, I wrote about my "sanctuary" where I find sweet peace and rest. That's my "sweet spot". Jesus said to His disciples "Come away with me and rest awhile” (Mark 6:31). Did you know when all around us seems to be chaos that we can "Lie down in green pastures so our Good Shepherd can restore our souls?

A friend privately messaged me asking for prayer and scripture verses to help her traverse some major mountains and valleys in her life. I was quick to respond to her.

Today, I am standing behind my imaginary podium because I suspect that many of my readers need encouragement too.

Psalm 31:24 says: “Be strong, and let your heart TAKE courage; all you who wait for the Lord.” It doesn’t say have courage, it says take courage – like “Take your medicine!” In this case – take Christ! Keep on keeping company with Christ and ask Him to TAKE your fears and to embolden your courage. Ahh! Keeping company with Christ.

That is my“sweet spot”. I also call it “My Peace Zone” (see my website: MyPeaceZone.com ). It may rather be a season than a spot, but it’s holding the hand of our Hope-Giver and Peace-Provider, knowing that God never wastes “spots” or “seasons”.

Yes, life is unpredictable. One day we can be firing on all cylinders being enthusiastic, energetic, hope-filled and everything’s going our way! Give it another day or two, and we’ve bottomed out, weary from the stress, lack-luster in our faith and our engine has stalled completely.

But hold on! On those days, we quickly run to that SWEET SPOT of being strong and TAKING courage -- holding on tightly to our Sweet Spot-Maker.

The “sweet spot” is often the middle spot – between the good times rolling and waiting while the storms pass over. The eye of the storm – so to speak. I’ve found that spot in hanging out with Jesus.

When I have travelled by myself on long open roads, I always looked forward to the next rest area or service station, where I could hit the restrooms, stretch my legs, and even, if need be, sit in my car and shut my eyes for a few minutes. It was amazing how rejuvenated I felt after -- after the sweet spot – the rest stop!

And in this middle place of working through something in our lives -- in the space between moving courageously and waiting for something to change -- we can lose our gumption to function. Hope gets buried beneath 50 layers of defeated thinking, and we’re sure we’re making all the wrong moves. But, DON'T lose hope. You could be on the brink of a miracle.

I don’t know the details of your circumstances, but if you are calling on God for help this day -- please hear this. Keep on keeping on. You’ve got this. TAKE courage, dear ones: the fight is not over. You have not lost. You’ve made it to the Sweet Spot, where the waters are about to part. Stand firm in the Sweet Spot and in the Peace Zone and TAKE courage!

Thursday, March 14, 2024

The Edits of Our Lives

 



I read on Tuesday that Princess Catherine of Wales aka Princess Kate, issued an apology because she received a backlash for editing a photo she released on social media. She simply “fixed” a photo to celebrate Mother’s Day.

I get it. She is royalty and authenticity is essential to strict editing guidelines. Apparently this wasn’t the first of the royal couple’s photo alterations. Their 2023 Christmas card was altered.

Lord, have mercy! I might need to apologize for my photo edits. I might have taken the head out of a grandchild in a family photo and replaced it with one that wasn’t with their tongue sticking out! Or I might use “photo repair” to take off blemishes from our faces. Sigh!

I might also remove the background of a photo, like my FB profile photo. It had a group of people in the background. I wanted my readers to see us – not the group of people.

Editing. As I type this blog today, I think about our daily editing. The edits that are less than authentic are like putting on a happy face amid real painful issues going on in and around us. We struggle with authenticity. What would people think if they knew this about me?

I was the Editor for a monthly newspaper that went out to consumers for the Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative in Seminole, OK. One of the things I learned was to edit aka cut out everything that wasn’t necessary so a more meaningful story could be revealed. I did the same thing when I was asked to edit an article or speech someone was about to give.

I highly recommend that we edit our daily lives. What is consuming our time and physical well-being and even our thought time-wasters? Maybe we need to edit our friendships – those that tend to cause more angst than positivity. And, what about our hobbies? Are they causing more stress and time commitments than fueling us with joy and peace?

And what about the time we spend surfing the internet or checking our social media platforms?

Now, let’s take a close look at what brings our life value. Is THAT important to me? Is it in line with my life priorities and values? How would it affect my life if I dropped out? Maybe more time for more worthwhile things.

I was a relentless pickleball player. That is, until I suffered two hamstring injuries in a year’s time. I had a wake-up call and decided to EDIT that fun sport. I eliminated the potential of further injuries.

Let’s do a self-analysis about what needs to be edited out of our lives. The things that’s least in line with our life values, priorities, and goals. It will free up a lot of our time, and while others may be disappointed, we must determine what’s most important in our lives – not everyone else’s.

This blog came from reading about Princess Kate’s editing issues and the editing issues that we all need to consider. Let’s fess up! Let’s superpower up! Making changes aka edits in our lives might free us up to take on that “thing” that might put us on a smoother journey with less hassles.

“Your life is your story. Write it well. Edit it often.” Susan B. Anthony

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead,” Philippians 3:13

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Stuck in a Rut?

 


The story behind this photo is worth a million words. With my lack of brevity, I could expound on it with that many words, but I won't. This is my beloved son, Larry Wallace, who assumed he was far enough from the lake as he seeded his pastures, but, unfortunately, he ran over an underground spring that literally pulled the tractor in and got stuck — a HUGE “stuck in a rut”.

Are you feeling "stuck in a rut" today? You’ve tried to get out of the rut, but it seems Gorilla glue has you stuck – paralyzed! Your motivation and determination is null and void. Perhaps you have given up pursuing your dreams and visions. You are held by an imaginary ball and chain of defeat.

On the other hand, you might be one, like Larry, who was NOT going to stay there. Notice the words on his shirt? WIN ALL DAY! He was relentless and determined to NOT stay there. With the help of a "village", his tractor was pulled out of the rut. I was there, witnessed it all and celebrated the victory with him!

Maybe you are like Larry -- undaunted. You rescue yourself as you refuse to stay in the rut. You aren’t satisfied with only your freedom. You also rescue others by building them up, encouraging them, and loving them out of the ruts of their lives.

Remember the Bible story of Joseph whose brothers threw him in a cistern aka hole and purposed to leave him there. The epic story is in Genesis 37, 39-50. If ever there was someone who was stuck in a place of defeat – it was Joseph. Perhaps you are there with him -- stuck in a similar hole of poor health, financial pressure, family conflicts and more. Joseph and you are not alone.

Joseph could have been angry at God, but he stayed close to Him. He let the experience teach him important lessons about humility and trust in the Lord. By the time he and his brothers reconciled many years later, a wiser and holier Joseph declared to his brothers: “Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good."(Genesis 50:20). Not only did Joseph grow closer to God, but his ordeal paved the way for his entire family to be saved from famine.

Maybe God is using our "ruts" to teach us perseverance and patience. Maybe He’ll use our witness of faith to soften someone else’s heart. Or maybe He has an even better solution waiting for us a little further down the road. Whatever the case, we can always trust that God’s plan is bigger than ours ever will be.

Joseph’s story shows us that God can bring good out of any situation. He helps us grow in love and grace even when it feels like a pit of despair. Feeling stuck is scary! I've experienced it. But if we believe that we are not alone in the hole, that God is there with us, that hole can lead us into a place of destiny and purpose like God planned for us all along.

Yes, I know ruts and holes. But I have also known my loving God Who never leaves us or forsakes us. Larry had friends who helped him get his tractor out of that rut. And we have our God Who has purposes for our ruts and holes. So brave up, mighty soldiers! You plus God are a majority that will "run against any troop and by your God, will leap over a wall." Psalm 18:29

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Welcome to my SANCTUARY!



Years ago, a dear friend gave me this sign to remind me that I could live a life of peace if I simply took myself there. SANCTUARY is a place of refuge or safety, haven, shelter, hideaway, port in a storm.

Indeed, my friend knew that I needed to be reminded of the SANCTUARY we have in our relationship with God. I remember that because, long ago, I determined that my home would be a SANCTUARY no matter what is going on inside of it.

I pulled that sign out from behind my dresser to remind me of my sanctuary at home. I recommend that your home be your sanctuary, too! I sense that this word is for some of my friends who are living in chaos, fear, pain and concerns right now. Today!

So how do we find that place of peace and the place to escape from the everyday stressors of life – an escape from busyness and chaos? That place where we find peace in our hearts and souls when with everything in us, wants to run for our lives.

I loved watching my daughter play basketball from grade school to high school. I loved having “home court advantage” over the visiting team. The home team fans were out in droves and the team spirit elevated our team's thinking AND their game. Home court advantage applies to the SANCTUARY that our home becomes as a haven of peace, love, and rest when we treat it that way. It becomes our "home court advantage".

The politics. The news. The weather. The hate. The worry. I turn the news on and then I turn it off quickly. It reminds me why I rarely, if ever, watch those live news broadcasts anymore. I don’t have the stomach OR heart for it all.

The combative nature of people these days wears on my spirit. I don’t quite know what to make of it all, but as I sit down to write loving, comforting words for myself and for my readers, God places my attention on a little sign that says, “SANCTUARY” with a scripture reference of Mark 6:31 “Come away to a secret place and rest for while” that reels me back in to what matters most.

I don’t know what your world looks like today. You may have young children jumping off the furniture and climbing in your pantry. Their sibling rivalry is at peak performance. Your spouse may be overloaded with worries and care. Your to-do list is way too long to stop in at the SANCTUARY.

I know that atmosphere. It is familiar to me. But what became the most familiar to me and the priority in my home is making God -- my deepest source of meaning, unconditional love and peace.

It can be found -- even in small increments of time. I promise. When our priority is going to the SANCTUARY at some point of our day, we will find the presence of a holy, loving, awe-inspiring God. He is available, present, and more life-giving and peace-giving than everything else combined.

I offer you a glance at my sign. SANCTUARY. That lovely, reassuring place of safety. Relief from all the ugliness out there. A break from it all.

What if SANCTUARY looked like nothing more complicated than a hot, comforting cup of coffee, a pen in hand, a blank page beckoning, with a Bible or devotional book nearby. Going to the SANCTUARY and having moments of quiet, deep peace and rest and the assurance “It is well with my soul.”

"Come away with me and rest for a while." (Mark 6:31)

Monday, March 11, 2024

Come Out -- Wherever You Are

 



Last week I blogged about the importance of face-to-face conversations with others. We need others in our lives to fully engage in meaningful times of sharing and caring for each other.

Today, not only can we meet friends and acquaintances for lunches or dinners to get to know them better, we can also have face to face conversations by facetiming on our phones or Zoom meetings on our computers. Close friends or family members will often Facetime me to show me something or to simply have a face-to-face conversation. It’s a great way to close the distance between us.

But I’ll be honest with you -- it often catches me off-guard because I’m still in my jammies and my hair and make-up aren’t up to up-close-and-personal interactions. As a matter of fact – I wouldn’t want you to see me right now! Yikes!

I get it. One of the things I like most about our phones and text messaging plus email is that we DON’T see each other. We can hide behind our electronics without concern for how we look. And, we can get to the point of our conversation faster. But I’ve refused to make that the only way I communicate with others. I know we need face-to-face conversations.

Thursday nights here at Everleigh (where we live) are called “Mix & Mingle” where we enjoy a delicious meal and lots of themed décor and celebrations. Last Thursday was “Movie Stars Night”. That meant we were to come in the costume of a movie star. You can see in this photo that Carl came as ELF. I came as Shirley Temple in Heidi and our dear friend Lee came as Tom Cruise in Top Gun. Lee won the grand prize of a $50 gift card with the most applause for his character.






And, that night we celebrated many kind, caring and all-in friends with whom we enjoy having face-to-face encounters. Many people in our community prefer staying to themselves -- not taking the opportunity to get to know others. They enjoy their quiet place and aren’t into socializing. Different strokes for different folks.

But, honestly, it’s time to step out of the “unseen” and be seen. If we were like God – we would love and care for our “neighbors” – not based on whether we saw them and sized them up based on their outward appearance, but on their hearts.

God’s love is the same for all people regardless of race, gender, or stature. “I do not look at your outward appearance or worldly achievements, I only see your spirit and your heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 15:12)

Carl, Lee, and I not only socialize here, but on Tuesday nights we attend a House Church where over 50 to 75 people come together for a delicious meal, singing praises to God and enjoy hearing life testimonies. We join with others face-to-face to love, encourage and support each other.

Our personal commitment is NOT to be a hermit. We will not stay behind closed doors. We plan on loving ourselves so much that we WILL get out and about so some of Jesus in us rubs off on others. When we do that, we’re “loving our neighbor as we love ourselves.” (Matthew 22:39)

So, come out, come out wherever you are and share the love of Jesus with others. I promise you'll be glad you did!!

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Delighting is an Action Verb

 


One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 37:4 -- “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Those words mean that when we delight in God and His goodness, He promises that He GIVES us those desires.

"Delight" means bringing pleasure to someone and, no doubt, when we DELIGHT in God, yielding our lives to Him, His favor will come our way!

It is true for you and me, too. I remember when my Carl “delighted” in the Sunday meal I prepared for him of pot roast, potatoes, carrots, and onions – so much so that he said: “I love this meal so much. It makes me want to eat it all the time. Will you marry me?”

Yes, that was his proposal and within a second, I said “YES”! And since marrying this precious man, I have found that man’s heart is so tender towards me that he delights in me. And it draws this woman closer and closer to that man. This is a similar way we delight in God.

Lest what I say here leads you to think that delighting in God is a ploy to get our heart’s desires, it is not. God is the Giver of the desires that please Him.

Reflecting back BC (before Carl), I was crushing widowhood. I was NEVER a disheartened, desperate-for-love widow. I carried on delighting in my singleness for thirteen years after my beloved late husband passed. I was in a deep love affair with my Lord – thus these blogs He and I wrote daily.

But, one day I started having a DESIRE for male companionship now and then. I had lots of “sisterhood” friends, but I started desiring and even said to God, “I would appreciate having a man friend!” It wasn’t a desperate cry of “Lord, I need a man!” NO! NO!

I learned that when I was “delighting” in God, HE was placing in me new desires in my heart. Read that scripture again. “Delight yourself in the Lord and HE WILL GIVE YOU the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4). So how do we know if the desires of our hearts are God’s desires for us?

I had been taking pleasure and delighting in my Lord. I was spending sweet times with Him. I was seeking Him with all my heart. Previously, I had the desire to move to Austin. Where did that desire come from? It came from “delighting in my Lord”. My “delighting” became my mode of operation that continues today.

How do we know those desires that we have are God’s desire for us? God will give us peace about it. I had that peace. The peace that passes all understanding isn’t mental. It’s spiritual.

I know this. If the desire that we have in our heart is not of God, then we will have no peace in our spirit about it. The Holy Spirit will not allow us to have peace about doing something that is not of God.

So, how do we know if the desires of our hearts are from God? We have peace in our spirit to truly know if it’s of God or not. No peace. No God. Know peace. Know God. I pray God gives YOU, the desires of YOUR heart as you delight in Him.

Saturday, March 9, 2024

The Exorcist


When I was young, unbridled, and careless with my mind and what goes in it, I made the foolish mistake of watching horror movies. There was something that drew me into them – only to after watching them, having sleepless nights.

What was I thinking? Watching those films tempt us to take our eyes off the beauty and faithfulness of Jesus. I remember watching “The Exorcist” years ago and for a very long time, I was kept from rejoicing in God’s GOOD NEWS! Instead, I kept double-checking my locked doors.

There are real things that can cause fear in our lives, and we add to it by watching horror aka negative, fear-filled movies that rob us of the joy, peace, and contentment that are ours through Christ Jesus.

If you are still keen on horror movies or books – I’d like to recommend going to the Good Book aka the Bible. In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus is seizing “Legion” from a man possessed. Verses 3-4 says: “This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. He had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills, he would cry out and cut himself with stones.”

Jesus, in His authority, cast the demons into the swine. Now, that’s what I call a scene straight out of a horror film. We can practically hear the swine squeal as they plummet off the steep bank and into the sea.

Let’s picture those pigs squealing and us doing a little cheer, please! This is by far the best exorcism recorded in Scripture, and I celebrate it by serving my husband a plate of bacon!

We can focus on the evil that possessed the man, OR we can focus on my favorite verse from this Gospel, “Go home to your family and announce to them all that the Lord in His pity has done for you.” (Mark 5:19)

Let’s focus on the miracles (not the chaos of the enemy), that Jesus performs in our lives! He freed this man from a legion of demons! A legion is an armed regiment of nearly 6,000 Roman soldiers, so this was a massive departure of evil spirits from this man’s soul!

Pray tell that we don’t fall into the traps of preferring drama over healing, fear over peace, conflict over freedom. I know how easy it is to dwell on the “horrors” in our lives. BUT. DON’T!!!

Even when God performs great miracles in our family, careers, friendships, health, and spiritual lives, we tend to focus on what isn’t! BUT. DON’T. Rather, focus on celebrating God’s mercy, truth, and love for us!

I have renounced Satan’s tactics that cause fear, woe, negativity, and concern in my life. I have learned to guard my heart from those “horror” stories. I have built absolutes into my life. The absolute peace that passes understanding that keeps my mind on “Whatsoever things are lovely and of a good report”. I think those things ON purpose! (Philippians 4:8)

Care to join me? I promise freedom from fear, horrors, and dread when our minds STAY on Him!


Friday, March 8, 2024

Being the Pen of a Ready Writer

 


More than anything, I desire to be God's pen as He is the Ready Writer. Psalm 45:1 says, "… my tongue is the pen of a skillful/ready writer." That means when we speak words, we are writing them on our hearts and whatever is conceived in our hearts will eventually come out of our mouths and manifest in our lives.

God speaks first, then we bring His message to life. Our Creator creates in a way much greater than we ever could. And when He gives us the privilege to be a part of those designs, we know that we have found our purpose.

I have a wonderful time – digging, searching, mentally embracing, and having ah-ha’s when an idea or nudge comes my way for yet another blog. I pray God allows me to have this job aka “being the pen of my Ready Writer” for a very long time.

But now when I step away from my computer or my pen and paper, I know that my purpose remains – to listen to my Father’s voice and in turn heed His voice, think about the Greater One Who lives in me and Who I have given free rein to mold me and make me into His stenographer.

Aw! His stenographer! Eons ago, I was the Admin for a bank president in Oklahoma City. He dictated His letters and with little signs and symbols, I used “shorthand” to write down quickly what he said. Then I would transcribe my notes into business documents or letters. I also did the same in the bank's board meetings and would provide a word-for-word transcript of what was said.

In today's times, my boss would type his own letters and emails via innovative technologies. But, as I type these daily blogs, I realize I am still a stenographer once again. I know I am the pen of my Ready Writer.

I pray that I hear my BOSS, Father God, loud and clear and can continue to transcribe what He’s saying adequately and clearly. I am still, at this mature age, learning my purpose from my BOSS. I know I want to be His hands extended when He whispers in my ears or when He takes my arms to hug someone for Him or to speak a word when He nudges me.

Perhaps God is calling you to be His stenographer or His assistant or His driver or His ambassador Who steps up to say: "Please choose me and use me for Your Kingdom purposes, Lord! Surely there's a work I can do for You! I submit my will for Your will any time -- all the time!"

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Miracles Still Happen

 



And, the wait is worth it. Over the multi-years of my life, I have faced insurmountable times of worry, defeat, dealt with problems that couldn’t be solved, health issues that seemed hopeless, and many things that I couldn’t understand.

A miracle was needed and sometimes it felt like it was too little, too late, and throwing in the towel was my only recourse. Maybe that’s you today. You relate.

And, if you haven’t ever needed a miracle, I promise. Someday you will. And I also promise that “In due season, you will reap if you faint not!”! The entire scripture of Galatians 6:9 goes like this “Be not weary in WELL DOING, for in due season you will reap if you faint not!” Aw! Well doing!

Reaping well is conditional. “Due season” implies a span of time between planting and reaping. That means we shouldn’t be weary when we plant but don’t see immediate results. At the right time, we WILL reap! God assures us that there is a RIGHT TIME!

When we are in tough situations, we have a choice. We can wait on God’s timing and His way. Or we can take matters into our own hands and try to make a miracle happen ourselves. I love Robert Schuller’s quote: “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do!”

The truth is that miracles don’t come from the places we expect them. And they don’t come because of our own effort. Take Abraham, for example. God told Abraham he was going to have a son, and that the son would be the father of a great nation.

Abraham was nearly 100 years old, and he and his wife had no children. It would take a miracle to make it happen.

But Abraham had trouble believing God’s promise, and he didn’t wait on God to work a miracle. Instead, he took matters into his own hands and had a child with a woman who wasn’t his wife. But that wasn’t God’s plan. All along, God’s plan had been to work a miracle in Abraham’s wife, Sarah. Sarah AND Abraham tried to figure out the answer and it was the wrong answer!

The same is true for us. Our way of making things happen falls short of God’s best way! Isaiah 55:8 says, “‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,’ says the Lord. ‘And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.”

Miracles always come in unexpected ways. I speak from experience: the financial windfall after a very long dry spell; the healing after a long and painful journey; the baby that was healed completely after a deadly diagnosis; the marriage restored when all seemed lost.

Trying to figure it out in the middle of fear isn’t the answer. But trusting God and declaring, “I don’t know how God is going to do it, but I know He WILL do it.”

In the meantime – don’t give up. Don’t give in. You’re on the brink of a miracle. God is still on His throne. Be patient! Follow the Leader! Go where He goes. Stay put when He says: “Be still and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10) Then simply obey and follow where God leads. And get ready for your miracle! Remember you’re not alone! God is on YOUR side!

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

His Chosen Ones

 



Watching "The Chosen" series, I have been enlightened to what it might have looked like back in the days when Jesus walked, talked, healed, corrected, uplifted, raised people from the dead, performed miracles of loaves and fishes, and taught the masses.

Seriously, I don’t read a scripture in the New Testament now without seeing it in my mind with technicolor – quite unlike the days of Sunday School flannel board images of Jesus and the disciples and the rest of those in those Bible times.

What a blessing it is for us to have the Bible AND to see actors and actresses playing the biblical characters on screen today. But, Just because we live in these modern, high-tech times, doesn’t mean God is playing favorites with us today any more than it seemed He played favorites back when He was alive and well on this earth.

God doesn’t play favorites -- regardless of our background, status, or whether we are pure as the driven snow or a lost, impure sinner. It doesn’t matter whether we’re a religious person, a formerly religious person, or if we have any religious background at all.

When I think about the words “The Chosen”, I usually consider the Jews who have been called “God’s chosen people”. Somehow, “God’s chosen people” sounds like God loves them more than He loves those of us who aren’t Jews. But He doesn’t. They were chosen for a purpose -- to spread the message to everyone else that there is one true God. They were kind of like missionaries to the rest of us.

Now God includes everyone who puts their faith in Christ, regardless of their background. God says His salvation is available to anybody who opens his or her heart in faith: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Good news is there are no quotas in heaven. The Bible doesn’t say only really, really good people will be saved if they call on the name of the Lord. EVERYONE who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

There are a lot of folks who believe they must work their way to heaven. But the truth is God’s gift of grace is what He offers all of us – free of charge! We don’t have to work our way into heaven. What we need is to accept God’s gift of salvation through Christ. That is what makes us “His Chosen”!

Romans 4:16 says, “The promise is not only for those who live under the law of Moses but for anyone who lives with faith like that of Abraham.” The Jews were/are those people who live under the Law of Moses. They were chosen FIRST and were given the ways of God before we were.

Now, we are ALL IN as God’s CHOSEN ONES. There is nothing we can do that will cause us to be loved any more or any less than He loves us right now. This is our time to shine. We’ve been chosen to set a new standard for our families, our neighbors, our friends.

We’ve been chosen to live a victorious, abundant life. And when thoughts tell us, "You're unworthy, you're not qualified,” declare “Thank you, Father. I AM worthy. I have been CHOSEN for such a time as this!”

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow



Today, March 5th, is Primary Election Day here in Texas.  I am up and at ‘em to head to my polling location where I’ll be working from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. tonight.  I am stoked.  I can’t begin to convey how patriotic I feel about being a part of this process.   

There will be long lines of voters despite the last two weeks of Early Voting opportunities.  Many people will say to us, “Thank you for volunteering!” And I’ll say, “It is my pleasure to serve for something that I believe in so much!” 

On a side note, and my small way of sporting patriotism, every day of early and today’s voting, I have worn red, white, and blue attire and jewelry.  Sounds sappy, but I want the world to know how grateful I am to be an American – where at least I know I am free.  Thanks, Lee Greenwood!

And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I'd gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
'Cause there ain't no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.

The truth is no matter the outcome of this primary election in the State of Texas or the other states who have already held their primary elections and those to come, I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I know WHO holds tomorrow!

This world seems like it is on a downward spiral, but we don't have to be concerned because, if we listen to the candidates, all things will be fixed – wrapped up, and tied up with a big red or blue bow on it!  They’ll fix the economy; world peace will prevail and we will be assured the world will be a better place in their term of office. 

I am grateful that our hopes for tomorrow won’t depend on what a man or woman promises in the political arenas.  Here’s what I know and here's what I'm staking my life upon. I believe God's ways are much higher than our ways. Up His sovereign sleeves are plans and purposes that will be carried out regardless of who is elected.

If we are people who live by faith, we will keep overcoming because we know that God is in control -- no matter "the who" is in the White House or who is elected in our state.  Instead of being in that "I'm-worried-about-what-our-future-holds mode", how about us looking at a penny and stand by those words engraved on it that say, "In God We Trust"?

I am leaving for my polling location before dawning this morning. I won’t see daylight until it comes through the windows of our building. But I will see my oversized flag pin that I wear with pride.  I have a vivid picture in my mind of what the American flag means to me.  But more than the American flag that waves atop a flag pole and the one I wear, the cross of Jesus Christ is my statue of liberty. In GOD we trust!  Rest assured our future is secure in Him!

Monday, March 4, 2024

Face-to-Face

 


The year is 1968. My workplace in Dallas is having its employees’ Christmas’ family night. The 18-month-old boy here is Ryan, my son. Notice the Nehru suit along with the Beatles’ haircut. Also, notice the look on my boy’s face – he wasn’t at all impressed with the Santa who was giving out Christmas stockings.

Obviously, we were caught up in those guys from Liverpool, England, who made their U.S. debut on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. We joined the 73 million people gathered in front of their TV sets to see the Beatles’ first live performance on U.S. soil. That number reflected 23,240,000 American homes. Wow!

All that nostalgia consumed us when we attended the 60-years since “Beatlemania” began in the U.S. The Classical Mystery Tour (four men who sang, dressed, and played their instruments like the Beatles) were accompanied by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. We were immersed in many of their timeless hits. They gave us a full-blown experience of many of the Beatles’ songs.





We listened to "Penny Lane" with a live trumpet section, and savored the beauty of "Yesterday" and "Imagine" by an acoustic guitar and string quartet. It was truly a wonderful, memory-filled night.

This blog was borne when I heard the announcer ask the audience: “What question was NOT asked of the Beatles?” He answered his own question. "They weren’t asked: “What is your website’s address?” “What is your name on Facebook?” He went on. "They regularly met “face-to-face” in the living area of their home and other places where they practiced and practiced."

Face-to-face. How long has it been since you sat face-to-face with a friend, a loved one, a stranger – and simply looked into their eyes with intentional, undivided attention?

We email. We blog. We text-message. We talk on the phone. We convince ourselves that as long as we can write well, we are good at communicating. Perhaps in some ways even better, since we're not distracted by the person's physical presence.

And we are wrong. We are fooling ourselves into thinking that texting is even half as effective as face-to-face communicating a message. Body language, facial expression, and tone of voice in face-to-face conversations is underrated. Face-to-face with others helps us to truly know someone, experience real communication and keeps us from misinterpreting what they are saying.

Just think about how a baby responds to facial expressions of his parents. We make all kinds of silly faces and express ourselves with love and humor and joy. That precious baby responds with laughing or cooing and feels loved.

Of course, we're adults, and not babies, but we are still moved with sincerity and genuine care and concern as, face-to-face, we look eye-to-eye with God’s love. I was able to do that with a co-worker at the election polls this week.

Face-to-face, eye-to-eye, we encouraged each other, embraced each other with hugs and appreciation. For two weeks, working at the early voting, we connected. The very fact that we’ve had the chance to see and hear someone right in front of us goes a long way toward feeling REALLY loved and appreciated.

Best. News. Ever. One day we will see Jesus face-to-face. That truth is deposited deep in our hearts when we seek His face. It is articulated beautifully by the Apostle Paul, who says that “In this life we see through a glass, darkly. But someday, we shall know as we are known and shall see God “face to face”! (1 Corinthians 13:12) How we long for that day, when we come face to face with our Savior and Lord!

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Just How Big is God?

 



He’s big enough to rule the entire universe, yet small enough to live within my heart. You ask me how I know He lives and is in control – because He lives within my heart!

Such simple yet such powerful words! God's "bigness" happens to be the defining legacy of my mom. In every single thing that happened in her life, she saw the hand of God and took the time to say, “How BIG is God!” She said it over and over again. NEVER was there a question mark at the end. It was always an exclamation point!

When my mom exclaimed, “How big is God!,” she wasn't referring to human standards of size and measurement. There is nothing that can even begin to compare to the vastness of God! She was referring to the same big God Who also knows every single hair on our heads.

Not a sparrow falls to the ground without God knowing. So of course He is involved and orchestrating the details of our lives. Not a single thing happens that takes Him by surprise.

But when we only want to attribute God’s bigness to the big things in our lives, we are attributing all of the other small things to chance or coincidence. Our Great Creator does not leave the small events in our lives up to happen chance.

Once that takes root in our hearts, we, too, like my mom, will begin to say with boldness: “How big is God!”…even about the smallest of details that seemingly wouldn’t matter to a God who has billions of requests every day.

THE GOD of the universe is our loving Father. He knows us by name. Maybe it’s time for you to become acquainted with YOUR indescribable, all powerful, unchangeable — AMAZING God…for yourself. His ginormous arms are outstretched to you.

And speaking of outstretched arms and proof of His great love….. He loved us so much that He sent His one and only Son to become one of us, to die for us…..so that we will live with Him – up close and personal – from here to eternity! Now, THAT is what I call BIG!

How big is God? How big and wide His vast domain.
To try to tell, these lips can only start.
He's big enough to rule this mighty universe!
Yet small enough to live within my heart!

Saturday, March 2, 2024

Our Ark aka Cabinet Project

 



As hilarious as it was, it still went SOUTH! We had it! Done with not enough storage space! So, we went to the IKEA store for a storage cabinet for the excess in our kitchen. But, to our chagrin, it was no longer in stock.

So, since Amazon seems to carry everything, we found a cabinet that looked to be the perfect size for the spot in our kitchen beside our refrigerator.

A few days later, our cabinet arrived at our door, with a knock. No one there, but there was a 6” x 16” x 6’ slim box standing upright. WHAT??? Obviously, we missed the “Do it Yourself” part!!! OMG! We didn’t read the small print!!! Chip and Joanna Gaines – WHERE ARE YOU when we need you??

As ambitious as we could be, we emptied the box of what seemed to be a 1,000 pieces puzzle that included boards of different sizes, plus more hardware than we could have imagined. Ever heard of a “hidden cam” or a “cam screw”? There were dowels, hinges, brackets, flat head screws, pan head screws and machine screws!

How thankful we were that there was a thick instruction manual that, supposedly, would guide us through this feat! Right away, we realized God would have never selected us to build the ARK. No matter how well we read the detailed instructions, we couldn’t keep our “ark” holding together.

That “hidden cam” wouldn’t hold the “cam screw”. For the sake of our few months of marriage lasting longer, we closed the manual, determined to get a fresh start the next day, even if it meant to return it from whence it came!

Aw! A new day! Our spiritual AND physical determination, with no-holds-barred-attitudes, prevailed. We read the manual again, saw the hidden cam and the cam screws were meant for each other. Whoa-la! We rocked it! Rather, screwed it! The pieces came together! We had a solid unit, but without doors!

Then a heaven-to-earth blessing showed up! Our dear friend, Lee Rosenlund, returned from a 3-week vacation, AND in time to help us put on the doors, handles, ensured our cabinet was level, all tightened to withstand an earthquake (God forbid). Our teamwork led to more space and with a marriage that is still intact!

“Where are you going with today’s blog, Donna?” I’m glad you asked! Lee was like our Holy Spirit Who comforts us and brings us wisdom for the long haul. AND the wisdom to stick to the manual!

We have been given a set of life instructions by our Heavenly Father – His Holy Word! When we follow this manual to the T, we will be put together perfectly – spirit, soul and body -- by our Master Craftsman.

The Apostle Paul taught how the scriptures help keep us together (like following the instructions for our “do-it-yourself” cabinet.) Paul wrote: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the people of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

How’s that for our own “Do-It-Yourself” project of living an abundant and blessed life? I think I’ll pay closer attention to the manuals for projects, our cars, our living – especially using God’s Word as our Do-It-With-Himself Holy Manual!!

Friday, March 1, 2024

Salt or NO Salt



Happy March! Let's keep MARCHING ON!
For years, I have embraced this time of the year for not only a time of Lent (from Ash Wednesday to the Saturday before Easter) and introspection of this “temple of the Holy Spirit” that God gave me (and you). 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?”

It is a valuable time for me to get control of my health – mentally, spiritually, and physically. So, when I titled this blog “Salt or No Salt”, I am conveying how I am coming to grips with what I need to do for the long run aka long, abundant life that God gave me. In John 10:10, Jesus said: “The thief comes to steal kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

I realized that I have been taking in way too much salt, as explained by my physician after reading some of my medical reports. I had a bout of dizziness and high blood pressure that, apparently, this chick brought on herself. So, I have eliminated salt altogether from my cooking and eating.

The good news is I found the “Original NO SALT Sodium Free-Salt Alternative.” Yahoo! But more than my physical well-being is this time of going deeper with God. This SEASONING aka season of Lent AND beyond is when we “Let our speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that we may know how we ought to answer every man.” Colossians 4:6.

This scripture says.....when sharing our faith with others, it's like seasoning with salt. If someone sprinkles a little salt on food and makes it taste good, we really appreciate it. But if someone hands us a spoon of salt and says, "Eat up," it's hard to swallow, difficult to digest, and most certainly not good for the heart – just like my physician spoke to me.

So, what does the world think when we season our conversation with too much talk about church and God, and we never talk about things we might have in common with them? They just don't get us, and we don't relate to them.

This blog is for me as I have been serving in these Early Voting Elections. There are five Democrats and five Republicans who are working together. Opposites in some of our convictions, but so much alike because we are all children of God.

I have talked a little about the book I am reading, a little about the weather, and a little about my family, and their family, and a little about the everyday concerns that we all have. Then, as the right opportunity comes, I sprinkle a word about God's goodness, and how He answered a prayer.

In our sphere of influence, it's easy to share about the special blessings we received and that God was the giver of the gift, or we mention an insight we gained from a sermon we heard. Or better yet, what if we went out of our way to share God's love with them in a tangible way, like taking them for dinner?

I have found that curiosity is aroused with just a sprinkle of my "salt" here and there. And, I have been noticing the thirst for what I have. We can be the salt others need for zest and flavor in their life. Let's be salt shakers! We just might be the difference maker in what they need....when they need it most.

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Affirming ME!



This "leap year" day gives me the opportunity to close out this LOVE month with a conscious effort of loving and affirming ME! What??? Donna! That sure sounds braggadocious! Oh, but not so!
Hear me out! In the dictionary, “Self-Affirmation” is the recognition of the existence and value of one's individual self. Yes, we live in a self-indulgent, it’s all about ME, self-gratification world today. Just check out all the selfies of ourselves, our family, our friends on Facebook. I’m guilty as charged.
When I've tried to do a selfie of my husband and me, thankfully, somone will come along and offer to take the photo for us. What about self-affirmation -- that awareness of how valuable we are to God AND to ourselves? I think it’s okay because I learned long ago that my closest friend who is with me 24/7 is ME. I better like ME, because everywhere I go, I am there.
Question is “Do we love ourselves?” I mean truly, honestly love ourselves? As a teenager, I remember saying "She sure loves herself" and that was meant as a criticism. SHE was one who pranced herself around in a boastful way, who made others feel so much less than her. There's a difference in THAT girl or guy, and the one that Jesus talked about when He said, "Love your neighbor, as you love YOURSELF." Mark 12:31
I hear life coaches encourage self-affirmation: "Look in the mirror and say to yourself....'I love you'!” I agree with that philosophy. How can we truly love others if we don't love ourselves?
It’s not that easy to love ourselves, especially, as Christians, when we're truly seeking to be humble. The truth is, only those who feel good about who they are, can really express humility. It takes someone who loves him/herself to acknowledge that they don’t have all the answers.
We can love ourselves, and come across as sincere, authentic, real, AND humble. Rick Warren says: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it’s thinking of yourself less.” It doesn't mean we don’t care for ourselves, but it does mean we think of others AS MUCH as we think of ourselves.
Maybe you and I can start a love fest with ourselves by putting up some post it notes on our mirror that helps us out with the compliments: “I love YOU"......."I trust you"......"I am so proud of you"......"I appreciate you"....."You are strong"......"God loves you"....."You can do all things through Christ Who strengthens you." …."You are a conqueror!"
This graphic looks like it is for students. I like that. Helping young people be aware of how amazing they are and what they can do! I think it's exactly what we all need.
Let's go ahead and love ourselves. We've been given permission from our Father to rise and shine with the love for ourselves so we can amp up the love for our neighbors.

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Let's Be Doers



Ever say these words to a relative or friend? “Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.” Those words that are blurted out without really thinking and with a little, “I hope they don’t need anything!”

It’s a phrase I have overused through the years. Anytime someone has had a loss or experienced a trial of any kind, this tends to be the statement I find myself uttering. It’s not that I don’t mean it, and I certainly would be ready to give anything or do anything that was needed to help relieve their pain.

I’ve recently had an epiphany about this phrase. Most of the time, people are not going to answer with a list of things you can do for them. They’ll simply reply, “Thanks so much!”

This is where the epiphany came in. There were a handful of people who asked that question, but then went one step further. They decided to DO, not just ASK. People showed up at our doorstep with blessing upon blessing. Without asking. They just DID.

I remember the above and beyond blessings we received when more food and meals was brought to us when my late husband was suffering from cancer.

Wonderful, well-meaning family, friends and acquaintances cared for us in ways beyond necessary and gave us just what was needed. It was so very kind and generous of them.

Now, as for you and me asking that question, “Is there anything I can do for you?” Of course, there’s always the chance the receiver of our actions may not particularly love the gift we are giving. But the point is, we are DOING. We are acting as the hands and feet of Jesus, which is exactly what He has asked us to do.

Each morning, we should ask the Holy Spirit to reveal who needs us to be the hands and feet of Jesus that day. To show us who might be hesitant to ask for help or give direction, but who would be grateful and blessed by our support.

And then we should just DO. Without waiting to be asked, or worrying if our efforts are enough. Just as He would do. Just as He did when He walked this earth.

Don’t just ask. Just DO.

Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”