A Lion, A Bear, A Big Dude = Promotion

A couple of days ago, I shared about young David and his ability to withstand the taunts and threats of the giant, but all it took was confidence and knowing who he was as God's representative (That giant was messing with the wrong guy!), and he took down that giant in one fell swoop! That seemed to be his crowning moment, even though it wasn't his first encounter with the enemy.

I want to add a little P.S. to that post today. David DID win that epic battle with Goliath, but God had prepared him in the trenches, in the “small” things. We might say, it wasn't an overnight success story. David was faithful to fulfill his responsibilities while simply tending to his sheep -- certainly a menial task -- not star quality opportunities. But, David did anything God asked him to do. When he faced the lion and the bear, he didn’t cower in fear. He knew that God had called him to the sheep, and that God would be faithful to give him the victory. That's why his faith grew as he destroyed the lion and the bear. So when the BIG DUDE came along, David already knew HIS God would defeat that giant as well.

Moral of this story: "Be faithful in the little things (those seemingly insignificant responsibilities and jobs -- like David did as a shepherd boy), then God will make you ruler of much (PROMOTE YOU!)." Luke 16:10. David eventually became King David of Israel. How's that for promotion?

And, like David, the sheep we protect, lead and guide (you know.....those everyday duties and responsibilities); each lion and bear we slay (everyday issues, challenges and circumstances); and each giant we take down.....are ALL a part of God's Master Plan that leads us to our destiny and purpose! He's preparing us right now and fully equipping us to be the most epic GIANT SLAYER ever! So, BIG DUDE, move out of our way! We've got your number and you're going DOWN....and WE'RE MOVING ON UP!

Living in the Fast Lane

Living in the Fast Lane
I’m integrating myself back into Texas, one step at a time. Got a Texas license plate, bought a house (putting roots down), and yesterday, I surrendered my Oklahoma driver’s license (had that Oklahoma license for 46 years – a little mellowness ensued because of the many precious years in our beloved Oklahoma), and got my Texas driver’s license.

Old memories caught up with me again. One of the questions on the application was “Have you ever had a Texas driver’s license before? If so, when?” Going through the archives of my mind took me back to when I was 14 years old, and my Mom applied for a “Hardship Driver’s License” for me. A hardship license is available (in some states) for teen drivers. In my case, it was because of my dad’s very serious illness and I needed to be able to drive to and from school which was several miles away. My precious mom rode the bus to work. Even then, she was sacrificing for me. I was a mighty little girl in that huge Chevrolet Impala.

Yesterday, I became an authorized Texas driver once again. And, whew – that means I’m driving in the fast lane in this enormous city that has way more highways and interchanges than what seems possible. And, you best realize – there is NO slow lane…..anywhere. So, by now I’ve realized that I best be wrapped up, tied up and tangled all up in my Father’s watchful eyes over me and regularly be in good terms with my angels to help keep me protected and safe. I know one thing for sure -- driving here is definitely not for the faint hearted.

I know I may sound like a little old lady who left the country for the big city. But here’s the deal -- our security and deep peace that keeps us in a place of comfort and strength when we’re driving on the back roads, is no different than every day when we're taking to the fast lanes. Either way, we awaken to the challenges AND possibilities of another day. We never know what this day may bring, but our safe place is found in Him Who is our strong tower and the rock we depend upon.

What roads are you travelling on? The ones less travelled, or the super sonic speed ones where complete focus is a must. Sometimes I think we all feel like we’re living in the fast lane, with things moving way too quickly, in directions we don’t understand or comprehend. But more than that, because we belong to Him, Jesus passionately cares about us. I really don’t think life is going to slow down anytime soon, but because we know that regardless of who’s driving the car or how fast it’s going, we’re going to be alright, because Jesus not only cares about His own but He intercedes for us, strengthening our unity and sending us out into the world with an assignment to fuflill. And you know, maybe just knowing that, it will make living a little easier in the fast lane.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”Psalm 91:1-2
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7

Feeling Touched

After several days of opening boxes and sorting through the many items that needed to be put away in my new home, I looked at my hands and nails, and realized they needed some TLC. I headed to the nail salon and proceeded to get "my usual". The manicurist was one I had never met before but she seemed intuitive to my weariness because, rather than just proceed with getting the job done, she would stop to hold and caress my hands periodically. I had my head down and then looked at her. I said, “You’re making me cry.” She said, “I get that often. I’m just giving you some of my energy.” I didn’t sit there and analyze what that meant. All I knew, I felt so loved and revived by the touch of this little Vietnamese gal. She was touching me with love that I needed.

We all know the power of a caring touch. The doctor who treated us, the teacher that dried our tears, the hand holding ours at a funeral, the hand of our sweetheart reaching out to hold ours, or a handshake of welcome at an event. But it seems that lately I’ve noticed the power of touch even more. My sweet granddaughter, Ruth, is a Neonatal Intensive Care nurse and she told me how important it is for those preemies to be touched. All babies seem to do a little better when they're held, caressed and hugged frequently—but for those born prematurely, it is especially true. In fact, how much a preemie is touched can make a huge difference in their overall well-being and ability to thrive. Infant and preemie touch and massage are "a powerful means of teaching children, from day one, that they are loved and deserving of love."

I have dear friends who recently gave birth to their twin baby girls – two months early. I’ve followed their progress daily via their FB updates that are filled with faith and optimism, though it's been touch and go with many ups and downs on this journey. I learned something I didn't know before. This precious couple embraces their daily opportunity for kangaroo care where the babies are placed skin to skin with their mom and dad. I understand that kangaroo care improves bonding and closeness to their babies, and the babies sense how loved they are.

Like my little manicurist yesterday, shouldn't we be reaching out and touching others also? Many of us do. We use our hands to pray for the sick, or to reach out with a congratulatory high-5 or even to write a letter or make a call or bake a pie for someone who needs us.

Let's make the difference in someone's world today....by reaching out and touching them. They'll know they are loved, and appreciated when we do! Diana Ross sang it so well: "Reach out and touch somebody's hand -- make this world a better place, if you can!"

Giants! We Will, We Will Rock You!

Got GIANTS?? Encounter any this week? I'm sure the answer is "Yes!" I sure did. Once we finally got past the hailstorm issues that delayed the closing on my home in Frisco, and then to get the house closed and plan the move-in date, what happens but a big giant of flu overtook me. Literally. I had to have help with guiding the movers because I had to take myself into an emergency clinic. Then because this flu was highly contagious, no one could join me in my unboxing and unpacking because we didn’t want anyone else to catch what I had. So, it has been me unloading a couple of boxes and then laying down because my strength was so weak. Unexpected giants.

It's just a fact, we all encounter some incredible giants from time to time. They seem so big and powerful, and they taunt us – doing their best to make us run in fear. Wouldn’t it be nice if what came our way was just a simple challenge with a simple solution? But often, our challenges are SUPER-sized – humongous in stature and they seem insurmountable. The story of the little shepherd boy, David, shows how insignificant we can look and feel, yet with God’s power, we can do what an entire army can’t do…..SLAY A GIANT!

I’m pleased to say that I conquered that giant and yesterday was the first time I saw some light at the end of the tunnel. This sweet home is truly a blessing and that blessing could have been stolen from me when difficulties arose, when schedules had to be adjusted, when my physical weakness loomed like a 10 foot giant. But, as I’ve said many times “How do you eat an elephant?” One bite at a time. How do you slay a giant? One smooth stone of absolute surrender to God’s plans and trust He is handling the giant with His might and power.

What is it that causes fear in your life? What situations terrify you and plague your thoughts in the night? What problems loom over or taunt you like giants? Essentially, all problems are the same ugly giant and all answers to the taunts of the giant are the same REAL answers. Our line of defense against any giant comes down to two questions: “Who is my God?” and “How big is my God?” The thing about God is that He's bigger than any problem we have. With His direction and guidance, we can come through the toughest of situations. The Bible sums it up by asking, "Is anything too hard for God?" Once we get that…..then we can speak with the authority and conviction that little David had with his giant…… “I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. Today the LORD will conquer you!”

Now let’s go get some faith stones and load up our slings against the giants and let them know WHO we are and Whose we are, and WHERE they’re going!!

There is no Journey Like the Journey of Faith

This day, 7 years ago, I wrote my first-ever blog. It was the beginning of the faith journey of our lives and I knew God wanted me to live our journey out-loud to document the abiding and constant love that we knew that the Father would pour out on us. We wanted our light to brighten the way for others who may have been facing similar situations. We were embarking on travels that were not without God's oversight and provision. While we had always considered our walk with Christ to be an amazing faith journey, with its many twists and turns and ups and downs, we were always secure in knowing He was on board with us, come what may. But, this new road we were on, was one that came out of the clear blue, unexpected and we needed to put on our combat boots and gear to handle this one. I invite you to read that post. You'll notice how full of faith, determination and great expectancy we were living in.

I know, as you read, you might think "Bless her heart, with all that faith, ultimately, their prayers weren't answered. Oh, contraire! They were answered when he survived the first surgery which the medical industry says is the most dangerous and life-threatening surgery there is. They were answered when God gave us a first class medical team that was second to none. They were answered when we would laugh and celebrate in the midst of the pain. They were answered when God supplied our needs during those times of loss of income. They were answered when friends and family members co-partnered with us in prayer, providing meals, and support. They were answered when doctors, nurses, other patients and visitors were touched by the strong courage we maintained. They were answered when the most incredible peace that passed all understanding kept our hearts and minds throughout the journey. And they were answered incredibly as this widow still maintains that trusting wholeheartedly in God's faithfulness is the ONLY way to handle life and all that it brings us.

What would I do differently than what we did? Absolutely nothing. We did exactly what God's Word says to do:
2 Corinthians 5:7 "For we live by faith, not by sight."
1 Corinthians 16:13 "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."
James 1:3 "because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

https://livinginthepeacezone.blogspot.com/2010/04/our-great-faith-adventure-begins.html

Look What the Lord Has Done!

My best laid plans were to be in Tulsa this weekend for a very special event, my godson’s little sister’s First Communion and then yesterday, to attend my godson’s swim meet. God wasn’t surprised by me having to cancel because of the flu that literally slowed me down to a snail’s pace for the last 7 days, but I was surprised. I wasn't there, but I still celebrateed with my sweet Claire, Owen and their family from afar.

First Communion is a really big deal for Catholic families. I always had such admiration for those sweet 2nd graders who would attend many months of First Communion classes which would culminate in the Spring, their First Communion – wearing their white dresses and boys in their suits and ties. It is such a holy, joyful occasion. Relatives are invited and parents take lots of pictures. All eyes are focused on them for this very sacred and special time.

Receiving communion is the most beautiful, personal, and intimate times with our Lord for any of us, but it is especially precious and powerful for the boy or girl preparing and coming to know how profoundly united they become with Jesus in a way that they had never known before. So this weekend, precious Claire, who had reminded me over and over “In two years I'll have my First Communion”….then "Next year I’ll have my First Communion!” She was so excited, and you can see in these photos, that little girl’s prayers and dreams came true.

Now onto what wouldn’t seem near the spiritual occasion that Claire had. Owen had his swim meet last night. He placed “first” in all the events he raced. No big deal, right? Wrong! It is a really big, God-is-so-good-all-the-time DEAL! Here’s why it was a powerful physical AND spiritual event. If you’ve followed me and my relationship with this wonderful family, you would remember that this precious, now 12-year old boy, was born with many physical complications. That’s when my husband and I were guided by the Holy Spirit to partner with them for Owen’s healing. Not only was he born with a collapsed lung and was on a ventilator for the first 4 weeks of his life, even after leaving the hospital, many, many times, he’d be back in the hospital because of pneumonia over and over again. We called him "Champ" from the get-go, because each time, he’d overcome and defy the odds. Owen’s Mom told me they had no idea he could swim so well, but of course, Owen-the-Champ defies the odds by his attitude, his trust in God and his "never quit" attitude. I have such a special love for this family because this little child brought us together and Owen, my little man who took over the seat beside me in church, where my sweet husband left . When Owen heard I couldn’t make it this weekend, he said “I wish there was something I could do to help Miss Donna. Oh, I can do something. I can pray.” And his Mom told me, he stopped right in his tracks and began to pray for me. How's that for reciprocating prayer? We prayed for him. He prays for me.

Have you thought about the odds you and your family may have defied? It’s often easy to take answered prayers way too lightly. When we take the blessings in and around our lives and continually to count them one-by-one, we’ll start living on the “Look what God has done!” side and amazement, awe, wonder and gratitude will be a part of the very fiber of our being. Thanks be to God for His love and His wonder-working power! Great is His faithfulness!

“The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.” Psalm 118:23

Good Morning, Sunshine!

Is that you that we're talking to? Are you a ray of sunshine when you get up in the morning? I make it a point to be, and for those not-so-sunshiny folks, I can be quite annoying with my sunny disposition. The fact is, I don't need an alarm clock -- mine is built-in -- usually, right on time between 6:30 am and 7:00 am. I get up, get my thermal mug of coffee, post my morning blog and FB message, and enjoy a few precious quiet moments at the beginning of the day before the phone starts ringing and my daily routine and responsibilities begin. I taught myself to be this way. It was a decision I made years ago, and it has sure paid off for me.

Most of the time, I start my day in a state of joy and gratitude. I love the feel of a new day, with all the potential of new opportunities and moments to enjoy. Michael Buble sings this song so well: “It’s a new dawn; It’s a new day; It’s a new life, for me, and I’m feeling good!”

It astounds me that people say: "I am not a morning person so don't talk to me until I've had a cup of coffee!" They imply "I'll be in a bad mood until I get my coffee!" Okay, so I'm big on being positive and optimistic, and when I hear someone say that, I think "And, they are getting what they are saying. They will never be a morning person as long as they keep saying that!" If I woke up in a MOOD, my Mama would say: "You got up on the wrong side of the bed. Go get back in, please, and get up on the right side!" My Mama didn't take too well to crankiness and grumpiness (and believe me, she had plenty to be cranky and grumpy about) so she taught me to bring sunshine to our mornings. The fact is, if our family and friends have to deal with our crankiness and grumpiness, just because we had to get up -- it has the potential to dampen even morning persons' spirits.
God loves "morning" people, so that's reason enough to become a "morning" person. Listen to His Word here:

~ "Because of the LORD’s great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are NEW EVERY MORNING; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

~ "I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me." - Proverbs 8:17

God promises that His great love for us and unfailing compassion (and mercies) are new every morning. So, whether we are a morning songbird getting up at 6, 8 or 10, or a night owl, the point is that everyday is a brand new day with God and joy and gratitude should be our reason for getting up. So, say: "Good-bye YESTERDAY, with all the mistakes and worries and fears, and say "GOOD MORNING, Sunshine! It's gonna' be a GREAT day!"

Train Up a Child in the Way He or She Should Go

My husband and I grew up as “church” kids. Our parents ensured that we were in church every time the doors opened – Sunday School, Sunday morning and night services, Wednesday night service, Thursday night youth services, and when an evangelist came into town, church was every night of the week. Back in those early years, we learned every Bible story, every hymn and chorus (and the actions), and memorized a lot of scriptures. As children, it was so sweet to know God. Our needs were met, and our wants were provided for, and pressures only came with a big test or exam, or disappointment in a friend.

Even in those early years, we learned what it was to call upon the God of those Bible stories, scriptures and songs to be our "help". And, the older we got, the more we discovered, that all of those years of “child training” established us in life. In fact, we carried those same principles on, and into our children, who are leading their own children by that example.

Now, I realize that our faith was built upon those principles – for example – the same God that kept Daniel in the lion’s den and the three Hebrew boys in the firey furnace, that helped David slay the giant, that opened the Red Sea for Moses, and more than all that, the same God that gave us His only Son who went about doing good, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear, died on a rugged cross, was buried and rose from the dead....is the same God who loves us and desires to perform His good works in us today!

That’s what our Moms and Dads really gave us -- they were instilling in us the fiber, the fortitude, the tenacity, the unwavering faith and strength to draw from, and to know that our God loves us unceasingly, and that when the going gets tough and pressures seem insurmountable, we have a confidence in knowing, God is able and willing to meet our every need. We know our hope and trust was, and always will be, in the One whose steadfast love never ceases and His faithfulness will always carry us through. I sure hope these words impress you enough to train your children and grandchildren in the ways they should go. I promise you...it is worth the effort!

What's Wrong With Me?

I had three siblings that graduated to heaven; two of them had Alzheimer's disease and the other had Diabetes so severe that she lost one foot to the disease. My Mom, now in heaven, had congenital heart disease. My Dad, also in heaven, had a malignant brain tumor. Goodness gracious. With all that medical history, you'd think I'd be saying "What’s wrong with ME?”

Honestly, when I forget someone's name or where I've put my keys or where I was headed in my house and forget why I was going there.....my mind tries to tell me "You've inherited your family's issues." I take a baby aspirin each day to fend off heart problems. I take mineral and herb supplements to help keep me healthy. I walk and work out to keep my body strong. I do the things that I can do to be healthy and strong as though it depended on me, but I've learned to pray, speak God's Word and BELIEVE God as though it ALL depends on Him. The best antidote against the lies of the enemy and the threats he tries to place over me when it comes to my health and well being is I purposely change my thinking to keeping my mind on the ONE who paid the ultimate price for my healing, my freedom and my victory.

BUT, stuff happens, regardless of our strong faith. How do we handle those times? I really am a very healthy gal. Thanks be to God. I've refused to get a Flu Shot because I hear feedback more about the negative side effects. So this week, right when I was making my move to my new house, the pain in my throat, the fever, the coughing and the lack of energy assured me I needed to go the doctor. Sweet Denise Gerrich was a life saver for me as she directed the movers in my absence, has been an incredible nurse and responded to my every phone call for picking up things I need. It would certainly be easy to question God about this timing, because it most certainly is not without His knowledge. And to make matters worse because this flu is so contagious, I had to cancel going to Tulsa to see Mom, attend my godson's little sister's First Communion and to spend time with my besties, Mick & Sheila Michie.

I have a choice -- to wallow in self pity or to BELIEVE and stand on God's promise that “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us…” (Romans 8:37) Period. The end.

Jesus paid the ultimate price for our healing and our victory in every area of life. All those sicknesses, diseases, challenges in every area of life were broken and paid for on the cross. It's time we lay hold of the victory Christ brought us in overcoming and defeating the enemy. A little shepherd boy, David, defeated the giant with his words and his slingshot. The same holds true for us today in defeating the giants in our lives. It starts with a simple word....BELIEVE...and you shall receive! Matthew 21:22

Here are the TRUTHS of the ONE who loves and ONLY speaks TRUTHS to us: "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57
"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10
BELIEVEELIEVE

Your Story for God's Glory

A dear friend shared her mouth-dropping "story" with me. Though I was riddled with awe to hear her story, I knew it was a story she needed to share. You see this gal is one of the godliest women I know and to see where God brought her from to where she is today, you would know the reasons why she loves God so much, serves Him so audaciously and lives her life with full-on gratitude. Though it wasn't easy for her to hear my words to her, that others need to hear her story so they can not only relate to her story, but can also see how sharing our stories can touch people with faith and determination. Today she boldly declares "What the enemy meant for evil, God turned it all for good." Genesis 50:19,20.

I was brought up in a family of strong faith, not abused or neglected. So what story could I share that would be an encouragement? I can share that, as a little girl, fear consumed me. My daddy was so ill from a brain tumor and had serious seizures that I would go home if my Mom wasn't there. But, my mom, to this day, was and is my mentor, though she has gone on to heaven. She was the strongest, resilient, unstoppable in her work ethics (to support all of us) and her faith. I still pull her into my life when I get frustrated about something, or someone, and I seek her gentle and quiet spirit to overcome the temptations to be anxious or contrary. The times of illness in our children, Staci with a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, but was declared healed a short time later. Today she has a 5-1/2 octave voice range. Ryan, born with club feet so severe that he was in a brace for months. Today he has run 46 full marathons (26.2 miles). "What the enemy meant for evil, God turned it for good." The years of financial woes brought so many times of worry and concern, but through them all, we found "God worked all things for our good, because we were called to His purposes." (Romans 8:28). I was dramatically healed from a diagnosis of osteo arthritis -- no pain today when I was told that I would forever have to only control it with pain meds. I never got that prescription, but was led to nutritional products that gave me what I needed. I'm still on those products today and am pain-free. The diagnosis of my Sweetheart with Stage 4 Kidney Cancer, the months of treatments, 6 surgeries, many doctor's appointments, endeavoring to control the intense pain and then his passing at such a young age, was probably the single-most challenge of faith. Yet we trusted implicitly in God's Word and even stood for his healing until the day he went home and received his ultimate healing. As I look back on my life, I realize I do have a story. It's one of God's faithfulness in our times of trouble. It is trusting in His promises, and not letting go. It is the peace that passes understanding for this widow. It is the mindset that "I'm still here, so I'm not done. I have assignments to continue, a race to finish, and victories to win."

Defeats - accomplishments; losing - winning; sorrows - joys; tragedies - triumphs; deaths - births; tears - laughter. Did you know that each and every thing and every emotion that you've experienced -- the good.and the bad, are a part of God's plan for your life? And did you know that the Master Plan includes YOUR STORY....and your story could be the game-changer for someone else who is going through similar circumstances? "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." 2 Corinthians 1:4

Little is Much When God is in it!

My course was altered yesterday when the flu bug took me out and I had to direct the movers from my “Director’s Chair”. It was my long-awaited moving day. Thank goodness for dear Denise Gerrich who supports and helps the Wallace’s and me so unconditionally. She co-partners in so many valuable ways.

Remember the story where Jesus told the disciples to find food to feed the crowd of over 5,000 and all they could come up with was a little boy's lunch of two loaves and five fish. Co-partnering with the disciples and a little boy, Jesus was able to feed the masses by multiplying what they had on hand.

He is the Master multiplier. We are the chosen partners He uses. Imagine that little boy's story the rest of his life? Jesus used ME! He takes little and makes BIG out of it. "Little is much when God is in it!"

What if, today, we present Him with what we have? Someone who raises their hand and says “Pick me!” to make a meal for someone in need, or taking a friend for a doctor appointment, or at the very least what "little" do I have to help someone. My prayers. What about that one who has gone through tremendous physical challenges. What could I do for her? Stop to speak to her, to engage her in conversation, to applaud her courage and tenacity. Co-partnering with God to be a difference maker.

Not a big deal at all. But, if I"m one of God's partners, my little just might be the BIG God uses to multiply blessings to them. How about you? Maybe inviting someone to dinner today or giving items you no longer need away, or taking a meal to someone. It may seem little to you, but BIG to them. Yes, little becomes BIG when we accept our partnership with THE MULTIPLIER!

An Apple a Day, Keeps the Doctor Away

Yesterday I posted about apples and their little seeds that have the potential to produce many apple trees. I love the saying "Little is much, when God is in it." and I like to think the King of our universe paid a lot of attention to the king of fruit, the little apple.

It is said that the apple is a guardian angel of our immune system, hence, “An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away”. I’ve been watching Denise Gerrich, who is on a stringent weight loss regime, under a doctor’s care, eat an apple a day with cinnamon on it. Not that the apples did it alone, but she has lost nearly 90 pounds. Bring on the apples!!

Yesterday I had an apple market salad from Chick-Fil-A, which inspired me to talk about apples in my post today. To be honest, I'm still working on this. You'll find plenty of junk food in my pantry, and getting the occasional chocolate yogurt cone at Braum’s is one of my guilty pleasures. I too often eat quickly and without gratitude. But I'm getting better at it, one bite at a time. When God prompts me with inspiration for a post, I get that He’s first talking about my walk AND my talk. I'm learning to intentionally choose food that makes me more aware of, and thankful for, the grace of God, and to eat that food with an abiding awareness of God and his goodness.

So for a little FYI moment, here’s the scoop I found on “an apple a day, keeping the doctor away”. Apples are rich in vitamins and minerals. The magical efficiency of apples lies in their optimal combination of vitamin C and other substances. It contains a ton of health-boosting agents, such as vitamins C, A, B1, B2, B6, and calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and iron. On top of that, they contain the highest level of pectin among fruits — an extremely valuable compound that is being more researched these days for its huge medical benefits. This powerful army of common apple ingredients is extremely efficient in protecting and stimulating our immune system, which is the best body defense to protect us from viruses, bacteria, and free radicals.

Apples are great for our teeth. Apples are full of calcium and phosphorus — two true masters when it comes to dental care. They are the two most important minerals our teeth are made of. They're also responsible for the strength of dental enamel.

Apples are rich in dietary fibers. Due to its high level of potassium and fibers, this fruit helps in two ways during the weight loss process: It stimulates the elimination of excess liquid out of the body. Eating them produces a feeling of satisfaction, thus reducing your appetite (because of the fibers swelling in the stomach). Apples are an inevitable part of every weight loss (control) diet. (Just ask Denise!)

Apples are great energy boosters. Even if it's sweet, an apple is actually composed of up to 90% water. So, it's perfect for dealing with thirst, especially after a workout. Additionally, it contains fructose and glucose, which are two important carbohydrates that supply our body with energy that simultaneously prevent fatigue and helps keep you more focused. So, not only is it great compensation for the people undergoing physical efforts, but for students or anyone who is under a mental stress.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…” James 1:17, When properly understood as a gift, it becomes clear that food is a tangible expression of God's love for us. Someone once said, food is "God's love made edible." It is one essential way that He shows his care for us. How I respond to a gift is an indication of how I feel about the Giver. And because food is a gift of God's good grace, I respond by eating food that manifests God's grace well.

When it comes to feasting on a good ripe apple, we can verify these words of King David “Taste and see that the Lord is good" Psalm 34:8.

I started this post with the words “Little is much, when God is in it!” That little apple is another example of God’s grace, love and care for His kids. I think I’ll go buy a bag of apples, because this post, I believe, came from heaven’s throne and God loves me and you too much to keep “apple secrets” from us!

The Apple Didn't Fall Far From the Tree

I amused myself yesterday when I saw these three apples in a bowl at the Wuerch's home. I remembered that phrase we use when we see a parent and children look-alike and we declare, "The apple didn't fall from the tree!" That implies that it's obvious who the parents are and who those children belong to. They may have so many resemblances -- in looks, personalities and even, abilities. That's what I thought about when I saw this super-sized apple, the medium one and the little one!

I understand that the apple is considered the king of fruit. I know it’s hard to believe, but inside those apples are trees filled with apples. Just think about it…one small seed has the power to produce a beautiful tree that provides incredible amounts of delicious and healthy fruit.

Years ago my mother and father in law had a huge apple orchard on the 10 acres they owned in Oklahoma. Oh, how we loved those apples and the apple pies, apple salads, apple tarts and apple jams Mom made with them. But in time the apple orchard became diseased and before long.....no more apples. That's what happened when Dad became very ill and the many years of attention and TLC that he once gave that orchard, just wasn't possible any more.

But, like those tiny seeds in those apples that could ultimately produce an apple tree, Dad had "mustard seed" faith for his return to good health. He suffered from Mesathemolia and Lymphona cancer and his doctor said, "Barring a miracle, you won't live beyond six months." But, Dad, a theologian and Bible scholar AND knew God's Word, and that it was full of miracle stories, so much so, that he remembered King Hezekiah's plea for his health to return after having been told that he was going to die. But, Hezekiah prayed to the Lord in 2 Kings 20:3 "Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes." And, he immediatly received a reply from God that said, "I have heard your prayer. I will heal you and will add fifteen years to your life." That story gave Dad everything he needed to plead his case also. He had been a faithful, devoted servant of God for way over 50 years, so, he, too, asked for 15 more years, like King Hezekiah received. And, THAT is the story of Dad. He asked and he received 15 more years, almost to the day he asked.

Then there's my precious Mama who sacrificed so much for me to make ends meet and live a life of audacious faith, joy, peace and hope. She had every reason to complain, but just didn't. Indeed, I pray that "my apple didn't fall far from her tree either"!

And, that's what I'm staking my life upon, too. Though Dad wasn't my biological father, he was as dear to me as though he were. Since my Dad passed away when I was just 15 years old, I needed an Apple Tree to resemble. I wanted that kind of faith. I wanted to look like that and act like that. I want to resemble my sweet Mama's Apple Tree, too. That's the kind of faith my sweetheart and I had for his healing. Though he didn't get many more years like Dad did, we still did what we knew to do by believing, not doubting, by trusting, not complaining and by standing strong on God's Word. God said it and that was good enough for us. The fact of the matter is this, we all have the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords as our perfect APPLE TREE. Don't you want folks to say "You look and act just like your DAD? Your apple didn't fall far from the APPLE TREE at all!!

Easter and the Hopes for Tomorrow

I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I do know WHO knows and as long as I maintain my "God perspective" on just about everything this life doles out, I know I will make it through every triumph and even what may look like a tragedy. How do I know that? It was because of what happened YESTERDAY! Christ rose from the dead. We celebrated His miraculous Comeback Story, and BECAUSE HE LIVES, each of our days can be filled with hope and expectancy.

This Easter weekend was filled with many personal triumphs:
1) After a delay from the hailstorm which resulted in a new roof before closing on the home I was buying, we finally closed on Good Friday. It was a GOOD, Good Friday. Oh, yes, my God perspective, gives God the credit. "Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father...." James 1:17

2) 2) To some seeing my girl belting and singing out "Hosanna" in her church's Easter production on Saturday and Sunday, could be just be an ordinary occasion, but I know that girl was miraculously healed from cystic fibrosis as a baby, and now those lungs have great capacity to declare "By His stripes, I was healed". I Peter 2:24. Oh, yes, my God perspective, gives God the credit. This was the first song she wrote, sang and produced. It talks about God's Brand New Life! This new life was for her and you and me today! http://staciwallace.com/brand-new-life/

3) Yesterday, it was an early morning drive for me to Austin to meet up with my boys at church. Big brother, Barrett, did a great job seeing after the boys, then Nana took over. It was a beautiful Easter service with Ryan and Shawntel's dearest friends, Pastor Ryan and Dana Malouff, at their gorgeous church building that was miraculously given to them and their congregation, after having had services for three years in a school. "If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones." Luke 16:10. Oh, yes, their/our God perspective gives God the credit.

4) Remembering 5 years ago, that Ryan and Shawntel were at the Boston Marathon -- Ryan ran the marathon and Shawntel was in the grandstands. Ryan just passed the Finish Line, when the bomb went off directly across the street from Shawntel. They were both supernaturally protected. Today, he'll run that marathon again, and once again, I am afforded the peace and protection of my kids that comes with my God perspective. "For He will give His angels charge over you to keep you in all your ways." Psalm 91:11

I loved Pastor Ryan Malouff's words in his Easter message: "Jesus said He would be back, but the disciples didn't believe Him. They forgot that He had never lied to them, so why would this be a lie?" If Jesus said it, it will be. Hebrews 10:23 says "Let us continue to hold firmly to the hope that we confess without wavering, for the One who made the promise is faithful." It's time to stop listening to the voices that say "You can't" and it's time to tell those voices to be silent. Oh, yes, our God perspective causes us to look at each day as miraculous, because the Risen Lord keeps His promises.

Oh, What a Beautiful Morning, Oh What a Beautiful Day!

Oh, What a Beautiful Morning, Oh What a Beautiful Day!
Joy, Hope, Peace, Comfort, Life Everlasting Came This Morning! Jesus' tomb wasn't for the dead. It was a birthing roomfor new life. That tomb became a Delivery Room.

The Apostle Peter said in Acts 2:24 "God raised Jesus up, loosing the PANGS of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it." That word, "pangs", is associated with labor and childbirth, so on that early "3rd Day" morning (probably 12:00 am -- God just could not allow His Son to be in that tomb one minute longer), so He must have said "It's time to get the SON up!" That tomb became the Delivery Room for the Son of God. Can you imagine that tomb was about to explode because of the POWER that was getting ready to burst forth. Notice that scripture again "because IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE for Him to be held by it." I remember Johnny Cash singing "Ain't no grave gonna' hold my body down!" And that song is not only true about the Son of God, but also you and me!

Our Lord LIVES, and SO DO I. Everyday is a new, bright resurrection morning, because of Christ's death, burial and rising to live forevermore. Only God can bring life out of a season of death. God just can't leave death well enough alone, can He?

Perhaps, today, you are still living in the ashes of remorse, brokenness, depression, and a tomb is holding you back. You are still alive. Go ahead and put your hand over your heart. If it's beating, God has a destiny and mission for you to fulfill. You could have been born sometime in history, but you weren't. You're here now, so the resurrection power of Jesus Christ lives big in you. Let Him turn your tomb into a Delivery Room to your new life today! Romans 8:11 "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, He will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you!"

Indeed it is a beautiful morning! He LIVES! Christ Jesus lives today. He'll walk with you and talk with you and tell you, ,you are His own! You ask me how I know He lives. He lives within my heart! Happy Resurrection Morning!

A Day to be Sad....Really?

You may know the heartache and feelings when one of your closest friends or family members just passed away.....yesterday. You wake up the day after, and it's up to you to handle the responsibilities of planning the funeral, the burial, notifying relatives, and handling so many details of figuring out what to do without them. You are expected to hold yourself together by treasuring the memories, while being courageous and brave when you just want to sit and cry bitter tears because this life will never be the same again. You look all around and it seems everyone around you is just fine. They're laughing, they're carefree, they're going on with their busy lives, and you think, "How could they be so happy when I'm hurting so much?"

Yesterday was Good Friday when Christ bore every sin we've ever committed. He carried every sickness we have had, and will ever have. He gave His life so that we would live forever and ever. That was His promise, but this day after -- the day-in-the-middle -- the day between Christ's crucifixion and His resurrection -- His disciples and His followers could only think...."It's all over for us! Life will never be the same again."
Those disciples walked with Him and talked with Him. They saw His good acts and the many miracles he performed (raising people from the dead, opening blind eyes and deaf ears, forgiving the worst of sinners and encouraging them to sin no more and love their neighbors AND enemies). Jesus was dead -- as dead as He could be. They had forgotten His "3-days promise". To them, it was all over. They succumbed to doubt, fear, and unbelief. Yes, it WAS their saddest day EVER.

But was it really the saddest day for them AND us? Those of us who understand that yesterday, His great sacrifice of His life bought us our "abundant life" on this earth and our eternal life with Him. The cross, the time in the tomb, and tomorrow's triumphant resurrection changed everything. When someone we love slips from this life, we think they are somehow diminished to ashes and dust. But this is only part of the story. The reality, the hope, the truth is that they are more fully alive and real than ever before. They are experiencing the results of the eternal life that resurrection gave us.

I pause for a moment and think about what my precious husband might be saying to us today. I think it would be something like, “Enjoy life to the fullest. But also remember your fullest life is yet to be!"

Your “in-the-middle” day may be where you’re at in your life. Maybe it feels like God has disappointed your expectations. When it seems all hope is gone because a loved one may have died, an illness may be bearing down hard on you, your marriage may seem hopeless, your financial situation may seem devastated…..but to those who know our Savior and who know the end of the story, your hopes, dreams, desires and prayers won’t be dead forever, because Jesus was raised to life on the 3rd day and He came to give us LIFE and life more abundantly (John 10:10). So hold on, my child, in the middle, it's time to get your hopes up because JOY COMES IN THE MORNING!

Shouldn't "Good Friday" be called "Black Friday"?

At first I thought "Black Friday" specials on "Good Friday" -- how dare they? But then I thought maybe Home Depot is on to something with their Black Friday specials.

After all, on this day, the most scandalous betrayal of justice in human history took place. Jesus wasn’t guilty of any crime or sin. After the illegal trials, this loving, compassionate, giving, caring, innocent man was stripped and tied to a post. He was whipped and beatened -- too horrible to even imagine. He was betrayed by His friends, and spit on by countless people, some of whom, just a few days before, treated Him as royalty as He entered the city. He was forced to carry a heavy wooden cross to Calvary where nails were driven through his wrists and ankles and He was left to die. And, bottom line, He could have called ten thousand angels to his side, but He refused. Instead, He died there for you and me.

What is this message? For us, to never again wonder if we are loved. God thought our eternal life was worth the death of His only Son. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, would never perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16) His GOOD Son, died for us on GOOD Friday. We, in so many ways, are the guilty ones that deserved to die in HIS place. Instead, He died in OUR place. NOW, we know why it's called "GOOD FRIDAY". He paid a debt He did not owe. He paid our debt.

Someone asked Jesus, "How much do You love me?" He answered, "This much," as He spread out his arms and died. This is a TRUE love story written with you and me in mind. Isn't that enough reason for us to slow down, literally put on the brakes, today, to remember and give thanks for this GOOD Friday when HE loved us -- TO INFINITY and BEYOND!
#GoodFriday

Improving "Our Serve"

#TBT -- Today is the ultimate #throwbackthursday.
Years ago, my husband was the Director of a Christian Summer Youth Camp in Oklahoma. He pretty well “ran the show” – the camp activities, schedules, oversaw all the camp leaders, counselors, and volunteers, the daily outdoor church services, etc. I oversaw the kitchen, the meals and serving the campers and volunteers. Other than the satisfaction of seeing those hungry, then satisfied campers, there wasn’t much glory being a kitchen volunteer. The days were long, early morning to late, and without air conditioning...very warm, while standing on our tired, hurting feet from those hard, concrete floors. By the end of the week, our poor feet had had it. The last day, to our amazement, Ron and a few other camp leaders came to the dining room and kitchen, and asked all of us kitchen workers to sit down and with basins and towels, they commenced to serve us by washing our tired and weary feet and praying blessings on us for our service. Tears of gratitude fell from our eyes. Our service had been noticed and we were rewarded by hearts of servitude to us.

So, I can only imagine, after their Passover Meal together, the shock and wonder when Jesus’ disciples saw Him take up the basin and the towel and began to wash their feet. He was their Master! He was their Lord! In the days of Jesus, foot washing was typically done by the servants of one’s household, and it wasn’t exactly a glamorous job. People’s feet got really dry, dirty, calloused and cracked when they walked for miles in their sandals. To wash someone’s feet was truly an act of hospitality, servitude and humility. No wonder Peter told Jesus, “You will never wash my feet.” Not Jesus. Not his Master. Not ever. But, Jesus, the One Who was celebrated as a King just days before, became a Servant and to Peter He said, "Unless I wash you, you won't belong to me." Peter replied “Lord, not just my feet! Wash my hands and my head too!”

There Jesus, with His wash basin and His towel, knelt in front of them one by one and washed their feet, calluses and all. When He was done, He told them why. “I’m setting an example for you. You also should do what I have done to you.” In that moment, I wonder if the disciples finally ‘got it’. They had been hand-selected by Jesus from the crowds, so they were special. But Jesus didn’t call them from the crowds of farmers and fishermen so that they would enjoy a greater status. He called them to serve, to carry on His ministry of loving and caring for people. I’m sure they must have thought “What in the world are we going to do?”

Jesus prepared His disciples to carry on. I think that’s Jesus’ message to you and me, too. Today, we are the ones standing in front of people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, who are all suffering from their own brokenness and in need of a Savior. Like the disciples having those “What in the world are we going to do?” moments, so do we. And like the disciples remembering His example, with His wash basin and towel, so also do we remember. He’s saying, “See? It’s simple. I’m sending you out into the world, into those crowds of people from whom I called you. Your job? Just love them.”

It certainly gives me pause for asking the question: "Am I a devoted follower of Christ....even to the cross to bear witness of Him and His love for me?" I continue to take those words of Peter to Jesus to heart today. "Lord, wash me, cleanse me, purify me so that I too may be presented as a vessel of honor to You. I've said it before, I say it again "The purer the vessel the greater the flow". What an incredible flow of mercy, love, forgiveness, servitude and sacrifice that flowed from Jesus then, and continues to flow to us today. Oh Lord, may we be your servants today -- to follow, serve and love You, and others, as You served and loved.

Going With the Flow When It's Slow

Yesterday, Alexia and I left Austin early to beat the morning traffic. As we took to the highway, I said "At least it isn't raining.....". Famous last words, because no sooner than I said those words, it started to mist but we were still on time to make it to Waco by 8:20 am and home by 10-ish. But as we were approaching Temple, TX.....torrential rain came with snail-paced, to dead-stopped traffic. Road construction plus flooding was the culprit. There was absolutely no complaining from Alexia who was cuddled in the seat, sound asleep. Oh, how I remember, as a kid, sleeping while my dad drove through rain and storms and feeling so safe and protected and enjoying the rhythm of the windshield wipers and the rain hitting the windows.

I never became anxious about the delay, because I've learned that it's times like this that we have an option: to get all tangled up in complaining and fuming or just "go with the flow when it's slow" or when our best laid plans are interrupted or delayed or are even cancelled. There's something to be said about the rhythms of our lives. There will be slow times, upbeat times, times that are merry and other times when we experience sadness or weariness, and a mellow song best describes how we feel.

King Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 3 "For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace." Timing really is everything, but most importantly, God wants us to get into His timing and rhythms -- those strong, regular, repeated patterns of patience, calmness, tolerance, self-restraint, composure, perseverance, persistence, endurance, tenacity, determination, gratitude, resolve and peacefulness. In all seriousness, there are just way too many people who are OUT OF GOD'S RHYTHM and out of control. They are demanding, impatient, antagonistic, edgy, ungrateful and intolerant. They think it's okay to be nasty and hateful. That's certainly not His rhythm. I want to live on His side of the sweet music that He makes -- because when we are in tune with Him, we'll recognize all those folks, situations and circumstances that want to take us out of rhythm with Him and we'll resist that music with everything that's in us.

So, let's go with the flow when it's slow; let's go with the beat when it's sweet; let's sing a victory song when the day is long. Since God, Himself, is the source of music, He wants us to get into His rhythm that dances, sings, lives and breathes His character and His ways. .

It’s Not Always the Way It Looks or Sounds

Have you ever been trying on clothes at a store and that outfit looked great in those amazing, magical store’s mirrors? You even might have thought “You’re looking 10 pounds thinner”! But at home and when trying that outfit on, it was like “What was I thinking? What was I seeing?”

And, what about those mirrors at church or other public places? A few weeks ago, I went with the family to the kid’s Speech and Debate Tournament being held at a school in Lewisville, TX. I went to the restroom and my twin, looking back at me….looked pretty good! I promptly told my daughter, “You’ve got to go check yourself out in the mirror in the restroom! It’s great lighting in there!” Of course, great in the sense that the imperfections I saw in the mirror at home, weren’t seen in those mirrors.

Here’s the official word: Store mirrors may be designed or placed to make us look thinner. Some stores play tricks to convince us to buy clothes while we’re in the dressing room. The lighting may be one factor, but more likely, it’s the angle of the mirror. Just like a fun house mirror, dressing room mirrors are sometimes angled to change the way we look. Stores will often tilt the mirror so the bottom is farther forward than the top which creates the illusion that you are taller and thinner. The best advice I read was to have someone take a picture of you so you can judge if the outfit or piece of clothing is really flattering or not. It's not always what we see!

When we were at the theme parks of Disney World a few weeks ago, Payton commented “Notice the music we’re hearing. It’s programmed to make us happy and keep us moving quickly.” Here’s the official word from Disney. Most people pay very little attention to the music being played in the background while visiting a Disney theme park. Our eyes are much too busy taking in all of the sights to consciously pay any attention to the melodies filling the air. Disney puts a lot of thought into the music they select for each land or area of their parks. It's usually somewhat upbeat. Disney wants their guests to be happy and a jaunty melody can affect our mood. Disney also wants the music to be recognizable when possible. If we can hum along with a tune, we'll feel at home and comfortable. Maybe we should put on some of that HAPPY music in our homes!

Just think about the ways the world around us is playing mind and body games with us. Sounds like "smoke and mirrors" (distorting the truth) to me. Notice how those who are constantly listening to negative news tend to take on the side of that news -- however it's delivered? Notice how the negativity in our homes oftentimes changes a positive mood to a negative one. Notice how a simple sneeze can make us think "I must be catching a cold!" I would suggest that the enemy of our souls is at work to bring us F.E.A.R.-- False Evidence Appearing Real. Those sights and sounds are examples of how we are affected by what we see and hear in our lives. The way a mirror might make us look better or worse; the way music can cause us to be happy enough to move to a beat. That’s the subtleties that the enemy of our souls uses to deceive us.

The same enemy who tried to convince Jesus' followers that he had died to never live again, is the same enemy that tries to convince us that there is no hope for tomorrow, that we will never recover from this financial setback or illness; that our marriage will never be whole again, that our country is going to hell in a handbasket. That same enemy tries to convince us that we should give up. But here's the real true MIRROR and the very authentic SOUNDS from God's Word:
-- We are not going under, we’re going over!
-- We’re not the tail, we’re the head!
-- We’re not going to die, we’re going to live!
-- And, best new of all….go ahead and read the last chapter of our BOOK….WE WIN!!!

Whatever the situation is in our lives this day, whatever fear we're facing, whatever false evidence has been placed in front of us, we must remember that God is faithful, and the promise He made us has not died. It's alive! It may appear to be dead, but in reality it’s in process, and we’re going to see the fulfillment of that promise, because God cannot lie!
IT’S NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE!

It's Not Over Till I Win

Years ago, my daughter wrote and recorded a song entitled "It's Not Over Till I win". The chorus of the song goes like this:
"I'm not givin' up. I'm not givin' in. I've got to keep believing. It's not over till I win! I'm not givin' up! I'm not givin' in. I've gotta keep on pressing on. Cause it's not over till I win."

That song certainly rang true this weekend. Ryan and Shawntel asked if I could come to Austin to stay with the boys and to go to Brennan's Baseball Tournament in Taylor TX. Alexia came with me and it was "Game on", but on the first day, Brennan's team fell short on both of that day's games. They are a good team, but on that day....it just didn't come together for them. So, going into yesterday's games, our expectations weren't that high and if we lost the first game, we knew we'd be heading back home. But, lo and behold, they won their first game, and then they won their second game, that pushed them to the semi-final that they won again which put them in the final game. And, to our amazement, they won the overall tournament, winning these Texas-sized tournament rings. Of course there was celebration in ginormous proportions. It sure made it worth our while to get to be a part of the excitement. Brennan was confident that it was Nana and Alexia's presence that helped them win and asked if we'd be sure to come to all of their tournament games. LOL!

What if those boys and their coaches had given up when they lost those first two games? But they didn't, and with each win, they seemed to gather more and more confidence and determination that said "It's Not Over Till We Win!"

What about the losses we've experienced in life? Did they make us quit the game or did it propel us to dig our heels in and realize that each loss showed us what we were doing wrong and what we were doing right.

Are you done? Are you ready to throw in the towel? Do you hear voices that say "You're losing -- you just can't take it anymore -- you might as well give up -- you're gonna fail again?" Then I urge you to listen to this song, written and sung by my favorite vocalist, who heard those same voices and had plenty of reasons to give up. But instead of giving up....she pulled up her bootstraps and let those voices know "It's Not Over Till I Win!" Turn up the volume on your speakers and get ready to fire up and muscle up! It's time for your come-back! It's NOT OVER TILL YOU WIN.

http://staciwallace.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/03-Its-Not-Over.mp3

It's a Matter of Perspective

I had the privilege of judging at the Dallas Speech and Debate Tournament yesterday. One of the speeches that impressed, inspired and blessed me was by a gal who gave an Illustrative Oratory entitled “Perspective”. An illustrative oratory is one where the speaker is able to use props and graphics on an easel and boards that illustrate their subject matter and speech.

She gave this illustration about her Great Grandparents. She described her grandpa as a quiet, sedentary, low-key artist. Her grandmother was a busy, overactive, always on-the-go gal. She said, if you looked at those qualities, you’d simply look at potentially negative flaws. But when you ask her Grandpa about his wife’s qualities, he would say, “She’s a hard worker, understanding and full of life.” And to ask her about her husband’s qualities, she’d say “He’s creative, talented and dedicated.” It’s a matter of perspective.

This letter was written by a young lady to her parents from college:
Dear Mom & Dad -- Sorry I haven’t written sooner. I broke my arm and left leg when I jumped from the second floor of my dormitory when we had the fire. We were lucky. A service station attendant saw the blaze and called the Fire Department. They were there in minutes. I was in the hospital for a few days. Paul, the service station attendant, came to see me every day. And because it was taking so long to get our dormitory liveable again, I moved in with him. He has been so nice and I must admit that I am pregnant. Paul and I plan to get married just as soon as he can get a divorce. I hope things are fine at home. I’m doing fine, and will write more when I get the chance. Love,Your daughter, Susie.
P.S. None of the above is true. But I did get a "D" in Math and flunked Chemistry. I just wanted you to receive this news in its "Proper Perspective!"

Here’s what I’ve come to know. When it comes to the things of life and the way we perceive it, with its good and bad times, we often only can see confusion, disconnected events, inconvenience, and the overwhelming immensity of everything and our own smallness in comparison. But, like I had to do when I was inconvenienced with this recent hailstorm that caused damage to my soon-to-be home, I had to get a grip and get a good perspective on the whole thing. I had to stand back and take in as much of the view as I could. When I did that, not only could I see the present, but I could also see the blessings that can come with it. It was a matter of perspective.

Oftentimes we're so caught up in the middle of it all that we forget that we are smack dab in the place where God can fulfill His destiny and purpose in us the best. I know we all can look back on a time with a different perspective and see God's hand at work.

Sounds to me like perspective has a lot to do with gratitude. The young woman’s story about her grandparents indicated that they were grateful for each other. The story of the college student, I’m sure led to gratitude that their daughter ONLY had an issue with her grades and not all the other issues. And for me and you, we should all look around at the bigger picture of blessings that encompass our lives: our loved ones and all their quirks, our homes – because we have a place to live no matter how big or small; our cars no matter how old it is; our jobs – that others would give anything to have a job. It really is all about gratitude and PERSPECTIVE.

Where Empathy Makes a Difference

Yesterday, Buddy and I started out on our usual walk when we came upon this adorable little girl, who, from a distance, I could hear shouting "Look, a puppy!" She was so excited to express her joy to Buddy, and he was for her, that we stopped for this sweet exchange.

We made it back home just in time for the family's morning training and devotion that pivots around the current events of the home: a praise or motivational moment, a discipline moment, or moments of exchanging creative ideas on a project or activity. Yesterday's was so stirring that tears began to flow when I started sharing. On point, Buddy came and laid his head in my lap. I get that not everyone believes that dogs have the ability to "empathize", but I sensed it. Many years ago, Staci's dog, a Cocker Spaniel named Desi, was with us during some times when it seemed I often shed bucket-loads of tears. Inevitably, Desi would crawl up in my lap to comfort me.

Empathy: the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, like putting ourselves into the mental shoes of someone to understand and even share their emotions and feelings. Though our furry friends may give us a measure of comfort, there is truly something to be said for others who understand us because "they have walked in our shoes", but even more so, when those friends give us hope. Here's what I know from experience. I don't need someone to say "Bless your heart. I know how you feel -- I've been there." Those words say to me "Go ahead. Wallow in all that pain. Go ahead and take your time in getting over it." PLEASE....give us more than that! Please give us hope!

St. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 1:4 "That you may be comforted with the same comfort that I've been comforted with by our God of comfort ." Like Paul, in his many testings and trials, we are encouraged to come boldly to God's throne of grace, where His mercy and grace are free-flowing in our times of need. The Lord is able to give peace to our troubled souls and says "Let not your heart be troubled." Our sweetest comforts are in Him. He speaks peace to us and He binds us up when we are broken-hearted. He gives hope and joy during our times of greatest need.....so much so that not only are we comforted -- we have enough comfort left over to encourage and comfort others.

Our story and how we made it through those times is what they need. That brings me to three words we can use to help encourage others. Feel. Felt. Found. For example, it goes like this when I am epathizing with a new widow(er): "I know how you FEEL. I FELT the same way, too, when my husband passed away. But, let me tell you what I FOUND. I FOUND that God is so ever-present to us in times of sadness, loneliness, pain and heartache. I FOUND that He is my best friend that has stayed closer to me than my husband ever could. He is always with me. I'm never alone. He gives me peace when I stop thinking about what I don't have any longer, and I start thinking about God Who has given me so much: the breath in my body to live another day, the strength to continue to run my race because I'm still here to complete the assignments God gave me." Now, that's what I call true empathy -- true understanding of how it feels, but true love that gives them cause to live another day with hope and great expectation for this day and tomorrow. That's what I call being a "Difference Maker"!