Can You See Me Now?

Remember that old Verizon commercial and the guy trying to find good phone reception and kept saying “Can you hear me now?” What about that visual connection and those words, “Can you SEE me now?”

Like any parent or grandparent, I love to watch my family excel in their specific talents and abilities. I get giddy when I receive a photo by text or email of a home run made or a golf trophy they received or them receiving the spotlight because of something they succeeded at or those wonderful pictures of them giving God praise at church. Yesterday, I received a text from my son that included a press release containing some great successes with his new technology company. My “oldest” still wants me to SEE him.

I SEE them. I rejoice with them. They are my offspring and when they succeed at anything, I feel that success. In fact, if I’m there with them, I’m usually the one taking all the photos. With delight and joy in my heart, I see each one. Yes, I see their celebrations, but I also see and feel their pain when they face struggles and when their successes are far and few between, and I see when I need to amp up my prayers for them. Why wouldn’t I keep my eyes on the ones I love the most?

Psalm 34:15 says “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry.” Have you ever wondered if God was seeing you after you’ve had an exhausting and discouraging day? As God's BIG kids, we want our FATHER to see us and hear us. The fact is He does see us. He does hear our prayers. And above all, He knows. Just think of it, in the midst of running the universe, God sees us and is working on our situations for our good. Hebrews 4:13 “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight”. There’s no greater joy than seeing throughout Scripture that the Creator of the universe (our Father) deeply cares about what we’re going through and He is moving heaven and earth to help us.

"Can you see me now?" With delight and joy in my heart, I see each one of my children and grandchildren. And the reality is, I'm not just seeing them, I’m talking about them to you today. And, isn't this what we desire from God? For Him to see us. For Him to watch us -- to notice us. We want Him to get out His camera and take photos of us because He is so proud of us. And, what we forget is our Creator is already out there watching us. And whether we succeed or fail – He’s enjoying us the whole time. In fact, if He had a Facebook or Instagram account, I’m quite sure He'd be posting our pictures and saying “Look at what my children did today! They have faith in Me. They trust me. I'm so proud of them.”

And here's the truth -- the Gospel Truth -- He sees us and knows what is best for us. He loves us so much. So, let's show off for Him -- He's watching and applauding us and constantly cheering us on!

Have You Ever Been Caught in the Act?

Hand in the cookie jar? Cookie crumbs all over your face? Have you ever been frozen in your tracks when the lights came on? Rendered motionless like a deer in the headlights? Frozen with your heart pounding through your chest? Gotten a ticket for speeding?

Our minds can go all over the place with that question. I remember, as a little girl, that I found a package of gum on the floor at the store and slipped it in my pocket. My Mom caught me “in the act” and promptly made me say “I am sorry” and hand it to the cashier. That simple “caught in the act” has stayed with me to this day and it has kept me honest – even to the point that if a cashier gives me too much change back, I’ll quickly return it. I even took back two metal cups to Chili’s that held the sauces in my “to go” box. Being “caught in the act” can certainly keep us on top of our honesty and integrity.

In my grandson’s debate tournament last year, they were debating what keeps a criminal from recommitting the same crime again. Some would say that “stiff punishment” is what would do it. Others debated that rehabilitation programs would be the answer to getting their lives together and on a road to honesty. Others would say being "caught in the act" was enough punishment for them to not recommit the crime.

This post was inspired when I read the scriptures about the woman who was “caught in the act” of adultery (John 8:1-11). The super religious Pharisees led in a woman who had been caught "in the act".They stood her in plain sight of everyone and said, ”Teacher, this woman was caught red-handed in the act of adultery.” I love this story because I love the greatest LOVER she had ever encountered, Jesus, who simply started drawing in the sand. Some scholars say (and I tend to prefer this thought) that Jesus started writing in the sand the sins of each of those who brought her to them, and they all slipped away. Jesus asked her “Where are your accusers?” And she replied “There are none!” Oh, how I love Jesus! He had, and has, so much extravagant love to give.

There really are times when it is a good thing for us to be "caught in the act". Why? Because otherwise we can deny until our hearts become perfectly hardened, as hard as a rock. When we continue to ‘get away with it’, it becomes easier to be more untruthful, become slicker and slicker, and even more lives get entangled in our mess. When we are confronted face to face with our mess, and take our mess to the lover of our souls, we find grace. That woman found the loving grace of Christ.

While being “caught in the act” tends to have negative connotations, I want to turn it on its head and change our mindset to being “caught in the act” of goodness, mercy, and kindness. Jesus set the example for us. The woman was “caught in the act” of adultery. Jesus was “caught in the act” of forgiveness and healing. Jesus was “caught in the act” of raising the dead when he saw a widow grieving at her only son’s funeral. Jesus was “caught in the act” of multiplying loaves and fishes to feed over 5,000 men, plus women and children. Jesus was “caught in the act” of welcoming the little children to come to him.

I’ve changed my way of thinking. Though I don’t want to look for the applause of those who see if I’m “caught in the act” of anything, I want my "caught in the act" to be consoling someone who needs a friend, giving kindness and mercy when someone didn’t really deserve it; giving to that one who is struggling and putting my arms around that one that needs encouragement. If you were “caught in the act” today, what would you hope you were doing?

God Reaching Out to Man; Man Reaching Out for God

At the discipleship training I attend on Tuesday nights, this beautiful picture of Michelangelo's painting of "The Creation of Adam", on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, was shown on a large screen. This famous image is God and Adam reaching for each other with their arms outstretched. It took Michelangelo four years, from 1508-1512, to paint the entire ceiling of the Sistine Chapel with a series of frescoes that portrayed several biblical stories.

I was in Rome for the second time in June of this year, and I was no less in awe and wonder when I witnessed the magnificence of the Sistine Chapel again, than I was the first time. Michelangelo was 33 years old when he undauntedly “created” and painted the chapel. Though he had apprenticed with a well-known fresco painter in His youth, his talent was in sculpting (i.e. his David and the Pieta statutes). He was a brilliant sculptor, not known for his painting, but that changed when he was commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel. Can you imagine painting, standing on a scaffold (that he invented) for hours on end with his neck blocked to paint that ceiling? He suffered so much pain during the process. We know that God orchestrated that creativity, and from his works of God, he knew God.

That photo was shown to us to point out God’s finger reaching out to Adam and Adam reaching to God. Since the beginning of time, God has been reaching out to man. We heard two conversion stories of God reaching out to point the way. The first was about the tax collector, Matthew, and how he was hand-picked by Jesus, who probably pointed his finger at him and said “Follow me” (Matthew 9:9-13). Imagine that experience. Matthew immediately got up and followed Him. He was #7 of the disciples chosen by the Master to be on His elite disciple team! The second conversion we heard about was Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman who was coming to draw water at the well at noon day. This day, at noon, the brilliance of the sun, rather THE SON, was brightest. John said in 4:9, “Jews had no dealings with Samaritans” and being a woman presented another obstacle. Jewish men didn't speak to women in public (John 4:27), But Jesus still reached out to this woman and through His love and tenderness led her to her truth and HIS truth and she became the first evangelist as she spread the word about Jesus. Matthew was touched. The Samaritan woman was touched.

Since the beginning of time, God has been reaching out to His creation to touch and be touched. In so many conversion encounters Jesus reached out to all, but, particularly to those who were broken, hurting, rejected and the worst of sinners.

I was inspired to write this post when I saw that painting and that depiction of God reaching out to man, and man reaching out to God. Oh, that we would be that man reaching out to our loving and caring God. No situation is too difficult. All it takes is a humble heart; an attitude that we depend on the guidance and strength of God our Father and the saving grace of the sacrifice of His Son Jesus. When Jesus pointed His finger to Matthew and said “Follow me”, Matthew followed. The Samaritan woman responded to that hand reaching out to her.

That hand is outstretched to you and me. May we reach out to Him today. He’s there, able to help us in our time of need. He is our great healer. May we reach out to Jesus and be comforted. May we reach out to Jesus and find rest for our souls. Use this photo of God's hand reaching to you, and visualize you reaching back to Him. God is always there with His arms open wide.

Animal Lovers & People Lovers -- Let's Unite!!

I was having my early-morning devotion on the Wuerch Family’s back patio when Bryson, my 10 year old joined me. Oh how I love that boy and the “talks” we have. We started talking about how crazy the world seems and what a shame it is that people are being so ugly to each other. I said, “You know, Bryson, that’s not the way God created us to be. In the beginning He created the Garden of Eden. In fact it looked just like this (I pointed to the backyard). It was so peaceful and beautiful.. But Adam and Eve disobeyed God. They ate the apple from the one tree that He said they shouldn't eat from. Ever since then we’ve been doing things that God says not to do. He told us to love and be at peace. And what does God’s people do? We argue and complain and dislike each other. We take ourselves out of the Garden of Eden because of those kinds of mistakes.” Then Bryson gave his profound response to my Bible lesson and insights. “Nana, there wasn't concrete in the Garden of Eden. There wasn't a basketball court. There were no houses.” Oh my goodness. That boy. My joy.

Actually, Bryson does bring a little Garden of Eden to me as he represents so much peace to me. I accompany him to see after his animals – the longhorn, a barn cat, five goats and two miniature donkeys: Molly and Firecracker. By the way, there will be a baby arriving to the Wuerch’s animal kingdom in October. Firecracker is “with child….rather foal”.

Then there’s Bentley, their dog. Bryson loves all animals with all his heart. A garden snake was in their yard and Brennan was about to kill it, when Bryson stepped in to save the day for the snake. He has built-in compassion for animals.

Bryson and I took Brennan to his baseball game on Sunday, with spare time to visit the “Austin Pet Alive” animal shelter. They are a part of a network of shelters that have rescued over 2,000 dogs and cats from abandonment after Hurricane Harvey. Hundreds are at the Austin location. They are scrambling to reunite the pets to their owners. I saw so many loving volunteers there who didn't seem to notice all the loud barking. Neither did Bryson. He said, “Nana, I think I’m in heaven!”

I don't profess to being an animal lover, but I appreciate the love people have for their pets, My compassion extends more to people. The key word here is compassion. I know people who treat their pets like family. I see those heart-wrenching times when a family’s beloved pet passes away. I see how people get indignant when animals are abused and they talk about it passionately on social media. I understand that people get attached to animals for a number of reasons, but it’s mostly a combination of their biology and need for affection. As for the biology, when people touch and look at their pet, it makes their brain release chemicals that makes them feel good. The need for affection boils down to the fact that pets offer unconditional love. And unconditional love feels good.

Preferring a dog over humans seems absurd to me, but I know those beloved pets are always there for their owners. Sweet Bentley in the Wuerch household, lives for our contact with him. He will never disparage us. He has no hidden motives. He gives consistent, unconditional love. He only barks when someone comes to the front door but welcomes them with a wag and a kiss and laying on his back for a tummy rub. He’ll also be a great consoler to you if you need it, because he’ll jump up by you to keep you company.

I started this post today with “God’s creation and beauty that He made for you and me.” We got it messed up when we humans lost our compassion for each other. You know that part that says “Love your neighbor as you love yourself; be kind to each other – tender-hearted with mercy – forgiving one another.”

Somewhere, along the way, we became consumed with judgementalism instead of gratefulness. I’m liking the sound of a dog’s life where we simply show up for each other and give each other consistent, unconditional love. That sure makes the animals sound like they have a lot more of the character of God than we do. Our great, unconditional loving and compassionate God is consistent – never changing – and is the great consoler when we need His love the most. No wonder my grandson loves animals. Just maybe, his love, is the Father’s love for all of mankind. I’m going to think like that and desire to be like that. How about you?

Do Your Faith Roots Run Deep?

After living in Oklahoma for 40+ years, I know what winds, lightning, and even ice can do to a tree. Those strong winds threaten to uproot the tree and carry it away. The lightning and ice breaks off branches. And when the summer storm or winter ice storm is over, it can look quite hopeless for that tree.

If we look closer; however, the same storm that opened crevices in the earth around the trunk of the tree helped the roots go deeper. And now, the tree has access to new, deeper sources of nutrition and water. And it's been purged of all its dead branches. We witnessed that with a tall tree in our own back yard. One winter, an ice storm stripped the tree of so many of its largest branches. Our next door neighbor asked if we were going to take that tree down. It looked as if it would surely die, but we waited and the next summer, that tree returned to full foliage and even more beautiful than before.

Now, let's compare those trees to our "faith" trees. Jeremiah 17:7-8 says "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

I know about storms – both with the weather storms and those that come to devastate our lives spiritually, mentally and physically. My husband and I went through some intense “faith challenging” storms. Seven years ago at this time, my husband, Ron, had been in and out of the hospital five times, had five surgeries, and other complications that had to be dealt with. The winds were blowing hard, shaking us violently, and making us wonder if we were going to make it. But, no matter the storm on any particular day, we always remembered our confessions of faith from the onset of that faith journey. We kept speaking “We know that Ron is healed! Just like the tree whose roots run deep….we’re determined to stand strong during these winds that have come to destroy us.” And with that statement of faith, we would rebound, be nourished and strengthened to carry on. In spite of the pain, we’d take Ron for another medical treatment, but not before he’d ask me to wheel him over to the beautiful Steinway piano that was in the atrium of the medical facility. How beautiful it was to hear him play “Amazing Grace” and “Count Your Blessings” on that piano, in those incredible acoustics. It was always the sweetest reminder of how good God was to us! Ron’s positive attitude generated so much faith, even with the tremendous amount of pain that he lived with for so many months.

We were very specific with our prayers. ”Dear Lord, we ask that these treatments and medications provide nourishment to Ron’s body – that they do the good things that they are intended to do – that every sick cell be gone and only healthy cells remain, that the tumors shrink and die, that his bones be strong and blood be resilient, and any and all side effects be neutralized and rendered null and void. We expect a miracle as You have said, “Nothing is impossible with God!” May we continue to be firm in our belief that a miracle is on its way. Help us to stand strong upon your Word knowing that it is true. Thank you that our hope is in You.” Amen.

We were literally bathed in Christ’s love by His hand extended to us through so many sweet blessings -- even that he never suffered any side effects from all his treatments. We had loving and devoted friends and family during that time that showed Christ's love to us in the middle of our storm. Here’s the fine print of this post today: "Faith – Love – Hope" had their perfect work in us. Everyday was energized by our hope and expectation that a miracle was on its way. He wasn't healed on this side of heaven but our prayers were answered for him to be healed, and he is healed and whole on the other side in heaven. The scripture I started with. in this post, is the greatest indicator of our prayers being answered for me: “But blessed is the man (WOMAN) who trusts in the LORD, (We did!) whose confidence is in Him (It was). He (She) will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream (My tree was planted there, and it’s still on THAT SPOT). It does not fear when heat comes (No fear here); its leaves are always green (my best color). It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit (That’s ME!) ." Jeremiah 17:7-8 The answer to that question, “Does faith really work?” -- I guarantee it does – I'm proof positive. I guarantee it for you, too!

On the Road Again -- Back to My Traveling Sacred Space

I headed out for my 4-hour trek from Austin to home in Frisco yesterday afternoon. I'm strategic about my travels. I left in the afternoon, since it was a Sunday and less traffic, but usually, on a week day, I'll leave at 6 am -- early enough to get ahead of Austin morning traffic and being sandwiched between what seems to be an endless number of cars going an average of 10 mph. The same thing when I leave Frisco to go to Austin -- I usually leave at 6 am to get ahead of the Dallas morning traffic.

I’m convinced traffic can bring out the worst in drivers, so much so, that some folks avoid congested highways at all costs. If I did that, I wouldn't ever be driving because that traffic is a part of my life these days. I’m quite conscious of the need to let several car lengths go between my car and the next car, but then comes along a vehicle that squeezes in between me and my well-thought out distance. Honestly, the fact that I’m willing to tackle those congested highways may not impress you, but it sure impresses me. For that matter, maybe God is preparing me for becoming the oldest Nascar driver EVER!

I make the most of these travels. It’s just me in my Buick Enclave “home” for those several hours of driving. I have 240 precious minutes in my car before I arrive at my destination, and instead of getting frustrated by the feeling of my foot constantly hitting the brakes and looking over my shoulder to be sure there isn’t another vehicle in my blind spot, I use this time and my car as a “holy space”. It becomes my little sacred car chapel. I’ve learned I can get so much accomplished when I relish this time instead of suffering through it.

Here are my car chapel options: I can listen to uplifting music and let the words settle inside of my heart. I can praise and pray. I have plenty to praise God for and I have plenty to pray for. I can endeavor to be in the moment and listen for God’s brilliant ideas for my next blog and post. I can listen to inspiring faith and motivation CDs. I can make phone calls and encourage a friend or family member. I can pray for other drivers that are on the road with me. Who knows? They may be encountering overwhelming circumstances in their life and my prayers may help them face another day. Many times in those early morning hours, I can bask in the sun rising and witness, once again, God’s indescribable artistry and appreciate His mercies that are new every morning.

Here's some really good news. Establishing little "heaven on earth" moments can just as easily be done in an office at work, in a kitchen while cooking dinner, in a classroom or gym. I've come to realize that when we're "acknowledging God in ALL our ways (even those on the high-ways), we are relinquishing our ways to submit to His ways that direct our paths, streets and highways. As for me, I’ll keep taking to the road for these sweet travel journeys and I’ll keep singing with Willie Nelson, “On the road again. Just can’t wait to get on the road again.” And I think I’ll keep on having church while I’m there!!

Be the Best Version of YOU

Since hearing the phrase “Be the best version of yourself”, I’ve not only endeavored to apply those words to myself, but in the few days I've been with my two younger grandsons, I spoke those words to them several times. You know, that smack-talking kids like to do when they’re playing competitive games with each other. Well, for that matter….the smack-talking anyone babbles out at any time. It seems humorous at the time – but REALLY….is that being the best version of ourselves when any kind of disparaging “talk” comes from us? 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “Encourage one another and build each other up.”

Be the best version of yourself. What does that really mean? It could be applied to our physical well being and how we treat and take care of our mind and bodies. It could be directed at being all we can be – getting as much education as we can, always being willing to develop more skills and abilities, becoming a better cook, handyman or woman, learning a foreign language, becoming a well-rounded athlete – taking all those gifts and talents God placed within us and using them all to our greatest potential.

But for this post, I’m applying those words “Be the best version of yourself” to who we are as a caring, giving and loving human being. Our world is full of those who seem intent on “fault-finding”, scrutinizing and examining others – politicians, entertainers, religious leaders, athletes, etc. That attitude oftentimes takes hold of us in our own sphere of influence. We, take on that tendency to look at others with an eye for fault-finding. Maybe it's times to take a look at the ONE we are responsible for -- that's us! It's time to look inward with a thorough self-analysis, and ask these questions: “Are you the friend you wish you had?” “Are you the wife/husband, mother/ father, daughter/son, sister/brother that you wish you had?” In other words, instead of pulling out the “10 Things I Don’t Like About You” to someone else, maybe it’s the ideal time to make a list that says “10 Things I Can Do to Improve ME” so that I become the friend, spouse, child, sibling I wish I had.

I want to be THAT friend that I want to have – a friend that is trustworthy, kind, giving, caring, not overbearing and not a meddler. How many times have I wished for a friend to put their arm around me and help me know “everything’s gonna’ be alright? If I want that, then I start with me. I want to be the noticer of people who need an arm put around their shoulder that encourages them. Who can I encourage and put my arm around today? How many times have I wanted someone to notice me and welcome me to their circle? My response to those feelings is “I need to be the one that welcomes others to my circle or my group or my conversation”.

Being the best version of ourselves is first to BE – be the beautiful creation God made us to be by appreciating all that God placed within us to BE – that quirky laugh that brightens up a room with joy; those big brown eyes that see the pain and needs of others and does something about it; that voice that speaks encouragement and hope into others, and that mind that consciously conjures up ways to change this world for the better. Most of all to be that ONE that sets the example of God’s love and peace to others…..so that they want YOU to be their best friend. In so doing – we ARE being the best version of ourselves!

We’ll Take the Fast Pass, Please!

This last March, my Wallace Family and I went to Disney World in honor of the 10-year anniversary since Papa (my husband) celebrated his 60th birthday and Alexia celebrated her 6th birthday there. It was so special to be there to remember that special time we had together before. What made it even more special was that the kids have friends that work at the parks that gave us Fast Passes for some of the more popular rides.

A Fast Pass accelerates getting through the long lines by getting a special ticket ahead of time that allows you to go to the front of the line at an appointed time. It saved us so much time that we could enjoy more shows and attractions than just standing in line.

Wouldn't it be great if God would give us Fast Pass answers to our prayers? Wouldn’t it be fabulous to march straight through God’s pauses to move directly to His perfect plan? Of course, if that were the case, we’d be treating God like an amusement park ride where WE were the conductor of the ride, as well as the rider. Both you and I know that God seldom hands out passes so that we can avoid the wait and skip to the front of the line. He is so sovereign and so knows what's best for us that He meticulously plans "the wait". During the wait, we learn to trust Him more. During the wait, we learn patience and determination. During the wait, we tend to DEPEND on His perfect timing. During the wait, we come to realize that the initial prayer we prayed wasn’t at all what we really wanted. You know….that dream boat of a guy we wanted to look our way, but while we were WAITING in line, we saw him in a totally different light. He was actually a tug boat -- not a dream boat! Thanks, God, for the wait!!

A rush through the wait has the potential to stunt our spiritual growth and dull our senses to what God wants us to learn. James 1:2-4 “My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.”

James is giving us wise advice. He’s saying “Avoid the Fast Pass through tests and challenges." The Fast Pass can feel like a breeze. But more times than not, a pause will actually work in our favor. Our faith will mature, and we will become devoted followers of God -- trusting in His perfect timing and plan for our lives. God is the Creator of time. We can trust His pauses to be purposeful and perfectly arranged. God will make the most of our pause, and we should, too.

The Wide Eyed Wonder of a Child

I’m still in Austin with my two youngest grandsons and, I’ll admit, I’m holding on to their child-like ways. They still want their Super Brennan and Super Bryson stories, and Bryson still wants to sleep with me and they still pull off some of those imaginary super-hero antics.

I know these days are numbered. Before long, they’ll figure out all that magical stuff is, well, magic. Their older brother, Barrett, was here with the younger brothers at Easter while their Mom and Dad were out of town. He had the responsibility of handling their “usual” early Sunday morning Easter egg hunt before going to church. So, in all innocence, big brother asked Bryson, the youngest, where he’d like him to hide the eggs – “in the front yard or the back?” To Bryson’s utter dismay, he cried “You mean the Easter bunny isn’t real??” Suddenly, the Easter bunny reality and that wide-eyed wonder became teary-eyed disappointment.

Wednesday night, I watched the finale of “America’s Got Talent” and saw two pre-teen girls vie for 1st place. Keep in mind there were extraordinary "adult" talents, but a 12-year old girl who, once-upon-a-time, was shy and awkward, and hid behind her puppets, saw the vision of herself changed and became proficient at her talent of ventriloquism and singing -- so much so that her act won herself $1 million and a show in Las Vegas.

Never have I seen so many gifted children stepping up in their talents and abilities and becoming incredible performers, artists, actors, and musicians as I am today. In fact, last year’s winning act was a young girl who sang and played the fiddle. Those who vote for those kids, realize how extraordinary their talents are at such young ages.

There’s something about children that God wants us to see. We who have lived a few decades know what it is like to have made mistakes and now we tend to be over cautious and leave little room for spontaneity. That’s not the case with children. The future is wide open for them, and they seem to know it. Wide-eyed with wonder, filled with potential, they are ready to try new things and see the possibilities all around them.

Unhindered by the past, they are free to chase after whatever the future holds. That’s the childlike spirit that God wants to give all of us. God doesn’t want any of us to think that we are too old, too wounded, too limited, too whatever. None of us are so bound by our past that God can’t open new doors for us in the future. Our Father has great plans for us. He has a future full of hope laid out for us. Now it’s up to us to run into that future with all the confidence of a little child!

Matthew 18:2-4 “Jesus called a little child to him. He stood the child before the followers. Then he said, “I tell you the truth. You must change and become like little children. If you don’t do this, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. The greatest person in the kingdom of heaven is the one who makes himself humble like this child.”

TEAM-Work: Together Everyone Accomplishes More

I’m back in Austin with my two youngest grandsons who make for sweet times of board games, helping with homework, helping feed the animals and all the other shenanigans that works Nana’s brain AND body! LOL!

I was helping Bryson with his science homework which included the study of birds, and specifically, pelicans. Instead of working alone, I found out that pelicans work in teams which gives them a better chance at a good meal. As we read some of the characteristics of the pelicans, Bryson exclaimed: “Those pelicans are so annoying. They would not leave.” I knew what he was talking about. He remembered back to when he was just four years old and an invasion of pelicans overtook their boat, which was loaded with the fresh fish they had caught. See the photo here. Notice that Bryson wasn’t letting them boss him around, but those pelicans were there to support each other as a team. I like that. TEAM-work. Together Everyone Accomplishes More.....EXCEPT in the case of a very strong willed boy!!

This photo is one of my all-time favorites. You can tell this pelican was by no means the "boss" of Bryson and he showed it! LOL!

Maybe you've heard your kids or grandkids say "You're not the boss of me!" to a sibling or someone else. But have we ever made that statement to ourselves? Actually, we can, and we should.

”How often do we yield to temptations -- big and small? Instead of eating a few chips, we eat the whole bag. Instead of just a piece of chocolate cake, we go in for a second slice. Instead of walking away from listening to an obscene joke, we laugh with them all. Instead of changing the channel or walking out of a movie when the content is questionable and almost every other word is profane, we just sit there and take it in. Instead of eating nutritiously and getting exercise, we talk ourselves out of it. We then justify it all by saying "I just can't help myself!" But, in reality...we can. It's about Who the Greater One is that lives in us. The Holy Spirit knows what is best for us instead of letting our flesh be in control of us.

I daily desire to choose being on God's side -- endeavoring to be the conqueror over the tactics of the enemy. In fact, I think the most exciting journey in life is simply saying, "God, I want to change. I want to please You. I want to be more like you." I want YOU to be the boss of me.

The good news is this....it's not a process we have to conquer on our own. Our TEAM -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are with us to help us accomplish so much more than we could ever do on our own. God's Spirit in us is our Helper, our Guide, our Comforter and Partner in accomplishing whatever it is we may face. Very soon, we'll start to realize that we have some real authority because of our TEAM. When that happens, every time our flesh tempts us, all we have to do is speak Bryson's words to our flesh "You're not the boss of me!"

Be Sure to Think AND Think Before You Speak

Have you ever said some dumb “something” and so wished you could retract those words, but it was too late? The damage was done. I sincerely wish we had a built-in “pause” button that gave us a delay between what we are thinking and what we are about to speak. Often those hurtful words babble out just too quickly. Just a little “damage control” over our thoughts might have saved us from……damage to someone’s spirit and our relationship with them.

Speaking of “thinking” before we speak that hurts others -- what about the words we speak about ourselves? We need “damage control” over those words, too. I’ve heard people say words so negative about themselves that I want to put my finger to their lips and say "Shh. Don't say that!" They’ll say self-demeaning words like “I’m so stupid", "I just look at a cookie, and I gain weight", "I get a cold this time every year", "I could never do that", "I’ll never be able to afford that", "I’m too old to do that", “I can’t EVER remember names”, etc. And, you know what? They will continue to get what they are saying and thinking.

I am generally an optimistic thinker…AND speaker. I wasn’t born that way, but through conscious effort and repetition, I’ve become that person that sees the glass, not just half full, but FULL. I really do wake up each morning, anticipating a great day, good health and success, good things coming my way and I sincerely believe that I can overcome any difficulty, because of God Who is in me. I consistently pray Psalms 141:3 “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips” and Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD.” It really takes “a village” (Father, Son and Holy Spirit, angels, and saints) to help me because the natural inclination, in myself alone, would to be concerned for what this day and tomorrow could hold. Thanks be to God -- my thinking AND speaking have given me such a full, blessed and joy-filled life.

We really can control and change our thoughts and what we speak. It’s like changing the channel on a TV – we see a program we don’t want to watch, so we change the channel. In the same way, when a negative thought comes to us, rather than continuing to think that negative thought….we can change the channel to something good and positive. Those who think themselves a failure or unworthy of success and live in fear of what tomorrow may bring, will encounter closed doors, being late to appointments and other distractions that will keep them from succeeding.

But, if we make a conscious effort to thinking, speaking, writing, reading and watching the good and positive "stuff of life", eventually, it will be second nature for us to shift any negative focus to positive. If we think positively, expect favorable results, then our situations and circumstances will change. If we persevere, we will transform the way our mind thinks, as well as the beautiful things that will start coming our way.

My thoughts for today for you AND me are: "It's a beautiful day. We are loved. We are blessed. We are favored with good and great things coming our way. We have many friends and are making even more friends. We walk into a room and it brightens up just because we entered it. We can do all things through Christ Who strengthens us. We are healthy and whole. We are lovers. We are givers. SOMETHING GOOD is going to happen to us today!"

Blast From the Past – REDEEMING S&H Green Stamps

Most of you youngsters won't remember S&H Green Stamps, but my peers will remember when we’d receive them at the check-out counter of supermarkets, department stores and gasoline stations. S&H Green Stamps were used as reward programs at merchants from the 1930s to late 1980s. I well remember collecting as many books of 1200 stamps as possible because that would mean a new appliance or household item that we selected from a catalog and REDEEM our books for the item that we worked diligently to get.

REDEEM: to buy back, to get or win back, to free from captivity by payment of a ransom, to release from debt, to remove the obligation of payment, to exchange for something of value.

I heard the story of a young woman who found herself suddenly “un-engaged” three weeks before her engagement pictures were scheduled to be taken. It was too late to cancel the photography session, so she went ahead and had a solo shoot done at Disneyland and the photos were published and went viral. But even more remarkable than the photos, was her attitude. She described the day: "It honestly couldn't have been a more beautiful experience, and I was filled with the peace and comfort that only comes from above. I'm so glad I decided to go through with the photos, and more importantly, I'm so grateful for the smallest acts of daily kindness that make all the difference in a broken world." She REDEEMED her pain for beauty and gratitude.

That story reminded me of my own daughter’s heartbreak in her early 20s after a broken relationship. As difficult that it was for her in that season, all of the tragedy was REDEEMED and used for good because it turned her heart to faith in God and service to others as she established her “Cinderella” ministries. She recorded “Cinderella: Dreams Do Come True” song that touched so many lives. I’ll give you the link at the end of this post. She created the Pledge for Purity program that taught the beauty of chastity before marriage and went across the U.S. and Canada speaking to young people about the beauty of purity. There was further REDEMPTION, as she later wore that gorgeous dress, with the addition of North Carolina’s state flower, the flowering dogwood, in the Mrs. America Pageant as Mrs. North Carolina.

Isaiah 61:3 says, "I will give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified." Isn't it beautiful that God says He will give us beauty for ashes? There is a redemption plan here. We give Him our ashes and in return, He gives us His beauty. Everybody has wounds; everybody has ashes--and all kinds of them. Those ashes look like rejection, a job loss, a miscarriage, a divorce, an illness, a loss of a loved one, and as my friends in South Texas -- the loss of a home. Ashes happen every place and to everyone.

In both of the girl's testimonies I mentioned above, it is obvious that tragedy can be REDEEMED for beauty AND I personally know that we grow from our experiences – good and bad. That’s WHY God REDEEMS challenges – by using them to show us our need of Him. In that way, we can count ourselves blessed when we face challenges. Jesus taught us “Blessed are those who know their need of God.” (Matthew 5:3).

Whatever it is that is overwhelming in your life today, gather it all up and put it in a safe place of remembrance, because, I assure you – REDEMPTION Day is coming where you’ll trade it in for beauty. Hold on, my child, joy WILL come in the morning!

http://staciwallace.com/cinderella/

What is YOUR Aroma?

On the the way to church, yesterday morning, there was a sweet aroma in my car – a fragrance that brings me to tears. Oh but first before I go there.....I'll tell you what created that lovely aroma. Leading up to Saturday, the 16th, there were 16 days of celebrating my granddaughter's Sweet 16 birthday. Her Mom, Alexia and I started the month with an adventurous trip to Six Flags and now it was my turn to finish out the celebrations on Saturday. We celebrated in Nana/Alexia style!

The first thing on Saturday, I headed to the Wallace home for our final day to begin. After my "legacy" talk that I spoke about yesterday in my post/blog, it was time for Nana’s birthday treasure hunt. Unlike other years when a clue leads to another clue until the BIG treasure is found, this year, there were six clues, each representing a letter in Alexia’s name that sent her to places to look around their home. At each location was a paragraph of "wisdom" for her and the treasure that went with the letter. For example, A = Alexia. "The A in Alexia represents ALEXIA which means “helper and defender of mankind”. Indeed, my sweet girl, God’s anointing is on you and you WILL be helping men, women, boys and girls through your beautiful heart of love. You have the DNA of a warrior and a strong, mighty woman of God with a heart to touch so many with God’s love and power. The A has a treasure ahead! Go find it near your Mom & Dad’s bed. Maybe there’s something there that will remind you of “defending mankind”!"
The A treasure was AMC Theater (that would be a part of our day). She’s a strong warrior already so of course, I knew she wanted to see “Spiderman” yet again. There were other clues, treasures and adventures that made for a very special 16th birthday complete.

After the treasure hunt we headed out for lunch, the movie, and some retail therapy which inspired this day's post/blog. At the mall, we walked by a store that ALWAYS takes me back to my sweetheart and HIS aroma. Maybe this is too much information, but here goes anyway! One of my favorite characteristics about him was he always desired to smell good, so throughout the day, he would splash on a little more cologne. So when Alexia and I were passing by the Abercrombie & Fitch store, Alexia said, “Nana, you want to go in?” She knew my heart. We did. We sprayed his and my favorite -- that wonderful “Fierce” cologne on the little cards. Momentarily, I couldn't hold back the tears. When we got to the car, Alexia put her card in the vent of my air conditioner – thus, the aroma in my car yesterday morning going to and from church.

I breathed in that wonderful aroma and I had precious thoughts about my sweetheart. He's certainly basking in heavenly scents now. And, on this side of heaven, God wants all of us to exude His own sweet aroma to the world.

2 Corinthians 2:14 says this: "But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, He has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go He uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel LIKE A SWEET PERFUME.”

What if our lives sent out an aroma that attracted people to God? Our aroma will either attract others to Him or repel them. The sweet scent of the likeness of Christ can be an irresistible pull toward the Savior. When we walk with God and are imitators of His character (love, joy, peace, kindness, etc.) we will leave behind an aroma that can inspire others to follow. So many need to experience that aroma....and they will, as we continue to "splash on" His fragrance. So....what is YOUR aroma today?

The Book-End of Legacy

I've shared before about how our family makes really big deals about each other's birthdays. After all -- that's the day that God presented us to this world for His purpose and pan. It IS a big deal. But on milestone birthdays, it is over-the-top honoring and celebrating. This year it was Alexia Wallace's (my granddaughter) Sweet 16 birthday year. My daughter, Staci, Alexia and I kicked off the month with adventures at Six Flags Over Texas -- the front-side bookend, and yesterday, with Larry and Staci away in Detroit, I was the bookend that finished off the celebrations. Each day leading up to her "16th on the 16th" was marked by a significant word of exhortation to Alexia. There have been family members, friends and mentors who took one of the days to honor our girl and pour into her strategies and principles for success.

I chose LEGACY as my word. In this first photo, is four generations -- my mom, me, Staci and Alexia -- that is legacy. In the second photo, you can see a beautiful shadow box that holds Payton and Alexia's christening clothes. I made Alexia's christening gown. That reminded me of LEGACY that is such a part of her DNA. Alexia is so creative that if she finds an "on sale" pair of pants, skirt or top that she really likes, and is way larger than she needs, she buys it anyway. She would hand-sew the seams to make those items fit perfectly. I was pleased to give her a sewing machine for this birthday gift.

My grandmother and mother sewed. I learned to sew from my mom and in my Home Economics Class in high school. Today, we can shop around and find clothing at far better prices than taking the time to sew, but sewing machines are sure handy for seams, making costumes and home decor' projects. I stopped sewing until my Alexia came along, and I picked up where I left off. I carefully made that christening gown and it represents the love I had and have for her when I see it displayed in their home. Most importantly, it represents the day that her Mom and Dad presented her to God and her church family, like Jesus was presented to God in the temple by His Mom and Dad.

More than talent, trade or personality, the most important value we can pass on to our children is the LEGACY of loving God with all our hearts. These words expressed my heart to Alexia yesterday. I encourage you to pass on the LEGACY of loving God with all their hearts to your children and grandchildren.

"My precious Alexia -- Today is the finale of your Sweet 16 celebrations, but I guarantee you, you will forever be celebrated – each and every day by those who love and adore you on this earth, and even more so, those that have gone on before us and are cheering us on from the grandstands of heaven. You will always be celebrated because of the legacy from your ancestors -- Godly men and women who prayed for you before you ever made your debut on this earth. You come from a long heritage of devoted followers of Christ and they lived this scripture and I, as your Nana, bequeath these words to you to carry on as you have been taught by your loving Mom and Dad. Now it is yours to take up and make them your own for those that you will birth one day -- both biologically and spiritually. How I thank God that you are already living, breathing and experiencing this legacy!

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

The Debut of Two Girls Into Our World

On this special day, September 16th, I'm celebrating two of my girls. It was actually September 15th when our son asked us to join him and Shawntel's family for a surprise birthday party for her at her home. Her birthday was September 16th, but the party was on the 15th. We had a wonderful time together celebrating this beautiful woman (inside and out), but the party went to a whole new level, when Ryan got down on one knee and proposed to her. We rejoiced when she said "YES"! We knew God brought them together. Three months later they were married.

Larry and Staci were absent from this celebration -- but they had a good excuse. Just after Ryan proposed, we received the call from Larry....."Staci's contractions are just minutes apart." That meant we had to make a quick exit from this fabulous party.....to be at another fabulous "debut" party. Our little Alexia was coming into the family as well.

We drove lightning speed from Tulsa to Dallas and though the doctors were telling Staci to "push", she refused to....."My Mom and Dad must be here!" As we were running down the hallway of the hospital our precious little girl started coming. We made it....but not a minute too soon!

Our hearts were full -- our son was engaged to the "love of his life", and Larry and Staci brought another precious treasure to love into this world. And to make it even more special, Ryan and Shawntel drove from Oklahoma to Texas to meet their new little niece on both girls' birth-days. It was a joyous celebration!

So, today, September 16th, I get to celebrate two precious girls that have brought so much sunshine and joy to our family. I can't begin to thank God enough for my Shawntel (aka Angel -- always has been to our family) who is the most devoted and loving wife to Ryan, and incredible mother to our boys. She calls me Mom, which is one of my greatest privileges. We're bonded. We've shared so many blessings and though we're physically miles apart -- when we are back together again, it's as though we were never apart. She will always be MY GIRL. I'm so thankful for her Mom and Dad's love that brought her to this world for all of us to love her.

And, then there's my hilarious, beautiful, talented, loving, granddaughter, Alexia Wallace, who celebrates her 16th birthday today. Where has 16 years gone? It seems just a little while ago that we were rushing to meet her, and now she is becoming a young woman of destiny and purpose that loves God and loves to serve Him with all her heart.

Happy Birthday, Shawntel and Alexia -- my two September 16th GIFTS FROM GOD!

One Moment Can Change Everything.

I was a “single” teenager (age 17), but in one “I now pronounce you husband and wife” moment, I was a married woman.

I was a happily married woman, and in one moment, when my precious husband took his last breath, I became a widow.

Now I know how a single moment can change everything. Now, I put a checkmark in the box beside “widow”. Now, I’m a single when I'm with couples. “Singles” is the Life Group I attend.

On my Sweetheart’s birthday, September 12th, though nearly seven years have passed since his graduation to heaven, I thought about the many “moments” we made special. Indeed, I have come to realize the importance of a moment. A single moment can change everything.

The point I’m making today, is “we only get so many moments”. Our days are numbered. Psalm 39:4,5 “ LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a MOMENT to you; at best, each of us is but a breath.”

The younger, busier, more occupied with life that we are, the less we consider the “moments” and the less we consider that our days are numbered. I assure you, that changes when we experience a “loss” of that someone that made up the most significant part of our life. That’s why I was inspired for this post/blog today.

Once we realize that our days are numbered, it changes (or should change) how every moment of every day should be valued, appreciated and never taken for granted. It changes how we look at things like stress, money, relationships, the use of our time, disagreements, and what’s REALLY important.

When that reality becomes a major part of our personal value system – we look at life differently. It makes us feel more deeply, love more completely, forgive more readily, overlook others' faults unconditionally, and live life to its fullest more vibrantly.

Recognizing that our days are numbered and a moment is fleeting, it makes us very aware of keeping our priorities on all that matters most. Life is this very moment. We are guaranteed no more and no less.

I suggest we all love deeply, give greatly, laugh freely and live largely. After all, we only get so many moments!

Fall is Almost Here!

Fall is Just Around the Corner
Yesterday, the cooler temperatures made for a brisk, refreshing morning walk. I had my peppy, jubilant face on and I’d exclaim to other walkers “Good morning! Isn’t this a gorgeous morning?” I sensed I was being powered by a heart of gratitude. I turned a “routine” walk into a charged-up expression of joy. I became very aware of so many reasons to be thankful.

I noticed a beautiful, stately cat sitting in a position of “king on the mountain”, observing everything like a watchman over his domain. Immediately that made me think about My Heavenly Father Who keeps a watch over me….and you. Psalm 34:15 “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry.” I breathed in that morning, crisp air. The fact is….I COULD breathe without devices to help me breathe. I was walking – that was a huge blessing, because since I broke two toes, it hurt too much to wear closed shoes. The day before yesterday, I was having an irritated, scratchy throat. Yesterday morning, the sore throat was gone. I heard dogs barking (they like to be ferocious watch dogs inside those protected fences, but I’m sure they’re all bark and no bite). The fact was, I COULD hear them barking. I saw gorgeous scenes – sunflowers galore, and a single yellow rose growing on a rose bush. I always like to think that’s my sweetheart reminding me of our forever love (yellow roses were our favorite). Most importantly, I COULD see. Psalm 107:1 says "Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever."

Fall/Autumn really is my favorite time of the year. I sense, just around the corner, the leaves will begin turning into their gorgeous colors and soon we'll be able to turn up the thermostat in our homes. We'll start thinking about our families gathering together, and all the other beautiful symbols of this upcoming season.

The most beautiful part of this upcoming Fall season is that attitude of gratitude that comes along with it. I was lavishing in it yesterday. And that gratitude should include thanking God for the season He has us in – right now.

Every day is a gift, and whether that day includes joy, happiness, peace and comfort or whether it's stress-filled and challenging -- we know it's a part of this season that God has us in -- and in this season God is working ALL of the season for our good. Regardless of what season we are in, let's savor everything that it holds -- because THE ONE who controls the seasons, is THE ONE who will carry us through each one. So, let’s turn up the volume on gratitude. Wake up that heart of gratitude and let’s amp up our bodies, souls and spirits to the goodness of God, the blessings He’s given us and our todays and tomorrows that are in His hands. Happy Fall, Ya’ll!!!

Shine, Baby, Shine

Just look at that gorgeous “Full Corn Moon”. I am by no means a student of the skies, but I’ll admit that I can sure get taken by a clear night sky with a full moon. That moon led me to google it to see if it was a special moon. Sure enough, it was the “Full Corn Moon”. Usually it’s called the Harvest Moon, but this year that name is reserved for October’s full moon. That’s because the Harvest Moon is the full moon that falls closest to the autumnal equinox (seasons opposite the equator), which occurs on September 22nd this year (the first day of Fall). Looking up to the night sky and seeing how the stars and moon are so perfectly aligned, brings calm and comfort, especially when we consider all that is going on here on planet Earth. Maybe we SHOULD be looking up more often so that we reflect what we're looking at -- lights that brighten up the dark.

Isn’t it interesting that a brilliant moon, lighting up the entire night, is actually getting its light from the sun? It is totally dependent on the sun for that radiant light. I can’t help but think of how our relationship with our Creator is the same way. We are dependent on Him for our light. He is our bright light and we are made to reflect His light.

Our world may seem very dark right now -- especially if we watch a lot of world news. Oh, but there IS HOPE! May we remember that wherever there is darkness, there is also the brightest LIGHT of Christ. He pierced the darkness forever. He is THE LIGHT that will never fade and will never be overcome.
John 1:5 says “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Instead of stumbling around in the darkness, we have the light of Christ as our guide. Wherever our path takes us today, it is lit up brightly.

Christ is our ultimate LIGHT source, and we are called to reflect His light and to shine, Baby, shine. We don’t shine on our own. John 8:12 says “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” We are called to be the people who reflect God’s light in the darkness of this world. This hurting world needs to know His light. Where there is pain and suffering and questions about tomorrow, the only one constant is that of our LIGHT.

May God use us to be a blessing during these perilous times. Some of us can give financially or in some other tangible way. Some of us can go to places of devastation to help and serve. All of us can pray for the sun to shine again for those who need that Light the most. What a beautiful reflection you and I can be to a hurting world. May we use the opportunities He gives us to shine His light wherever we go. May His love and grace shine through us. May we shine with our words and our actions.

Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Let's remember . . . darkness cannot survive where there is light.