He's the Answer to Everything

Maybe you're thinking "Donna sure loves Easter because she keeps talking about it". If you thought that, then you’re right! I can’t leave Easter alone – it’s the reason for everything we hold dear in our lives. And, besides, Easter isn’t over anyway. We're not done yet! The Easter season (the resurrection of our Lord and His time on earth before ascending to heaven) continues for 40 days AFTER Christ’s resurrection. That’s why I’ll keep all my Easter décor up until we celebrate His ascension to heaven on Thursday, May 21st!

That was 40 days He was "in and out" of places and people's lives. He was showing up when they least expected Him. Can you imagine being one of those who were eye witnesses of the "alive and well" Jesus? They are those who documented and verified Jesus lives. Thank goodness for the Chronicles of Jesus in the Bible. True story. Without a doubt, He lives!

Among those who witnessed Him alive, the first was a woman, Mary Magdalene. He even spoke His first words as our resurrected Lord to her. Then there was Peter and the disciples behind closed doors, and even to "doubting" Thomas who touched the nail prints in His hands and His pierced side. I love the story of Jesus joining the two disciples on the Emmaus road as a stranger. He went to their home, broke bread with them and they recognized their Lord.

For 40 days, Jesus was able to prove to His followers that He really had been raised from the dead. In 1 Corinthians 15:6, Paul records that Jesus "appeared to more than 500 brothers at one time". He needed to teach His disciples the kind of King He really was. What a seminar on biblical teaching and resurrection life that must have been! Imagine being taught about new life, resurrection life, and never-ending life by the One Who had said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25). And at the end of the 40 days, He ascended to heaven. But, even that wasn't enough for Him. He couldn't be everywhere at one time, so He sent the Holy Spirit to be with us to comfort, guide, and lead us. He lives in our hearts.

What does the Life of Christ -- His birth, His resurrection and these forty days to His ascension mean to us? First of all, because He lives, we can face whatever this day and what our tomorrows hold. Only He knows if we’ll be able to be back home in our churches, our places of business, dining in at restaurants and shopping at our favorite stores any time soon. I watch the news very little – only for an occasional update. I don’t want to live in the gloom and despair – not to be oblivious of it, but I, rather, want to be a member of the choir that sings songs of hope, joy, peace and LIFE that Christ gave us.

The Life of Christ is the ANSWER TO EVERYTHING -- past, present AND future. Our God reigns supreme -- overall and that should change our perspective about EVERYTHING.

Science was never my favorite class in school, so I was eternally grateful when I passed that class. Done and done! Whew! So, although I'm not a stellar scientific know-it-all, I know this. When I look up at the night sky and I see the stars and planets, I know He lives. When I walk outside in the daytime and see the beauty all around me, when I hear birds chirping, feel the wind against my skin and as I live in peace that passes understanding, I know it's because my Savior, my King of Kings and Lord of Lords LIVES. Let's keep celebrating this miraculous, life-changing Savior Who is the answer to EVERYTHING!

Because He Lives, We Can Face Tomorrow

One of my all-time favorite songs (not just at Easter) is Bill and Gloria Gaither’s beloved song, "Because He Lives”. Wow! Did they ever get that one right?!! Here is the chorus: “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know, He holds the future. My life is worth the living, just because He lives." What a perfect song to sing in light of these uncertain times we’re living in today!

I know those uncertain times – long before this pandemic. Ten years ago, during the Easter time of celebration, we received the call that jolted our lives. My husband's bone biopsy results came in. "He has Stage 4 Renal Cell Carcinoma Cancer -- metastasized." That day, our unplanned Faith Journey would begin. During that Easter season before us, we embraced the cross of our Savior who bore the stripes for our healing like never before. We were committed to trusting in God's faithfulness. And, the prayers we prayed for God's wisdom and guidance, as well as our family's unwavering faith, tenacity and joy, was well intact the next 7-1/2 months until His total healing came when he graduated to heaven.

As I sing that chorus this Easter morning in my little quiet shelter-in-place, I realize that I have never sung those words with more fervor as I sing them today. Without a shadow of a doubt, ten years ago on April 5th, 2010, and TODAY, I have this strong, tenacious faith because I know our Lord has held my tomorrows in His tight grip for a very long time.

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 on Friday when our Lord died a horrific death. But TODAY, He rose from the dead. Today, we celebrate His miraculous "Comeback Story", and BECAUSE HE LIVES, each of our days can be filled with hope.

Not only was this Christ's greatest comeback EVER, but it can be OUR greatest COMEBACK, too! Christ's resurrection is an opportunity to have a transformed life by accepting His love and forgiveness." Indeed -- this day represents the greatest COMEBACK for Christ AND for you and me!

I know that so many reading this blog today are wondering if life will ever get back to normal again. Maybe, it’s not normal that we need. Maybe – it’s to rise to a higher, new normal – of gratitude for the blessings in the midst of the storm. Maybe it’s to face the future with the certainty that “Because Christ lives” – we can face insurmountable situations. May we all make the decision to hold fast to His love, mercy, and infinite wisdom. May we embrace the cross and the empty tomb that guarantees victory for our todays AND tomorrows. Because He lives, we CAN face tomorrow without fear. Because we know He holds our future, life is worth living – because He lives!

Tougher Than Nails – Holy Saturday

Yesterday, as always on Good Friday with my husband, I watched "The Passion of the Christ" movie again. Not for entertainment, but for reminding me of the unspeakable price Christ paid for me. I think Mel Gibson got it right because Isaiah 52:14 says "His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness". Our Lord was nailed to the cross and bore every sin we've ever committed. He carried every sickness we have ever had, and will have. He gave His life so that we would live forever and ever with Him. 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 followers could only think: "It's all over for us! Life will never be the same again."

This “in-the-middle” day between the crucifixion and the resurrection must have been a dark day for them all. They had forgotten Jesus said: “I’ll be back!” But, praise God, WE KNOW what happens tomorrow – so it’s not a gloomy day at all! We know that Jesus was tougher than the nails that hung Him from the cross. We know JOY COMES in the MORNING!

I googled “tougher than nails” to find a graphic for this blog and a country song by Joe Diffie popped up. I listened to it. It’s about the “toughest man he knows”. Here are the lyrics, and if you’d like a little “country” on this Saturday morning – take a listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOE3dnMq9CI

Little boy walks in with a bloody nose,
Got beat up on his way home from school, again,
His dad caught him running out the back,
Tears in his eyes and a baseball bat, oh -- revenge,
Said: “Son I won't stop ya, but before you go,
Let me tell you a little story about the toughest man I know,
You hit him and he just turns the other cheek,
Don't think for a minute he was weak,
'Cause in the end he showed them,
He was any-thing but frail,
They hammered him to a cross,
But he was tougher than nails.

Well he dropped that bat like it weighed a ton,
Father put his arms around his son and said, just let it go!
Believe me I've been in your shoes,
Had to ask myself what would Jesus do, here's what I know,
Whenever I'm in doubt, I look up what he said,
It's all there in the good book, in black and white and red,
Hit him and he just turns the other cheek,
Don't think for a minute he was weak,
'Cause in the end he showed them,
He was any-thing but frail,
They hammered him to a cross,
But he was tougher than nails,
Yeah in the end he showed them,
He was any-thing but frail,
They hammered him to a cross,
But he was tougher than nails,
Tougher than nails, oh, oh, oh,

What does it mean to be "tough?" Though I’m amplifying the real toughness of our Savior – I’d like to amplify the toughness of my fellow “shelter-in-place” friends. The expression "tougher than nails" is generally used to describe someone who is physically strong, but I know physical strength can’t be compared to the tenacity, fortitude, determination and resilience of people during these times. I’m thinking our big Brother, Jesus, must be mighty proud of His brothers and sisters – demonstrating their toughness. You resemble Him.

Jesus set the example for us. Even before the cross – Jesus was tougher than nails. He was constantly mocked, criticized, and ostracized. He was always challenged spiritually, emotionally and physically. But, like Joe Diffie’s song said “He was tougher than nails.” Our first reactions are to retaliate, to have to have the last word, to speak our mind, to prove ourselves right. Not Jesus – He was tougher than nails in His everyday reactions to hatred and loved right through them all. That is what is called “Tougher than Nails”!

Being a devoted follower of Christ is something that can definitely be described as "tough." We may not all have the physical stamina to be on the front lines, but we do have the ability to forgive when someone has wronged us and to love in spite of what is said or done to us. When we follow our Lord’s lead, we, too, can safely call ourselves "tough" in a way that honors the price He paid for us. When we look to our Savior we are strengthened because we remember that we serve the One who was "tougher than nails." Please, make me more like You, Jesus! Tougher than nails.

He’s a Good, Good Father on this Good Friday!

I’m smiling because I posted this family photo on what is supposed to be a somber, serious day. But is it really? Were it not for THIS day, we wouldn’t have an Easter. This photo was taken at our church in Shawnee, OK. It was a big deal to dress up for Easter. Had to have new Easter outfits and an Easter bonnet. I had enough hair back then that served as all the hat I needed. After church, it was all about the Easter egg hunt. The kids would have a spirited time of finding them all.

Remembering that Easter fanfare, as sweet as those times were, doesn’t hold a candle to this year’s Easter experiences. It seems the frivolous things were, well, just frivolous. Oh, I’m sure many will still be having Easter egg hunts in their backyards, but because we’re nestled into our homes, it’s easier to hone into what Easter is really all about. Introspection of the holy of holiest times that goes from Friday's sorrows to Sunday's alleluias!

Did you sleep well last night? Jesus didn’t. He had not been to sleep! All night long and in this day, He was interrogated, lied about, beatened, tortured, suffered and died on a cross that was meant for murderers and thieves. Today is Good Friday! Good? How could this day be called GOOD?

I can’t help but consider all our world is going through right now. Maybe some “Good Friday” issues like the suffering, the dying, and so many unknowns. I get it. The struggles are real – lost jobs, financial insecurity, kids testing every nerve their parents have because they’re not used to isolation, the concerns for our medical field and essential services workers. It is truly a time like we could never imagine.

I titled this post “He’s a Good, Good Father on this Good Friday”. Really? How could a Dad be called a “good dad” when He allows His Son to die in such a horrific way? “Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer …” (Isaiah 53:10). Of all the powerful verses in the Bible, this one brings me to my knees. How much does God the Father love us? Enough to sacrifice His only Son. Because the death of His Son would bring salvation to His children. That means salvation to you and to me and to all who know Him as Savior and Lord. Indeed, He is our good, good Father.

But, how could this day be called GOOD? Because out of the appallingly bad came what was inexpressibly good. And the good trumps the bad because the bad was temporary while the good is eternal. God’s love and grace came to us soaked in divine blood. The Cross is God’s answer to the question, “Why don’t you do something about evil?” “Why do You let bad things happen to good people?” God did do something. One look at His Son on the cross should silence the argument that God doesn't care about human suffering.

Without Jesus’ death, we could never know Him. We could never have eternal life. Our salvation cost a lot. And Jesus thought “they’re worth it”. And that is what’s so good about Good Friday. There is no such thing as a resurrection without a death. There is no such thing as an Easter without a Good Friday.

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) Now, we know why God is a good, good Father and why this day is called "Good Friday".

Spy Wednesday of Holy Week

Here in my community, it only slightly looks like Easter is near. Here in my community, it only slightly looks like Easter is near. There are a few cardboard signs and metal crosses in lawns. What I prominently see are white ribbons on neighbors’ trees. The word spread for us to tie white ribbons on our trees to show our appreciation to those who are front-liners in this pandemic. I’ve also seen red ribbons around the doorposts of many homes that represent the blood of Jesus’ protecting them. This is definitely not like any Easter we’ve ever known. But, lest we think it’s cancelled or even long for the “good ole days” – Easter has NOT changed. And, neither has the reason for the season. Christ lived, healed, saved, was brutally murdered, buried and came back to life and lives forevermore. Those are the facts that remain. He lives and is here with us right now!

But let’s get it straight. It does seem strange, surreal – in fact, almost unbelievable that we are experiencing this Holy Week like this. But, no less unbelievable in what Jesus experienced this week. On this day, things started really amping up for His final days. His short 33 years of life on this earth were expeditiously coming to a close.

Jesus spent this day in Bethany. It had been two exhausting days in Jerusalem and tomorrow would be the Passover. Bethany is where Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha lived. They were close friends of Jesus. and probably hosted Jesus and the disciples. John 12:1-9 tells us that it was on this day that Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfumed oil. Judas (same guy plotting to betray Jesus) remarks to Jesus: “Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.” We know Judas was the money keeper for Jesus and the disciples and he sure wasn’t thinking about the poor, but about His own schemes. Jesus rebuked him and said Mary anointed Him for his burial

Imagine Jesus’ thoughts on this day. Wednesday meant one day closer to His suffering and crucifixion. This day was called “Spy Wednesday” because it was on this Wednesday before the crucifixion that Judas conspired to hand Jesus over to the chief priests. “What will you give me if I betray Jesus to you?” They counted out thirty silver coins and gave them to him. From then on Judas watched for a good chance to hand Jesus over to them. (Matthew 26:14)

Jesus spent this day in Bethany. It had been two exhausting days in Jerusalem and tomorrow would be the Passover. Bethany is where Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha lived. They were close friends of Jesus. and probably hosted Jesus and the disciples. John 12:1-9 tells us that it was on this day that Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfumed oil. Judas (same guy plotting to betray Jesus) remarks to Jesus: “Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.” We know Judas was the money keeper for Jesus and the disciples and he sure wasn’t thinking about the poor, but about His own schemes. Jesus rebuked him and said Mary anointed Him for his burial

I'm literally walking with Jesus this week. And, hopefully you've joined hands with me and we're walking this journey together.
Somehow I think this week is just what the doctor (rather, God) ordered. We need a rescuer. And, His name is Jesus Christ. I'm thinking that God is loudly declaring: "STOP! This is My beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased! And You should be pleased right along with Me! Pay attention to Him. Pay attention to what He did for you. This is the answer to EVERYTHING that you need.

This week I went to a doctor's appointment. I thought to myself that it feels like a Sunday -- a Sabbath day because there were so fewer cars out and about. Just maybe God called this time of "essential" services -- a Sabbath for us to slow down and think about He Who is the MOST ESSENTIAL in our lives.

We are walking with Jesus on His journey to Calvary. With great gratitude, we remember Jesus because of Who He was and what He did for us. All of humanity – ALL OF US -- were cursed and doomed to death, but Jesus assumed the guilt of humanity. Imagine that heavy load He carried on this Holy Wednesday. He must have been mustering up every fiber of His strength to go the distance to the cross that awaited Him. The cross – that would symbolize an emergency rescue – it would forever represent rescuing humanity for all time. How could we not stop, listen, and express so much gratitude for our rescue? Yes, He is our "Rescue Story"!

Thank you, Zach Williams, for putting our "Rescue Story" to words and song! May it bless you today! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Yr48Berkqc

Not the usual Pomp on this Palm Sunday

Growing up, I was always so thrilled for the start of Holy Week on Palm Sunday. The readings, the story of the shouts of praise and hosannas, the palms, and the pomp. I loved it because Palm Sunday led to Easter Sunday when I would get to wear my new Easter ensemble. attend the Easter egg hunt in the afternoon and amidst it all -- be overjoyed because of the resurrection of Jesus. Up from the grave He arose!

Then, enters 2020’s Palm Sunday – one like we would have never imagined. We are confined to our homes. No way we could be a thronging crowd waving our palm branches today! We don’t have a choice. My pastor sent out a message to us that recalled Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem where people cut branches from palm trees, laid them across Jesus’ path and waved them in the air as he entered Jerusalem the week before his death. He went on to tell us that in ancient times palms symbolized goodness, well-being, grandeur, and victory. I like to think they still mean that to us today. My pastor went on to ask us to hang some greenery or a drawing of a palm on the doors of our homes in celebration of this Palm Sunday because we are still proclaiming God’s goodness and victory.

I had already hung my Easter wreath. This year, I included the picture of Jesus – Divine Mercy – that represents the blood and water poured out for us on Calvary – with the words: “Jesus, I trust in You”. That is my way of applying the blood of Jesus on the doorposts of my home for protection as the Israelites did the night the death angel struck all the Egyptians’ homes. I profess that “I am covered by the blood of Jesus, and "no evil shall befall me or plague come near my dwelling.” (Psalm 91:10).

Here we are in a set of entirely new circumstances. Today, the crowds were thronging and their cheers were proclaiming “Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the highest.” BTW, “hosanna” means “Save us now!” Doesn’t that make us want to raise our praises today and shout “Hosanna in the highest?” If ever we needed saving -- it is today. Not just from this pandemic but saving us from our failures, our doubts, fears, and unbelief.

It doesn’t matter if we’re in our churches this Palm Sunday – processing in and waving our palm branches, or we have a palm branch likeness on our front doors or if we are confined to a prison cell, a hospital room, a tent or a palace, we can stand silent with depths of emotion or shout it from our rooftops -- "We praise You and thank You, our Savior and Lord!" I rejoice today because of such love from my Savior. Our Lord is no longer riding a donkey facing a horrific death. He is our risen Lord and Savior, soon coming on a white horse as our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Revelation 19:11-16)

Let's symbolically wave our palm branches today -- right in the midst of this pandemic crisis -- knowing that God is in control. He knows all the things that concern us, disturb us and have disrupted our plans. God knows the things we have dreamed about and are now grieving about as we let them go. He takes all of that into account as He executes His plan in the present moment. All we need to do about it today is proclaim: "Hosanna in the Highest, blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord." Lord, save us!

Okay! I'm Done. Winter Can Be Over.

Winter is one of my favorite seasons. I look forward to its arrival every year. Cozy fire in the fireplace, wrapping up in a blankie, hot coffee (well, that's any time of the year). The practical truth -- no yard maintenance costs and utility bills go way down. I love the excuse "It's too cold outside to go to the gym!" I think it's somewhat of a grizzly bear's mentality -- time to hibernate!

I still love everything winter has to offer -- but now it's February and I'm done. My all-things-winter mentality is replaced with "Let's get this show, rather Spring, on the road"! I'm ready to get amped up and motivated for my healthier eating and getting this young body moving and grooving. Old things passed away -- behold, all things brand new!

I’d like to say that “old things passed away” for the two "slacker" trees that aren’t aware that autumn came and went. They’re still holding onto their dead leaves. Just like many of us who are holding onto the "dead" things of the past. "Time to let it go!" In spite of their resistance to letting them go, still, on Saturday, my brain was done with staying inside. I headed outside and raked the leaves that still blanketed my yard. Four bags full. I’ll admit. It was refreshing. Neighbors stopped to visit. Lot's of sunshine Vitamin D on me in all of that nature. And, my start in getting this body moving and grooving. I'm even heading out for a morning walk this morning!

My engine is revving up for the glorious time of the year that is soon to come. The cold, dark, somber days of winter are almost over. Soon the dormant earth will give way to new life. Maybe I’m experiencing birthing pangs for the Babe Who was born in the manger to make His appearance on Easter morning -- the celebration and remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice and power over death. Had it not been for Christ’s birth and subsequently His death, and resurrection, we would have no reason to celebrate anything. We would live in darkness forever. But because of His gift to us, we have the promise of new life. Welcome, new life. Welcome, bright Light of the world.

Light of the world, You stepped down into darkness, opened my eyes let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore You. Hope of a life spent with You.
And here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that you're my God
You're altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me.

The Resurrection Changes Everything

It’s the day after Easter and the retail stores are offering 50% or more off their leftover plastic eggs, chocolate and stuffed bunnies. Many people may be already boxing up their Easter season décor. Isn’t this what we do routinely with most holiday celebrations? When the date has passed, we move on.

But, I’d like to take some more time to linger at the empty tomb and walk with Jesus’ followers as they absorb the fact that the tomb they once knew held their Beloved Jesus now sits empty. Jesus didn’t slow down after His resurrection. In fact, His involvement in the lives of His followers went into overdrive when He arose from the tomb. What I’ve too frequently done is rejoice at the empty tomb, as we all should, but then “life happens” and I allow the resurrection story to fade as I handle the ups and downs I happen to face on a daily basis. But the resurrection story should change EVERYTHING about everything in every single day of our lives.

Remember the two disciples who were returning home to Emmaus from Jerusalem after the crucifixion and the "supposed" resurrection of the Lord (Luke 24:13-35)? The women reported that angels at the empty tomb announced: "He is alive." But they thought those women were delusional. The reports of the empty tomb confused them, but that Sunday afternoon, Jesus met up with them. He encouraged them and explained the message of the resurrection, and reminded them of His promises to them, but they didn't recognize Him until He went home with them and broke bread, blessed it and gave it to them. Their eyes opened and they recognized Him. Then He disappeared. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked to us on the road, while He opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:32) Their hearts burned within them when He shared scriptures with them.

That is my prayer, too -- that my heart would burn within me at the reality of His unfailing Word and that I would be stirred by His presence in my life daily. Perhaps, if we continue in this magnificent truth of our Risen Lord on a daily basis, our hearts will continue to burn with faith, His love will flow from us to others who need an encounter with Him, and we just may be His hands extended to them. We are those disciples on the road to Emmaus, living our lives in the real world, walking along with Jesus who is always there with us on the road, whether we recognize Him or not. He listens to us and understands us because He became one of us. He gets us.

Are you confused, hurting, perplexed or need advice and wise counsel today? Maybe it's time to go for a life-changing "Walk with Jesus". I promise you – He’ll be walking with you! He lives! Now, let’s act like it! Let’s be resurrection people who walk, talk and live the Easter Story daily! I’ll see you later – it’s time for my daily walk!

God's Not Dead. He's Surely Alive

The slang term "YOLO" certainly doesn't apply to Jesus, does it? Whoever said "You Only Live Once" didn't consider our Lord's living, dying and living again forever! Jesus told his disciples "I'll be back!" And, He kept His promise. Jesus made a comeback like no other. And, the over-the-top good news for us is whatever dismal situation we may be encountering today -- because He lives, we can get ready for a comeback, too!

This morning I’m singing: “God’s not dead. He’s surely alive. Living on the inside. Roaring like a lion.” Indeed He is living on the inside so I know He lives. And anyone who tries to tell me otherwise….is way too late. He showed up for us on this Easter morning 2,000+ years ago, and shows up for us every day! Eyewitnesses stepped up to vouch for it, and heart-witnesses, like you and me, verify we walk and talk with Him every day. If God is dead, then who is this living in my soul?

This Easter morning may be cloudy or raining or a sand storm might be kicking up where you live today. There might be chaos, troubles on every hand, sorrow, weariness and the storms of life may be overshadowing you! But, hold on my child. I have good news for you! Joy, Hope, Peace, Comfort, Life Everlasting showed up this morning. Jesus' tomb wasn't for the dead. That tomb became a Delivery Room for the Son of God. And, you’re not dead. Because He lives – so do you!

Perhaps, today, you are still living in the ashes of defeat, remorse, brokenness, depression, unforgiveness 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'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! Allow the Resurrected King to resurrect you! In His name, come alive to declare your victory! 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!"

Thank You, Jesus, for Your death and Your rising, Your birth and Your return, Your assurance that ultimately all is well and all will be well. We remember. We celebrate. We wait for the someday when every tear will be wiped away. This is the Easter promise. We are the resurrection people. We have hope. We choose joy. We overcome, always. Amen. He has risen, just as He said! (Matthew 28:6)

HOPE is Great Expectation

My husband described HOPE as "Something good is about to happen to you!” He/We never gave up hope….even until his last breath, we stood by “Nothing is impossible with God so we will continue to HOPE that something good is about to happen." How beautiful to live with expectancy instead of living in hopelessness. Even though what we had “hoped for” – to see him healed and whole, God still didn’t fail us, because healing and wholeness are what he ultimately received.

I started this post yesterday morning. I knew HOPE would be my topic for today. My granddaughter’s phone call to come to pick her up so she could spend the day with me interrupted my train of thought. I was still in my gown, so I quickly ran into my closet, put on a top and pants, looked in the mirror and I saw HOPE! I had a “gotcha!” from God. He was confirming I needed this “word” today, and maybe so did you!

I never liked it when I heard someone say, "Don't get your hope up!" What a sad command! I think of those huddled masses yearning to be free who are hopeful that they may one day live in a country like ours. And, so many who are going about it the right and legal way keep their HOPE up, because they pray for the day when something really good happens for them.

I don't like movies that leave you hanging, or have a disappointing ending. I LOVE the happy ending ones! Hello, Hallmark movies! A real life, true story movie played out as our Lord lived on this earth and gave hope and great expectation that something good was about to happen to those He encountered. He always gave hope, yet this same Lord, as despicable as it was, was beaten, tormented and martyred. What a sad ending to all that He taught! OH, but we don’t stop there, because HOPE didn’t stop there. Such good news came on the 3rd day. It wasn’t the ending at all. Our Champion, Jesus Christ won on Resurrection Sunday aka Easter…so, we win and HOPE with great expectancy! Anything is possible with hope!

Right now, life may be tough for you. You might have some health issues, or experienced the recent loss of a loved one. There may be strife in your marriage. You might not have enough money to make ends meet. But, DON"T lose hope! Just when you think the "movie" could get no worse, our Champion will be there because HE LIVES!

Here's why we should ALWAYS have our hope up: Hope gives us confidence and assurance. Hope gives us the ability to trust, to have faith in the present moment, no matter how bleak it may be. Hope gives us peace in the midst of the storm. Hope brings us joy in times of sadness. All those things that give us strength and courage rest in hope. Hope is the prescription for a sleepless night. As long as we have hope, we won't give up, because once we choose "HOPE", anything is possible!

Easter -- Best. Story. EVER -- 40 More Days to Go!!

Maybe you are thinking "Donna sure loves Easter because she keeps talking about it". Well, I do! Here's why: Easter Sunday is just the beginning of Easter. The Easter season (the resurrection of our Lord and His time on earth before ascending to heaven) is still underway. That was 40 days He was "in and out" of places and people's lives during that time. He was showing up when they least expected Him. Can you imagine being one of those who witnessed Him being alive AGAIN? According to scripture, He stepped alongside two of His disciples on their way to Emmaus, He appeared to Mary and other women. While the disciples met behind closed doors, He walked THROUGH the walls, literally, appeared to them, and "doubting" Thomas touched the nail prints in His hands and the piercing in His side.
.
For 40 days, Jesus proved to His followers that He really had been raised from the dead. In 1 Corinthians 15:6, Paul records that Jesus "appeared to more than 500 brothers at one time". Jesus taught His disciples the kind of King He really was. What a sight for sore eyes it must have been to Peter who had denied Him and all the others who hid during His crucifixion. The crux of our faith is based on eye witnesses to our risen Lord. It was one thing to walk and talk with Him before His death, but how AWESOME to have witnessed Him ALIVE again.

What a seminar on biblical teaching and resurrection life that must have been! Imagine being taught about new life, resurrection life, and never-ending life by the One Who had said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live. Whoever, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die.” John 11:25. Now that's a reason to shout "Hallelujah!" Death on this side of heaven is just our "Forever" life with Him -- just like He said. We'll be like Jesus -- death on this side of heaven is just walking through the walls of heaven to live FOREVER with Him!!

At the end of the 40 days, He ascended to heaven. He couldn't be everywhere at one time, so He sent the Holy Spirit to be with us to comfort, guide, and lead us. He would live in our hearts. Talk about BONUS! God the Father. God the Son. God the Holy Spirit. All for ONE! And, ONE for all!!!

What does that "seminar" with His disciples have to do with you and me today? First of all, because He lives, we can face whatever this day, and for that matter, what our tomorrows hold. When we watch the news on TV or read about it on social media and hear the gloom and despair of what awaits the world daily, we don't have to be a member of that choir that only sings songs of dread and fear. Honestly, Christ's resurrection is the ANSWER TO EVERYTHING -- past, present AND future. Our God reigns supreme -- over all and that changes our perspective on EVERYTHING.

I'm not a stellar scientific know-it-all, but I know this. When I look up at the night sky and I see the stars and when I am outside on a sunny day and see the beauty all around me and I hear birds chirping, feel the wind against my skin and as I live in such sweet peace that passes understanding, I know it's because my Savior, my King of Kings and Lord of Lords LIVES. One day of celebrations just isn't enough. Let's keep celebrating this miraculous, life-changing season of Easter everyday!

How About a Life Changing Walk With Jesus?

Life-Changing: Having an effect that is strong enough to change someone’s life; having a powerful effect; compelling, game changer, unconquerable

I’ve loved seeing the Easter photos of families enjoying their Easter celebrations – their new Easter clothes, dinners and egg hunts. It was hilarious watching my 16 and 17 year old grands hunting for eggs their Mama “rabbit” hid in their back yard. Mom has to strategically identify the colors of the eggs they can find, after all -- competition is ON! Blue & green were Payton’s to find and pink & yellow were Alexia’s. It worked perfectly for each to end up with the same number. LOL! That Easter fun is over, but the crux of the REAL matter of Easter celebrations is still burning in our hearts. We are still in awe of this incredible reason for our faith. Our Lord LIVES and is walking life with us daily!

Remember the two disciples who were returning home to Emmaus from Jerusalem after the crucifixion and the "supposed" resurrection of the Lord (Luke 24:13-35)? The women reported that angels at the empty tomb announced "He is alive." But they thought those women were delusional. The reports of the empty tomb confused them, but that Sunday afternoon, Jesus met up with them. He encouraged them and explained the message of the resurrection, and reminded them of His promises to them, but they didn't recognize Him until He went home with them and broke bread, blessed it and gave it to them. They had seen Jesus do this when he fed the five thousand and the four thousand and in the Upper Room. Their eyes opened and they recognized Him. Then He disappeared. It was then that they said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked to us on the road, while He opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:32) Their hearts burned within them when He shared scriptures with them.

That is my prayer, too -- that my heart would burn within me at the reality of His unfailing Word and that I would be stirred by His presence in my life daily. Don't you love it when you've read or heard a scripture many times, but then all of a sudden you hear it again, but this time it's like a light comes on and you finally "get it" -- just like those disciples realized it was Jesus with them? This time, it's God's perfect timing for His Word to be a lamp to our feet and a light to our pathway." (Psalm 119:105)

Perhaps, if we continue in this magnificent truth of our Risen Lord on a daily basis, our hearts will continue to burn with faith, His love will flow from us to others who need an encounter with Him, and we just may be His hands extended to them. We are those disciples on the road to Emmaus, living our lives in the real world, walking along with Jesus who is always there with us on the road, whether we recognize Him or not. He listens to us, and understands us, because He became one of us. He gets us.

Are you confused, hurting, perplexed or need advice and wise counsel today? Maybe it's time to go for a life-changing "Walk with Jesus" today. I promise you – He’ll be walking with you! As a matter of fact, I’ll see you later – it’s time for my walk!

Spoiler Alert – He Lives!

I have two word phrases today:
~ Good News: Something or someone pleasant, fortunate, or otherwise positive. In Christianity, it is the message of Jesus Christ concerning the salvation of the faithful (as elaborated in the Gospels). I love that definition – that means we can wake up each day, and EVERYDAY, with GOOD NEWS!!

~ Spoiler Alert: In a discussion or review of a film, book, television, movie, drama, etc., it is a warning that an important detail of the plot development is about to be revealed.

This photo is of the front of a birthday card I received: "Spoiler alert -- the hero comes back to life". Hilarious! And that's the truth. The guy in the book store has the Bible in his hands -- and the message he's hearing is the Hero – Jesus, rose from the grave and LIVES! The inside of the card said, "Happy Birthday and many happy RETURNS! I loved it when I received it, and I still love the message today, this day after Easter. Spoiler Alert again....There's even more to this "happy ending". Those of us who claim Him as our Lord and Savior will really live forever and ever because our HERO paid the price for us to spend eternity with Him. Now, that's REALLY GOOD NEWS!

I felt that Easter Spirit in church with my Frisco family yesterday. We sang, raised our hearts and hands in joyous praise as we couldn't contain our gratitude for what this day brought us. It meant spending ETERNITY with our Savior. The diabolical plot against our Lord was spoiled by His resurrection and now we can look forward to this Easter joy FOREVER!

It really is a phenomenon that from 12 ragtag men: fishermen, tax collectors, farmers, and a doctor exponentially multiplied to billions of followers throughout the ages. How incredible it is that Jesus never wrote a book yet there are more books written about Him than any other subject in the world. He never composed a song, but there is more music written about Him than any other subject in history. Jesus never painted a picture or carved a sculpture, but there is more art paintings and sculptures made about Him than any other subject in history. Jesus never traveled more than 100 miles from where He was born, and yet, there are followers of Jesus in every nook and cranny of the planet.

The HERO mentioned on this card, really is about GREAT NEWS. It's great news because, when it's understood, we are radically transformed by such indescribable love, peace, joy and so many other benefits that cause us to have a full, vibrant, abundant life on this side of heaven......AND BEYOND!!! Jesus defeated death so we don't have to fear it. We can be certain of our future in heaven, but the best part is while we are still here, God gives so much purpose to our lives.

I don't know who your hero is, but mine still lives.....He walks with me and talks with and tells me I am His own. He lives. He lives. Salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives......He lives within my heart!

Shouldn't it be Black Friday instead of GOOD Friday?

You know the feelings...you, or someone you love is hurting so much, and no one else seems to understand your pain. Maybe your closest family member just passed away, and it seems everywhere you look people are just fine -- they're laughing, they're carefree, they're going on with their busy lives, and you think, "How could life be going on when I hurt so much?"

I've been there, and I know how life can go on. It's because of this day. This is Good Friday, day that should be commemorated with thanksgiving, celebrations, and everywhere we looked were crosses adorned with neon lights, and music and bands playing and choirs singing -- and we'd see people paying homage and offering tributes about what this day means.

Good Friday -- It seems like an oxymoron, doesn’t it? How can anything GOOD come from an innocent, kind, good and loving man to be killed by an angry mob on this day? How can anyone celebrate Jesus’ death on the cross today? We can, because Jesus could have called 10,000 angels to save Him, but He didn’t. This good, good Man was willing to endure the cross for the sake of our salvation -- to pay all the debts of sin we owed. He embraced this fate because He loved us so much!

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, giving, compassionate, caring, innocent Man was stripped and tied to a post. He was whipped and beaten -- too horrible to even imagine. He was betrayed by His friends, and spit on by countless people. He was forced to carry a wooden cross to Calvary where nails were driven through his wrists and ankles and He was left to die. He could have called ten thousand angels to his side, but He refused. Instead, He died there for you and me. He loved so we could LIVE!

HALLELUJAH! We can, and should celebrate this day that SAVED our lives….literally! THIS IS THE DAY Christ bore every sin we've ever committed, He carried every sickness we have ever had, and will have. He gave His life so that WE WOULD LIVE FOREVER and EVER! How could we be so distracted and be so oblivious to this DAY OF ALL DAYS? Never again, do we wonder if we are loved. God thought our eternal life was worth the death of His only Son. Now that's TRUE LOVE! GOOD FRIDAY! Oh, happy day! Now, let's strike up the band and shoot off the fireworks. This DAY is worth the grandest celebration -- this day marks our FREE PASS to heaven.

Remember Him on the cross today...praise Him...thank Him.... worship Him...and give Him your life today, because He gave Himself so completely for you! Then, be a part of the ultimate victory celebration when He arises on "Resurrection Sunday"!!! Good Friday really is so so GOOD!

Spy Wednesday - Silent Wednesday of Holy Week

In the workplace, we call Wednesday "Hump Day". That’s because it's smack dab in the middle of our work week and, HALLELUJAH, the weekend is in sight! Imagine Jesus’ thoughts on this day. Wednesday meant one day closer to His suffering and crucifixion. This day was called “Spy Wednesday” because it was on this Wednesday before the crucifixion that Judas conspired to hand Jesus over to the chief priests. “What will you give me if I betray Jesus to you?” They counted out thirty silver coins and gave them to him. From then on Judas watched for a good chance to hand Jesus over to them. (Matthew 26:14)

This Wednesday was also referred to as “Silent Wednesday” because Jesus spent this day in Bethany. It had been two exhausting days in Jerusalem and tomorrow would be the Passover. Bethany is about two miles east of Jerusalem and is where Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha lived. They were close friends of Jesus, and probably hosted Him and the disciples during His final days. It was on this day that Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfumed oil. Remember, Judas’ (same guy plotting to betray Jesus) remarks to Jesus? “Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.” We know Judas was the money keeper for Jesus and the disciples and he sure wasn’t thinking about the poor, but about His own schemes. Jesus rebuked him and said Mary has anointed Him for his burial! Jesus knew what he was about to face and had referred to it over and over to His disciples, but those "blockheads" were slow thinkers.

As we continue to walk with Jesus during this Holy Week, back here in Frisco, U.S.A., I don’t notice too many symbols and signs that indicate Easter is upon us. Even at our local stores -- Easter décor is pretty slim pickin’s. To think that just three months ago, our homes were over-embellished with Christmas décor, and then, EASTER, zilch - nada! There is little to no resemblance to the Christmas extravagance. Indeed, the birthday of our Lord was a really BIG DEAL!! Without His birth, there would be no Easter. Jesus birth story is worthy of remembering and retelling. But, based on the lack of decorating and celebrations, Easter comes in almost unnoticed. Like this day, Silent Wednesday.

Partying isn't what we do when someone we love is facing death. Many of us started on Ash Wednesday to welcome Lent and go more introspective to ponder, not just the sacrifice Christ made by leaving heaven's glories to become one of us, but to walk side-by-side with Him on His journey to Calvary. No fanfare is needed. With gratitude, we remember Jesus because of Who He was and what He did, not simply because of His birth. All of humanity were cursed and doomed to death, but during the week of Easter, Jesus assumed the guilt of humanity. Imagine that heavy load He carried on this Holy Wednesday. He must have been mustering up every fiber of strength to go the distance to the cross that awaited Him. The cross – that would symbolize an emergency rescue of humanity for all time.

One of my fondest Easter memories as a child here in Dallas was getting up, while it was still dark, on Easter morning and driving out to the Easter Sunrise Service at Laurel Land Cemetery in Oak Cliff. An Easter Service in a cemetery? What better place to relate to the fact that He, Who was as dead as those folks are and was entombed to be there forever, BUT, unlike those loved loved ones buried there, His grave could not hold Him down, and one day because He lives – those graves will not hold them down either.

A birth always seems more reason for celebrating than a death, but not in this case. From the cross to the grave to life is the grandest celebration of all because His death means life everlasting for you and me. Yes, my friends, without Easter, we would have no hope for today or tomorrow. So, how big is Easter? Oh, it's only the answer to pretty much EVERYTHING!!! So let the celebrations BEGIN!!

Palm Sunday = Salvation Army Everyday!

It’s Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week. Palm Sunday represents the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Today, churches will celebrate in different ways. Some will simply acknowledge it, or not, while others make a big deal about it. At some churches, the people meet then they emerge to process around the outside of the church or down a hallway into the sanctuary. They’ll be waving palm branches, others playing musical instruments, others shouting and singing, "Hosanna." Other church’s choirs, orchestra and drama team will begin presenting the Easter story through music and drama. However you and/or your church celebrates it, it is certain that Palm Sunday is a day of rejoicing, for OUR King is coming!

I read this story about pastor and seminary professor, Dr. Walter Bruggemann. “He and the rest of the Palm Sunday procession were heading toward the church when a young man living in the apartment house across the street threw up the window and shouted, "What's all that noise? You sound like the Salvation Army!" Dr. Bruggemann looked up at him and said, "Son, we ARE the Salvation Army!" What better way to sum up the events of the first Palm Sunday than to call it a Salvation Army Parade?

Holy Week begins today with Jesus' "ragtag army parade" coming into Jerusalem. He came -- not on an elaborate float or carried on a King’s opulent throne or riding a magnificent white stallion, but on a donkey, followed by His "ragtag army", a motley crew of disciples and peasant followers. There were no loud brass bands playing triumphant music to acclaim the King’s arrival. There were just lowly pilgrims waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna, blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord”. Luke 19:38. Today, we visualize "being there" with those who had witnessed the miracles of Jesus, His kindness and love, and they just KNEW that He was their long-awaited King who would set all chaotic things in order.

Just three years after appearing on the scene, Jesus' “Salvation Army Story" on this earth was coming to a fast close, but His “Story” just began because it would ultimately become our “Salvation Story”. Jesus knew what He was doing. He set His destiny into motion when He arranged for a donkey and two of his disciples brought it to Him. Jesus set the stage for the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy spoken and referred to in Matthew 21:5 "Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey."

We know that “pomp and circumstance” comes to kings and royalty, but it isn’t so with King Jesus. He is a different kind of king. His throne isn’t about determination to rule. His is determination to serve. Most royal figures spend time building their egos; His comes with total humility. Kings, today, ride in majestic, streamlined jets. King Jesus rode on a donkey. He knew exactly what He was doing. A donkey is a symbol of meekness and peace. How different His entry was – not a 21-gun salute, but swishing of palm branches. A king’s death was hailed by royal salutes, but King Jesus knew His was to be a cross. Oh, yes, OUR King is a different King.

Not only did our King know precisely who He was when He entered Jerusalem, but right now He knows who He is as He enters the Jerusalem of OUR lives. He healed the blind and lame. He touched people. He touched ALL people – those with rank, and those who were broken, rejected, and unloved. He never refused anyone who came to Him for help. He helped those with shattered dreams and bruised spirits. And the best news is, that’s the people He came for – those “ragtag” people -- people like you and me. His “ragtag army” – His SALVATION ARMY that will lift His banner high as we worship, praise, and are His ambassadors to a world that needs Him so much.

Is the Coming of Spring Bringing Spring to Your Steps?

Just 7 days until it's officially Spring (March 20th). The pink tulips, the bright yellow jonquils and the bright yellow forsythia are out. The red bud trees are red budding. The creeping phlox are creeping out. And, Sunday, I came out -- outside, that is. I've been hibernating for most of this winter. What happened to Texas heat, anyway?

My walking/jogging routine came to a halt when I injured my ankle and it's been so cold outside and I've been so busy and I've been traveling here, there and everywhere. Excuses. Excuses. Excuses. I was speaking all of that to myself when I took to the streets and sidewalks on Sunday. That's when I saw the new life in the plants, trees and flowers (photos here). I realized it's time to get Spring into my steps!

My word of the day is obviously, SPRING: to move or jump suddenly or rapidly upward or forward; leap; arise, evolve, AND the season between winter and summer.

I was a greeter and held the door open at church on Sunday in spite of the 30 mph winds. I'd use cliches like "Look what the wind blew in!" "So glad you didn't blow away!" "We've got that 'wind-blown-look today, don't we?" Then a jolly fellow that had a bounce to his steps, beat me to the punch and said, "Could you turn down the wind, please?"

Did you ever hear that phrase -- a SPRING in your steps? It means we're walking with a bit of a bounce in our steps, implying that we're in a good mood or something good has just happened to us. Ever been weighed down with a heavy situation, and suddenly good news came, and you felt light as a feather? You were pressed down and weighed down, then suddenly you had SPRING IN YOUR STEPS!

This time of year helps with adding Spring to our steps and we get a fresh new perspective on life. Spring marks a new beginning. I love that it brings Easter -- the celebration that Christ lives. All of nature is renewed and it reminds me all the more of God's great love for us. Everything starts to come alive. Our world gets filled with color. Isn't all that reason enough to have SPRING in our steps?

Spring in our steps brings a breath of fresh air to those we meet and come in contact with. We have the reasons for joy and life and it should exude from us. We should be like a ray of sunshine because we have good news of a great and mighty God to share. We have some wonderful things in our lives that make us different and because of it, we should have that extra bounce to our walk. Like the birds that come singing in the Spring, we should be singing songs of praise and thanksgiving with a "Spring in our Step" everyday! With each step, we should have a smile on our face and love in our hearts! After all, WE KNOW the CREATOR of Springtime. He is our Maker and He made us with "built-in" springs that can cause us to always rebound with God’s peace, joy and love each and every day!

Clean Up Time -- Getting Out the LINT Roller!

Clean Up Time -- Getting Out the LINT Roller!
I, accidentally, threw a towel into my wash with my black slacks. Oops! Lint – those little fibers from that towel got all over those pants. I proceeded to pull out my trusty, sticky lint remover roller and I got all those tiny balls of lint off of them.

My word for today is LENT (not LINT). Often we hear the word "Lent" and we think "lint”. Actually, “Lent” and “lint” sort of mean the same thing. It’s taking the time to "come clean" -- to rid ourselves of the funk and junk that has settled in our hearts.You better believe if I knew Jesus was coming to my house today, I'd make sure it was "spic and span"! And, He does make His residence in us, so shouldn't we be sure that our hearts and minds are "swept clean" for His place of residence?

Lent is a time to open the doors of our hearts a little wider and understand our Lord a little deeper, so that when Good Friday and eventually, Easter comes, it is not just another day at church, but an opportunity to receive the overflowing graces God has to offer. Lent gives us the opportunity to contemplate what our Lord really did for us on the cross -- and it wasn't pretty, and it’s about a laser focus on Christ’s resurrection.

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday (the first time since 1945 that Ash Wednesday and Valentine's Day fell on February 14th). Ash Wednesday was a call out to us for amping up our LOVE LIFE with Christ and Valentine's Day was a call out to us for amping up our LOVE LIFE with others. Lent continues on for 40 days (symbolic to the 40 days Jesus was in the wilderness) through Holy Thursday just before Easter. It's the time of intentional laser focus on HIM -- about HIS love for us. It's about heart change -- from "It's all about me" to "It's all about YOU, God!" “We stand honestly before God and say, ‘You are God and I am not."

Typically, our thoughts are more on what our next meal will be, or the next TV show to watch, or the next assignment we'll be on to, or the plans for the weekend or the next trip or vacation we'll take. Many times, we simply go about our routines without really ever giving God a second thought. So, what if, for the next 40 days, we were able to be less distracted from our relationship with Him by making a few changes to our routine -- taking bites of time to dig deeper, pray more, be kinder to those around us, maybe take a walk to bask in God and His creation -- just to get closer to Him in our thoughts and actions.

Perhaps as we acknowledge the little things that sometimes distract us from God, we could become more aware of the weight of His sacrifice for us. Then this Easter will be a REAL resurrection to celebrate -- the resurrection from our OLD selves to our NEW selves in Him. Indeed "It's all about You -- not me, Lord!"

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!