Lord, Please Give Me PEACE about this PEACE Sign

While being my kids' dogs' sitter, I've enjoyed the inspirations at their home for my blogs. After I blogged a few days ago about the peace-sign hand on my daughter's wall where she does her video shows, of all things, when going to look at one of the books under it, I knocked the hand off the shelf and it broke into all these pieces shown here. I was dismayed, especially because it was purposed for that spot. I found a tag under the bottom piece, tried to order it from that store, but all their stores were sold out. When I couldn't subtlety get a replacement, I called and confessed to my daughter. In her encouragement-mode, she said, “Mom, don’t let that broken peace sign steal your PEACE. Don’t worry about it!” I tried to keep my peace. After all, my blogs carry a common theme -- living in peace.

I would not be denied. I tried the internet and found the exact peace sign figurine on Amazon and ordered it. It came the next day, but to my chagrin, it was in an envelope instead of wrapped in a box -- broken into pieces (seen in this photo)! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I sent the photo to Staci. She replied: “Devil can’t break my PEACE!” And, he won’t break my PEACE either. I reordered it again and my intention with this blog was to show it -- all tightly back in place!

Oh, but not so! The second one came to me the next day – same packaging – and broken. I talked to a kind young man at Amazon support who assured me via his personal email to me: “I sent over your feed back to the company you purchased the item from to make sure your item arrives in perfect condition.” I keep reminding myself “Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Me” (Isaiah 26:3). I knew the PEACE sign would get here, tomorrow, and this time – the day I leave for Austin to take care of my two youngest grands for a few days. Dogs-sitting to boys-sitting!

Thursday, September 3rd: Doorbell rings. Buddy, the 85-pound Australian Shepherd is barking like a wild, man-eating machine. I peek through the blinds. Oh, it’s the Amazon guy with my package, but OH NO! It’s packaged the same. I quickly open the door to nab the delivery guy before he leaves the package and Buddy rushes past me and nabs the guy for me – on the leg! Dear God! Help! The guy gets out through the gate as I am pleading for his forgiveness. I ask to see his leg and thank, God – only scratched. That was my fault – Buddy is a great guard dog, but his protection isn’t needed when it’s a friendly visitor. We typically put him in another room when a stranger comes to the door! But, here’s the absolute determining factor that satan has zeroed in on my peace zone – to steal it from me. The PEACE hand in the same packaging, is also broken. And, poor Buddy, with his ears back is in time-out!

I pour my heart out to Staci about this inability to maintain my peace. What is wrong with me? I say it again – my President is running an entire country and has so many reasons to REALLY be stressed-out – and here I am in this little Peace Zone space – losing it. Staci says “Mom, let it go! Let the peace come. Maybe this is all for good. I have let it go. Maybe someone might be watching one of my shows and see that peace hand and for some reason it offends them.” She gives me so much reinforcement that I need this day. So I do let it go! Lord, have mercy! I have conquered way more stressful situations than this. I get it. The enemy's goal is to steal our peace that comes from our Prince of Peace.

So, here I am crawling, limping, and wimping back into my Peace Zone. I’m getting bandaged up, wiped up, and straightened up to be God’s girl of peace, sweet peace again. Why shouldn’t I be in peace? God promised it to me if I would live in that place. It’s a choice I must make daily. In John 14:27, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” I shall go forward — embracing these sweet days with these doggies and onto my people in Austin. I’m choosing to be care-free and unafraid and daily living in my peace zone! I’m sending that peace out to you today – AND NOT, with that very breakable peace hand sign!

And He Shall Be Called Prince of Peace

Happy 4th Sunday of Advent! Our journey is leading us to the birth of our Savior. We've embraced each Sunday’s symbolism in the Advent Christmas wreath’s candles. The first Sunday was hope, then faith, last Sunday’s was joy and today, we light the last purple candle to mark the final week of our journey. This final candle, symbolizes peace. It reminds us of the message of the angels: “Peace on earth, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14

The angels were announcing that we can have peace and good will to each other regardless of what is going on in our world. How can it be? Because Isaiah prophesied years before Who was coming to bring peace! And it certainly wasn’t a politician, a diplomat, an angel or even a saint. It….rather, HE is coming! Isaiah spoke these words in Isaiah 9:7 “And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father – PRINCE OF PEACE.”

Of all the scriptures that we hear during the Christmas season, this is one of my favorites. That’s because I have first-hand experience of knowing that peace that can only be found in knowing the Prince of Peace. He has kept me calm, assured, peaceful and confident during some of the greatest challenges in my life -- dealing with loved ones' illnesses, financial crises, having to make critical decisions and handling day-to-day responsibilities. The Prince of Peace is my constant companion.

When all seems chaotic and questions loom, and I wonder, “What do I do now?” -- the light comes on, and, once again, the scripture, "Him (or Her) I will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me (my Prince of Peace)." Isaiah 26:3, comes to me. I fix my mind on Him, and His peace always pervades my world, my circumstances, my home and my heart. When anxiety, concern and distraction tries to overtake me, I often put on praise and worship music and I always acknowledge He, the Peace-giver and Peace-maker Who is in my presence, and the atmosphere is replaced with calm peace and assurance that God has me and all my cares in His control. God knows about this life journey we are all on. He even knows the outcome!

So why should we worry, fret or be concerned? As 2020 is fast approaching, we may have questions about what our future will look like. No doubt, we'll encounter our share of ups and downs. But, let's listen, and take to heart the words of Jesus, our Prince of Peace, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

While we can’t know all that 2020 will hold for us, we can know the peace that the Prince of Peace provides. He is able to sustain us through anything that might come our way. So, peace AND the Prince of Peace, be with you and yours -- today and tomorrow!

Permission Granted to Let a Few Things Slide

It’s no longer “beginning to look a lot like Christmas” because it is Christmas and it's exploding in living color, bright lights, adored Christmas carols playing, Santas at Salvation Army kettles and stores, shoppers with carts loaded with treasures to be wrapped and placed under the exquisite trees I’ve seen displayed on FB and Instagram. We are in our Christmas element and how sweet it is – or is it?

I am resisting the urge to get in a tizzy about checking off everything from my to-do list. I’m pulling back the reins and purposely asking myself one simple question each day: "What can I realistically do today to focus on the main thing?"

My deepest desire is to keep Jesus at the center of this season and seek Him above all else. My heart echoes David’s in Psalm 27:8, “When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, O Lord, I will seek.”” I do that in my early morning devotion times, but I was intentional yesterday as I started attending a Wednesday Advent Meditations group – seriously putting the emphasis on Who this season is all about.

I know that in this “season" of life, I can set aside quiet, holy, and intimate times far more readily than you moms and dads who have many items on your getting-longer-by-the-minute to-do lists. I know that I can sit quietly watching the twinkling lights on my little tree – far longer than some of you can. But still, I urge you to give yourself permission to let a few things slide to pursue what matters most this holiday season.

Putting Jesus first and foremost promises us peace that passes understanding and joy that flows out of abundance from our hearts. I assure you – when Jesus is front and center – He makes all the to-dos lighter, more enjoyable, and He even enlists His heavenly messengers to give us supernatural assistance at check-out lines or finding that one main item on our list faster. The “Reason" for the season wants to short-cut the to-dos when we give Him a front-row-seat in OUR Christmas story. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33. We won’t miss one thing that matters most on our Christmas list, because the thing – rather the King -- wasn’t missed.

Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!”

We Need Mind Control

Oh, but if we had the power to put our minds on "lockdown" when they are being bombarded with negative overload. I've found the more I think about something, the stronger it takes hold of me, which is why the Bible teaches "Run from anything that gives you evil thoughts, but stay close to anything that makes you want to do right”. (2 Timothy 2:22)

How do we halt those negative thoughts from entry? I think it can be compared to the TSA inspectors that check us and our baggage before getting through to our flight gate. They make sure no weapons or items come through that could be potentially dangerous to travelers. We need thought inspectors at the gates of our mind that declares "NO ENTRY!"

We have the ability to HALT those negative thoughts, but we have to do it on purpose, as soon as they try entry. Here's the "how-to" stop them and one of my favorite scriptures: "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- THINK about such things." (Philippians 4:8) That, is the TSA for our minds. We purposely and intentionally THINK good thoughts and when the alien, negative thoughts come....they get quickly replaced by focusing our attention on what and WHO (God) is and the good, true, excellent, and praiseworthy thoughts.

It's a matter of discipline and taking authority over negative thoughts. With God's Word, we can have mind control and furthermore, we can put our enemy in captivity when he tries to mess with us! Here's God's Word that confirms it: "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." Isaiah 26:3.

When I was looking for an image to go with this blog, I searched "guard your mind" and, lo and behold, this second picture showed up in the images. I know that girl. That's my girl and her "Brand New Life" album which includes her "Guard Your Mind" song that she wrote and sang. Some of the words are: "Let your thoughts bring hope to help you do your best; champions know their thoughts determine their success.....guard your mind." https://open.spotify.com/album/2K5B8q6A5BrkjCBkR5uMvh?replay=1

Listen and you'll be inspired to "Guard Your Mind" because we know the most effective way to have mind control is keeping our minds on what God says about us in His Word. Proverbs 4:23 says “More than anything you guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it.” Let's be mind controllers!

I Promise You: True Peace is Possible

I know that true peace from the true peace that was modeled for me by my "peace-filled" mom. Tough times didn’t overtake her peace. It almost seemed she was in a bubble of peace that no-one or no-thing could pop that bubble. I’m so grateful she modeled that peace for me, because that’s the peace I abide in, cultivate daily, and am adamant about living in that peace. I am so passionate about living in that peace that I titled my daily blog: MyPeaceZone.com

My children and grandchildren are aware of my absolute insistence on that peace. They’ll see me remove myself from atmospheres not conducive to peace. Sounds a little over-the-top, doesn’t it? Especially when we’re supposed to be peacemakers in controversy or disagreements. I’ve come to realize that often being a “peacemaker” is more about silence than speaking. Jesus set a good example of that “walk-away” when He was persecuted, spoken negatively about, or when others were antagonizing Him.

Life was hard for my mom as our only breadwinner, caring for my very sick daddy and me. She lived in those times and so did I, as a child, and later in dealing with and overcoming life struggles and caring for my very sick husband. Life can be really hard for all of us. Sometimes it’s easy to despair over finding peace when trouble seems to lurk around every corner. When hard times come, the easiest thing to do is allow our many emotions to rule our hearts and mind. Peace seems to be the emotion we sense the least when life turns topsy-turvy. But that sure isn’t God’s plan. He gave us the answer to those emotional highs and lows and days that are anything but peaceful. He gave us the rock-solid PEACE possibility right in the midst of the most tumultuous storms.

Peace is His perfect will for us. That peace is a state of quiet or tranquility in the middle of anxious thoughts, emotions and trials. This kind of peace that God gives….remains. It’s not something that comes and goes depending on our circumstances. Since God gives it, that divine peace should be governing our lives in all things at all times. When the things of life start to throw us into a state of anxiety and tummy jitters – you know -- that stack of bills, the washing machine breaks down, relationship disappointment, that speech we must deliver to a large crowd or anxious feelings of inadequacy -- we can still find peace.

Here’s the good news: We can have that kind of peace. Jesus told His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27). Sounds like a command to me! The peace Christ gives is fully satisfying. It’s peace of mind, heart, body and soul. It’s contentment knowing that no matter what happens, we are in the care of the Almighty. The outcome will be His plan for our good.

In times of doubt and fear, let peace rule. Resting in God’s promises gives us the hope we need to stay focused on Him and His faithfulness, instead of on our circumstances. One way we can be certain that we’ve really placed our trust in God is when we experience an indescribable peace. I know that peace and it’s my absolute requirement for where I go, who I hang out with, and what decisions I am trying to make. No peace – no God. Know peace – know God! Perfect peace.

This is one of my mainstay scriptures. I urge you to join me in “My Peace Zone”. It is such a blessed and sweet place to be. Demand it. Refuse other options. "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You!" (Isaiah 26:3)

Fine-Tuning Our Focus

From mid-June until now, I've been focused on VBS kiddos, then I hopped right into focus on 4-legged kiddos at my children’s place then to my 2-legged grand-kiddos at my home, back to focus on my children in Austin, and now back home to the two 4-legged furry kiddos of my Frisco family while they’re away. Whew! FOCUS – can sometimes be draining. Being responsible for the care and well-being of others and focusing on their needs keeps us from focusing on our own needs. I get it. We love focusing on our loved ones…..because, well…..we love them. We are wholly devoted to them. But, giving our full attention to something, somethings, and “someones” means taking the FOCUS off of ourselves.

Why is ME-focus important? I refer again to Jesus’ words in establishing “FOCUS” priorities: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39. Focus priorities look like this: Love God. Love yourself. Love others. The fact is – unless we care about WHO is most important, we can never love others to the capacity that God intended for us. We become better parents, employers, employees, friends, neighbors and leaders when our FOCUS starts with God and ourselves. So, I’ll admit I’m ready for some God and me-focus.

I have some friends who have asked me for some one-on-one time. I have had to put them off while I was focused on the care of others. And, now, before I can give them the quality and Spirit-led counsel they need – I MUST focus on “loving the Lord with all my heart, soul and mind” which means spending time with Him to get me loving me enough to love them enough to give them Godly wisdom for their lives.

I loved having those special times caring for others. It feels my “love tank” so full. I’ve heard of week-long get-away places where people will go to a health and fitness boot camp to FOCUS on a road to lifestyle and body transformation. Then there are couple boot camps where they go to FOCUS on each other to revitalize and renew their love and marriage. It’s important to stop the struggles and wandering and wondering to FOCUS on what’s most important in our lives.

So, now, I’m back to my little world of God and me – I get to FOCUS on what and WHO keeps me stable, unshakable, and centered. My relationship with God. With all the distractions that we are consumed by, can we possibly imagine how much God wants one-on-one “you and me” time with us – where He is the center of our attention? And when He’s the center of our attention, our FOCUS is fine-tuned on what’s good and lovely and the question about whether we do what He wants or not is easy because we will focus on what He focuses on.

This is fine-tuned FOCUS: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3). By fine-tuning our focus, we’ll always “focus on God first” Who is near to us, strengthens us, and gives us wisdom and Godly perspective to persevere through life. That FOCUS will help us focus on everything and everyone else with His perspective, His love, and His wisdom.

Hebrews 12:2 -- “We must focus on Jesus, the source and goal of our faith….”

You Are Always On My Mind

Do you remember that feeling when you first met your sweetheart and you couldn’t get him or her out of your mind? That’s all I thought about – morning, noon and night – that cute, black haired, brown eyed boy stole my heart AND my mind!

This year I found that the principal thing is the simplest thing -- noticing, purposing to be aware of God everywhere, recognizing the beauty in His creation, in the talents and abilities of His kids, savoring the everyday realities of His grace that are so abundant. Willie Nelson recorded the song, "You Are Always On My Mind", and that has been my love song to God this year. In being "tuned in" to Him and being grateful for the simple yet obvious "God" encounters in my day, He has been on my mind...a LOT!

I sincerely want to continue that awareness of Him and having Him on my mind. "Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Me." Isaiah 26:3. But, I also know the struggle it is to stay "in the moment". It's just so easy to be distracted from the very things He wants to show me.

And that’s what Christmas has been about — finding Him in the midst of the chaos, in the midst of the interruptions and distractions. No question, He is everywhere, but the simplest, purest, most humble and less grandiose place we'll find Him, is still -- in the manger. Wouldn't it make sense that we, too, will find him in some of the least expected places of our life? Perhaps in the homeless man on the street corner, a newborn baby, the hug from a friend, the "My pleasure" from the Chick-Fil-A cashier, in the "answered prayer" story of a friend, or simply, the cross hanging from someone's neck?

This is still His Christmas. Remember the chaotic, stinky, messiness of Jesus' birthplace? That's where we'll find Him in our world too. We'd love to be distraction-less and have ongoing sweet, encounters with Him....but, it just doesn't matter. He meets us where we are -- in our busyness AND in our stillness. He is there. God is always there waiting for us. When we're "practicing His presence" we'll find Him embracing us, giving us aha moments, seeing Him everywhere and in everything.

And if going to the stable and the manger in our minds is too much of a stretch.....after all, it really is quite stinky and messy there.....then we can go to the foot of the cross where He paid the ultimate price for you and me. We were on His mind from the manger to the cross. We are ALWAYS on His mind. Shouldn't He ALWAYS be on our mind?

Worry FREE - Guarantee!

How is it possible to NOT WORRY in these days and times?
"Don't Worry???" You may be saying "That's easy for you to say -- you're not facing what I'm facing today." Perhaps not the exact challenge or situation, but I've known troubles and I've had plenty of reasons to worry. And, out of those times, I survived -- so much so, that I sincerely desire to "help comfort others with the same comfort that I was comforted with". (2 Corinthians 1:4). A young mother messaged me when she was facing some tremendous challenges. Her mind was bombarded with the worst thoughts. Her imagination was getting the best of her. She was expressing so much worry, fear and concern. I replied with these words, and in case you are in a place of fear and worry, I share them with you, too!

"Sweet Friend, I want to put my arms around you and help you through this time, and the best way I can do that is to give you a "Worry-FREE Guarantee". I am completely convinced that "If God said it, I believe it and that settles it -- no ifs, ands, or buts. It's a done deal!" That has been our anchor and mode of operation for many years. Plain and simple -- God's Word (the Bible) is the key to overcoming fear, sickness, discouragement, etc. There's an answer for everything in God's Word. God gave Joshua the key to success. "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then YOU will make your way prosperous, and then YOU will have good success." (Joshua 1:8) Wow! There's the key. We always think that it's up to God to take care of this and do that. But, very clearly, God is saying that if WE do OUR part (not letting His Word depart out of our hearts and mouths -- thinking/meditating on His Word) that WE WILL be successful.

Here are some of those words to take to heart:
~ Proverbs 23:7 "For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he." Obviously, this means we want to do our best to stop thinking the negative thoughts. How do we get a handle on our thoughts? A shortcut to is to THINK the things that we feel good about, and avoid thinking about what we don't feel good about."
~ Philippians 8:4 "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of a good report, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things."
~ Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You."

It is a matter of disciplining ourselves to put a halt to negative thinking. It's like changing the channel on the TV. A negative thought comes in....quickly change the channel to the positive thought. Let this prayer be your prayer:

"Heavenly Father, I commit to living worry-free. I cast all my cares, all my anxieties, all my worries, all my concerns -- once and for all, on You. You passionately care for my family and me. I cast down imaginations and everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of You. I lay aside every worry. I think on those things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and deserving of praise. I will not let my heart be troubled. I abide in Your Word, and Your Word abides in me. Thank You, Father, for helping me to be care-free. I walk in that peace that passes all understanding, in Jesus' name! Amen."

Perhaps you, my dear FB friends, needed this "word" today. I urge you to take this "word" like medicine.....DAILY. Put it in your heart and mind. You will come through with flying colors......just like the gal that I wrote this original letter to. VICTORY was and is hers, Victory is yours, too!

Oh That I Had Wings Like a Dove

Tuesday morning, I read this scripture, Psalm 55:6 “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.”
That reading about a dove prompted me to hasten out my back door to check on the Mama Dove, who had nested above my fireplace vent. The last I checked on her, she had two eggs in that nest. The fulfillment of her preparations, waiting and anticipating, was realized. There were two little hungry baby birds with her. Pure sweetness. I know my time is limited on keeping a watchful eye on that little dove family. Before long she’ll be teaching them about those “wings of a dove” and they will fly away.

Sometimes we echo the words of that verse, don’t we? Just to be able to fly away from our concerns and responsibilities of daily living. Just to be able to move on to a new nest or a new place that’s care-free.

That Mama Dove has taught me so many lessons. A couple of weeks ago, my post was about that dove and her patience and her, seemingly, undisturbed manner of staying and nesting while my family and I were heads down in viciously power washing my porches, barbequing our Mother’s Day meal and carrying on like like a wrecking crew. Yet, Mama Dove seemed to watch us as I’m sure that God, from His 30K+ foot view looks at us, with all our hustle and bustle and in a flurry of activity to get this and that done! She was vigilantly watching all that raucous from her safe and isolated “perch”.

Here’s what a google search says about a dove: “The dove represents peace of the deepest kind. It soothes and quiets our worried or troubled thoughts. The dove's roles as spirit messenger, maternal symbol and liaison impart an inner peace that helps us to go about our lives calmly and with purpose.” That explanation clearly goes along with the words in Isaiah 26:3 “Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Me.” No question that dove seemed to be in that perfect peace.

These times of so much to be concerned about is really no different than what Jesus and His disciples faced. Jesus cautioned His disciples, men who were just heading out to spread good news to the world, that they were doing dangerous work. He said, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and HARMLESS AS DOVES. (Matthew 10:16)

To be wise like a serpent means to have keen discernment, and a capacity for sound judgment in dealing with people, situations AND the enemy of our souls. To discern means to detect with the eyes and with senses other than vision. It also means to read character or motives. Somehow I think that Mama Bird had that discernment. She heard my soft voice each morning and she knew I (and my family) meant her no harm.

That sweet Mama Dove is a bird of peace. A dove’s temperament is calm and its disposition is sweet. Doves really are harmless. Wise and Harmless. Yes, in this life, we will run into some times of anxiety and concern and we sure would like to “take wing like the dove” and fly away to escape it all. But, God is all about giving us the tools to make it in a crazy world like the one we live in. Those words about being wise as serpents and harmless as doves seem like wisdom for peace and success. Wise to detect and avoid danger, while living in sweet peace, gentleness, kindness and innocence. Be wise and harmless—always. Just like that Mama Dove, watching over her babies, Psalm 121:8 says “The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” Whether we fly away from it all or we stay put, what blessed assurance it is that our Father sees and knows what's up ahead. Come on, my friends. Let's settle on our perch and know the peace of a dove that comes from our Father above!

Peace is my Governor

Governor – a device automatically regulating the supply of fuel, steam, or water to a machine, ensuring uniform motion or limiting speed

I learned so much about peace from my precious mother -- lessons that I learned from her many years of taking care of my daddy who was very ill, working a full time job and ensuring that my well being didn't skip a beat. As tough as the times were, I never remember her being afraid, anxious, worried or stressed. I only remember her singing and praying her way through everything. Peace was her "governor".

When I I started blogging years ago, back when it would have seemed I had every right in the world to be in turmoil, anxious and afraid, I remembered my mom's coping mechanism -- it was God's peace. Like little David, the shepherd boy, I faced those giants and slung my "peace" stones at those giants in my life. I started blogging and, quite frankly, not only have I experienced inexplicable peace during the worst of times, but I've been able to pay it forward and convey to others how they, too, can live in a place of peace that passes understanding.

If there's anything I protect and hold most precious to my heart, it's God’s peace. That peace has been my dearest ally and friend for many years. When I wake in the morning, I know peace is with me. When I go to bed at night, I ensure His peace is with by not watching the evening news or some horror flick. I go to bed with peace. When I wake in the middle of the night and turmoil tries to overwhelm me, I go to the scripture "Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is STAYED on Me." Isaiah 26:3. If I encounter conflict in the lives of others, I'll steer clear of that conflict at all costs.

I know that peace is God’s will. That heavenly peace is a state of absolute tranquility right in the midst of what could be the worst situation. It is comfort when life is extremely UN-comfortable. Fear can be lurking behind every corner, but a state of peace looks at fear and laughs at it. (I love that verse in Proverbs 31:25 ".....she laughs without fear of the future.") That peace isn't something that comes and goes -- depending on our circumstances. The peace I'm talking about is the GOVERNOR of our lives. Honestly, peace is my GOVERNOR. This kind of peace should GOVERN our lives in all things at all times. When the things of life disturb us — that stack of bills, a negative health report, the troubled relationship, anxious feelings of our own inadequacy -- is when we need to submit to the Governor of peace.

Here’s the good news: We can have that kind of peace. Jesus told His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27.

The peace Christ gives is fully satisfying. It’s peace of mind, heart, body and soul. It is contentment knowing that no matter what happens, we are in the care of the Almighty. Psalm 29:11, "The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses his people with peace."

APPOINTMENT or DISAPPOINTMENT

CBS News Headline this morning is this: "Super Bowl 2018: Eagles pull off stunning win over Patriots". Whether you are a Patriots or an Eagles fan or not a football fan at all, if you tuned into the Super Bowl game last night and watched it for any period of time, you would agree that it was a good one to watch! Lots of drama and surprises! Along the way you may have had some feelings for which team you’d like to win. I’ll admit, I was cheering for the Eagles, so I was thrilled when they won. Tom Brady had DISAPPOINTMENT written all over his face when he couldn’t pull off his #6 Super Bowl win. I was so inspired when Nick Foles, the Eagles back-up quarterback, Doug Pederson, the Eagles coach, and several other Eagles’ players, when interviewed at the end of the game said, “First and foremost, I give all the glory to my Lord Jesus Christ.” While one team and their stunned fans were DISAPPOINTED, the other team and their fans saw their win as a Divine APPOINTMENT. I love when I hear anyone speaking about God and His goodness. They are helping to make HIM famous.

My word(s) for today are: APPOINTMENT -- a meeting set for a specific time, and,
DISAPPOINTMENT -- the feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.

Maybe you don't care one way or the other about a Super Bowl game, but maybe some-ONE or some-THING has brought you tremendous DISAPPOINTMENT. We can't stop disappointment, but we can stop staying stuck in it. I know how easy it is to dwell on something or someone that hurt me. But, wallowing in disappointment gets us nowhere. I remember times of great disappointment and as long as I remained in sadness and regret, the more miserable I would get. But, when I would refuse to stay in that place and go to my Peace-Giver, I would snap out of the doldrums and find that place of joy, gladness, comfort and peace. Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

Isn’t it interesting that the word "APPOINTMENT" comes from within the word DISAPPOINTMENT? I’ve seen again and again how disappointments take something FROM us: a dream, a piece of our hearts – maybe whole chunks of it. But disappointment also GIVES us something too: a gift, an opportunity, the possibility of creating change.

God has incredible plans for us and the enemy of our souls would like to keep us from ever experiencing those plans and just stay "put" in woe and distress. God's purpose for us goes way beyond times of disappointment. In fact, that disappointment today may just be the set up for HIS APPOINTMENT where hope is found and a major comeback is on its way that produces successes and joy. That's what happened to me. My days are filled with purpose and I know that I'm walking in my destiny, getting to bring others with me on this road.

Let's remember God is in the "set-up" and APPOINTMENT business. There are many future God-appointments on the other side of whatever disappointment we may be encountering today.
God has got your name on His appointment schedule. He'll be right on time. Don't you be a minute late!

He Gives His Beloved Sweet Sleep

To avoid the work-week traffic, I left at a decent time last Sunday to drive home from Austin. About two and a half hours of driving later, I started to get quite drowsy. I saw a Rest Area up ahead and thought I’d pull off and shut my eyes for a few minutes. I lowered my seat back, grabbed my favorite pillow that I take with me everywhere, and thought 10-minutes of rest would revive me. I could hardly believe it when I awoke an hour later. I realized I’d be late getting back to Frisco where my family had lunch waiting on me. But, then I praised God because I had been averaging only about 5 hours of sleep at night over the last couple of weeks, and I said, “Thank you, God! You really do give your beloved sweet sleep.”

This photo is one of my all-time favorites and so very dear to my heart. The little guy is my, now 17 year old grandson, Payton Wallace. Our little Payton was beyond tired -- he just couldn't make it through his meal. It was our weekend with Payton and Alexia and that meant action-packed, non-stop fun from morning until night. We made the most of our time with our grandchildren, making lots of memories, and now that my Sweetheart is in heaven, I'm so glad we did. Most of all, they got to know how special and loving their Papa was. He definitely made an impression on their lives -- so much so -- that they still talk about him a lot and recall so many fun times with him.

And, like that precious boy falling asleep after a busy day of fun, so did Nana and Papa when the kids' Mom and Dad came to pick them up. We would drop into our recliners, and, we would fall fast asleep too. Yes, God gives His beloved sweet sleep.... right when we need it most.

Precious Payton didn't have a care in the world so he could just rest in happy freedom. And, through faith and complete trust in our Lord, we, too, can rest in Him in happy freedom from care. Those whom the Lord loves are delivered from the fret of life. Just like my husband and I wanting to give the best things to our grandchildren, God is sure to give the best things to His beloved, and like this photo, we know He gives them sweet sleep -- that is a laying aside of care, a forgetfulness of need, a quiet leaving of matters with God. This kind of sleep is better than riches and honor. Remember how Jesus slept amid the ups and downs of a storm at sea? He knew that He was in his Father's hands, so He could be so quiet in spirit that the billows rocked Him to sleep.

Take it from me. There are often times when I wake in the night and sleep is far from me, but I visualize being in the bow of the ship and think about the sweetness of God's love and I remind myself of His words. "I give my beloved sweet sleep." Yes, I'm His beloved and I also remind myself of Isaiah 26:3 "Him I will keep in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me." Between that rocking boat, and thinking about my Father, before long I'm back to sound sleep......just like my little grandson......with not a care in the world.

Worry FREE - Guarantee!

"Don't Worry???" You may be saying "That's easy for you to say -- you're not facing what I'm facing today." Perhaps not the exact challenge or situation, but I've known troubles and I've had reasons to worry. And, out of those times, I survived -- so much so, that I sincerely desire to "help comfort others with the same comfort that I was comforted with". (2 Corinthians 1:4). A young mother messaged me when she was facing some tremendous challenges. Her mind was bombarded with the worst thoughts. Her imagination was getting the best of her. She was expressing so much worry, fear and concern. I replied with these words, and in case you are in a place of fear and worry, I share them with you, too!

"Sweet Friend, I want to put my arms around you and help you through this time, and the best way I can do that is to give you a "Worry-FREE Guarantee". I am completely convinced that "If God said it, I believe it and that settles it -- no ifs, ands, or buts. It's a done deal!" That has been our anchor and our mode of operation for many years. Plain and simple......God's Word (the Bible) is the key to overcoming fear, sickness, discouragement, etc. There's an answer for everything in God's Word. In Joshua 1:8, God gave a "key" to success when He told Joshua: "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then YOU will make your way prosperous, and then YOU will have good success." Wow! There's the key -- we always think that it's up to God to take care of this and do that. But, very clearly, God is saying that if WE do OUR part (not letting His Word depart out of our hearts -- thinking/meditating on His Word) that WE WILL BE successful. Here's some of those "God words to take to heart:
~ Proverbs 23:7 "For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he......" Obviously, this means you want to do your best to stop thinking the negative thoughts. How do you get a handle on your thoughts? A shortcut to this is to THINK the things that you feel good about, and avoid thinking about what you don't feel good about."
~ Philippians 8:4 "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of a good report, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things."
~ Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

It is a matter of absolutely disciplining ourselves to put a halt to negative thinking. It's like changing the channel on the TV. A negative thought comes in....quickly change the channel to the positive thought. Let this prayer be your prayer:

Father, I commit to live free from worry. I cast the whole of my cares -- all my anxieties, all my worries, all my concerns -- once and for all on You. You care for my family and me affectionately. You sustain me. I cast down imaginations and everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of You. I lay aside every worry. I think on those things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and deserving of praise. I will not let my heart be troubled. I abide in Your Word, and Your Word abides in me. Thank You, Father, for helping me to be care-free. I walk in that peace that passes all understanding, in Jesus' name! Amen."

Perhaps you, my dear FB friends, needed this "word" today. I urge you to take this "word" like medicine.....DAILY. Put it in your heart and mind. You will come through with flying colors......just like the gal that I wrote this original letter to. VICTORY was and is hers, Victory is yours, too!

Keeping Guard Over Our Mind

When the airport's TSA agent was frisking my granddaughter a couple of weeks ago because she was a little "shifty" looking (NOT! It was her water bottle in her purse and a large bottle of sunblock in her carry-on), we realized the importance of being compliant with TSA's regulations.

Yesterday, I thought about how TSA is doing its best to keep out the "shifty" and potential harmful characters from entering our country. TSA requires that we walk through metal detectors and if we are not TSA pre-checked approved, we'll even have to take off our shoes, belts, and empty our pockets to prove we are harmless.

Today, my post is about the need we have for setting up a TSA, of sorts, for our minds to keep those "shifty" and harmful thoughts out that try to invade our minds. Fear comes; regrets come; panic comes; anxiety comes; envy comes; temptations come and we have a choice -- to allow them entry to invade our thought-life or to lock them out!

II Corinthians 10:5 says ".....We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." We have the ability to HALT those negative thoughts from coming in, but we have to do it on purpose, as soon as they try entry. But how, you might ask? Here's one of my favorite scriptures that tells us how. Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." That, is the TSA for our minds. We purposely and intentionally THINK good thoughts and when the alien, negative thoughts come....they get quickly replaced by focusing our attention on what and WHO (God) is good, true, excellent, praiseworthy.

It's a matter of discipline and taking authority over the negative -- again, just like the TSA. TSA has the authority to remove shifty, potentially dangerous people from flying on that aircraft. With God's Word in our heart and mind, we can have mind control over our thoughts, and furthermore, we can put our enemy in captivity when he tries to mess with us! Here's God's Word that confirms it from Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

Are You a Scatterbrain?

Scatterbrain -- a person who is unable to concentrate or think clearly. If I didn't know better, that's what I would call myself lately. My thoughts seem to be here, there and everywhere. And while they’re everywhere, I've misplaced my keys, my cell phone, my computer cord, my ring and bracelet and even an important document. Yikes!! Thank goodness, I've recovered it all, and now I'm focused on reeling myself in to losing that "scatterbrain" name!

You know the deal. Our thoughts can get so scattered because of so much going on inside these heads of ours. We're multi-tasking -- we're going after something while we're cooking, while at the same time we're talking or texting on our phones. So much to do with so little time to do it all. Being clear headed and clear minded often seems like a lofty goal. But that's the goal I have for myself. I want to have my head on straight, my mind alert and my tasks focused on what God has for me in that moment and in that time.

The crux of the matter is our minds are everywhere except being on the ONE Who brings balance and focus to everything in our lives. Overtaxing our minds is so unnecessary when our Father God promised He'd bring peace to our chaos if we'd keep our minds on Him. "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." (Isaiah 26:3)

I sincerely want the mind of Christ. I want His ways that are so much higher than my ways. I want his thoughts that are so much higher than my thoughts. I know that my life is on purpose. I know that His plans are greater than any plan that I could ever make for myself. So, NO, I am NOT a scatterbrain. I am intuitive, aware, focused, thoughtful, purposeful, attentive, sharp, and creative. I know I can choose my thoughts and think things on purpose. Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” I want to have that kind of THINK TANK that believes "anything is possible with God". I'm committing to set my mind on He Who knows everything about everything, so that's what I'm doing RIGHT NOW!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and LEAN NOT to your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will give you (and me) the desires of our hearts!" Proverbs 3:5,6

Can't Sleep? Talk to Me. -- God

On my FB message yesterday, a couple of people commented that it was just the words they needed. My response? "Me, too! I typically post with what I need the most!" In all seriousness, my daily posts are the words I'm sending out to you AND me!

A friend came over yesterday. She was discouraged and was filled with all kinds of negative emotions. Oh, I know those emotions, and when we succomb to them, they can overwhelm us. In fact, during the nighttime is when they have usually come "knocking on my heart's door". I tell you what I told her. Instead of continuing to lay there wollering in the funk and despair, I do what I've told you before. I toss those doubts and fears away like a "hot potato". I do that by getting up, and going to my "prayer" chair. Though it's usually 3 am in the morning, I read my devotion, read my chapters in the Bible (I'm reading through the Bible this year), and I pray. After an hour or so of "fixing my eyes Who is my burden bearer", I go back to bed and get the rest of the sleep I needed. The scripture that applies to that routine is "Him/Her I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Me." Isaiah 26:3. Getting my eyes and heart off of me and my concerns, and fixing them on Him for that hour of time, gets me back to peace.

I found that when the storms come, it's just our human nature to have the mindset that, "I've got to figure this out. I've got to work this out on my own!" And, oftentimes, praying and seeking God for the answer is the last thing we do to escape our storms. "Well, I've tried everything else.....so as a last resort, "I'll ask God for help!"

The disciples knew Jesus was on land and they discounted the fact that He was the authentic, unparalled STORM CHASER and PEACE MAKER. They toiled and feared, but Christ was praying on the shore for them because He saw the storm come up. And we should realize that He sees and knows the storms we're going through and He is hearing our prayers in the midst of OUR storms.

We can know this: There is no difficulty in life that is stronger than Jesus. We can face our difficult times with courage because He promised to ALWAYS be with us! I love knowing that His peace is ours in the midst of our storms....and how reassuring to know that right behind this storm is a rainbow of blessing! He promised it, and I've come to count on it!

Peace is my Governor

Yesterday, a sweet new friend I've met here in Austin, asked me for the website for my daily blog. Not only do I blog on my Google website, but I also post it here on Facebook: http://livinginthepeacezone.blogspot.com/

I started blogging years ago, back when it would have seemed I had every right in the world to be in turmoil, anxiety and fear. But, like little David, the shepherd boy, I faced those giants and slung my "peace" stones at them. I started blogging and, quite frankly, not only have I experienced almost unexplainable peace during those worst of times, but I've been able to convey to others how they, too, can live in God's sweet peace.

If there's anything I protect and hold most precious to my heart, it's peace. That peace is what has been my dearest ally and friend for many years. When I wake in the morning, I know peace is with me. When I go to bed at night, I sure don't watch the evening news or some horror flick. I go to bed with peace. When I wake in the middle of the night and turmoil tries to overwhelm me, I go to the scripture "Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is STAYED on Me." Isaiah 26:3. I steer clear of conflict at all costs.

I know that peace is God’s will. That heavenly peace is a state of absolute tranquility right in the midst of what could be the worst situation. It speaks of comfort when life is extremely UN-comfortable. Fear can be lurking behind every corner, but a state of peace looks at fear and laughs at it.

That peace isn't something that comes and goes -- depending on our circumstances. The peace I'm talking about is "the governor" of our lives. I've heard "governor" used in describing a device that governs a machine or engine that is used to provide automatic control of speed, pressure or temperature. Honestly, peace is my governor. This kind of peace should GOVERN our lives in all things at all times. When the things of life disturb us — that stack of bills, a negative health report, the troubled relationship, anxious feelings of our own inadequacy -- is when we need to submit to the governor of peace.

Here’s the good news: We can have that kind of peace. Jesus told His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27.

The peace Christ gives is fully satisfying. It’s peace of mind, heart, body and soul. It’s contentment knowing that no matter what happens, we are in the care of the Almighty. Psalm 29:11, "The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace."

What is PERFECT Peace?

A couple of weeks ago, I awoke with the words "perfect peace" going on in my mind. I'm always quoting Isaiah 26:3 "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you."  I don't think I've ever thought about PERFECT peace before.  What is PERFECT peace?

I did a little word study and this is what I found. When that Isaiah 26:3  promise was given, Israel was in a dark period of her history. Now, it helps us during this time when we are surrounded by gloom, doubt, fear and worry. When all is going well, it's easy to read a promise like this in a very superficial way, but when clouds of trial, disappointment, anxiety and alarm blow across our skies and the sun is hidden, these words become very precious to us.

There's not a promise in the Bible that says we will be free from troubles, but God promises something better. He promises peace in the midst of the storm.  In the fiercest of battles, while the storm is at it’s height, the trusting soul can know inward peace and tranquility. There can be a deep down calm and quiet confidence.  PERFECT peace is a condition of freedom from disturbance within the soul.  The Hebrew word for peace, "Shalom," has the idea of soundness of health. Being filled with spiritual peace is to be spiritually healthy and free from all discord in the soul.  There is no room for jealousy, envy, discontentment, uncontrolled temper, selfishness, pride, intolerance, harsh criticism, fear of anxiety, in the soul that is filled with peace.

My photo inspiration, today, gives visual to this PERFECT peace, and so does the story that accompanies it.

There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked. One was of a calm lake. It was a perfect mirror for peaceful towering mountains were all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace. The other picture had mountains, too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell, in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This picture did not look peaceful at all.  But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush, a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest ... PERFECT peace. Which picture do you think won the prize?

The King chose the second picture. Do you know why?  "Because," explained the King, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart.  That is the real meaning of peace."

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

"I have told you all this so that you may have 'peace' in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." - John 16:33

Enough said.  I wish you this PERFECT PEACE today!

You Are Always On My Mind

Day 350 of Photo Inspirations -- You Are Always On My Mind
At the end of 2014 when I was seeking God about my assignment for 2015, I clearly knew that my 2015 blogs would be inspired by photos.  So that has been my mission.  Just 15 days to go.....and then I'll start my new assignment for 2016.

What a wonderful journey this year has been for me. As I look back on this year, I've met some wonderful people who inspired me, heard some incredible stories, witnessed lots of "God encounters" from being aware of His presence, noticed Him in many "everyday" occurrences -- all of which helped me capture photos that will be a part of my memories and archives from here on out.

I've found in this year that the principle thing is the simplest thing.....noticing, being aware of God everywhere, recognizing the beauty in His kids, appreciating their talents and abilities, savoring the everyday realities of His grace that are so abundant.  Elvis Presley and Willie Nelson recorded the love song, "You Are Always On My Mind", and that has been my love song to God this year.  In being watchful and in being "tuned in" to His voice by listening intently to conversations of friends and strangers, He has been on my mind.

I sincerely want to continue that awareness of Him -- maybe not so much as to take photos, but having Him on my mind.  "Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Me." Isaiah 26:3.  But, I also know the struggle it is to stay "in the moment".  It's just so easy to be distracted from the very thing He wants to show me.

Here we are, designed to be here on this earth at this precise time for purposes set for us long ago. And in reality, we need One Thing most of all. We know we need Him first and foremost, but we get distracted by everything else.  We want Him to be Numero Uno, but distractions and interruptions keep us from Him.  Truth is, we really do want God with all of our hearts.

And that’s what Christmas is all about — finding Him once again in the midst of the chaos, in the midst of the interruptions and distractions.   No question, He is everywhere, but the simplest, purest, most humble and less grandiose place we'll find Him, is at the manger where He came as a baby.   Wouldn't it make sense that we, too, will find him in some of the least expected places?

This is His Christmas.  Remember the chaotic, stinky, messiness of His birthplace?  That's where we'll find Him in our world too.  Yes, we'd love to have those no-distractions, sweet, mellow encounters with Him....but, it just doesn't matter.  He meets us where we are -- in our busyness AND in our stillness.  He is there.  God is always there waiting for us.  The point is.....we must continue to "practice His presence" because in His presence, we'll find not just photo inspirations, but we'll find Him embracing us, giving us aha moments, seeing Him everywhere and in everything.

And if going to the stable and the manger in our minds is too much of a stretch.....after all it really is quite stinky and messy there.....then we can go to the foot of the cross where He paid the ultimate price for you and me.  We were on His mind from the manger to the cross.  We are ALWAYS on His mind.  Shouldn't He ALWAYS be on our mind?

Oh Tidings of Comfort and Joy!

Day 341 of Photo Inspirations -- Oh Tidings of Comfort and Joy
From first hand experience, I know that this time of year can cause painful memories of a loved one's parting.  My Dad passed away on December 17th when I was 15 years old, and my Sweetheart passed away on November 16th.  But rather than coddling you and telling you "Just go ahead and be depressed and sad.  You owe it to yourself to feel that way," I just won't, because I know how God has taken me through these times with a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness.  We really have choice in how we live our lives -- knowing the abundant life that is ours because of Christ's birth, or submitting to the "dark side" of woe and despair.  For those reasons, I'm providing how God gave me the LIGHT, instead of the darkness, and how sweet it is to live this way.  Please read the following blog that I posted in 2010, upon the arrival back home for the first time after my Sweetheart had passed away and his funeral.  It's lengthy, but I promise you -- the precious promises I found during that time may be the comfort you need today.   I pray it brings you good tidings of comfort and joy.

"Arriving back to theTulsa Airport after being away for a week after my Sweetheart's funeral, I thought about the changes that I was about to face – not with fear, but just pondering. As I walked through the gate from the jetway, I immediately began to think about how my previous arrivals to the Tulsa Airport had been. I remembered how my Honey would tell me he’d just meet me at baggage claim, but he never did. He would always find a hiding place in the waiting area, where passengers would leave the airline gates, and as I walked through the security door, he’d pop out behind a post or the crowd, and with open arms, grab and kiss me, and let me know how much I’d been missed. He always looked so handsome, dressed so fine, and smelled so good. I’d think “That’s MY man!” In the car, he’d always have a single rose on the console, soft music playing, and give me another “welcome home” hug and kiss. Our travel home would be me, non-stop, telling about the adventures of keeping the grandkids or some other very important reason that would take me away for a few days. Then arriving at home, the house would smell so good (he always made sure it was clean from top to bottom), and soft music would be playing. But, I knew.....tonight, would be different.

My eyes welled up in tears as, this time, he didn’t surprise me. He wasn’t waiting or hiding as he had always been before. But, then….what to my wandering and teary eyes would appear….as I walked out to baggage claim, but my two “Tulsa” grandkids -- running to me with open arms and screaming, “Nana, Nana! We made you cards and presents! Did you bring us something?” Oh, sweet and great distraction from my previous thoughts! Getting into the car, they excitedly displayed their “Welcome Home” handmade cards and ice cream stick creations – one to hold my pens and pencils, a drink coaster and ice cream stick crosses. They were little chatter boxes all the way home, and at my home, my kids made sure the lights were brightly burning, soft music was playing…..and the house was so clean and smelled so good. Of course, Nana brought them gifts that gave them even more excitement. Oh, how my Heavenly Father gave me exactly what I needed, once again – “good tidings of comfort and joy” that comes from a loving Father in the form of the purity of two little children who love me so much.

Once again, I was reminded of God’s blessings to me and how much I have to be grateful for – the most of which is that my Honey is basking in the presence of God, free of pain and living in perpetual celebration. Dear friends and family members have e-mailed me, sent me cards or called me to express their best wishes and I continue to respond that I have been and continue to be wrapped in a blanket of peace and I choose to stay there....in that Secret Place of the Most High -- abiding in the shadow of the Almighty. Also, my promise in Isaiah 26:3 that says, "You will keep him (Donna) in perfect peace, whose mind (Donna's mind) is stayed on you: because he (Donna) trusts in you."

Of course, I have waves of emotions -- when I see his pictures, his clothes, the fingerprints of his life all over this home -- most assuredly, I miss him beyond words....but that doesn't say I'm going to allow myself one moment of grief (definition: deep mental anguish, as that arising from bereavement) or sorrow (definition -- mental suffering or pain caused by injury, loss, or despair). Both of those words talk about "mental" suffering. I refuse to go there. No, I’m not in denial. I’m in that "secret place” of the Most High – abiding under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). I have a choice – to be in sorrow and grief – or to celebrate each day that God gives me. I choose to open the windows wide – to listen to joyful Christmas music – to shine the Christmas lights brightly -- to laugh with my grandchildren while making gingerbread cookies -- to call a friend and encourage them –- to raise my voice in song, especially singing, “God is so good”. I will finish strong! I will be a conqueror!

Yes, now I know, from first hand experience, what it means to have a loved one in so much pain; I know what it is to have to deal with financial issues; I know what it is to have a loved one "go home"; I know what it is to not know what tomorrow holds. I am living it and walking through it, and, I can tell you....living in that place of peace -- taking one day at a time, and above all, knowing my Father will take good care of me – is the place to be. He promised it and I choose to believe it.

I purpose to live out my faith with joy instead of sorrow, dancing instead of mourning, wearing a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness. It is a reality of Christ's redemptive work on Calvary. And here’s the real deal…I can look Death in the face and declare -- "Oh Death, where is your sting? Oh Grave, where is your victory? Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Corinthians 15:55,57.

Yes, at this beautiful time of the year…we can all sing the words “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, let NOTHING you dismay, remember Christ, our Savior, was born on Christmas Day, Oh tidings of comfort and joy!”