Little Ways Pay Off in Big Dividends

After months of what seems to be "little" accomplishments, part of me longs to hear about some of God’s BIG ways – BIG wins – BIG worthwhile news – BIG discoveries like a cure for Covid. But, from so many biblical indicators – God seems to work best in the “littles”.

Just think about the “littles” that God used to make something big. Like, making the first man out of LITTLE dust. Like the LITTLE boy with the LITTLE lunch that fed over 5,000. Like the LITTLE shepherd boy, David, who slew the giant with a stone and sling and conquered the Philistine army. And, then there’s Gideon who was the "smallest" in the "least" clan who saved an entire nation. He started with an army of 24,000 and God required him to reduce it to a LITTLE army of 300. God likes LITTLE.

Saint Thérèse de Lisieux said: "Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” She was known for serving God in such beautiful, “little ways”. In this “3rd act of my play”, I find myself doing many “little things” in “little ways” to serve God. It’s a sweet way to live one day at a time and serving in the process.

One of my “little ways” is this blog each day, desiring to spread good news. I am very aware that when I point one finger out to my readers, there are four pointing back at me, so I better practice what I preach! Yesterday, LITTLE was my goal. I’m not tooting my own horn or seeking an “atta girl”! But, how can I give action words without action on my part? So, these were my "little ways". I sent words of encouragement to some friends via text messages and messenger. Went grocery shopping for my friends. And, the gal I helped a couple of weeks ago who fell on the walking path? I give her Jesus in daily text messages and, yesterday, gave her and her daughter cards that express my love and God's love to them.

Here’s my motive for today's blog. We need to take the lid off of LITTLE. Yes, God likes LITTLE. In fact, He sent His beloved Son to earth as a LITTLE baby and changed everything about life, death, eternity and giving the hope for mankind of never perishing and living with Him forever and ever if we believe in Him. Now, that’s what I call BIG! And, that little baby boy grew up and said, “All it takes is a LITTLE mustard seed of faith to move mountains.” Yes, God specializes in making BIG out of LITTLES. He told the “little children” to come to Him. He directed the disciples to get a "little" coin out of a fish's mouth to pay their taxes. Quite frankly, LITTLE is MUCH when God is in it. Yes, LITTLE is much when we follow Christ’s example. We’ll find that LITTLE ways pay off in BIG dividends. What will be your LITTLE today?

God has our Attention

A big smile broke across my face when I saw someone post this: “God just got fed up with His kids not getting along, so He sent us all to our rooms.” And, that’s probably true, too! Here’s what I know about our God. He doesn’t cause disease, sickness, heartache and pain. He is our loving and faithful Father. But, He often allows stuff to happen to get our attention. He definitely has our attention. In fact, the attention of the whole world. So, what are we going to do about it? Become victims or victors as we go through this inconvenient time? Notice I said “through this”. God says in Isaiah 43:2 says “…when you walk through the fire, you will not even smell like smoke…..”

If we stay the course of faith and trust in God, we WILL get through this and we will have a comeback story of gigantic proportions. Perhaps this is a grand setup that launches us into a trajectory of the most blessed times of our lives.

I'm reminded of a dear aunt’s story during these isolated times. She had debilitating Crohn’s disease that confined her to a small hospital room for nearly two years. Her husband passed away during that time. And, after all she went through -- much pain, many surgeries and complications -- she remained joy-filled, thankful, and was a light in the darkness around her. People encountered God’s light when they saw her. She was seasoned with God's peace and joy in that little room..

Another “small” room story is that of the Apostle Paul who was in a cold, dark, damp, dingy Roman prison cell – yet in the midst of his pain and suffering, he wrote these words: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)

What are these quarantine and isolation experiences doing to and for you? Are you bitter.....or better because of them? Are all the extenuating circumstances making you....or breaking you? Are you a victor or a victim? Are you comforting others with the comfort that you've been comforted with? If you are a victor, you KNOW you're on assignment.....are on purpose....living in GOD's master plan.....and are causing people to come face-to-face with a better way! Indeed....you are better and are a victor ... and you're causing others to be that, too!

These times will pass. What will be your story?

The Year We Came Together

If there’s anything we learned from it all -- it’s we’ll never take a handshake, a hug or a kiss for granted again. (That's why I can't help but kiss and hug you so much!)To my future grandchildren and great grandchildren:
WOW! What a year 2020 was! Before the BIG “C-Virus”, our world was so divided. There were literal wars and political wars beyond belief. So many people were selfish and talked so bad to and about each other. The heroes before the C-virus were the highly paid professional athletes, musicians, recording artists, politicians and movie stars. While in the quarantine of the C-virus, the true heroes became those in the medical field and grocery store shelf stockers and moms and dads teaching their kids at home and those who were near-poverty because their store or business was shut down. Can you even imagine this? Grocery store refrigerators and shelves were empty. We had to stand in line to get toilet paper and paper towels. There were no professional, college or high school sports games played. No March Madness – well, there was madness, but not with basketball. Businesses – big and small were either closed altogether or their employees were working from home. Food establishments stopped indoor dining and only provided drive-thru meals. We quickly ran in and out of grocery stores in a hurry. People even wore gloves and masks. When they got home, they took off the clothes they wore and washed them right away. Our churches were closed. Online worshipping was the norm. “Social distancing” was the main theme. We had to stay away from closeness in public. Online connectedness was the best way to stay close to each other.

But, that C-Virus did something to us and for us. It brought us together as families and friends. Technology helped with that because we couldn’t go to each other’s homes. We were connected by the internet. Thank God for the internet. Thank God for our phones. Thank God for a wise President who led our Country to wholeness again. Now, there’s a vaccine that stops the spread of the virus and a vaccine that we can take to keep us from ever getting it. Once again, we are free to go about our lives and businesses and friendships.

We’ll never take full shelves and refrigerators at the grocery stores for granted. We’ll never take for granted: a crowded theater, going to church, the taste of communion, a routine check-up, the school rush each morning, the stadiums roaring, taking each breath deeply, the reasons for washing our hands many times a day.

And, my precious grandchild and great grandchild, just look at us now. We have so much to be grateful for. Like in the story of Joseph in the Bible -- "What the enemy meant for evil, God meant it for good." Genesis 50:20. That’s how we came out of our C-Virus nightmare. God turned all of the chaos into so much beauty because we became more like the people we wanted to be, called to be, hoped to be and just look at us now. We are so much better because of the worst. God brought neighbors back together again. Our family units were restored. We ate together as a family. We slowed down our lives and appreciated what mattered most. Most of all, we learned that it is God who changed everything for us. We humbled ourselves, we turned from our wicked ways and we surrendered to His will and His ways. We trusted Him more than our money and our material possessions. We prayed. We cried out to Him and He heard our prayers and He healed our lands and our people. I'm so thankful I went through that experience so that I can tell you that living for Jesus, loving Him with all my heart and trusting Him kept me strong enough to tell you about it.
I love you so, so much, my beloved grands!
Nana

Listening to God’s Still Small Voice

I know you’ve seen this many times as we pay close attention to the recommendations by medical professionals: "COVD-19 Prevention: Wash your hands frequently as the virus can only live on your hands for 5-10 minutes. Drink warm water as an effective way to stop all viruses. Try not to drink liquids with ice. Gargling with a simple warm water salt solution is also an effective measure for preventing contraction of viruses. Ensure your mouth and throat are moist, never dry. Take a few sips of water at least every 15 minutes. Drinking water or other liquids will wash the virus down the throat and into the stomach, where stomach acid will kill it. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables."

God sure amuses and blesses me with some of His “aha moments”. Each year, during the Lenten season, I choose the Daniel Fast which is just fruits and vegetables and water. So preparing for this fast, I made a freezer full of vegetable meals as well as have lots of frozen fruits for making protein drinks. I love my coffee, but hot water helps satisfy me. I was already in go-mode before this crisis ever hit. I’ve got the handwashing down, drinking warm water multiple times daily AND I’m eating lots of fruits and veggies. Thank You, Lord, for your still small voice that prepared me for this season. In fact, unlike before, I bought a ginormous pack of toilet paper a couple of weeks ago. Thank you, God, again!

I spoke to two of my friends yesterday. One shared that she felt so strongly, three weeks ago, that she and her husband should close their stock accounts. At first, he didn't agree and even their financial advisor disagreed since the stock market was higher than ever before. But she wouldn’t back down. They closed their accounts. And, another friend said that she and her husband closed theirs five weeks ago. Both have a very tight relationship with God. They know His voice.

We’re sort of quarantined to our homes, our churches’ doors are pretty well closed, except mine has a chapel that stays open for us to go in and pray. I'm going there today. There’s something about that solitude, no phone interference, no outside noise and, oh, the presence of Jesus that is there. I take my journal with me. I hear God’s still small voice and I write those words down. Such peace is found there. Such comfort.

I get it. Since anyone can get COVID-19, everyone can get COVID-19. Those of us who have the antidote, can live without fear. Jesus asks us, “Which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If you then are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?” (Luke 12:25–26). Worry provides the sense that we are doing something about our fear, but that’s an illusion. Rather than worry about the future, we should prepare by doing what we can do and trust God with what we cannot.

I understand that the virus is one nine-hundredth the width of a human hair. Our Father measures the universe with the palm of his hand (Isaiah 40:12). He is on the throne of the world. Let’s be sure He is on the throne of our hearts today. Let’s get better acquainted with Him and His still small voice that has the answers for us.

Whatever We Do...Let's Do it for God

When my husband and I were just-married-youngsters (18 & 17), we were given some not-so-appealing jobs by his dad. He was the pastor of the church and we were the designated church custodians. My husband was a perfectionist. Oh, yes, he was. I was NOT! The church got the best of his perfectionism. He was the floor cleaner and polisher. When he was finished, those floors glistened. I got the bathrooms, including the toilets. I would laughingly say "I'm kneeling before the porcelain throne". I also said this scripture: "Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people." (Colossians 3:23). When I said those words with heart and soul, it made such a difference in making those toilets pristine clean.

We're on this germ-free mindset -- extra hand washing, using hand sanitizers, disinfecting our homes, drinking lots of water and eating lots of fruits and veggies for our immune system and social distancing ourselves. I’ve seen many of my neighbors posting on the Next Door app “Please let me know if I can run errands or pick up groceries for you!” I’ve watched you social media folks and you’re posting scriptures and calming words of hope. We may ask: "Is it really worth it? Are we really helping?" But, then this scripture comes up: “Brothers and sisters, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) When we do EVERYTHING as God's ambassadors, we are doing it – not just for us and those around us – but we're doing it ALL for God’s glory. And, then, it makes Him even more famous!

So here we are – smack dab in the middle of this “state of emergency” and many of us are pretty much homebound as we abide by the social distancing guidelines. But, we can be at home and whatever we do, we can still do it for God’s glory. Like what I did yesterday. I called friends and family that I hadn't spoken to in a long time. I texted and emailed words of cheer and encouragement. I prayed and read God's words from His “medicine chest” -- the Bible.

We can put uplifting and faith-filled words all over our homes. Keeping our minds filled with optimism and positivity (God’s Word is the best place to find that). We can get some Spring-cleaning done. I plan to start on clearing out unused clothes in my closet today! AND, this office chair that has had a broken arm rest for months? I ordered a new armrest from Amazon. It will be here today. Why did I wait so long?

When we stay on the side of optimism, peace and joy, we are doing all we do for God’s glory. Keeping in mind that we are still in the season of Lent, this is the perfect time to sacrifice all our complaints, worries and inconveniences with an attitude focused on the glory of God.

It’s not what we identify as the ideal Lenten season that leads up to Passion Week, but I think we can learn from our Savior’s example. Leading to the cross, He did everything for the glory of His Father. Was He inconvenienced? Was He misunderstood? Was He about His Father’s business in spite of it all? Perhaps it’s time to lean into Him more so we complain and worry less and prayerfully ask ourselves “In everything I do, am I doing it for the glory of God? If not – why not?

God's Hand of Protection

Remember how life seemed to just coast along when we were youngsters? I’ve witnessed that in my grandsons for the last week – making the grade in class, making the varsity baseball team, making the animals happy, making their Nana happy with helping out, making the decision on which Saturday activity to do. Thankfully my boys don't have this trouble yet, but do you remember the boy or girl friend trouble that all encompassed our lives? But, then life raced along and we got older, got married and had children of our own. THEN, they became our number one focus when it came to their protection and safety, especially in this age that we are living in today.

There is nothing that causes us to be prayer warriors like having children. There was no more coasting along. Suddenly we were caretakers of little people -- all consuming loving and making sure of their well-being. My children are grown with children of their own -- and they are still at the top of my prayer petitions. So many unknowns, so many reasons to stay tight with God in keeping them secure in His love and care for them.

In raising my children and having some responsibility at times like these couple of weeks here in Austin with my youngest grandsons, I’ve always found encouragement from how Jesus boldly prayed for His followers. The night before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed this prayer: “My prayer is not that You take them out of the world, but that You protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:15).

Notice Jesus didn’t pray for fame, wealth, safety or for a great escape for Himself or even that His disciples get a pass and go directly into heaven. Instead, He asked His Father to protect them from our enemy, Satan, the “evil one.” Right here in this world. We don’t have to look far – to recognize him and his evil tactics. Oh, I know those times. He is easily recognizable at what started to be a pleasant, loving and communicative family time and just one wrong word gets thrown out, and suddenly chaos breaks out and replaces the peace that was there before. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” (James 3:16)

Oh how the enemy of our souls wants us to be at odds with each other. He wants us in fear and doubt. If he can plant those seeds in our minds, he can dissuade us from stepping out in faith and causing us to be fighters instead of lovers. Jesus knew we would need “protection,” because every time we say yes to God, we step a bit further into enemy territory. Yet when we take risks for God, He will protect and preserve us from the evil one.

Following God doesn’t always mean knowing each step, but knowing each step He is with us. And as we leave the concern to Him, we can watch in awe as He grants reassurance from all our doubts. Trusting God every step of the way gives us sweet assurance of seeing God’s hand of protection in miraculous ways.

He is Our Storm Chaser

Most of my posts come from my own personal life experiences with the sincere hope that what I share will encourage and even open your eyes to our great Storm Chaser. I learned some very difficult lessons the hard way so my goal is to pass along the wisdom from those lessons to give you shortcuts to your prayers being answered and your faith increased.

It's our human nature to have the mindset: "I've got to figure this out on my own!" Many times, seeking God for the answer is the last thing we do to escape our storms. "I've tried everything else. I might as well, as a last resort ask God for help! Instead of asking "God, can't you see how great my storms are", we should be saying "Storms, can't you see how big my God is?"

The disciples passed their lessons learned onto us. We can learn a lot from their mistakes if we would not go the way of their lack of faith. They knew Jesus was on land and they discounted that He was the authentic, unparalleled STORM CHASER and PEACE MAKER. They toiled and feared, but Christ was praying on the shore for them. He saw the storm come up. HE SAW. He knew. And He sees and knows the storms we're going through. They are no surprise to Him. In fact, they are part of His plan to build our faith and trust in Him more. He is hearing our prayers in the midst of OUR storms and He will carry us safely to the other side.

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! Since we know our circumstances are no surprise to Him, let’s surprise Him with our trust in Him – in all circumstances and in all seasons.

The calm and quiet nature of Christ is what calms the storms in our life and in others. By sharing the presence of Christ within us, we introduce the nature of Christ. He is our Storm Chaser. He pursues us to let us know that we can trust Him. He calms our storms when we ask Him.

Dear Lord, we come to you and ask you to increase our faith. We acknowledge that one of the best ways to grow in faith is to experience storms in our life. For only in those times, can we exercise and experience trust, so that we may receive true peace and increase our confidence in You. By growing in our trust, we receive the calm and quiet nature of Your presence. May people be attracted to my soul that expresses calm in any and every situation. I invite you into my boat and ask you to take control. Amen.

An Opportunity to Choose Great Joy!

Choose joy? When challenges and disappointments come? How can we count all this stuff as joy? You young’uns may not remember the old Hee Haw Show where the cast members sang this “miserable” song that went like this: "Gloom, despair, and agony on me; Deep, dark depression, excessive misery; If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all; Gloom, despair, and agony on me." Those poor old guys lived way below these words from the Apostle James: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” James 1:2

I'm writing this blog from my precious grandson's experience last weekend. He had reasons to sing that Hee Haw song. I'm sure considering his troubles as “an opportunity for great joy.” was a stretch. You see, on Sunday, all dressed and ready to head to church, he went to his car….and his sweet-ride wasn’t there. My daughter gives these details: “Our son, Payton, had his car stolen this morning but I am so proud of his response to what could have been a very difficult morning. His response was: "Mom, I could be all upset and angry, but I choose JOY. I refuse to let this bring me down." His trunk was full of some VERY special possessions and our family fishing equipment, which...if you know my family, is PRECIOUS cargo. But instead of being "normal"...our boy chose JOY.

She goes on to share: “I don't know what you are going through, but today's brief, but powerful sermon comes to you from my son's own life experience today: "CHOOSE JOY!" "All things work together for good to them that LOVE GOD and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28. And God, we pray for the people who stole his car and we ask you to forgive them and draw them into repentance. May they come to know you and the power of your resurrection!” Staci Wallace

So, there you go, Satan. Body-slam to you and all your little imps. Instead of Payton losing his joy, he sensed God speaking to him to take a deep breath and receive the encouragement of joy when he needed it the most. If we read this verse “Count it all joy” (James 1:2) as a stand-alone suggestion, it seems impossible to put it into practice. Yet, if we read the context behind it in Scripture, it takes on an entirely new perspective and begins to seem — with God’s help — doable.

James wrote that verse during a time when the Christians were facing insurmountable problems that had stolen their joy. But in their defense, these believers had justifiable reasons to have a bad attitude. They faced great persecution, unrelenting trials and sufferings — from murder to imprisonment — at the hands of Saul, who was zealous to destroy the church and anyone associated with Jesus. As a result, these Christians were in fear, mourning, confusion, and hopelessness.

Some fled their homes in fear for their lives. They lived in poverty, forced to scrounge for food to survive. Some were sick, and everyone was exhausted. They had every right to be negative and pessimistic. James acknowledged their suffering but also wanted to give them hope and encouragement. He told them inner joy could still be theirs, if they deliberately chose to take control of their thinking and change their attitude. He encouraged them to pause and refocus on their faith.

When life gets hard, it’s difficult to avoid letting a bad attitude take over our minds and rule our lives. We might not experience religious persecution as those first believers did, but let’s face it: people hurt us, the past haunts us, coworkers mistreat us, friends forsake us, spouses dishonor us, children don’t appreciate us, finances don’t support us, and our health doesn’t sustain us. James’ words can help us, too.

Our attitude is our choice and knowing whatever circumstances we face don’t have the power to dictate that “loser” attitude unless we let them. Although enduring problems with a smile and pure joy in our hearts can be difficult, doing so not only helps us become stronger believers, it opens the door for an attitude transformation. Our attitudes are an outward display of what’s taking place in our hearts. When our hearts focus in the right place, our attitudes will, too. The only thing we have to lose by choosing a positive attitude is a negative one.

Lord, fill us with a joy that can only come from You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

HELP! If You Have a Great Passage – Send it my Way!

When we are far removed from the turmoil and fear that others go through during storms, tornadoes, torrential rains and now flooding, we pray and give positive thoughts and hopes for them, but still, we’re not in the middle of it. It's not touching us, so we go on about our business.

But this is Oklahoma, where our roots were for over 38 years, so my heart naturally gravitates to my friends and family there. Social media gives us visuals that tenderize our hearts. This photo is of Skiatook, OK (near Tulsa) that is under water right now. The relentless rain has raised the river and lake waters and can’t hold back the deluge. My friend’s drug store is under water. My sister and brother-in-law were helping to evacuate some of their employees because the flood waters are expected to cover their homes and more rain is on the way. Reports are that never has there been flooding so serious as is expected.

I saw a frantic FB post two days ago from a Tulsa friend. Her children were in the middle of the storm. She tagged me in her message. This is an excerpt of this desperate mom: “I can’t even keep tabs on them all, 40 plus tornadoes since Friday, now all over the State of Oklahoma -- homes lost, lives lost, flooding everywhere. Almost to the top of our bridges. Now time to be prepared to go down into our fraidy hole, again! I will be up all night now worrying about all our loved ones/friends and complaining it may seem, but I'm actually just venting and fear-filled, so please guys, pray for Oklahoma! Donna Wheat Wuerch if you have a great passage/message, please send it my way, Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA!”

Bless her heart. I did pray. The fact she called out my name put me on the spot of prayer and encouragement. I am humbled and honored that she called out my name while she was calling out God’s name. This is some of my response to her and it is my response to you today because you may be in a physical or spiritual storm and you need words of encouragement too:

“Oh, yes, sweet girl, I know those concerns. We lived in Oklahoma for 40 years and am well acquainted with storms and tornadoes. We knew those violent winds. I remember those times of concern when we went to our safe place in the middle of our home many times. It can be scary but we always trusted and placed confidence in God. We would speak to the storm, "In the name of Jesus, be gone!" I recalled scriptures like this one: "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him." (Jeremiah 17:7) As Jesus did, we spoke to the storm "Peace be still!" And then we'd hover until the storm passed over. Eventually, it did. It's a huge test of our faith to be in a storm and trust in God, but it's those times, we have nothing left to do but to hunker down and trust in His mighty hand. Sweet girl, let peace in the storm be yours. God was always faithful to us and He will be to you, too! I pray for "cease and desist" to those storms now, in the mighty name of Jesus! I read your words: "I will be up all night now worrying…” Precious girl, worrying gets you nowhere, but praying God's Word, believing in His faithfulness and being confident that He is with you and your family gets you somewhere. Here are some to pray:

~ Nahum 1:7 "The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him."
~ Psalm 107:29 "He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed."
~ Psalm 91:1-2 "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
~ Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."
~ Isaiah 26:3 "I will keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me."
~ Matthew 8:26 "He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm."

Stand strong for you and your family. Be the faith-talker, God-can-do-anything, nothing-is-impossible-for-Him, mighty woman of God you know you are! God’s peace be with you. Love you much. <3

Dear Jesus, wrap your loving arms around these families and bring a peace that is unexplainable and unending. I pray that a DIVINE sense of your presence invades their hearts and homes right now. Thank you for bringing light and hope to their lives. Thank you for the safety of my family and friends today. In Jesus' mighty name I pray, Amen!

Love is Being an Encourager

"Good Afternoon! Welcome to Moe's!" Like me, I’m sure you’ve taken notice of the fast food chains and stores whose employees shout out welcoming words when we walk in their doors! It may be scripted, but to me, it's encouraging! I was noticed! I also recognize it when a salesperson has been taught to be friendly and to look for something they can compliment their customers about: "I love your hair!" "Nice sweater!" In spite of their words sounding a little trite, it still gives us a feel-good feeling, doesn’t it?

I’ve had many encouragers in my life. At age 12, I remember my first babysitting job (50 cents an hour) taking care of a doctor’s two little ones – ages 3 months and 3. Their home was right across the street from ours, so the children's mom was assured I had help on stand-by if I needed it. I’ll never forget overhearing that mom telling my Mom: “Donna is so responsible for her age!” That made me want to be even more responsible. I’ll never forget, as a 13-year old, the choir director pointing out “You harmonize so beautifully." That gave me the confidence to belt out my harmonies even more. A friend said, " Donna, you have the most beautiful clothes.” That’s because my sweet mama, on a limited income, made sure that I wore trendy, beautiful clothes and she could do that because she was a great “deal” finder. I think that’s why, to this day, I head to the sales racks before I look at the full-priced items.

Today, I am an outgoing, avid writer, blogger, teacher and speaker because my husband encouraged me to speak publicly. He encouraged me to get my pilot’s license, real estate broker’s license and more. I had a boss who encouraged me to apply for a job that I didn’t have the required Master’s Degree for, but he knew I could do the job. I did and he was right. My Sweetheart passed way and I was surrounded by encouragers who literally lifted me up above the fray with their love and support.

And, now, the encouragement I receive from so many of you, my FB and blog friends and family that cheer me on in doing what I’m doing right now -- encouraging me to keep encouraging.
I was encouraged by others and I, too, became an encourager. That’s my point today, to say it’s time for us all to put on our Encourager Hats. It’s obvious how much our world needs cheerleaders and encouragers. I know, as I type this post, you get what I’m saying because you sense God’s gift within you. You’ve been through your share of heartaches and someone was there to encourage you, so you know like 2 Corinthians 1:4 says “So that you might comfort others with the same comfort that you’ve been comforted with”, you must encourage others. Now you are passionately aware that you’ve been called to speak up, reach out and lift up others. It’s not always easy because you don’t want to intrude or be a “know it all”, but that’s not what matters. What matters is you have something to give..

God uses people to encourage people. He's looking for available hearts to love and encourage the world around them. My hand is raised. How about yours?

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing"! Rise and shine, Encouragers! Let’s go encourage!

What Would the Walls of Your Home Say About You?

I sit here at my dear friends’ kitchen counter in the wee hours of the morning working on my post for this day. There are two little kitchen lamps dimly shining so mostly darkness surrounds me. Then I look across to the other side of the kitchen and there is the lighted manger scene glowing that I hadn’t noticed before in the daylight. I’m reminded of Emmanuel – God with us. Indeed, He is here in this beautiful home where the welcome mat is always out for me. My dear friends of so many years give me the royal treatment. It was especially meaningful this time as their Christmas decorations are still up. More than the lit Christmas tree and manger scene is the presence and light of Christ who lives in this home.

If these walls here could speak, I know they’d tell you “Love in any language fluently spoken here”! It is evident by the photos of their precious family and their two adorable grandchildren. Both Mick and Sheila beam with joy telling me how 3-year old Benjamin soothes his little 1-year-old sister when she’s crying with “It’ll be okay, Baby Sister!”.

Most importantly is the welcome mat is always out for God and His presence here. Every room in this home has its own personality and its own story to tell -- from Sheila’s mom’s magnificent paintings and artwork to the crosses, spiritual icons, statues, Bibles, devotion books, Christian magazines, scripture photos, and each room is named after a saint. The culture here is the free flow of conversation about the goodness of God and His love for us. No matter where the conversation starts – it will always include a gratitude word or blessing or encouragement in it. We just can’t carry on a conversation without it.

They humored me Saturday night as we watched the Dallas Cowboys game together – well, Mick and I watched the game as Sheila was with us but going through her 40+ years of a tub full of collected holy and scripture cards, sorting them to take to the women in the jail where she and Mick minister every Friday. At half time, we humored ourselves when, quite spontaneously, Mick got us going with Bible charades as he acted out Peter. The “hanging upside down on the cross” gave it away. When I acted out Mary Magdalene washing Jesus feet with her hair and crying, Sheila totally went to the place of remembrance of that meaningful and touching Bible scene and teared up as she said, “Ohhhh, it’s Mary!”

In this home and holding His Bible open, you’ll hear Mick remark, “Listen to this.....” as he quotes scripture and provides us with an enlightening explanation of the words. You’ll see Sheila’s face light up and hear her compassionate heart as she talks about the women who she witnesses to weekly in the jail or about the women that come to her home Bible studies. Truly this home is built on solid rock.

This same day while I was spending time with my 96-year-old Mom-in-love, who, by the way, is doing remarkably well – with just a few aches and pains in her legs, Sheila came over to visit her. It was the sweetest time and Mom beamed like a teenager as she nostalgically told her about how she and dad met and married six weeks later – a marriage that lasted 52 years before dad passed away. If the walls of Mom’s room could speak, they would tell you she is so loved and cared for by her daughter who is her loving and devoted caregiver. Mom’s vibrancy is proof of that loving care. The walls of this room are covered with family photos and scriptures and there's her Bible on her nightstand. It is evident who she is by what surrounds her.

Yesterday I spoke about friends who are for a season and those who are for a lifetime. Add to the list Sheila and Mick who live out the sanctity of marriage, friendship, loving others in word and deed. Their home is proof. Their lives are proof. The evidence is in the many lives that have been affected by their love, support and encouragement. Count me in on that one. Their home is evidence of WHO they are and WHOSE they are. Mom's little room expresses that, too.

What would the walls of your home say about you?

The Best TREAT Ever – Happy 96th Birthday, Mom!

Molly and David fell in love, were happily married, and then on October 31st, 1922 God gave this happy couple a precious gift from heaven. It wasn't a pumpkin or a ghost or a goblin, or any other TRICK. They must have been very, very good because He gave them a very special TREAT! And their TREAT was a precious little baby girl who they named “Lydia". “Lydia” means “worshipper of God“! And true to her name, she has been, and is, a true worshipper of God. You'll find her at any given time with her Bible in hand, reading and praying for her family and friends.

Mom met Dad, Herb, when she was 23 and six weeks later, they were married. Talk about a whirlwind courtship! Dad was a young, itinerant minister who was speaking at Mom’s church. I love hearing her tell the sweet details of their first meeting when he and her met on the way to the restrooms, and a day later showing up at her home and asking her parents if he could date her, to the 55 years that ensued to his passing, They had two children, Ronald (Ron) and Karen. This precious lady, "Mom", means the world to me, because were it not for her, my life would have never been filled with such love, joy, and happiness from having her son as my precious husband. I celebrate her and her life of giving, loving, and caring for so many. She has been a true gift to all who know her. She has left her mark on so many lives, including mine. Though she is actually my mother-in-law, it has always been so natural to call her "Mom", because she's always treated me like her daughter. She loved me when I was just 12 years old when I met her for the first time and has continued to love, support, pray for and encourage me all these years.

I know there are funny and often "catty" remarks about "mother-in-law’s". Not in my case. I know that were it not for her, I would have never been blessed with my sweetheart. I am so grateful for her and I appreciate, respect and honor her. And, that's the kind of "in-law" I desire to be for my children and grandchildren's spouses.

Fortunately, I’ve been here in Tulsa since Saturday and each day I’ve had the opportunity to go and sit with her. Yesterday when I showed up, she was standing erect, beaming from ear to ear with excitement that her two sisters-in-law and brother-in-law from Dallas were coming in town to see her and celebrate her birthday with her. How wonderful that there are those who desire to show up and express their love while their loved one is still on this side of heaven.

Just being in Mom’s presence brings peace. In our conversation on Sunday, I said, “Mom, what piece of wisdom would you give for your long and peace-filled life?” Without hesitation, she said, “1) Stay busy; 2) Help others whenever you can; and 3) If there’s somebody you don’t like, just let it roll over you.” Those words aren’t earth-shaking, but I’ve seen them played out in her life. Still, at 96, she stays busy. She stays busy with the office work she does for Karen & George’s business and she’ll either be reading her Bible, praying or on the phone to encourage someone. And, that part about not liking someone and letting it roll over you, she’s referring to cranky, bitter and hateful people. She’ll get pretty frustrated with them, but then, she’ll realize their attitudes are not hers, so she gives them to God to deal with them. She literally lets it roll off her shoulders to His.

On this 96th birthday of Lydia Wuerch, I pay special tribute to a beautiful, thoughtful and devoted Mom, Granny, and friend to so many. God must have loved us so much, that He gave her to us as the best TREAT ever. I celebrate this special day, I honor her with my greatest devotion and thanksgiving to God for her life, her continual prayers for us for so many years and for the living example she is of knowing God, His faithfulness and His love. Happy "96th" Birthday, Mom!

You've Got a Friend in Me

With six grandchildren, I've watch many animated movies and among my favorites was Toy Story. "You've Got a Friend in Me" is the theme song. Maybe we should use it as our own theme song:
You've got a friend in me. You've got a friend in me.
You've got troubles, and I've got 'em too
There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you
We stick together and can see it through
'Cause you've got a friend in me. You've got a friend in me

Yesterday, I heard a speaker say, “Often we look and act like we have it all together, but in reality, we are struggling and hurting and we could sure use a friend that we could like, love, and TRUST." That resonated with me. And, that friend is one we trust so much that we can bear our aching heart to as we cry bucket loads of tears. That friend is so trustworthy that they will cry and laugh with us, and best of all, our friend provides a “safe” place for us, because what is said in our time together, stays there. The speaker went on to say “Look at how Christ modeled His life. In the garden, as the Son of God, He chose to reveal to his three closest friends the anguish that He was in. He didn’t put a brave face on for the disciples. He shared the anguish of His soul as He cried, ‘Let this cup pass from me. ” If Christ could bear His soul – we need that, too.

We do have a trustworthy friend in Jesus. He is always there for us. He truly understands everything about us because He felt the same pains that we do. But, we also need a friend or friends that we love and trust and are able to reach out to them for encouragement. When I lived in Tulsa, I had a precious group of loving and caring women that were in my weekly Life Group. My home was our "safe space”, because we liked, loved and trusted each other. We shared our hearts openly because we knew what we shared was held as sacred. Galatians 6:2 says “Help carry one another's burdens, and in this way you will obey the law of Christ.”

Monday night was the first team meeting for a beautiful spiritual retreat that will take place in March. This team is a group of 40 women who will grow together throughout the next 16 weeks as we pray and prepare together for the retreat, but the most important facet of our coming together is that we are sisters in Christ and we will feel safe in that place. We covenant together to encourage and support each other. WOW! Forty friends to “safely” share each others joys and sorrows with.

The Christmas season is here and no doubt there will be added stress and pressure because of all the many activities that come along with it for many, and for others who are alone and lonely and long for this season to be over for another year. We need to find a “safe place” and a trustworthy friend, one of God’s kids, who will encourage us and lift us up. They are out there. To find that friend, it's up to us to show ourselves friendly. Maybe YOU and I could be THAT ONE that can offer ourselves as a “safe place” for others to come to for comfort and prayer. Instead of displaying a “Do Not Disturb” sign on our hearts, it’s time to put up an “Open” sign that says “Here’s my shoulder – go ahead and lean on me!” They will know they can come to us for hope, encouragement and support. After all, aren’t we supposed to be the “Good News” carriers? If you haven't heard it from me before, please hear it now "You've got a friend in me, and I love you so much."

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "And so encourage one another and help one another, just as you are now doing."

Spread the Good News!

Everyday, we make choices -- to listen to negativity -- especially in the news and then pass that bad news along. We also have the option to do what Jesus said, "Go into all the world and spread the GOOD NEWS!"

I remember my early years as a Christian how difficult it was for me to share God's "Good News" to those around me. Sure, I did my best to be a reflection of Christ's likeness in my words and deeds, but I wasn't what I thought a disciple was supposed to be like -- the one who queried "Are you a Christian? Do you want to go to heaven when you die? Do you have a relationship with Jesus Christ?" Those words not only intimidated me, but they frightened me when I thought about what the response might be and how I would respond back to them. I remember my church sending us out door to door to hand out Gospel tracks and how difficult it was to engage in conversation with the people at their front doors.

I thought, "How in the world can I be a true follower of Christ if I don't share -- especially since He gave those words "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15

As I matured in my walk with Christ, I came to realize that when I wake up each day, I AM His disciple, His messenger, His ambassador and devoted follower as I ensure my words are kind, generous, loving, sincere and caring and my actions are those that do reflect God's love and mercy.

"Going into ALL the world" isn't just about across the oceans, or even knocking on someone's front door, but it's about the smile we offer to the cashier who passes along her smile to the weary wife who’s grabbing a quick lunch, that helps give her the strength to hold the hand of her husband when she gets home that's battling cancer.

We don’t know how the kind word we speak to a friend will give her the courage she needs when she goes to her workplace and has a chance to answer the question, “What’s so different about you?”

So if we aren't being nudged to go to Africa to serve in an orphanage, it doesn’t mean our reach is any less. It’s not any less spiritual. It’s not any less filled with potential and purpose.
We serve a God who is not boxed in by time, circumstances, or geography. He is everywhere, all the time, with everyone. His work in and through us is spontaneous, thrilling, sometimes crazy, and oftentimes the most joy-filled experience EVER. And in any given moment, if we want to know the best place to start sharing His love, all we need to do is look down at the ordinary, sacred ground right under our feet.

Everyday we have the opportunity to touch someone's heart who will in turn touch their family's hearts, who will touch their communities and who will touch the world. All God is really asking of us is our willing heart to be His hands extended to a hurting world that needs our words of encouragement and our hands of tender loving care. THAT is God's GOOD NEWS!

The Dis-Ease of Busy-ness

This last April, I moved into my home in Frisco. Because I’ve been traveling so much, I haven’t been able to get really integrated into this amazing 55+ community of Del Webb’s Frisco Lakes. Until last week, I hadn’t even been able to attend the newcomers’ Frisco Lakes 101 that gives a great overview of everything that this community offers. Besides over 85 clubs and groups (Bible Studies, Game-Playing Groups, State Groups (people from your home state), various seminars, travel groups, bowling, bocce, pickleball, horseshoes and dance groups, there is the fitness center and fitness programs that provide every way possible to stay fit. No excuses! This month of August has afforded me the opportunity to “Dance the Pounds Away”, “Line Dance the Pounds Away”, “Cardio Sculpt”, “Outdoor & Indoor Swimming Aerobics”. Whew!! And, while that’s all awesome to keep a gal out of trouble and in to shape, one could sure get carried away with so much busy-ness. It reminds me of the cruises my husband and I would take. The schedule of activities was so full, and we didn’t want to miss a thing. We would need a vacation from our vacation.

I know I’ve blessed in this season of my life – to enjoy the company of other mature people and to celebrate that “we’re still here so we’re not done”. But, as with any age, busy-ness can be a huge distraction from the most important things. I remember, as a young child, how slow-paced our lives were. In fact, Mom and Dad made sure they’d go sit with the people we loved so much and have slow and meaningful conversations about the state of our heart and soul -- conversations that slowly unfolded, conversations with gentle pauses and silences that we were in no rush to fill.

How did we create a world where we have more and more to do, with less time for reflection, less time for community, less time to just… be? I remember Zig Ziglar quoting “We are human BE-ings – NOT, human DO-ings!”

How are we supposed to live, to reflect, to ponder – TO BE -- when we are so busy? This dis-ease of being “busy” (Let’s call it what it is -- the dis-ease of being busy is when we are never at ease) can really be damaging to our health and well-being. It saps our ability to be fully present with those we love the most and keeps us from quality one-on-one communications that we all so desperately crave.

Since the 1950s (my beginnings), we have had so many new technological innovations that we thought (or were promised) would make our lives easier, faster, simpler. Yet, we have no more “free” or leisurely time today than we did decades ago. And, instead of real communication with each other, we are on our devices. All. The. Time. Cell phones and laptops mean that there is no separation between the office and home.

I saw my daughter’s email inbox a couple of days ago – over 8500 emails awaiting her attention. Whew! Isn’t it time we re-evaluate this time, this place and this space? Isn’t it time to ask the meaningful questions of those we love? When we ask, “How are you?” shouldn’t that be what we really want to know. How often do we ask someone how they’re doing and the standard reply is “I’m so busy!” We don’t need to know how many items are on their to-do list, or their email inbox.

Personally, for me, I want to know how your heart is doing, at this very moment. Tell me. Go ahead and tell me your heart is filled with joy or tell me your heart is aching. Tell me you remember you are still a human being, not just a human doing. Tell me you’re more interested in me than the next item on your to-do list. Look me in the eye. Disengage from your electronics. Ask me how I feel and give me the time to explain “Great” or “Fine” or “In pain”. Put your hand on my arm, look me in the eye, and connect with me for one second.

Philippians 2:1-5 “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility, count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.”

Isn’t it time we insist on connections when one of us responds with saying, “I am just so busy,” we can follow up by saying, “I know, Love. We all are. But I want to really know how you are doing -- how you AND your heart is doing.”

Encouragers…Time to Take Courage and Encourage

Have you noticed when you walk into a store and you hear one of the clerks or food preparers shout out “Good afternoon, welcome to ____”? Isn’t that encouraging? You were noticed! And you know that some of those sales clerks have been taught to say something nice to you like “I love your hair or I love your sweater!” In spite of it seeming a little trite, it still gives you a feel-good feeling, doesn’t it?

Yesterday, I started thinking about those people who have been encouragers to me. I remember, as a young child, the choir director pointing out “You harmonize so beautifully at your young age.” That gave me such confidence to belt out my harmonies even more. Someone else said, “Donna, you have the most beautiful clothes.” That’s because my sweet mama, though she didn’t have much financial wherewithal, she made sure that I had beautiful clothes to wear and she could do that because she was a great “deal” finder. I think that’s why, to this day, I go to the sales racks before I look at the full-priced items. In my post, yesterday, I spoke about how average I was in school, but when it came to my clothes, I stood out.

Today, I am an outgoing, avid writer, teacher and speaker, because my husband encouraged me to speak publically, to get my pilot’s license, real estate broker’s license and more. I had a boss who encouraged me to apply for a job that I didn’t have the required Master’s Degree for it, but he knew I could do the job. I did and he was right. More recently, was the encouragement and support I had during the time of my husband’s illness and later his passing. The loving attention and care from dear friends and family lifted me way above the fray. And, now, the encouragement I receive from so many of you, my FB friends and family – that cheers me on in doing what I’m doing right now -- encouraging me to keep encouraging.

I said all that to say, because I was encouraged by others…..I, too, became an encourager. And that’s my point today, to say it’s time for us all to put on our Encourager Hats. It’s obvious how much our world needs cheerleaders and encouragers. I know as I type this post, you get what I’m saying, because you sense God’s gift within you. You’ve been through your share of heartaches and someone was there to encourage you, so you know like 2 Corinthians 1:4 says “So that you might comfort others with the same comfort that you’ve been comforted with”, you must encourage others. Now you are passionately aware that you’ve been called to speak up, reach out and lift up others. It’s not always easy because you don’t want to intrude or be a “know it all”, but that’s not what matters. What matters is you have something to give even if the recipient seems to be less than aware of your God-given gift. Here’s how you know you’re an encourager:

~ You hear someone express pain – maybe from a loss of a loved one, or the loss of a marriage, or they are experiencing physical pain, you know you must encourage them with at least the words “I’m praying for you”, but you don’t want it to sound like a cliché. I promise you...it isn’t. However and whenever you say those words…it matters – if you pray. The power of heaven lines itself up with those prayers. It tells them….you care enough to call in the cavalry…..er’ CALVARY where God marshals His army of warriors on their behalf. They know they’re not alone in their fight.

~ What about that attitude of looking for something good in someone, like those store clerks, to build up and bring a bright light to their day? Why not encourage by remarking “You are the fastest cashier I’ve ever seen!” or “You are so friendly. Thank you.” or “I love your smile”. When we do that, we’re being encouragers.

~ Encouragers often go the 2nd mile. Sometimes being an encourager means we should go out of our way to encourage someone. Invite them to lunch so they can just vent. Offer to take care of their children so they can have a couple of hours of “Me Time”. Take over cookies or a cake with a little note that says “Thinking about you and what a great Mom you are!”

I promise you, every word and action we offer in whatever way, is multiplied and magnified. We hold the power in our hands when we pick up the phone to send a text or to type a comment in a FB post that speaks truth and life and comfort. It’s not as much about the actual words as it is about knowing we care. We don’t have to be concerned that our words are perfect and we should never let the enemy talk us out of typing them – he knows the good we do as encouragers and of course he gets all bent out of shape when we foil his plans.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing"!

Rise and shine, Encouragers! Let’s go get ‘em…..let’s ENCOURAGE!!

Time to be an EMPTY NESTER!

Day 180 of Photo Inspirations -- Time to be an EMPTY NESTER!
Two weeks ago I told you about a beautiful cardinal perched on my fence and was inspired that he came to bring me joy and excitement – my family was coming in town that night.  A week letter, I came home to find he was there for his own family.  A nest had been built in my crepe myrtle and it contained two itsy bitty cardinal babies. Daily, since then, I’ve gone to take a little peek of the little darlings.  It’s amazing how quickly they grew.  I knew this would be the week that they would be out on their own.  This first photo is day before yesterday when they were still cozy in the nest.

And yesterday, I saw Mr. Cardinal perched at the very top of this tree – almost in glorious pride shouting out….. “My babies have left the nest!”  The next photo is Mrs. Cardinal on the column with baby cardinal on the ground fledgling around.  It wasn’t long before the twins had taken flight.  And all that’s left is this last photo taken today …… of the empty nest.  I’m quite sure that Mr. Cardinal is strutting around, beak and head crest held high, giving high fives to Mrs. Cardinal and shouting to the world, in the words of Dora the Explorer… “We did it! We did it!”

I’ve been amazed as I watched the instincts of these birds. And, while those instincts are given to them at birth, it took encouragement and motivation by Mom & Dad Cardinal to help them reach their full potential to spread their wings and fly.   It's increible how quickly these little birds went from ibeing inside of an egg, to emerging as little birds and being fed by their parents, and then being encouraged to jump from the nest and now flying -- especially when we consider us.  It takes 18+ years for our kids to take flight.

Do you remember bringing your new baby home from the hospital?  I didn’t sleep a wink that night. I kept checking to see if he was breathing. We made it through those days to sheer joy as we watched his many "firsts"-- his first smile, his first laugh-out-loud, his first time to rollover, the first time he sat up, the first time he crawled and the first time he walked.

Remember walking?   My husband would be on one side holding him up, while I stood across from him -- holding out my arms with a toy or food to motivate him to step out on his own.  It didn’t work the first time.  He’d fall down, and Daddy would help him up again, and with the same process over and over again, our little guy eventually ventured across to me.  That’s what the Mama bird did.  That little baby bird had to be coaxed to leave the nest – and it was probably for food.  Mama bird probably withheld food from him, and He was hungry and he knew he had to leave the nest to get it.  I watched those little birds fledgling around and soon the whole family had taken wing and flown away.

I could compare this all to those Moms and Dads who are going through the challenging “empty nest syndromes”.  You may be taking your baby to pre-school for the first time this year and there are those who will be taking your baby to college for the first time this year.  Yes, probably there will be tears – whether it is pre-school or college, but, oh, such good tears.  Tears of the memories of the first steps, the first camp-out, the first time they drove, the first girl or boy friend…..and now the first time out on their own.  You’ve done what you were created to do…..bring those precious babies into this world, encourage them to grow up and encourage them to leave the nest.  It’s the cycle of life – and you are equipped to handle it – so much so that you can sing along with Dora the Explorer, too.  Go ahead – give your spouse and friends and family big High 5’s and pat yourselves on the back and say "We did it!  We did it!"

Birds of a Feather Flock Together -- Teamwork Leads to Victory

Day 17 of Photo Inspirations -- Birds of a Feather Flock Together!
This is the pond behind my house -- part of which is frozen -- the other part is being enjoyed by this bonded flock of Canadian geese.  Quite amusing to see them diving their heads under the water for a breakfast fish treat and flapping their wings.  They're quite stately and beautiful to look at......but, oh me, in our neighborhood, they are not a welcomed sight.  They have no respect for our yards, sidewalks and streets -- leaving their geese poo everywhere -- so much so, if you're not watching, you'll step right into it.

I understand there sure are a lot of them everywhere — in parks, on golf courses, maybe even YOUR backyard, too. Nevertheless, we still enjoy the sight of geese overhead, signaling the coming or going of our coldest months. .

I didn't post this today to discuss how to eliminate the geese problems, but I am posting to look at lessons we could learn from the geese, and apply to our own lives and teams.  In the sky, geese are an impressive visual of coordination and communication.

Lesson #1 -- Cooperation -- As geese flap their wings, they create an uplift for the bird following. By flying in a V formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if any bird were to fly alone.   Flying together creates an uplift, a surge that carries the whole farther than its individual parts could go by themselves. Comparing them to a group or team cooperating, it can achieve great things. We are truly a flock. We might not be the lead goose, but each of us has a role, even if it seems minimal. The team's forward movement, its success, is dependent on the efforts of us all.  I saw this so clearly in our team events last weekend.

Lesson #2  -- Unity -- Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone, and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front. Going it alone - being independent of the flock - leads to falling behind. What happens when a goose falls out of formation and cannot or will not reform? If the flock can fly 71% farther as a group, then the lone goose is left behind.  Anyone who has played team sports knows that each player must subordinate his desires to those of the team. His goal may be to have the highest scoring average, but that may not help the team to win the championship.

Lesson #3  -- Leadership -- When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation and another goose flies at the point position. True leadership is reproducing himself so that others can bear the load and even be able to assume responsibilities if the leader is absent for a period of time.   Others get to step up and show their leadership abilities.

Lesson #4 -- Encouragement -- The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.   To be the lead bird, is to be a target, and that can be stressful and wearying. The leader doesn't always know what is going on among the team, how the members feel, or what questions or misconceptions they may have. Too many times all the leader hears is the grumbling of the vocal few. Through our kind words of encouragement, we can give strength to those up ahead of us. A sincere thank you or supportive gesture, will make it all worthwhile.

Sometimes, being a team member, means we are watching from the bench. We still participate, however, by giving encouragement, by rooting for our teammates who are on the field.  I love Seattle Seahawks "twelfth man".  I sincerely believe it's one of the reasons they are such a winning team.  The fans are the "twelfth man" and they cheer from the sidelines, wear their team colors, put flags on their cars and in their yards (in my son's family's case) and they are "all in" supporters.

Lesson #5  When a goose gets sick or is shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it is able to fly again or dies. They then launch out on their own, with another formation or catch up with the flock. These are just other ways of saying we must help each other -- especially those  who have dropped out of formation.   We should never abandon a sick or wounded team member.  As long as there is hope, we should be there to help.

Imagine if our "family" team, "business" team, "sports" team or any other team behaved like a flock of geese, flying in perfect formation, cooperating as a team, unified behind the leadership, constantly encouraging those around us, and helping our team members in faith and support.  We'd reach our flock's destination in complete victory.

Now, please excuse me -- as I shoo away this "team" of geese in my backyard.  Time for them to find another place of victory!!!

Sheltered in the Arms of God

Another thing to know about me....in the 70s, my husband, sister-in-law, a dear friend and I were The Master's 4 Quartet. We traveled the country in a 26' Winnebago (with our two kids pictured here) -- singing/playing Gospel songs in churches, camps, concerts and other venues. Those were great days of many and long road trips, rehearsals, performances and great ministry opportunities where we shared our life experiences and how God never failed to bring us through each one. The song, "Sheltered in the Arms of God" was one we were most often asked to sing. I think it was because it's a song of hope, encouragement and faith, but most of all the words spoke of the certainty of the arms of God that carried us each time we faced the uncertainties of life. If you're there -- faced with those uncertainties today, I encourage you to hold on and remember, you're not alone. So go ahead, praise Him in the storm because you're sheltered in the arms of God.
So let the storm clouds rage high,
The dark clouds rise,
They don't bother me;
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.
He walks with me,
And naught of earth shall harm me,
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.