Our Rich Family Heritage

My friend posted this beautiful photo on her timeline a few days ago. She was in Pocahontas, Illinois. I commented: “I have family roots that go back to John Rolfe and Pocahontas. They were our 10th generation grandparents. Yay! I'm multi-racial! There's a tiny percentage of Native American in me! And I thought I had no famous folks in my family lineage."

That lineage is on my Mom's side of the family. When she was up in years, I realized I knew little of her family history -- stories about her 10 siblings, what it was like living in a large family, how their parents made ends meet, how she met my Dad, their first kiss, their wedding, and what it was like to have us kids. What a shame I waited so long to find out. I realized that I was so "me" focused that I didn't treasure and appreciate where I came from. So, I did something about it. I took my camcorder, set it on a tripod and spent many hours and days (but a few minutes at a time) interviewing her. Her stories were so precious. Fortunately, I stopped to spend quality time with her that resulted in VHS tapes that I gave out to my siblings and their kids when Mom passed away at age 94 in 2004. I was able to pass on our rich (not in money, but in faith and fortitude) family history.

As I type this today, my Holy Lands “bucket list” pilgrimage three years ago comes to my mind. The more we delved into the rich history of Christianity in the tours that explained so many of our “Family of God’s” history, the more I realized how much I need to be living everyday with great appreciation and gratitude for what our fore-fathers and mothers gave us. How can I do that unless I make the effort to know that heritage? Thankfully, I have a dear cousin, just a few years older than me, that kept up so much better than I did with our family. She accentuates all the positives – the blessings – of our rich family history of faith.

Imagine the wisdom that’s stored up in our elderly family members that could give us so much insight to how rich we are today because of the price they paid to get us here. My children are getting the best of me as I archive so many of my personal life experiences as well as all that rich family heritage that I recall to them. Now, take that even further in realizing the rich family history that goes back to our first “mother and father” (Adam and Eve), studying the scriptures to see where they went right…and where they went wrong – lessons they learned that we sure don’t want to repeat. So much wisdom to learn all throughout the Bible that can keep us pointed in the direction of peace, comfort and joy in our lifelong faith journeys.

I assure you that my Christian walk has been so faith-filled because of what I’ve learned in scripture from our “family heritage”. There have been times in my life where I’ve experienced the pain of my poor choices or actions. In those moments, it can be easy to entertain a notion that I have blown it, that God can’t use me and there’s no hope for restoration. I think we all face those feelings when we fail. During these times, I draw strength from God’s Word, where He tells the stories of heroes of the faith who blew it, like King David, Moses, Peter, Saul (Paul), Abraham and even more. In some cases, their failures were so extreme, it would be natural to say that God would have a right to turn His back on them. But that isn’t God’s nature. He is all about redemption. So when we fail, we can be thankful that God loves a good comeback story.

Paul reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28) This should give us hope that no matter what we may have done, our adventure isn’t over. God’s at work reclaiming our story. Failure doesn’t disqualify us, even if we’ve been following Jesus for some time. Our story is still being written. The only way that failure can get the last word in our life is if we choose to let it. We serve a God who is able to take our defeats and missteps and still use us to bring glory to his name. Whether we’re walking with Him faithfully or we’ve had a few stumbles along the way, God continues to encourage us to get up, brush ourselves off and build His kingdom.

I started this post with talking about my own family history and how it has affected my life for so much good. But our rich family history of faith is the yesterday, today and forevermore news and if we continue to review it, rehearse it, and make it known to our children and our children's children, we will carry on our rich family history until we all join together in one big, rich family reunion in heaven. What a day of rejoicing that will be!

Soaring Above it All

I saw this photo on a friend's FB post about her recent vacation. Right away a blog started forming in my head. Her FB comment was: “Oh, today, let’s be adventurers! Feel the wind and fly.” Obviously, she and her husband took her words to action. I commented on her post: "I love that! I sense that’s a word from God telling us to rise above anything that is keeping us earthbound. He will carry us above all as we place our trust in Him. God gives us wings as eagles to fly and strength to rise above it all. When our feet begin to stumble and our dreams begin to crumble, we mount up on eagle’s wings. Instead of doubt and fear, we get adventurous!! Count me in!"

Their adventure reminded me of my parasailing two years ago while in Zihuatanejo, Mexico for my son’s birthday celebration (2nd photo here). It looked like a cinch to me to be strapped into the harness and take to soaring behind the boat. But, I missed an important detail: “Sit back in the harness.” I didn’t and for the entire experience, I prayed and held on for dear life hoping I wouldn’t fall out of it. It felt so loose. I wouldn’t have fallen out, but still my mind wasn’t on soaring but staying locked in.” Indeed, it was an adventure for me.

No matter whether we’re walking on water with Peter (yesterday’s blog), earthbound and never flying in an airplane or a para-sail or jumping from an airplane in a parachute – there is no 100% guarantee that we will arrive safely to our destination. We don't know the equipment, the pilots and, as trained and skilled as they are, they just can't predict everything. Then what about the potential wackiness of other passengers on an airplane? With bombs found in shoes and bags, everyone is suspect when boarding a plane. The reality is that many things can go wrong and, despite the airline's stellar track record, and parachutes and para-sails working properly -- history has proven that bad things can happen.

Still, I fly. Still I para-sail. Still I raise my hand “Pick me!” when offered an adventure. And, the same is true about my faith. Like that enormous aircraft getting off the ground -- my faith even defies human logic. We are told our Savior is one who died, then came back to life. How can that be possible? But I BELIEVE. We're asked to trust God Who we can’t even see. But when we do, and we put our lives in His hands and have faith that His flight plan is the best course for us, we arrive safely at our faith destination -- fulfilling our destiny and purpose.

We were handcrafted by our Creator to soar far above this earth, going to places that would be impossible to go under our own power and doing things we never imagined. If we let go of inhibitions and fears, we can expect a faith journey of soaring high above this earth's worries and concerns, and, He guarantees 100% ON-TIME arrival! WOW! That's a record that can't be beat! Come, fly with me!

💥💥💥💥 2,000 and Still Counting 💥💥💥💥

This day, July 11, 2019 -- is the BIG ONE! The BIG ONE as in posting my 2,000th blog. Pardon the personal high-fives! 🤚🤚 I’m beyond grateful for God's faithfulness to me to inspire, motivate, encourage, drop nuggets of His fresh Word, opened my eyes to see the beauty in each day and to savor the moments when I would get an “aha” lightning bolt revelation to share with you. Most of all, I am so thankful for those who commented or “secretly” sent me private messages about how one of my posts was “right-on” for what you needed for that day. Thank you to those who privately asked me for counsel and advice and to pray for you. The praise all goes to God! 🙏🙏

On April 26, 2010, I wrote my first-ever blog. It was the beginning of the faith journey of our lives and I knew God wanted me to live our journey out-loud to document the abiding and constant love that we knew that the Father would pour out on us. We wanted our light to brighten the way for others who may have been facing similar situations. We were embarking on travels that were not without God's oversight and provision. While we had always considered our walk with Christ to be an amazing faith journey, with its many twists and turns and ups and downs, we were always secure in knowing He was on board with us, come what may. But, this new road we were on, was one that came out of the clear blue, unexpected and we needed to put on our combat boots and gear to handle this one. We were so full of faith, determination and great expectancy. Here is that first blog, just in case you’re interested in reading it:
https://mypeacezone.com/our-great-faith-adventure-begins/

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

At that time, I was randomly blogging about our faith journey and then in January of 2011, after he passed away, I asked God what my new mission would be for that year. It was as clear as any message I would hear from someone who was face-to-face with me. God nudged me to continue my blogging in my new season of widowhood – to keep letting His light shine in my every day musings. It was still random blogging until 2014 when I knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that I was to make blogging a life mission DAILY, posting before 6 am each day. Not just aimless blogging but mind-of-Christ blogging. Being a social media missionary. Consistently being a light in the darkness. Every day. To start the day. For those who needed some gas-in-their-tank, a fresh word of hope, a breath of fresh air, a reason to live, and the knowing – nothing is impossible with God.

Often, it's all about ME because I need those reasons to start my own day. I know I need to get out of bed on the RIGHT side of being a determined, strong, fearless and powerful woman who believes we were ALL created to make a difference in this world, in our workplaces, in our communities, our schools, our churches and our homes!

Here’s the deal. Aimless, selfish, my four-and-no-more thinking isn’t why God created us. He created us to be the ones to step up and out of our comfort zones and our comfortable homes and comfortable mindsets. Our world needs "behind the scenes prayer warriors", social media missionaries, powerful living-out-loud faith-filled, devil-chasing, armor-bearing believers who light up their corners, workplaces, homes, churches, schools, and even the marketplaces with God’s presence and light.

Maybe you are being nudged by God today – to begin blogging, or volunteering for your church or community center. Pay close attention. If God nudges, we best get after it! And, as we go, I'm quite sure when we open our mouths, it will be filled with God's wisdom, and the teaching of kindness will open doors to bring healing and wholeness to our world -- being peace-makers, joy-givers, hope-bringers, lovers, and compassionate healers!
See you tomorrow, for blog 2,001!

Memorial Stones for Remembering

Thank you for your indulgence as I have been in inspiration overload from VBS this week. The end of Day 5 brought mixed emotions: “Aw! We Made it!” and “Oh no! It’s Over!” The latter are my words as this joy-filled week is over and I return to my quiet and peaceful home. The former are words the volunteers (most of who are parents of the children and they’re worn out). I was amused at them yesterday. Most of those mamas who were volunteering have young and teenage children and their lives carry on each day after VBS is over. They aren’t afforded my sweet spot of R&R.

Yesterday was the big finale of our Israelites wandering 40 years in the desert. They wound up at the Jordan River, where, on just the other side was their Promised Land. It was precious to see a re-enactment of the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant up to the edge of the Jordan by kindergartners. When their feet touched the water, the waters parted and they went across on dry ground. Our teen volunteers pulled back the “plastic” waters where there were stones that would be the memorial stones that marked bringing God’s people into the Promised Land. How appropriate for the conclusion of this week. The entire week was a “memorial” indelibly imprinted in their minds and mine. I won’t forget those little faces of wonder and awe.

It may be now, or it may be years down the road, but those memories and memorials that we create in our children DO have an impact on those bright-eyed faces. God Bless you, VBS leaders, crews and volunteers for the eternal investment you are making in the lives of these precious children!

While VBS is a summer staple for families every year, it’s certainly not the end-all. This scripture describes what I see in the labor of love that these families and volunteers provide – way more than just this one week: “You are to love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Let these words that I’m commanding you today be always on your heart. Teach them repeatedly to your children. Talk about them while sitting in your house or walking on the road, and as you lie down or get up. Tie them as reminders on your forearm, bind them on your forehead, and write them on the door frames of your house and on your gates." (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) That panoramic view is much more descriptive of an endless process of training our children in the way they should go – not just for a week – but every day of the year.

The lessons I learned early on, the scriptures I memorized, and the stories of faith and trust in God carried on into my life today. The stories and scriptures are what sustained and strengthened me in my toughest times and have given me joy and peace in my faith journey. I promise you, teaching your children about God and His Word, will carry them through to adulthood and even beyond to the families they will have some day. When you see them teaching their children one day, you'll be ever grateful for the seeds you planted. That's how I felt this week when I witnessed these children shouting out answers to questions in our Faith Station – that came from more than a week at VBS. Those little eyes and ears were watching and listening this week. They also watch and listen in your homes. Keep laying the foundation that will keep them standing strong. That’s a constant, never-changing message to continue sharing and one that I’m willing to stake my life upon! How about you?

We’ve Arrived….Well, Maybe Not!

I think back on my life and the times I thought I had “arrived”. I had a boyfriend at last! I’ve arrived! I graduated from high school. I’ve arrived. I landed a great job. I've arrived! I got married. I’ve arrived. I had a baby --- then, two babies! I’ve arrived. In reality, those were never arrivals. They were simply journeys that still continue – even to today.

Once upon a time, I thought being a Christian was a “you’ve arrived kind of thing.” The truth is: I haven't arrived. I am still in great need of my Savior. I must lean on him...24/7. Sometimes I'd like to retreat -- even for a 10-minute nap! To say it’s often a battle puts it mildly. But the crazy good news is this – the battle is good. Good for us. It makes us warriors.

God has the game plan and assures us of a win....eventually. So I’ve come to be okay with the battle. We often get "bruised and battered" in the combat, but the battle makes us wiser and more aware of the same old schemes and tactics of the enemy of our souls. We get stronger. He gets dumber. He is such a loser.

The truth is our faith journey isn’t about arriving. It is about carrying on. We "pick up our cross and follow Jesus" -- no turning back. Our journey is about grabbing hold of the hem of Jesus’ garment and hanging on for dear life. And while we're holding on, we trust that the enemy is waving the white flag of surrender and shouting "CEASE FIRE"! But we don't cease fire. We are in it to win it and no doubt we will because the Lord is with us as a mighty warrior (Jeremiah 20:11).

I've had my times on the battlefield. I assure you -- all the battle scars turn into our testimony. People hear our story and are often star-struck at God in us. We point heavenward because you and I both know, it is a miracle that we’re still here and we’re still standing -- because of God's amazing grace!

This faith ride that we’re on isn’t a one-time ticket where we can say “I’ve arrived!” it is a continual commute. It is a consistent day-by-day, in the trenches of life, even being engaged in an ongoing battle that must be fought minute-by-minute. We are in the middle of it each day and we will not surrender. We will not give up because, in God’s sight and His all-knowing end of the story – we win. It all counts. It is all worth it. God sees. The celebrations will begin when we step over to the other side and it all will be worth it. In the meantime.....we suit up, show up and FORWARD march!

"Christ, the royal Master leads against the foe; forward into battle. See, His banners go! Onward Christian Soldiers! Marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before."

His Mercies Are New -- But What About My To-Do List?

His Mercies Are New -- But What About My To-Do List?
My faith journey goes way back to when I was a little girl. I remember almost every verse of so many of the old hymns that we would sing. Those were the days when we still used a hymnal and we sang those old songs that were birthed out of hardships, losses and illnesses. One of my favorites was “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. There’s a line that continues to describe my life as each new day brings new hope AND new concerns about this and that, and how will this and that turn out? The line that resonates within me as sweet assurance comes for this day and tomorrow is: “Morning by morning new mercies I see . . .”

I was thinking about that line yesterday. I woke up, headed straight to my closet, stepped on and off my scale! “YAY! I’m down a pound. I’ll go to Weight Watchers (my monthly weigh-in that keeps me accountable to healthy living and weight control)!” Most mornings when I wake up, after the bathroom call, I head to my office to post my FB message and blog and then send a text message of love to my children. My post and loving on my children already has me thinking about Christ’s mercies and faithfulness, but very quickly after that, I’m already going through my “To-Do” list.

“I must find someone to repair my sprinkler system. Why is that fingernail healing so slowly? I must go to the grocery store. I must pay my bills. I must get my blog ready for tomorrow. I must google Youtube videos to figure out how to install that water filter. I must get the garage cleaned out. I must get gas today. I must finish editing my daughter’s manuscript for her new book. I must. I must. I must.

Oh, I know my little list cannot be compared to you mamas who are overloaded with "To-Do's" -- car pools, school lunches, laundry, businesses to run, and on and on. I think we can all relate that our mornings don’t involve a list of God’s mercies as much as they involve a list of our own concerns. I’m sure we can all boast about how good we’ve become at checking off our “To-Do” list.

But, then, in a sweet moment, that old hymn rolls around in my head and, instead of obsessing over all the “To Do’s”, I start to hum the tune I’ve known since childhood. And it reminds me of the God who has loved me since long before that.
“Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided —
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"

That “All I have needed” part is what makes me stop. I come to a complete standstill. Right there in the middle of my kitchen in front of my host of vitamins I NEED to take and I think….. “Do I really believe that? "All I have needed Thy hand hath provided." Do I live like I really believe that?”

His faithfulness is new every morning in a hundred different ways. In the stormy and sunshiny days and in the hectic and calm days. It’s the one thing that doesn’t change. I desperately want to become an expert at believing that…..don’t you?

I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked and Felt His Presence There

I was up at 4:30 am to watch the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee. It didn't disappoint. When the breakfast buffet opened, I got my plate and took it outside to hover in God's presence. I shut my eyes to think about Jesus calming the winds & waves & walking on the waters. Is this for real that I'm in this place I've only read and heard others talk about?

I read my morning Gospel reading that brings together all the reasons for this faith journey: John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life."

Soon, one my fellow travelers came and sat by me with a chair between us. Our conversation included who I knew on this pilgrimage, and why now? I told him this was my sweetheart and my "bucket list" trip and because he gave this to me at his passing, and I'm here with our dearest friends. He said, "I'm so sorry about your husband", and I said, "Oh, don't be. He earned his trip to heaven and besides that, we celebrated 44 years of marriage before he left, in addition to being together since we were 12 & 13 years old. He replied in the sweetest and tenderest way, "I'm going to go now and let you and your husband enjoy yourselves together. He's sitting right here beside you (in the empty seat between us). Then he gave me the biggest "daddy hug I could possibly take. Of course, my heart was tugged and my eyes were filled with tears at this "heaven-to-earth" moment.

Just a little later when we were on our large boat, riding the waves on the Sea of Galilee (I can hardly believe I just put those words in a sentence), and after we had heard scriptures that spoke of the miracles and works Christ did in this region, the sailors of the boat mentioned they were selling laminated maps of the region as well as stones necklaces with momentos of this experience.

A short while later, my friend from this morning, came over to me and said, "My wife and I looked for one of those stones that was the closest resemblance to a heart for you and this is it. It's from your husband." Oh my. This precious couple tugged at my heart strings that created "transcends earth" moments.

Nothing could be said that can compare to this day. Riding in a boat on the Sea of Galilee, hearing God's words to us from scripture that resonated in our hearts as we witnessed the sights and sounds. Our guide brings all this to life for us as he covers it all and explains it all with such wisdom and finesse. I sure didn't realize that the Sea of Galilee is so small. You can be in the boat in the middle of it and see land all around: It's only 8 miles wide and 13 miles long.

This post is longer because I have a good wifi connection and I could add more thoughts and photos!! YAY! The photos will best explain but cannot possibly provide adequate explanation of this experience. Highlights are:

1) On the Sea of Galilee (in John 6) we know that Jesus was above the waves as He walked on water. Seems remarkable as you look at the size of this sea, however our guide told us the waves have gone as high as 8 stories. No wonder the disciples were afraid when they were about to be overtaken by them. Our guide emphasized, "Since our Lord is higher than the waves, He can sure take care of any problems we may have. Peter, in his quest to walk on water with our Lord, took his eyes off the Lord, panicked and began to sink, but as he cried out to the Lord, "Save me!", the Lord did save him.. And that same Lord responds to our call when we cry out "Save me!" How beautiful it was when the boat stopped and we were told "Now, take in the peace of God that Peter must have felt when he gave up his will for Christ's will".

2) After this wonderful boat ride around the Sea of Galilee, the motorcoach took us to the Mountain of the Beatitudes where Christ gave His Sermon on the Mount. Our guide said the hills were the perfect spot for the sermon.

The mountain is so beautiful with lush plants, trees and birds chirping as the backdrop for our morning celebration of mass and communion.

4) We had lunch at a lovely restaurant at Magdala (the home of Mary Magdalene) and were served pita bread, hummus and so many veggies, PLUS a whole fish -- head and all (talapia). So delicious!

Of course that's what we ate. How could you just go see the mountain where Jesus gave His famous sermon and feed over 5,000 men, plus women and children with just 2 loaves of bread and 5 fish? At Magdala is where the Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes is located.

5) Then we went to Tabgha where we saw a primitive olive press (of course you need an olive press because of all these olive trees that grow here). Here is the Church of St. Peter's Call to Ministry. Remember after Peter completely "blew it" when he denied even knowing our Lord? We can only imagine the regret Peter had after that. How could he have rejected Christ so easily after he had a front row seat to every miracle and every outreach to others that Christ performed? So he was living in anquish, I'm sure, BUT, Christ forgave him -- so much so that He asked him "Do you love me" over and over and Peter's response was "Yes, Lord, you know I do!" And Christ's reply was "Feed my lambs. Feed my sheep." Once again, the beloved St. Peter went on to build God's church. The rock that Peter was standing on when Christ called him is here at this shrine.

6) Capernaum was our next stop -- Jesus' home town. Jesus' fame spread everywhere when He cast out the unclean spirits from the man. Mark 1:21-34 "Jesus and His companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, He went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at His teaching, for He taught with real authority—quite unlike the teachers of religious law. Suddenly, a man in the synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, “Why are you interfering with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” But Jesus reprimanded him. “Be quiet! Come out of the man,” He ordered. At that, the evil spirit screamed, threw the man into a convulsion, and then came out of him.a Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. “What sort of new teaching is this?” they asked excitedly. “It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey His orders!” The news about Jesus spread quickly throughout the entire region of Galilee." Capernaum is where the remains of Peter's house, are located. The remains of the oldest synagogue that Jesus taught in is in Capernaum. Capernaum, at the Sea of Galilee, is the place Jesus called Peter, James and John to follow Him.

That was a power-packed day that leaves me overwhelmed at the end of this day. The finale of this day was stepping into the Sea of Galilee -- those waters aren't the same waters, but that place and that sea were once Jesus' place of ministry. In the coolness of the breeze at times, the sea and waters, the hillside, the restaurant, the motorcoach and the holy places......taking in the wonder..... this same Jesus lives in ME and YOU. I didn't need to come here to know that, but coming here has increased my faith in the Son of God, the saints and martyrs, Blessed Mary, Joseph, the apostles and my brothers and sisters on this pilgrimage -- everything and everyone has had a profound effect on my life. Yes, Il'll never be the same!

This morning we leave Tiberius for JERUSALEM! Shalom!

There is no Journey Like the Journey of Faith

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

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

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

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

Be AnxIous for Nothing (No-Thing)!

Notice the letter in the middle of the word "anxious" -- it's an I. When I am handling MY affairs, when I am the one in charge, when I rely on myself for the outcome of MY decisions and plans, then I can easily get ANXIOUS about every-thing!

Yesterday, I practiced those words “Be anxious for NO-thing” -- without the I. This follows my blog from Tuesday about handling life's stuff that comes our way with freedom from anxiety. I was taking the next step on my faith journey of hopefully moving the closing process for my new home, but because of the hailstorm damages, couldn't close today as was originally planned. I, along with Larry, my son, and the repair guy were to meet the insurance adjuster at 3:00 pm. We waited and waited....for over an hour, but he never showed up. More delays on this process. I'll admit I said things like "Whatever happened to quality customer service when you call and let people know you are running late or delayed?" But, then I realized, maybe, once again, this isn't an adjuster issue, it's an opportunity issue for me to "Be anxious for nothing (no thing)". Realizing he wasn’t going to show up, I went home to the Wallace's and Denise asked, "How did it go?" My reply was "I am anxious for no thing! And this is just a THING."

Here’s some very good teaching from the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians. He gives us one of those “DO NOT” commands (certainly NOT a suggestion) to be anxious for nothing (no thing). By the way, let’s put his words into perspective. He wrote this letter from the dingy, wet, cold confines of a prison cell but rather than be whiny, wimpy, cranky and sulky, he dismissed his reasons for anxiety and was able to find the peace of God. How could he do that when he had all the reasons in the world to be anxious about every-thing? If we would apply Paul’s words to our circumstances, whatever they are, then we would get the results he had. This is what we can expect for ridding ourselves of the anxiety issues that stress us out, make us angry at others, and keep us from joy and peace. Paul said in Philippians 4:6-8 "Do not be anxious about ANY-THING, 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."

Paul lived by example for you and me. He showed us how to trust God in all things….even in a prison cell or having a flat tire, or a missed appointment, or a bounced check, or a negative health report. He said "Do NOT be ANXIOUS about any-THING!" When we have the mindset “It’s nothing but a thing,” we take on a heavenly perspective and eliminate needless anxiety and can settle in to our confidence in God’s words in Romans 8:28 – “ALL THINGS work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes.” So I’m declaring “These THINGS may be just things, but in God's grand scheme of THINGS, they all have have purposes for blessings ahead!”

It's All About Him......NOT ME!

It's All About Him......NOT ME!
In years past, my Christmas traditions started right after Thanksgiving. I loved this time of the year so much that I decorated every bedroom with its own fully decorated, lit tree. The inside and outside of the house looked like a Christmas Store. I had several nativity sets throughout my house. After all, I wanted Jesus to be prominent amidst all the Santa Clauses and snowmen. I had a huge village of little houses and ice skating pond, trees, churches (lots of churches). I made dozens of cookies and candies to share with family and friends. I handwrote and mailed a flood of Christmas cards with my family's picture on it. That was a "must do" every year -- getting the family Christmas picture at Thanksgiving. I purchased way too many gifts. I spent hours and hours shopping for just the right treasures to give. We squeezed in Christmas parties and programs into all the other "must do's". Despite my best intentions to make Christ the center of our Christmas, hyper mode was my mode of operation for years. Does that sound familiar to you?

I never felt guilty about the flood of activity and way-too-much-attention to so many details. I loved this time of year so much that I gave it ALL I had. The family traditions were so dear and precious to me. It was a work-out, but at the end -- we had made so many precious memories, and it was worth every effort. But, this year, my story takes a big turn.

Since I sold my home in Tulsa and, at my children's urging, making a temporary decision to live a "vagabond" lifestyle (going from my children's homes, mother-in-law's home and friends' home), until at least February of next year, my "normal" is no longer the same. My way-of-thinking is certainly having to make adjustments. My "way" isn't the way when I place myself at the mercy of the schedules, environments, cultures and lifestyles of friends and family. I never knew the "single" lifestyle until my sweetheart graduated to heaven. I guess I didn't realize how it had affected my outlook on responsibility to and for others again.

So, I'll admit, my faith journey that was somewhat ideal because it was MY faith journey now includes the faith journeys of others, which means my ideals and my desires must submit and become secondary to others. As I type this, once again, I've heard God's voice saying "Trust Me! I've got this. This is part of my plan!"

So, as I sit here eating my "Humble Pie", I've come back to what the PRINCIPLE THING is supposed to be. I've recalibrated my thinking to HIS thing. A widow friend of mine gave me wisdom a couple of nights ago. In her Widow's Group, she told me there were a couple of gals who had no intentions of decorating their homes this year. They weren't wanting to put forth the effort. She told me she scolded them. She said, "Is Christmas about YOU, or is it about the birthday of the ONE who gave His life for us, Who came here to earth so He would understand us and die for us so we could live forever with Him? Don't decorate for you.....decorate for Him!"

I loved that. My life, this season, my wants, my desires -- shouldn't be about ME. Everything should be about THE ONE whom we celebrate so I'm determining to keep my focus on Jesus' birthday. I even started my Christmas baking yesterday for me, us AND Him!

When I attend several more performances of the Christmas program at my daughter's church, it will be in honor of celebrating He Who this Christmas is about. I will lean in to the real sweetness and tenderness of this season, and turn my attention to the STAR of this story, Mary's baby boy that grew up to be my great I AM. "I AM" is my protector, my healer, my strength and my joy giver, my way-maker, truth-finder and my peace-provider

If you've been like me -- whether in an utter frenzy-mode to this point, or in a little whiny mode about the changes in your life and even disappointments about things being different than they once were, since it's His birthday.....we get to just show up and celebrate Him. No matter how we decorate the house for His party, it is still ALL ABOUT HIM, Who is ALWAYS the life of the party. And He has come to give life to all the people at the party. And, when we lean in even closer, we'll find that the LIFE of the party holds out Himself as the gift that keeps on giving. And the gift tag? It has our names on it. Oh, what a relief it is!

Living Life Out Loud

Living life out loud on Facebook has sure been an encouragement to me. I have found sweet peace in writing, which by the way, has been a gift I didn’t even realize I had. FB also became a place of solace because it connected me to thousands of friends, and family members. I needed that connection.

I’ve had the opportunity to write about my faith journey from my husband’s first diagnosis of Stage 4 Kidney Cancer, to his battle, victory over the disease, to our conquering and winning through it all……to his going home to heaven and to my new world as a widow. That diagnosis came as a complete shock to us. No words could adequately explain the roller coaster ride we were on. Yes, a roller coaster ride can be quite thrilling with its ups and downs and twists and turns..but it can also make you want to throw up!

Here's what I know for sure. All those things that seemed so important before, soon became so trivial. My priorities shifted to making moments count more than ever before. Now I know the stuff of life are those everyday precious moments that matter most.

I’ve learned that life can be lived in solitude, and that’s okay…because those quiet times often open up great conversations with God. But on this journey, I’ve come to realize the comfort of living life as an adventure. But even adventures, as exciting as they may be can often make you want to throw up. For example, my BFF Sheila Michie came over yesterday to BE and DO – BEING my friend to let me vent and DOING as my friend – helping me pack. Her presence allowed me to shed some tears about the unknowns of my future, in spite of my rock-solid faith and trust in God’s guidance and provision. Living out-loud opens us up to vulnerability, because we all know there are times when the journey gets rocky and uncomfortable. It’s okay…..because the rocks make us appreciate the flat roads more; the uphill climbs make us appreciate the downhill sprints.

I know my posts reveal my innermost thoughts – sort of like living in a glass house. But that’s the adventure I’ve chosen. I want my glass house to be a beacon of light for those who can follow in my footsteps, even board the roller coaster with me. So, excuse me, while I spend my day cleaning out my Tulsa house, moving over to a friend's home and appreciating this ride until I jump aboard the next wild ride. I’m in it to win it and of course, you’ll know all about it, because “living out-loud” seems to be this roller coaster ride's mode of operation.

Forget the diamonds. A backpack is what I want!

Forget the diamonds. A backpack is what I want!
I read a friend's FB post a few days ago, and I, along with many others, were so touched by this Mom’s love story. It is a love story that her sweet little 6-year old daughter is experiencing. The Mom started her post with….”When a man buys me a backpack with the words Joshua gave Meredith, then I will know it is love.”

That's Meredith and Joshua in this photo. Christie, Meredith’s Mom, a single parent who, by the way, is doing ALL the right things in raising Meredith in a love-filled, God-filled home and environment. She essays her single parent life as a faith journey. She doesn't complain about the hardships of raising her little girl single-handedly. She is so inspiring and encouraging in celebration of her walk of faith. Christie went on to say: “Forget the diamonds, I will never settle for less than a backpack!”

It seems that Meredith and Christie were having a lunch date and in walked Joshua who attends a different school than Meredith. The following are her words:

“He hugged Meredith and said, ‘You are the most beautiful girl I know. I'm glad you are still my best friend.’ He takes the gift from his dad, handing it to Meredith. Once she opens it, Joshua turns to her and says, ‘I picked Frozen because I remember how much you would sing the songs when we were in Ms. Hamilton's class. And since I live too far away to come to Kendall-Whittier again, I can't help you carry your stuff. That is why I got you a backpack, and it is a good backpack, not the cheap ones, so it should carry your stuff really good. And look at this, Meredith, it has a lunch box, too, and it snaps on, so you don't have to carry it either. It all fits together, so your hands are free if you fall, but I hope you don't fall, because I don't want you hurt. A backpack is kinda like I'm helping you, even though I'm at a different school again. And you can think of me, if you want, when you use your backpack. My dad says best friends think about each other and pray for good things to happen, even if we are at different schools.’ Christie added, “Tears were rolling down my face, my heart totally in my throat, as Brenda is giving me a hug. Joshua walks to me, saying ‘Ms. Loeffler, thank you for letting me still love Meredith. I asked my dad if I could ask Meredith to play more, but he said it is polite to ask Meredith's mom first. So, can I take Meredith to Chuckie Cheese one Saturday? I've been saving my money, so I can buy her coins, too, and I'll show her the best games to play and share my tickets with her. I know you and my parents have to come, because you guys drive, but I would like you to think about it please. No amount of counting in my head could stop the tears rolling down my face, nor have I ever hugged a set of parents as tightly as I did Joshua's mom and dad.”

Isn’t that the sweetest story? It almost sounds like a fairy tale, doesn’t it? And were it not for my own love story that started at the age of 12 and my sweetheart at age 13, I would only say “It’s just puppy love.” But I assure you, just as my Mom and my husband’s Mom prayed for the future spouses of their children and completely believed that their two kids were meant to be together, I sincerely believe it can start with us and our prayers for our children. One of the friend's remarks on Christie’s FB page following her post was this: “Being that you have prayed every night, for years, over Meredith’s future husband, it does not surprise me if you prayed Joshua right into Meredith’s life so young.” Another gal remarked “OK, they should totally get married right now and spend happily ever after….now, I say, now. Where did this kid come from? Because I totally want one just like him, only my age!”

Don’t you love this? And as I read other comments, I saw a common thread….all women want to be treated with so much respect and tenderness. We want and need to know that we are so loved and cared for. And we want that for our little girls too. Maybe this post today is to remind us that seeing the results, begins with praying daily for our children, creating a faith-filled environment for them that nurtures the God-factor in their lives. AND, this story about two young children, can be the story for love in your own life, too. God answers prayer. I have to agree with Christie – “Just maybe diamonds really aren’t a girl’s best friend. Just maybe a backpack delivered by a handsome prince is.”

Whole Lotta' Infusion Going On

Whole Lotta' Infusion Going On

Infusion -- To fill or cause to be filled with something. That word resonated within me when I heard about a friend's husband’s recent cancer surgery. Infusion is a word that my Sweetheart and I became all too familiar with during the course of his battle against cancer. He had his share of I.V. infusions for hydration, nutrition, medication, blood transfusions, antibiotics and chemo. Thankfully, no more infusions, of that sort, needed. He’s healed, whole and cheering us all on from heaven’s grandstands.

During that season, so many people asked me, "How do you cope with the ups and downs of your faith journey?" I'll tell you how we continued to believe we were "winning" no matter what we faced. When Ron and I first talked about that word, infusion, we looked at it two-fold: one, in the medical sense, but then we started saying….."We are also being 'infused' by God's Word as we continue to trust in His many promises." Psalm 119:130 says "The entrance (infusion) of Your words give light." When we meditated on God's Word, it brought light and life. As everyone knew, that was the source of our strength, as we meditated, trusted in, and placed our hope upon the infallible Word of God. We believed it was crucial for our success.

Today, in my own journey of faith, I continue with daily “infusions” of God’s Word. Here’s a verse that explains my quest. "If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction" Psalm 119:92. That is so true. It has been my lifeline. It has been my strength. Many times during the faith journey with my husband, and now as a widow, I’ve been literally squeezed, but that's why I want to be so filled with the Word of God that when I AM squeezed – when I am facing a challenge, or when I am at a loss for human understanding, or when I am faced with situations in life over which I have no control, I know that I MUST be so filled with the Word of God that I pour out faith and hope and trust in the midst of the storms. That was our mainstay and continues to be my "shelter in the time of storm" today.

In the Catholic Church, when scriptures from one of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) is read, we do the sign of the cross on our foreheads (indicating "May this Word be in my mind"), on our lips (indicating "May this Word be in my mouth") and in my heart (indicating "May the Word be in my heart"). How do we actually get those words into our minds, our mouths and our spirits? By meditating on those words, 24/7, reading them and speaking them consistently over circumstances in our lives. Being as intentional with believing, trusting and speaking -- taking in God's words like medicine, as much as we would take prescribed medications given to us.

So whatever the “issue” is that you and I are facing today and whatever the outcome, we know God’s Word that says "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26)! We are INFUSED with those words. That Word alone is in my mind, my mouth and in my heart. How did it get there? My daily “infusions”.

Had Any Knee Jerk Reactions Lately?

Had Any Knee Jerk Reactions Lately?
I had a huge decision to make. "Should I say “yes” or should I say “no”. Should I stay or should I go?" Ever been faced with some tough decisions and rather than waiting to hear the voice of God, we just couldn’t sit idly still….we had to make a move. So, with a knee jerk reaction, we WENT.....only to realize we put the cart before the horse.....er.....rather, we put our ways before God's ways.

What happened to that instruction from our loving, all-knowing Father? ”Be STILL and KNOW that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10) We just couldn’t sit STILL long enough to get the plan from THE MAN. So we head out on our own. Someone came to my office last week and she told me she really made a mess of a situation and became quite disappointed in herself. She went to see her Mom and her downcast attitude caused her mother to say, “I know that look! So, you had to be in charge again, instead of letting God be charge?"

Oh, the messes we get ourselves into. During this season of my life, I am wading my way through options of saying “yes” or “no” and whether to stay or go. So, as any capable, deliberate, strong and able, “can do” gal would do, I just GO. After all, the light is green….. so I begin to move forward….aggressively, and then suddenly I’m overcome with a loss of peace, a troubled heart and thinking “What was I thinking?” I just couldn’t sit still long enough to listen for His voice. I just couldn’t wait for His voice to call me, instead, my “knee jerk” reaction propelled me into unknown territory with making even some regretful decisions.

Does that sound like a story familiar to you, too? But, here’s what I love about this faith journey we are on. Though I may start out my day as an independent, self-willed "can-do" woman, and I may get myself into some crazy circumstances that may come as a surprise to me, they are not a surprise to God. In spite of my knee-jerk reactions, my God is still my loving Father. And, like our kids who repeatedly do something that we’ve told them a hundred times not to do, we lovingly reel them back in with correction and help them through the mess they got themselves into.

“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11)

God’s character can be trusted. God delights in answering our prayers. Only, He doesn’t always answer how we think He should answer. I think I have great ideas about how my life should go. I think I know what is best, but then I remember that He knows better. He knows the end from the beginning. He knows what outcome will bring about His purposes. He wants to bless us with good things . . . health, wholeness, peace, joy, and rest. When I pray and I feel as though He is silent or not letting me in on the game plan, I have to trust that there is purpose to what He hasn’t told me. He doesn’t hide things from us to hurt us. He will allow me in on His plans in His perfect timing. His perfect timing is the timing that places us at the right place at the right time with what we need for ultimate blessings.

I have a line I use to help people when they have met up with some difficulty or challenge. “Nothing happens to us that doesn’t first go through His sovereign hands. We are no surprise to God.” It all matters to Him. He allows circumstances and consequences to come, especially when we have KNEE-JERK reactions. But thanks be to our loving Father, He gently jerks us back on course to help us finish the race we've started.

Fighting the Good Fight of Faith

(This is one of my first ever blogs, June 12, 2010. I repost today because I thought, just maybe one of my FB friends could see how my Sweetheart and I "fought the good fight of faith" during his illness, 6 years ago. It blessed me then, it blesses me now -- NEVER stop fighting the good fight of faith!).

June 12, 2010: Our faith journey continues to keep us on our toes – endeavoring to be good soldiers with our combat boots on, armored with God’s Word, and completely surrendered to our Commander’s orders. We know there is tremendous value in “fighting cancer” with a good positive attitude and being nutrition-conscious! And we’re definitely doing that. But, most importantly, we are doing what St. Paul told young Timothy to do in 1 Timothy 6:12, “Fight the good fight of FAITH!” We are convinced that God is using our “great adventure” to not only cause our faith to be strong and unwavering, but we have a lot of friends, family members, medical team and acquaintances taking this journey of faith with us who are also fighting this good fight of faith with and for us!

Ron successfully completed the 3-days of cyberknife treatments to kill the second tumor that was on his lumbar-2 vertabrae. We’re still working on the pain in his lower back to diminish, but he is a brave, courageous soldier. There are days when we think about how “routine” our lives once were…..waking up, getting dressed, having devotion, eating breakfast, going to work, etc. etc. And then, this “suddenly” happened that certainly caused a totally new life perspective. Rarely did we take the time to focus on how green the grass was, how blue the sky was, how bright the sun was, and how precious were the days when we were pain-free and strong. Now, each day is one to be cherished!

I’ll admit we’ve had our share of crises, but I don’t think we’ve ever come to realize the preciousness of life like we do now! For many years I received those little e-mails from friends that talked about appreciating life…..and now I get it! Holding my Honey’s hand, kissing his sweet lips, smelling his wonderful smell (btw -- “Fierce by Abercrombie” -- LOL!), hearing his laughter when he’s watching the grandchildren, hearing him tell me once again “I love you” – all those things that were once “routine” are now so precious and dear to me!

The next phase of our journey will take place on June 22nd when he is scheduled for the surgery to remove the kidney that has the primary tumor (the real culprit of this whole deal) in it. The urologist is expecting to do a laparoscopic nephrectomy (much less invasive than standard kidney removal), which means smaller incisions and less recovery time. Please pray with us for that to be exactly what happens, that Ron will recover quickly and do great with just one kidney (thank God for this back-up system), and that this will bring much relief and wholeness to his body! We look forward to planting our flag of VICTORY very soon! We appreciate your prayers and support so much!

LOVE is Sharing the Journey

Many times in life, we find ourselves, hand-in-hand and side-by-side with others on similar faith journeys. This is a story about Shannon Brill Rziha, a precious friend, wife and mother of three young children who passed from this life to heaven five years ago February 11th. I am compelled to share about her because she was such a part of our own Faith Journey, and just maybe there's someone God is calling you to partner up and share faith journeys together.

Several years ago, Ron and I were drawn to Shannon, her husband, Wayne and, at that time, little daughter, Cecilia. Later, they were blessed with two precious sons, Daniel and Anthony. We always remarked “What a beautiful family!” They served God in word and action in so many ways. Ron, because he had such a passion for promoting and discerning vocations in the Church, naturally gravitated to Wayne who was the Vocations Director. We watched Shannon, as her love for children was obvious as she was a vital part of Children’s Christian Education, Vacation Bible School, Fall Festival, etc.

In December, 2008, after many months of increasing pain in her hip, Shannon was diagnosed with cancer.
We saw our church family, as a team, go into action. Our church’s prayer team, as well as prayer teams all around the country, stepped up in prayer for them. Our church’s women, not only provided meals for them, but many helped in housekeeping, child caring, and chauffeuring. There were fundraisers, prayer vigils, "red solidarity night" and other events held for them. And, we watched Shannon and Wayne do their part – determining to find and obtain the most qualified and skilled doctors, the best medical center, the most effective treatments and surgeries. They submitted to trips away from the children in order to have the best care. And, Shannon, exuded the grace of God as she submitted to her medical team’s recommendations. She lost her hair after chemo several times -- smiling her way through it! I loved it when she bravely played the role of Lucille Ball (wearing a red wig over her smooth, bald head and refusing to use her cane) in a play that I wrote for one of our women’s meetings. Rarely, did she ever miss attending church. She put those who have no physical issues to shame as she would make her way on crutches down the aisle for communion and to get “as close as possible” to the altar.

Right from the start of Shannon’s faith journey, Ron and I felt so drawn to stand in faith with this precious family. They were consistently in our thoughts and prayers. I, personally, felt compelled to be a regular e-mail correspondent with Shannon – applauding her faith, encouraging her to keep “standing” and to not give up. We shared with them about what God’s Word says about times like this. We quoted healing and faith scriptures to them. But, we were speaking to them about what we knew from God’s Word – not what we had personally experienced. We watched how they trusted God, stood in faith and enjoyed life as best they could with their three precious young children.

In January, 2010, my Honey began to have such tremendous pain in his back that continued to increase. In April, we received the doctor’s diagnosis of Stage 4 Kidney Cancer. An emergency surgery was performed to remove the tumor off of his spinal cord. Shannon and Wayne were in Houston at MD Anderson that week for one of Shannon’s treatments when they heard about Ron. I’ll never forget the night, after his very serious, almost fatal surgery. Coming through the hospital room door on her crutches, was Shannon, having just arrived back to Tulsa. She said, “I had to get here as soon as possible!” She came in and was quite perturbed that Ron, the man of faith and her faith coach, could possibly be in this condition, yet she was there with us to be OUR woman of faith and faith coach. It was then, that we knew what it meant to feel the pain, know the pain, and know the emotions that she had been experiencing for two years before us. Before now, we had head knowledge, and now, we had personal knowledge of this experience. We “identified” with her. And now, we really understood St. Paul and his words in II Corinthians 1:4 “That you may be comforted with the same comfort that I have been comforted with.” We had planted into Shannon, and now Shannon was there for pay-back. She was there to comfort us. That’s what teamwork is all about. That’s what the Body of Christ, the church of God, is about.

My Honey graduated to heaven almost three months before Shannon, but I’m sure it was a part of God's divine plan. They comforted one another in life, understood each other’s pains and now, they’re celebrating being home. They are where we all will continue to press toward. In the meantime, the journey continues for the rest of us – to be there for each other – to comfort one another – hand in hand – side by side. LOVE is sharing the journey!