The Greatest Gift I Could Give You

The words, “Do Not Fear” were my blog’s theme yesterday and I gave you the Gift that keeps on giving – I gave you Jesus Who is the “fear eradicator”. So now, what do you do with that Gift? I love you, my FB and social media friends and family, too much to not tell you more about this most precious Gift.

Guess who knew you'd be reading this blog with me today! God did. God knew before you were born that you would be reading this in this moment. He planned to get your attention for just a few seconds so He could say this to you: “You matter to Me. I love you more than you will ever know. I made you to love you, and I’ve been waiting for you to love Me back.”

What if I really gave you a tangible Christmas gift and you never opened it, I would sure be disappointed. It would be a worthless gift because you didn't receive the benefit of that gift. Jesus Christ is God’s Christmas Gift to us. Yet some of us have gone Christmas after Christmas and never opened the best Gift of all: God’s gift of being adopted into His family by the grace of Christ crucified. It’s not like being given a high definition television by a complete stranger. Rather, this adoption (salvation) is more like Ephesians 2:4-10 “But because of His great love for us, God, Who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the GIFT OF GOD -- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” THIS, my friends, is the Gift of God that keeps on giving and giving and giving.

So, why even celebrate Christmas if you’re not going to open the biggest gift? It doesn’t make sense to leave unwrapped the Gift of our past forgiven, a purpose for living, and a home in Heaven. God has made a way for you this Christmas to get it right with Him, and all you have to do is receive His Gift of salvation. This is a little prayer I prayed at eight years old and it “stuck” with me to this day. If it was good enough for me – it is good enough to “seal the deal” and open this most wonderful Gift meant for you, too! If these words express the desire in your heart, please prayer them and really mean them:

“Dear God, thank you for loving me. Thank you for being here with me every day. Thank you for sending your Son to die for me so that I can live with You forever and ever. Please forgive me for all the things I’ve done wrong and please help me to do things right that please you. I promise to love and serve you all the days of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

Now – here’s a little add-on for you this day – no matter what age you are: “Heavenly Father, I want to receive the Christmas Gift of your Son. I want to receive Him as my Lord and Savior. I ask You to forgive me from my past, my sins, mistakes, my habits, my hurts, and my hang-ups. I want to fulfill what You made me to do. I want to love You and trust You and have a relationship with You all the days of my life. Please put peace in my heart. Please fill me with Your love. Help me be a peacemaker and help others find peace with You and each other. In your name I pray. Amen.”

Would you please PM me if you prayed this prayer today? I am a follower of Christ. I promise to pray for and partner with you to help you become a fully devoted follower of Christ, too! Oh, the joy, peace, and hope that await you.
🎚🎚🎚🎚God loves you so much and so do I!🎚🎚🎚🎚

Kanye's Thirst Was Quenched

I've been following the faith journey of Kanye West. I watched him respond to Joel Osteen’s questions at Houston’s Lakewood Church last Sunday morning before his Sunday night’s free, 3-hour gospel concert. Kanye’s responses to Joel’s questions, his lifestyle change, and the concert depict a very changed man. He is consistently giving testimony to his new life in Christ. He told ABC News “People are giving their life to God, He’s using me to point to Him. More are going to Him since I’ve been here -- more people from my generation and the next and the next generation. So it’s working." Thanks be to God!

A few days ago, Franklin Graham said: “Kanye is doing what he believes, even if there are skeptics and even though it goes against the liberal beliefs of most in the entertainment industry. Pray for Kanye. There will be many temptations.The devil will try to discourage, distract, and even destroy him. Pray that he will keep his eyes focused on Jesus, and that God would guide and protect him. God bless you, Kanye. We’re praying for you.”

Thanks, Franklin, for your heart for the lost…..and the found. You remind me of what a devoted follower of Christ looks like. Honestly, I didn’t pay too much attention to Kanye’s life, his lifestyle, his wife (Kim Kardashian), his rap music AND neither did I EVER pray for him! I just didn’t give him the time of day in my thoughts. I assumed he was a lost soul with morals and beliefs that were so far removed from being one of God’s children whose life could be redeemed and make it count for God. Shame on me. I should have been praying and believing for a miracle turnaround in his life.

It is the same with others who seem too far gone to ever see them changed. Why haven’t I prayed for those in the entertainment industry, in politics, in sports, those with high profiles who could have an “amazing grace” turnaround in their lives? We keep trying to convince others of what morality looks like, what the dignity of life looks like, what faith looks like, what being in “God’s camp” looks like, instead of displaying what God’s redeeming grace looks like. Dear Lord, I ask for your forgiveness. Instead of turning my back on those who don’t know you and who seem to be acting on behalf of the enemy of our souls, help me, by your grace and mercy, to have a tender heart to pray and believe for their souls.

In the Bible, is the story of a Samaritan woman at the well who had “issues”, too. She was thirsty and didn’t even know why. God placed the desire for something more in every one us. Until we meet Jesus, we fumble about trying to quench the God-given thirst with anything and anyone who offers temporary relief. But it’s just that … temporary. Jesus explained, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14). This woman became so radical in her new faith, that she ran to town to tell everyone about her encounter. “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony" (John 4:39). I like to think that is what Kanye is doing too, and that is what we should be doing as well.

It is only in a relationship with Jesus that we discover what we’re all truly longing for. Jesus offers us what He offered her – what He offered Kanye – what He offers you and me: freely flowing, refreshing water from the indwelling Holy Spirit Who quenches every thirst, washes away every sin and flows into every nook and cranny of our beings. How can we keep it to ourselves?

The first photo here is of a cherished figurine of Jesus and the woman at the well, along with a water pot that signifies that I need to return to the well daily to fill up with His Living Water. Today, I’m honored to sit by the well and not only draw water for myself, but to pray for you and others who are thirsty and don’t even realize it yet. I pray today for us to be bearers of the water we drink and the water that we give to others through our prayers and belief that WHOEVER comes to this Living Water will never thirst again.

“Jesus said, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.’” John 7:37-38
I've been following the faith journey of Kanye West. I watched him respond to Joel Osteen’s questions at Houston’s Lakewood Church last Sunday morning before his Sunday night’s free, 3-hour gospel concert. Kanye’s responses to Joel’s questions, his lifestyle change, and the concert depict a very changed man. He is consistently giving testimony to his new life in Christ. He told ABC News “People are giving their life to God, He’s using me to point to Him. More are going to Him since I’ve been here -- more people from my generation and the next and the next generation. So it’s working." Thanks be to God!

A few days ago, Franklin Graham said: “Kanye is doing what he believes, even if there are sceptics and even though it goes against the liberal beliefs of most in the entertainment industry. Pray for Kanye. There will be many temptations.The devil will try to discourage, distract, and even destroy him. Pray that he will keep his eyes focused on Jesus, and that God would guide and protect him. God bless you, Kanye. We’re praying for you.”

Thanks, Franklin, for your heart for the lost…..and the found. You remind me of what a devoted follower of Christ looks like. Honestly, I didn’t pay too much attention to Kanye’s life, his lifestyle, his wife (Kim Kardashian), his rap music AND neither did I EVER pray for him! I just didn’t give him the time of day in my thoughts. I assumed he was a lost soul with morals and beliefs that were so far removed from being one of God’s children whose life could be redeemed and make it count for God. Shame on me. I should have been praying and believing for a miracle turnaround in his life.

It is the same with others who seem too far gone to ever see them changed. Why haven’t I prayed for those in the entertainment industry, in politics, in sports, those with high profiles who could have an “amazing grace” turnaround in their lives? We keep trying to convince others of what morality looks like, what the dignity of life looks like, what faith looks like, what being in “God’s camp” looks like, instead of displaying what God’s redeeming grace looks like. Dear Lord, I ask for your forgiveness. Instead of turning my back on those who don’t know you and who seem to be acting on behalf of the enemy of our souls, help me, by your grace and mercy, to have a tender heart to pray and believe for their souls.

In the Bible, is the story of a Samaritan woman at the well who had “issues”, too. She was thirsty and didn’t even know why. God placed the desire for something more in every one us. Until we meet Jesus, we fumble about trying to quench the God-given thirst with anything and anyone who offers temporary relief. But it’s just that … temporary. Jesus explained, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14) This woman became so radical in her new faith, that she ran to town to tell everyone about her encounter. “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony." (John 4:39) I like to think that is what Kanye is doing too, and that is what we should be doing as well.

It is only in a relationship with Jesus that we discover what we’re all truly longing for. Jesus offers us what He offered her – what He offered Kanye – what He offers you and me: freely flowing, refreshing water from the indwelling Holy Spirit Who quenches every thirst, washes away every sin and flows into every nook and cranny of our beings. How can we keep it to ourselves?

The first photo here is of a cherished figurine of Jesus and the woman at the well, along with a water pot that signifies that I need to return to the well daily to fill up with His Living Water. Today, I’m honored to sit by the well and not only draw water for myself, but to pray for you and others who are thirsty and don’t even realize it yet. I pray today for us to be bearers of the water we drink and the water that we give to others through our prayers and belief that WHOEVER comes to this Living Water will never thirst again.

“Jesus said, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.’” John 7:37-38

Life is About Relationships

I continue to learn that the things that matter most in this life are relationships – not accomplishments. One of my young friends called and asked if we could meet for brunch to talk about a project that may turn into a new ministry outreach for our church. She wanted my advice. I loved that she called on me -- "the older woman" helping the younger as taught in Titus 2:3-5. I suggested she come to my home where we would be less distracted. I received a text from her: “Can I bring ___ with me?” I was pleased to welcome her, too. Then I received another text, “How about ___? Can she come, too?” Of course she could. Now we were an even number of four and my brunch-planning went into action. I wanted it to be a sweet time of celebrating these young women who have hearts to reach out to lonely and hurting people with God’s love.

Table was set with love in mind, fresh flowers in the vases, made a vegetable quiche, French toast casserole and mixed berries with yogurt and granola. At each place setting were cards that read: “You really do love your neighbor as you love yourself. It is obvious by your heart of gold that would rather serve than to be served. Well done, good and faithful servant! “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24.

This mama's heart was overjoyed with their excitement to make a difference in people’s lives. Their enthusiasm motivated me to say “yes” when asked me to be a part of their team. I am honored to align with those precious young women. This second photo is our second meeting at one of their homes! Relationships matter.

The Bible is very clear about what really matters in life: “If you are a follower of Christ Jesus, all that matters is your faith that makes you love others” (Galatians 5:6). Honestly, it’s hard for me to understand the awful animosity in our country these days. How can people sleep without a clear conscience of knowing "this day I lived a life of love”. If we’re not loving, then nothing we say will matter, nothing we know will matter, nothing we believe will matter, and nothing we give will matter. And, if we don’t live a life of love, nothing we accomplish will matter. “No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m nothing without love”. (1 Corinthians 13:3)

It’s as simple as this: We can have the eloquence of an orator, the knowledge of a genius, the faith of a miracle worker, the generosity of a philanthropist, and the achievements of a superstar, but if we don’t have love in our heart, it is worth zero. It doesn’t count. The only thing that matters to God is this: Do we love Him, and do we love others?

One day we’re going to die, and we’re going to stand before God. When He evaluates our life, He’s not going to look at our bank account or our list of accomplishments. He won’t care about all our sports trophies. He’s not going to look at our endorsements or our resume. God is going to evaluate our life on one basis: our relationships. He’s going to ask, “How much did you love Me and other people?” That’s called the Great Commandment. Did you love God with all your heart, and did you love your neighbor as yourself?

THAT love is a sure winner. That love makes us winners. That love IS about relationships – not accomplishments!

I’ll Admit It. I’m a Jesus Freak!

While in the waiting room of my doctor’s office, I noticed these first three photos of wall-hangings and plaques AND Christian music was playing in the background. What a comfort it was to know he is a man of faith. Then, on Saturday, I went for a haircut and I noticed, right away, these next wall hangings that surely indicated this gal’s faith. I said, kiddingly to her: “You are definitely a Jesus freak!” She admitted she is, and so am I.

The term "Jesus freak" was originally used to demean or insult Christians involved with the Jesus Movement in the 1960s and 1970s. It was primarily directed towards those who were especially aggressive in their evangelistic efforts. The core meaning of Jesus freak was a person who is so dedicated to following Jesus that it seemed there was nothing else the person could talk about. A Jesus freak is basically a person who is obsessed with Jesus.

Yep. That was my husband and me back in those days, and that is still me today. My hair stylist told me that people will come into her shop and right away, they’ll start their conversations with her by saying “I love your wall hangings. You are definitely a Christian aren’t you?” And she said other people will come in and they’ll notice the hangings and not speak of them or they don’t even notice them at all. I’m proud of her. What a great way to say “I believe”.

Sometimes it’s NOT a piece of cake to start talking about our love for God. We want to share about that love and oftentimes it feels awkward or pushy and even, Jesus freakish, but just because we possess more enthusiasm, passion, and excitement about a certain thing, in this case, a certain SOMEONE named "Jesus" doesn't automatically make us "freaks" does it? Why is loving someone so unconditionally as we do our Savior has to be something society is threatened by? We're simply passionate about someone. It would be like calling an aspiring actress an acting freak. Or someone who really loves the products they sell a "selling freak"? It's simply our overwhelming love for THE ONE Who gave His only Son to us that we would have life now and forever. We are often embarrassed to talk about the One who lives in us and who has given us so much. I am a “Jesus freak” because I can’t help myself. There aren't many conversations that I have with anyone that God’s name isn’t mentioned. If you knew where I came from and what I’ve been through, you’d know the reason why I love Him so.

Not long ago, the kindest man who was formerly the mastermind behind the City of Frisco's Water Wise program and who is now retired but does sprinkler system repairs, repaired mine. He was diligent, efficient and low-priced so I just had to tell others in my community about him on our NextDoor app. He got lots of new business from my recommendation. Why would I not share something good so others can be blessed? If I knew the cure for cancer, why would I withhold it from others?

That’s how I feel about God. I sing because I’m happy. I’ve been blessed way more than I deserve. I live in peace because He walks and talks with me each day. He comforts me when I’m sad. He nudges me when He wants me to be better and do better. He is my best friend and confidante. He lives in my heart and is my ever-present help in trouble. How could I NOT share Him with others? I have scriptures, crosses, plaques and statutes and all kinds of symbols in my home. You would know who I hold in greatest esteem and honor. I wear a cross necklace. I listen to Christian music. I pray in restaurants, and if I’m with people who I don’t know if they know Him, I still ask if I can pray over our meal. I'm not ashamed. Yep. I’m a Jesus freak!

St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times……and sometimes use words.” Maybe it’s time we all should strive to make God famous through our example and our love for Him that cannot be suppressed…..because we just can’t help ourselves. We’re just so in love and we know He is the cure for loneliness, depression, sadness, fear, worry, and anxiety….we can’t hide it!

Once Upon a Time.......

I love that start to a story because you just know there's going to be a happy ending at the end. But I love this beginning even more.....

Once upon a tree…..a Creator gave His life for His creation. From the very beginning of time…..this true story began….but there was never, and there will never be a “The End”, to this story. It took our Creator stepping up to give His life for His creation so that all of man’s mistakes from the beginning of time, could have a happy EVER AFTER!

Every one of us are writing our stories by the way we live our lives each day. No, we don't have to have a "Once upon a tree"....story, because God lived that story once and for all for us. Some of our stories may seem ho-hum, while other stories may be adventures-of-a-lifetime every day, but we can choose how our story reads out. Maybe one of these beginnings would look good in your story:

Once upon a phone…..a devoted follower of Christ shared encouragement and love with his friend, and the friend met the Creator through him.

Once upon a greeting card…..there was someone who was hurting so much, but she realized someone else was hurting more than she was, so she shared the faithfulness of God in her card, and they both received renewed strength for their journeys of faith.

Once upon a car…..someone’s friend needed a ride to their doctor, so the driver became a chauffeur for God that showed what “mercy” looks like.

Once upon a dollar…..a kind-hearted soul, gave that dollar, and a hug, to a blind man holding a tin cup.

Once upon a rope…..someone tossed the end to a drowning man and saved their life. That day, the rope and the rope-thrower became life-savers.

Once upon an altar…..someone gave their time to pray for someone who needed a Savior.

And that brings us right back to the very beginning of the “Once upon the beginning of time” story that has no ending, because in each of those scenarios the answer came with Jesus’ words to Peter “Peter do you love me? Then, feed my lambs. Peter do you love me? Feed my sheep.” (John 21:15) And those words to Peter are the words to us. God started it all and through His Son gave His life for those who come to know Him as Lord. He asks us to be a part of His never ending story. Maybe we are the answer to someone’s prayers and, of course, we are the answer to sharing God’s story enough to give those He loves a never-ending story of their own.

Once upon a Facebook post, someone told this story with the great expectation that God’s story begins in YOU!

"For God so loved the world, that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)