This Painting is Worth the Search

I spotted this painting in Larry’s office. It’s considered a treasure to he and Staci because Payton, their son, painted it for them years ago. In terms of value in dollars and cents, it might not have a high sticker price at the At Home store. But in terms of value in sentiment – priceless.

When Staci and Larry moved into their new town-home here in Frisco Square, Staci and I were on a mission to find items like accent pillows and rugs that would pull the living area together. This painting had the exact colors in it that we were looking for. We headed to the At Home store to find our accessories, toting the painting with us. I put the painting in the shopping cart and we began our search. Before long, we had what we needed, made our purchases and headed back to their home.

The next day, my lightning-fast mind didn’t remember the painting coming out of the car with our purchases. I realized that I must have left the painting in the shopping cart. I called the store and inquired about the painting. No one had seen it, but promised they’d watch for it. Mind you – it is on a canvas, very similar to their paintings. I couldn’t wait. I headed to the store -- spoke to a manager, but it had not shown up. Now, I was in high-energy prayer-mode. What is lost -- must be found! I saw a young man stocking in that area and asked if he had seen it. He said “No, ma’am, but if someone found it without a price on it and took it to check-out, they would probably set a price for it.” That was no comfort at all. Isn’t that just like the enemy who makes us quit believing – to come up with reasons that a relationship can’t be restored or keys or a precious treasure can’t be found?

I would not be denied. I slowly paced up and down the aisles – looking in all the stacks of canvas paintings, and if you know the At Home store, you know they have hundreds and hundreds of paintings. Now, I’m praying in my heavenly prayer language (tongues) – yes, I’m bilingual AND in English. I am interceding and I’m asking all my heavenly support team to intercede for divine intervention with me! God knew right where that painting was and I would not relent. After more than an hour of flipping through paintings, tightly squeezed in between two larger paintings was Payton’s painting. My heart was overcome with gratitude – so much so that tears began to flow. My young store clerk saw me and rejoiced with me. He took this photo that you can see my red, tear-stained face! Oh, happy day!

What once was lost – now was found. Like I said – the price tag would not have been very high to someone else – but it was priceless for us. Did you know that is how priceless we are to God? He paid a great price to redeem mankind. We use the term "priceless" today to illustrate that there is no amount of money on earth that could buy or purchase something "priceless." And, all the wealth of the earth couldn’t purchase man's redemption. It took something of far greater value to pay the price, so God sent the most valuable and precious gift He had, to pay the price for our salvation and that was His dear Son, Jesus. So, in God's eyes we are "priceless." Nothing on earth could purchase us but the value God saw in His Son is the value He sees in us. Thank you, Lord, for the incomparable price you paid for us. And, as for you and me, our Lord calls us "priceless" too, so we should start treating ourselves and others as treasures -- like God does!
"For you are bought with a great price. Glorify and bear God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:20

We Become What We Feed Ourselves

Being here at my children’s home while they are away to care for their two furry critters, sure gives me plenty of content for my blogs. You see, my girl cherishes the things and the people that helped get her here to this time and place. Everywhere you look around here, she has vignettes of treasured memories.

Case in point is this vignette of the peace sign figurine. If you’ve ever seen one of Staci's videos, you’ll see her use that sign at the end. Under the figurine are books written by three of her favorite authors and speakers who impacted her life. "Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren is one of my favorites, too. We believe we are here on Planet Earth at this time and this place, intentionally, by God for purposes beyond coincidence. We believe that before we were born, God wanted us to discover the life He created for us to live – here on earth and forever in eternity. I love what St. Paul says in Ephesians 1:11 “Because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us in advance, and He makes everything work out according to His plan.” I am forever grateful to know we are products of His divine purpose for our lives.

Next in the stack is “The 360-degree Leader” by another of her favorite authors, John Maxwell. Staci would tell you that her business acumen has come from her thirst for knowledge by reading and devouring successful leaders’ advice and training. She has been driven to be a devoted Christ-follower and leader in the marketplace and books like this have helped her become the leader worth following in her faith, her business, in relationships and her personal life.

And, the book at the bottom which represents the foundation (besides the Bible) of her positive, optimistic, can-do attitude, is "Over the Top". That is just one of the many other books she consumed by her mentor and beloved father-figure while travelling with him for twelve years, Zig Ziglar. Before we were introduced to Zig, we were his followers, so much so that we became little Zigs. His life philosophies, motivational speaking, his Christian witness and his personal “walk” made him our mentor. We raised our kids on those principles and I attribute much of their success to what we spoke into them and lived before them. My husband taught those principles in his own "Born to Win" seminars in churches and organizations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Belize. We desired that others achieve what we knew were life-changing principles. We wanted to pay-it-forward and make the difference in people’s lives, too. “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” — Zig Ziglar

Even in something as simple as dog-sitting, we can find reasons to be grateful for who or what made us the best we can be. It’s reminded me to be thankful for the blessings of ups and downs that showed us how to navigate the waters and come safely to the other side. I’ll bet you’ve had wisdom and knowledge poured into your life that helped you navigate, too. Maybe you can think about them right now and thank God for His plan and purposes that caused you to be the amazing person that you are today!

Staying Positive in a Negative World

In our Nextdoor app, one of my neighbors posted this: “Happy Heart. With all the turmoil in the world, a wonderful thing happened yesterday. As my husband and I were pulling into our drive, a man in a red truck pointed to our neighbor's house and asked if she were home. He had found her purse in the basket corral at Walmart and was personally returning it to her. He was a fireman named Robert. He went out of his way to drive it all the way to her house with everything intact. There are beautiful people in this world and we need to remember this. What a terrific thing for someone to do. This could’ve ended in a totally different way with much inconvenience. We appreciate people like you, Robert! Stay safe!!”

Aw! A story worthy of sharing because it was refreshing considering the Nextdoor app is often used by cranky folks who are "ticked" about something or someone.

It was so uplifting to be with gals from my church on Monday night after being apart for so many months. The little whining we did was only because we couldn't hug each other -- especially for us huggers.

Being on purpose to stay in a positive frame of mind is as simple as looking for the good everywhere – like that fireman helping a neighbor. Here’s a few of the ways I keep myself energized by focusing on the blessings in my life on a daily basis:

1. I protect myself from negative news. While I want to keep up with current events, sometimes a headline is sufficient to grasp new developments. I limit the time I spend with mainstream media. Truthfully, if that’s where we get our daily “feeding” from instead of God’s Word, then we can only blame ourselves if we’re discouraged.

2. I control the number of negative people in my life. Other than when I am encouraging someone who is going through real challenges, I carefully select how much time I spend with those who are intent on just being negative. My frame of mind and my attitude is dependent on what I allow into my mind.

3. I listen to uplifting Christian music and be transported to a place of joy, peace, and thanksgiving.

4. I practice gratitude. Appreciating life and its many blessings puts me in a good mood. That gratitude makes me want to encourage others – calling or messaging them with an encouraging word. And, random acts of kindness goes a long way in turning a negative world into a positive one.

5. I pray randomly all day: "Thank you, God, for that green light. Thank you, God, for that parking space." And whether it's in traffic or a line at the store, I call on His name as a reminder to have a little conversation with THE ONE who isn't surprised by the delays. No doubt, it's a part of His Master Plan.

There's blessings and beauty everywhere. It's possible to stay positive in a negative world when we look for it.

"And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8

Getting a Breather from the Heat

Red River, New Mexico – Here we are at the Sangre de Christo Mountains aka Blood of Jesus Mountains at the town of Red River. That gives me holy chilly bumps to know we are surrounded and covered by the "blood of Jesus" in God's creation and in His blood that keeps us healthy and alive in Him. "Oh the blood of Jesus -- it washes white as snow." (chorus of an old song). Heaven on earth puts it mildly. Oh, the sweet ride God takes us on when we chill out and let Him lead us to the mountains. "I lift up my eyes to the hills (aka mountains) where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1

"Chill out" is literally what we're doing. From the Dallas 102 degrees heat to the 70s high in the day and 40s low at night. I look at these sweet times as heaven to earth. I sense it because my heart is overflowing in gratitude for these off-the-chart moments. Here we are right in the midst what seems to be a whole lotta’ hell on earth around us – if we allowed ourselves to live in that zone – but those who choose to take the higher peace-zone way – will find places like this -- literally AND spiritually.

My children (both sets) purchased “homes-on-wheels” last year. I know that it was God leading them for “such-a-time-as-this” that we are living in right now. They are able to be safe-at-home when at their at their residences AND in their travel homes. I’m a beneficiary of their blessings. Larry and Staci bought their RV when they both turned 50 so they named theirs: “Jubilee “, which means “50 years” and in Biblical terms, blessing.

When they got theirs in January, they announced to their two children, and me: “Pick out a destination you’d like to go to and we’ll take you there.” It didn’t take long for me to tell them mine because my cousin had just invited me to Red River, NM where they’d be enjoying their own travel-home this summer. My bestie-cousin (my dad’s brother’s daughter) and I had a world of fun as kids. So, here we are in this spectacular weather, majestic mountains, tall pine trees, lakes, rivers, a great resort town AND trout! Heading out to fish in a few minutes!

We made it here on Saturday evening, and getting to hang out with my cousins. Their RV is across from ours amidst spectacular pine trees. Yesterday started with quiet times watching online church, a great breakfast and then we headed out to drive around to get the lay of the land and waters. Hold on for updates on fishing adventures in these plethora-of-trout waters. I’m so grateful. And, were it not for these travel vehicles, we wouldn’t be able to be here. The media call these RVs/motorhomes “pandemic palaces” because families are able to get out during these times for family get-aways. Staci prefers to call theirs “blessing-palaces”.

Actually "Heaven on earth" is when we pause to bring worship from earth to heaven and then God brings heaven to earth. When we take time to be thankful for journey, whether they are winding and twisting, or 4-lane smooth highways, and have gratitude in it all, heaven shows up on earth. Any time we pray, “God, let your Kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we’re asking God to declare the truths of heaven into this world.

I know what heaven on earth is and every day I invest my time in looking for and living there. One day, we’ll get to graduate from this earth to heaven. I sincerely believe God delights in our appreciating the heaven we can have daily as we commune with Him and let Him make His presence known in every facet of our lives. All those "heaven on earth" times sure makes this journey sweet on the way to "heaven in heaven". Every day, we can make the choice to have "heaven on earth" moments. Maybe it's time to take stock in YOUR "heaven on earth" blessings, too!

Turning our Cocoons into Divine Preparation

In my interactions with friends and family lately, I’ve been referring to this time of isolation as “being in a cocoon”. I sense that we are growing in our gratitude and being made over mentally in ways that are so good for us. I saw this on a friend’s FB page yesterday. It confirmed what I had been thinking:

“TRAFFIC is gone, GAS is affordable, BILLS extended.
KIDS are at home with their FAMILIES.
PARENTS are home taking care of their CHILDREN.
FAST FOOD replaced by HOME COOKED MEALS.
Hectic SCHEDULES replaced by NAPS, REST, and RELAXATION.
The AIR seems CLEANER. The WORLD quieter.
PEOPLE are conscious about HYGIENE and HEALTH.
MONEY doesn't seem to make the world go round any more.
We have TIME, finally, to STOP and SMELL the ROSES.
And lastly, We've become closer to THE MOST HIGH and more praising HIM every day of our LIVES. Yes, I want this to be over but there is some positive in this.”

Eye opening for sure. I’ve been through some painful seasons when it felt like I was in an uncomfortable cocoon. It seemed God had a deaf ear to my heart cries. The seasons of financial concerns, illnesses, disappointments, broken relationships, family deaths – including, my own precious husband’s passing. I was in the cocoon during those times – going through what seemed to be personal death, but, God was using those seasons to instill in me hope, trust and belief that He was in control, and that He was creating a butterfly that could soar further and higher than I could have imagined.

It was in those dark seasons that my faith grew stronger. No question -- the cocoon WAS painful. But were it not for that dark season and the changes made in me, I would have never known the joy, freedom and beauty of flying to such heights today.

Hold on, my beloved children and friends. Soon, we will be breaking out of these cocoons. Count on it -- when we are free again, we will not be ashamed to dance in the rain, to celebrate each new day with the wonderment of a child, to laugh at ourselves, to value each other more than ever before, to look in the mirror and see LIFE being lived to its fullest again.

Soon, this dark cocoon will be in our past. We’ll realize that it was worth the stillness and death and preparation for the wings we were given to fly higher than we’ve ever flown before. We’ll soon break free from this isolation and we’ll never take so much for granted ever again. Before long, we'll be spreading our wings to fly and we'll start flying AND dancing again.

"You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy." Psalm 30:11

In EVERYTHING – Give Thanks

I stopped by a friend’s home a few days ago. Understandably, she is distraught because her high-school-senior-son is missing out on his final year of baseball, as well as missing out on his Senior Prom. And she went on to feel sorry for those college students who are delayed in their graduations and other friends who are having to cancel or postpone their weddings. I get it. It’s a difficult and disappointing time for so many.

I responded to her by telling her about my morning “aha”. I know this is TMI (too much information), but it’s my truth. I say: “I am sitting on my toilet this morning. I am pooping. I say to God: ‘Thank you so much for my system working so good. Thank you for this toilet. Thank you for the water in this toilet. Thank you for this bathroom that has a door on it and it’s indoors. Thank you for water to drink. Thank you for my home. Thank you for my lights. Thank you for technology. Thank you for YOU, God – Who promises to never leave me or forsake me.’”

She got the picture. And, so do you. It’s expressing gratitude for what we do have. It’s seeing the bigger picture that this all will pass and we’ll be telling our grandchildren about the 2020 pandemic. We will talk about the faithfulness of God Who brought us through while telling them about those who got very sick and many who lost their lives. This time will go down in the history books.

Yes, we are inconvenienced. Yes, we are missing spending times with friends and family. Yes, we miss going to church and concerts and sports games and restaurants and previously planned events. Yes, we want to go back to “business as usual”. Yes, we want our “normal” to be normal again.

But, instead of what we don’t have or what we don’t get to do – let’s consider what we do have. So, what to do when we don’t know what to do? We count our blessings – even name them one by one. I mean it. Since you’re at home with your kiddos – why not play the “I am so blessed” game. “You have one minute to tell us what you’re thankful for!” I did the exercise. I gave myself one minute, using my phone app. Ready! Set! Go!

I heard my dishwasher running. I wrote down "dishwasher". My eyes went to my piano that Papa played, I play, and our grandson plays. I wrote down "piano". I was seeing -- I wrote down "my eyes", and hearing -- "my ears"; I was sitting in a comfy chair -- "my furniture"; I saw my computer -- I wrote down "computer and internet". I glanced over at my refrigerator -- I wrote down "refrigerator".

When we express gratitude, rather than being bugged and annoyed by this time when we can’t do anything about it in the natural, we can express to God how thankful we are for what we do have. A grateful heart sees each day as a gift. Thankful people focus less on what they lack and more on the privileges and blessings they have. The grateful heart is like a magnet that collects reasons for gratitude -- for the paper clip to hold those pages together; for the milk in our cereal; for the song that soothes us; for the clock we hear ticking; for the light that turns on; for the car that takes us to the OPEN grocery store. Thank you, Lord!

May this time of uncertainty and inconvenience, become a time of really being thankful people for what we do have. May we choose gratitude as a habit that we choose daily as a way of life – even after this crisis is over. May we be overwhelmed with the beauty and abundance of all God has given us!

Our Angels Deserve So Much Credit

I am so grateful that God constantly doles out His mercies for giving me daily content for my blog. On Thursday, he doled out His mercies to me as I was making my way to Austin to spend a few days with my children. I try to leave by 6 am to beat the Dallas traffic but the rain, all the way to Austin, slowed me down. Thank God it did. As I arrived in Waco, the flow of traffic going southbound was at a stand-still. Eventually, I turned my engine off and waited. I googled the issue and found “Southbound lanes closed on I-35 due to muti-vehicle accident. Traffic could be stalled up to an hour until vehicles are removed." I prayed “Lord please help those involved.” And, as I prayed that simple prayer, I realized, that the rain had helped me to NOT be in that pile up. Thank God for His tender mercies AND, thank God for my angels and the many times that I know, without a doubt, that angels were on duty for me. So why haven’t I given them more attention AND shown more appreciation to them for taking such good care of me?

As I start to write this blog, I remember the old song: “All night, all day, Angels watching over me, my Lord. All night, all day, Angels watching over me.” Wow! Appearances of angels in the Bible and even, today, we hear stories about the occurrence of angels in people’s lives. Why don’t we give them more attention, and for that matter, more gratitude for their presence in our lives? I have been reprimanded big-time as I write this blog. I am so sorry, my dear Guardian Angel. Now, I’m brought back to remembrance of those times when I know, without a shadow of doubt, my Guardian Angel was on duty for me.

It must have been my angel who came between the other car and mine when I was almost run into. I know it was my guardian angel keeping watch over me when I nearly drown at a young age. Or when an angel kept me from falling many times. And, the times that I did fall, my angel must have cushioned the fall because I have never had any broken body parts. I humbly ask for forgiveness for failing to express gratitude to my angels. Or when an angel, just recently, stood in the way of a semi-truck that almost, within inches, hit my children’s vehicle and RV.

I’ll never forget this story from my now 19-year-old grandson’s baby-sitter who fessed up about an angel showing up when she baby-sat Payton. She held the story in for so long. She shared: "When I was 11 years old, I was taking care of Payton who was only about one year old. I was feeding him goldfish crackers, when all of a sudden, he started choking. I patted him on his back, raised his hands in the air, but nothing seemed to help. He started turning blue. I was crying and so afraid, when all of a sudden someone burst into the room and stuck their finger into his throat and pulled out the cracker. Payton quickly recovered and was just fine.” She cried and cried as she told her Mom the story later that night. Her mom was with us the night she shared that story with us. She went on to share how sorry she had held that story in so long, but as she saw Payton serving God and being such an amazing servant that she knew God's hands were on him and just had to share the story.

I’m sharing this blog today, to voice my gratitude to my Guardian Angel and all other angels who have been assigned and on-duty for me far more than I can imagine, I’m sure. Their hands have been full as I’m not much of a sit-down-and-do-nothing kind-of-gal. Perhaps, I’m also writing this blog as a love-letter from God to remind YOU to give credit to where credit is due in your life, also. Maybe God is raising our spiritual antennas to recognize where thanksgiving and praise is due.

“For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11).
”For it is written, ‘He will command His angels concerning you to guard you carefully.’” (Luke 4:10)
”The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7)

Grown with Love

“Nothing Says ‘I Love You’ more than an Orchid. Give your Valentine a gift that is as unique as they are. With graceful, arching branches, and exotic flowers. Orchids are easy to care for with blooms that last!” Those were the words and this is the image that Calloway’s Nursery sent to me in their email a couple of days ago. Really? “Nothing says ‘I Love You’ more than an Orchid?” Oh, contraire! Yes, maybe as a token of love but nothing says “I love you” more than actions that speak louder than words AND orchids.

That nursery got the title right “Grown with Love”. Because love – real sacrificial, all-in love and devotion and holding true to vows we’ve made, preferring each other above ourselves, serving one another, cherishing the most precious gift given to us……is grown. Day-by-day, year-after-year. And, I promise you – love WILL grow daily when God is the CENTER of the love we share with each other. He’s the sunshine, the rain, the fertilizer AND the tender-loving-care that makes that “first love” last forever.

Of course, I’m referring, first, to married love, but I’m also referring to the love we have for ourselves and others. Did you know that loving ourselves is such an honor to our Creator? He was meticulous in handcrafting us and giving us those freckles on our noses and those lanky or chubby legs? He designed us with His absolute plan – from our mother’s wombs and His love has only grown for us. I’m still growing in my love for myself – which is a work of art – when yet another wrinkle pops out and another ache comes in this young body. But, love it is – it is the gift of life that God gave me so I’m expressing gratitude for every day I can use this jar of clay for Him.

Of course, Valentine’s generates thoughts to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that Valentine’s is about love for everyone we encounter? Sometimes we get so caught up in our daily routines, we forget to let those close to us know how much we love and appreciate them and thereby, growing that love.

Love is as simple as smiling at someone walking toward us, someone in front or behind us in the checkout line or someone standing next to us in an elevator. Sounds innocent enough, but what we really can be doing is secretly telling them “I love you” with that smile. It may be the difference maker in their life. “What the world needs now is love sweet love” -- thanks, Dionne Warwick, for that reminder, but thanks be to God for His example of LOVE: “For God so LOVED the world that He gave His only begotten son…” John 3:16.

How about we make a commitment to “grow our love for others and then give it away” -- maybe in a love letter to those people in our life who inspire us, support us, assist us, feed us, nurture us, care for us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us? They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. So, to put an exclamation point at the end of the title “Grown with Love” -- let's purpose to grow the love in our corner of the world. Let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU”, my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world such a sweet place to live and love. You put a smile on my face and you give me so many joys! May you know God's love in tangible and beautiful ways....not just Valentine’s Day, but ALWAYS!"

1 John 4:7 "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."

Gratitude Lifts Our Attitude

On Wednesday, this picture and a message from FB was posted on my timeline. Seems this was the first photo I ever uploaded from my phone to FB. Obviously, I was in the gratitude mode at this time back then. I hope I never change!

It is a product of our upbringing and circumstances that we are "by nature" either complainers or praisers. Most people would agree that we have a lot to be grateful for. After all, most of us live a lifestyle of conveniences -- comfortable homes, nice clothes, reliable transportation, no shortage of clean water or healthy food. We have access to quality healthcare and education, and basically live a good life with freedom, in safety and security.

It’s easy to take these wonderful blessings for granted and sometimes get into the bad habit of focusing on what we don’t have while millions of people around the world live without the basic necessities of life. I remember our missions trips to South Africa, Belize and Mexico, visiting those who lived in small huts and cardboard dwellings with a minimum of conveniences and witnessing children digging for food and anything worth selling in a city dump. Lord, may I remember them, especially when I even start to complain about ANYTHING!

Just think about the blessings we often overlook -- like getting dressed on our own, driving to work, going to the grocery store, sending emails and text messages, and hundreds of other routine activities of life. It’s where the majority of our time goes, so why not learn to show gratitude for them? Choosing an attitude of gratitude not only honors God…it’s good for us!
No matter what, it's possible to BECOME grateful -- even if it's not our natural "bent", but it does take discipline. It takes practice and doing it over and over again. The reality is that a grateful heart will make way for finding the good in EVERYTHING we encounter. Best of all, it opens the door for blessings. We just have to replace complaints and fault finding, with praise and thanksgiving. I love Nancie Carmody's thought-provoking words that turn complaining to thanksgiving:
I AM THANKFUL
...for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
...for.the taxes I pay because it means that I'm employed.
...for the clothes that fit a little too snug because it means I have enough to eat.
...for my shadow who watches me work because it means I am out in the sunshine.
...for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home.
...for the spot I find at the far end of the parking lot because it means I am capable of walking.
...for my huge heating bill because it means I am warm.
...for all the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech.
...for the lady behind me in church who sings off key because it means that I can hear.
...for the piles of laundry and ironing because it means my loved ones are nearby.
...for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours because it means that I'm alive.
...for weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been productive.
-- Nancie J. Carmody

Oh, how blessed we are! Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the blessings of You, my friends and family and all the many, many reasons you've given me to be grateful today!

Amping Up Gratitude Through Appreciation

Gratitude just can't be emphasized enough. Radical gratitude means we’re going to walk through life being grateful in every situation, no matter what — in times of plenty, when times are tight, when times are good, bad, right, or wrong. We can develop an attitude of gratitude by choosing to be grateful in every situation. The attitude of radical gratitude actually can become a ministry when we realize how well it serves others.

We know those clergy "ministers", but, you and I, as believers, are also ministers. When we minister to someone, we are serving them. The Latin word for minister is "servant". Every Christian is a minister, which means we serve others. And that ministry can be called the "ministry of appreciation".

Here's what I know about appreciation and depreciation. If you’ve ever bought a car, you know the meaning of depreciation. The moment you drive it off the lot, it’s worth less than what you paid for it, even if it’s a brand-new vehicle. Depreciation means to decrease in value. But, APPRECIATION means to raise in value. When we appreciate our spouse, we raise their value. When we appreciate our kids, we raise their value. When we appreciate our boss and co-workers, we raise their value to us and to the company. When we appreciate our friends and those who serve us at a store or business, we raise their value.

We can make a ministry out of raising the value of people simply by appreciating them. I’ve discovered that everyone needs massive doses of encouragement. I’ve never met anybody who’s said, “Oh no! I don’t need a compliment! I have too many. Please, stop! I’m too affirmed. Don’t give me any more.”

We ALL have a need to be affirmed, to be loved, to be appreciated — and so does everyone else. If we want to be used by God, here’s one way: Affirm everybody. Appreciate everybody. Show gratitude to everybody. BTW -- I sure do appreciate YOU, my beloved social media friends and family!

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29

An Icebreaker Became a Memory Maker

Our interdenominational fellowship group came together in my community on Tuesday night for another pot luck meal and time of fellowship. There is always an entertaining or thought-provoking time after dinner. This week we had five icebreaker questions to discuss at our table. I sat by my cousins and there were two other couples at our table. Naturally, for the couples, they answered the questions with each other in mind. For example, question one was “If stranded on an island, what 3 things (or people) would you want to have with you and why?” Each one of the couples gave as one of their three as each other. Widow Donna came up with a hatchet, water, and a ladder (I need help climbing a tree!). I’ve watched “Survivor” episodes so I know what I'd need on a deserted island.

The one question that gave me pause and introspection was “If you could live one year from your life again, which one would you go back to?” The couples’ answers were beautiful: “Going back to the first church that we pastored in Fayetteville, AR that began in our home and grew exponentially.” Another couple talked about the year that their first child was born, and the other talked about the year when he returned from Vietnam to come home to his wife and baby. Then it was my turn. I had plenty of time to consider it and, without a doubt, it would be the last year of my husband’s life that I would want a do-over.

You see, my sweetheart was a muscle-bound, picture of health and strength, full of the joy of living and sharing God’s love in ministry and counseling. We had traveled a lot and had the thrill of precious times with our children and grandchildren. Life was good. Then, came the day when we received the diagnosis of Stage 4 Kidney Cancer that changed everything. Life came to an all-consuming 24/7 endeavor to get him healed. If it had been God’s will, he would still be around today because with all the treatments, surgeries, interventions, and most of all, the prayers from around the world, it was his time.

This is what I shared with our group. I would have stopped being Martha – doing, doing, doing and I would have stopped to embrace every second that I had with my Love. I would have spent every waking moment laughing about our puppy love romance at ages 12 & 13 and some of the crazy things we did together. I would have talked more about all that God had blessed us with in the past than continuing to figure out that awful disease. We both knew he was in God’s hands and it would have been so much better to have trusted implicitly for the outcome than all the going here and there and everywhere. I would have sat with him patiently at the dinner table and just talked and talked instead of hurrying to get the dishes cleaned up so quickly. I would have thanked God for the ups and downs that we survived and even thrived through. Actually, I’ve added a little more than what I actually said in that group, but what I did say to them, as couples, to live each day as if this were the last with each other. Love each other deeply.

Since we can't do do-overs -- the best way to live life on this side of heaven is to take each day -- one day at a time -- and live it as though it were our last -- living with no regrets -- embracing and loving those around us with intensity, gratitude and gusto. Living in the light of eternity -- helping take as many others with us to heaven. My Love is waiting for me there. I look forward to introducing you to him one day!

Happy Father's Day!

My blog today is dedicated to all the wonderful fathers, father figures, and male mentors who have touched the lives of your own kids, others’ kids, your family, and others you’ve mentored and coached. We appreciate you! And, for the rest of us, let's be sure to celebrate our fathers in words and actions. Our gratitude and love for them won't get received if we don’t express it to them in the first place. So, I’m taking my own advice and celebrating all the fathers on this Father’s Day!

Father’s Day brings precious memories and so much gratitude -- for my own sweet daddy who I only knew for 15 years and my precious husband, who I knew for 49 years on this side of heaven. They are celebrating this Father’s Day with “Our Father Who Art in Heaven”! Okay – they've certainly one-upped us on a grand celebration with the second-to-none Father. And Happy Father’s Day to my two incredible sons: Ryan Wuerch & Larry Wallace, amazing fathers who lead their families by God’s example to them. Thanks, and well-done, guys, for blessing me with my seven beautiful grandchildren and thank you for all the men and boys you coach and mentor!

Dads, in my opinion, you are the most powerful force in the lives of your children. Thank you for not being passive. Thank you for understanding and taking responsibility for your power. Thank you for being living examples of our Heavenly Father's love. Thank you for having real-life conversations with your boys and having date nights with your girls. Thank you for showing them and others what respect, honor, and integrity look like.

I recently saw this video of a great example of how to be involved with your children right from the get-go! The video went viral from the mom’s Facebook page now with 57 million views. It’s a simple and adorable conversation between a father and his 19-month-old, a terrific model of time well spent between a dad and his child.
https://www.facebook.com/…/videos/vb.20…/10101574620232282/…

Maybe today, you don’t even know your earthly father, or if you do, he may not have been very present in your life. Maybe, like me, your dad was with you for just a short period of time. Like mine, your dad wasn’t there to walk you down the aisle on your wedding day. Maybe your dad is still here and your relationship is and always has been strained.

Here’s the really good news for all of us on this Father’s Day. We have a Heavenly Father who loves us so much and wants us in His family. When we invite His Son into our lives, we get God’s DNA. It cannot be denied. We have a Father who is gracious, open and wants to know us. When we reach out, He welcomes us into His presence. He even has conversations with us through his Word and even in our intimate times with Him. So on this Father’s Day, no matter who your earthly father may be, I ask these simple questions: Do you know your Heavenly Father? Do you understand how much He wants to have a close and ongoing relationship with you? I pray that you will have a greater realization of your “heavenly” DNA. Knock on His door. I know He will invite you in for a Father's Day celebration like none other.

If I Were Rich, I Would......

Have you ever thought those thoughts or played that game?
Well, yesterday morning, I was giving myself a manicure and I thought “If I were rich I know exactly what I would do. I’d go for a manicure AND a pedicure every other week! And, maybe add a massage to that, too!

When I do get to experience that nurturing, I embrace relaxing in the massage chair at the nail salon. Rarely do I go for a massage but when I do, it is a time of knowing that those knots and kinks are going to be worked out. Relief is coming and I’m rejuvenated.

As I finished doing my own nails, I couldn't help but think about the Master's touch on my life and express to Him my gratitude for the ability to even do my own nails. I don’t need to play a game of “If I were rich,” because I am rich. I don’t need someone to nurture me because I am nurtured and loved by God. I am the recipient of the “incomparable riches of His grace” that Paul talked about in Ephesians 2:6-7. “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.”

God’s love worked out the knots and kinks of worry, concern, fear, and insecurity in me. He made me whole, both spiritually and emotionally. His healing touch led me to show compassion for others hurting in the same way.

God’s touch on my life set me free to tell others how His touch soothed the rough edges of my heart and set me free to celebrate how He worked out the knots of unforgiveness and helped me to stand strong. Believe me when I say – what you see in my daily blog posts is the work of a Master Massager and Healer and though He doesn’t really fit into the category of manicurist or pedicurist or masseuse, He wraps me in a warm blanket of love and tenderness and holds my hands in the most loving ways and assures me I am His beloved daughter.

Maybe you could use a little nurturing today. Maybe you’d like to step in for a sweet touch from the Master. His faithful love nurtures us, rejuvenates us and gives us relief from the common, everyday pressures of life and the overwhelming, how-can-I-make-it-another-day times. He is waiting to nurture you. It’s His specialty because you are His precious, beloved child.
When we are WHOLE – soul, spirit, and body – we don’t ever have to play the “If I were rich” game ever again, because we are rich beyond measure.

1 John 3:1 “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”

Living -- Laughing -- Loving

Isn't that what it's all about? Living....really living this life we've been given -- with all its many adventures. Laughing out loud in the midst of the good living and the tough-living-times. AND, most of all LOVING God, others AND ourselves. Sure, there's plenty to complain and worry about but, seriously, why waste time, energy and breath on complaining, when there is so much to celebrate and be grateful for?

Here's what I know: Gratitude begets even more reasons to be grateful; living, really living, begets more out loud living; laughing begets laughter and a life intent on loving and serving God will produce the desire to love and serve Him even more.

So, I MUST give gratitude for the last few days in Austin so that I'll continue to have even more reasons to be grateful. I like that. It's God's laws of reciprocity. "Give and it shall be given." Since I’m with my Frisco family most because that’s where I live, this Mother’s Day was celebrated with my Austin Family. What a sweet time of laughter, reminiscing, Shawntel and I getting the “special plates” at the breakfast table, getting sweet gifts (mine included the lovely 70-reasons I love Nana from the notes at my 70th BD), going to church together to express our praise and thanksgiving for life and being able to give life to our children and those God has called us to – to “mother” and encourage. Going out for Sunday dinner with dear friends – having sweet and almost holy communion as we had a “gratitude” feast when we thanked God for His tender mercies. Life really is about giving life – the abundant life of Christ to others in word and deed. And, what a life it is!

I believe gratitude is taught from those around us. We can teach our children to be grateful for what they have. This family of mine -- we talk daily about gratitude and our blessings. My children understand they are beyond blessed. As we stood in a little circle of eight on Saturday night, waiting nearly an hour for our table at a restaurant, I saw us. I REALLY saw us -- we were a village like no other. At least it seemed that way when we looked at most around us waiting, who were deep diving into their cell phones, unconscious of those around them. We were living, laughing and loving as we talked – sometimes silly talk. We were embracing and holding each other close to our hearts – so much so, that I didn’t even take my phone out to take a photo of this little village of love. The attention to each other mattered.

I felt my husband’s love – living, breathing and laughing with us. After all, if it weren’t for him – this little village wouldn’t be here. We have family, we have a roof over our heads, laughter in our hearts, and lots of love surrounding our every moment. We have memories before his death and memories beyond. Each memory serves as a blessing, for that means we had one more precious day together. We are valuing moments, not material things, and to look for the love and light in each situation.

We can all find fault in this life. We can all wish and want for more, but the real blessings are the smallest moments and memories we cherish. I’m grateful I taught my children to be grateful and, now, they are teaching their children to be grateful for the little things. We are teaching them to be happy at the deepest level in life – love – laughter.

That is a gift every child deserves and every mother cherishes!

Slow Down and Listen to the Frogs

My inspiration for today’s blog came from a friend’s FB post. These were her words that captioned this precious photo so beautifully: “When I’m really trying to get a workout in (aka, not stopping every 2 minutes), I’m reminded to slow down when my daughter wants to listen to the frogs. I know one day she won’t ask to go with me, so for today, I’ll slow down and listen to frogs.” I thought, “This is the stuff that brings us to a place of gratitude and embracing the gift of this moment in this day!”

How’s that for a wake-up call? How’s that for conceding to cherishing the most precious moments that will never pass our way again? This sweet mama understands how important it is to slow down and “smell the roses” AND “listen to the frogs”.

Then, yesterday, I had my own “stopping to smell the roses” moments when my two Frisco grandchildren (ages 17 & 18) called me for a date night to see the new Dumbo movie with them. I was on a mission to getting off some important emails, making some necessary calls about an upcoming event and finish working on a script for a play I'm writing, but I was reminded to slow down to watch a flying elephant!

As I began typing this blog, my thoughts turned to how Mary, the Mother of our Lord, must have slowed down to prioritize her time with her boy! She was probably overcome with the responsibility of raising this boy. After all, he was no ordinary boy. He was the Son of God. No doubt, she poured time into him while being a devoted wife to her husband and his carpentry business, but I like to think that she savored the moments when her boy was a little guy, too! Remembering how He played in the water when she heard Him saying “I am the water that when you drink of it, you will never be thirsty again.” She watched Him playing with His friends and when one of His pals fell, I'm sure she noticed Him lovingly care for him. I'm sure she lived in the moments when she saw Him caring for and playing with animals. Can you imagine that she was thinking “He created them”?

That’s why, when my grandchildren take me by the hand and say “Nana, let’s go…….” that I rarely put them off. This Frisco grandson is presently writing a book and starting up a new business. He often comes to my home for serenity. I love that. He acknowledges my “peace zone”! He understands how inspiration and being present in the moments happen here. I love to imagine that he’ll remember that he received inspiration at Nana’s home one day – long after I’m gone.

I started out speaking about a young mom who is keeping her priorities in order. I’m desiring to keep mine in order too! Watching for God’s favors and signs along the way! Knowing when I recognize Him in my children, my grandchildren, and the frogs and flowers along the way, there will be plenty of time for making up the time on everything else!

Being on Assignment -- Joyfully

I drive into Kroger's Food Store parking lot, eyeing the aisles for a parking space. As a prayer team member, I’m in a hurry to get to our Praise and Healing Night at my church. I signed up to have the pre-meeting meal ready for the team. No time to waste! Aw! I see a space and as I turn in, lo and behold, I see broken glass, a windowless car, and lots of stuff all over the ground in the spot next to mine. I don’t have the time to deal with this. But, as I make my way to get a grocery cart, a little voice says “Donna, be Me!” Thank you for the reminder, God! I head to customer service and wait for the store manager. We go to the car, take photos and we see a State Trooper entering the store. We tell him about the break-in and he calls the police. Then, I hasten to get the items on my grocery list.

I pay my bill and head to my car. The State Trooper's car is parked behind mine, the police officer is there, and I see a distraught woman (the owner of the car) and her two teenage sons. I can tell the angst she feels as the police officer is asking her all kinds of questions. The State Trooper kindly moves his car so I can get on about my "God" business.

God had other plans; He tugged. Listening, I reluctantly shushed my inner voice of rushing (now I was way behind schedule) to hear God’s inner voice of selflessness. “She’s distressed, Donna. She needs peace and comfort.” Clarity struck. Rather than seeing this whole debacle as a deterrent from my schedule and my plans, I can choose to be the compassionate one. Rather than seeing things from my limited view, I can see from God’s caring view. Rather than keeping my pace, I can offer her, through Christ, access to a better place. I breathed deep. I was about to do something, I really didn’t want to do. “Now God? Bad timing, God.” But, with Christ, you suddenly do what you thought you couldn’t. It’s a typical thing in a Christian’s life. I signaled for her to step away from the officer and I asked her if I could pray for her (a not-pray-for-you-later-prayer, but a now- prayer). Without hesitation, she said “Yes!”

God never leads wrong. I prayed for her wisdom and peace right then and there, in the parking lot of Kroger’s Food Store, with people gawking. She expressed gratitude. I made it to church in plenty of time to set up the meal for our team.

I’m done holding back God’s unlimited power because of my limited mind. I am pulling the leash off my being bold. I’m going to be eyes-wide-open to God’s nudges. I just may be the answer to someone’s prayer today. I’m going to rush to God, full-throttle, with being His daughter-on-assignment, and who is willing to offer the biggest, boldest prayers for others that I can. What's the worst-case scenario? Embarrassed? Feeling awkward? What's the best case scenario? Someone’s life is changed forever. They see the actual power of Jesus. They are left never the same for it. Care to join me? What we don’t believe by faith, we won’t see by faith. What we cannot imagine and cannot fathom, won’t happen. What we don’t give a chance, remains unchanged. Yet, what we believe in, God works in.
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. (Matthew 21:22)

💥💥People Are Like Cheetos💥💥

I saw this graphic, and whoa-la, my inspiration for today’s post! That’s how I roll – a billboard, words of a speaker or friend, a personal predicament or blessing, a dream, another friend’s post, a fleeting thought – all of which are who or what gives me the inspiration for my daily blog. Most of all, I recognize God’s nudge each time. This graphic truly inspired me because I don’t want to allow the negativity of others, which is plentiful in our world today, to “rub off on me”. We sure don’t want cranky, mean-spirited and negative voices to influence our attitude and our spirits, especially when our world needs more bright lights and believers who are bound and determined to be GOOD NEWS broadcasters.

It’s taken a life of experiences for me to conclude that joy, peace, hope, and love talk is a much better choice than anger, fear, hopelessness, and hatred. I desire, more than anything, to be a positive influence on others – so much so that I am overly optimistic – maybe even to the point of being annoying to those who prefer the cloudy day ☁️ versus a day bursting with sunshine 🌞 birds singing 🐦 and flowers blooming 🌺. But, I want to rub off on them. I know for certain I want to hang out with those who brighten my day and fill me with courage because I see how they are conquering life’s stuff and they assure me that I can too! I want them to rub off on me.

Don’t get me wrong. I do spend time with those who aren’t “sunshine on a cloudy day”, but I know those are the ones who I can be the sunshine 🌞 they need. It's been said that one bad apple 🍎 can spoil the whole bunch, but I also like to think that one good apple 🍎 can brighten and heal the whole bunch.

We can be difference makers and we can BE THE CHANGE others need. Rather than allowing those down-and-outers to steal our time and energy or even complaining about them, we can choose to BE THE CHANGE. We can strike up a conversation about something pleasant. Rather than giving needless thought to their attitude, we can choose to BE THE CHANGE and think about the beautiful things in our life. We can take back the day and turn it into a day of gratitude, joy, and peace. We can make a conscious effort to be the change!

If we become the company we keep, then the company I want to keep is hanging out more with God. The more time we spend with Him, the more we become like Him. His nature starts to manifest, not only inside of us but on the outside as well. We’ll start to act like Him. God will rub off on us and, hopefully, we’ll rub off on others!

“Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” Proverbs 13:20

I Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda
You know those words: “I should have done that but", “I would have been been that but" or “I could have gone there but…..” Should -- Would -- Could are words I’ve determined to get out of my vocabulary this year because they represent the past and that past is behind me. Or they represent hesitation to move forward.

I posted that I chose the word “contentment” this year as my word of the year to focus on and maintain. But yesterday a new thought occurred to me: What word am I not going to choose this year? I’m going to take the “shoulds” off the table because I want to wake up each morning and have a true purpose in this new day. I want to take on projects and activities and be able to say “yes” to opportunities that open the door to new friendships and new adventures. That’s why I’m volunteering at Scottish Rite Hospital for Children where I meet precious children, families, co-volunteers, and medical personnel. In fact, I met a co-volunteer yesterday that inspired me with her energy and zeal. I could be saying, I shoulda volunteered, but instead, I’m saying “I’m sure glad I did.”

I’ve also signed up for a couple of “field trips” to historical places to visit here in the Dallas area. I remember a friend of mine coming to Dallas last year with a group and her describing the interesting places that I had never visited in my city and I thought -- “I should have gone to those places by now!” No more “shoulds”. I don’t know anyone going on these upcoming field trips, but I’m going to get out and about and meet new friends and make the most out of it.

I said “Yes” to being on an advisory group at my church. Instead of being a “shrinking violet” I’m going to use my skills and talents to hopefully benefit this group with my knowledge and training.

When we take the ‘shoulds’ off the table, we find out why we’re really waking up in the morning with a true purpose and intent on forgetting the past and making the most of each new day. Instead of saying I should do this. I should do that. I shouldn’t feel this way, I'm going to make statements like “I will do this. I will do that. I will not have those feelings.”

I thought “What can replace the ‘shoulds’ in my life?” It came to me that gratitude is what belongs in my heart and on my lips. For example, I took a nap the other day and when I woke up I thought “I should have finished inputting those records.” Then I came to myself and whispered, “Thank you, God, for that nap gift. I must have really needed it.” I got up and finished my work.

‘Should, would, could in my life are trickster and fibber words. I have decided that I won’t be speaking their names this year. Instead, I’m choosing, “I will, I can, I am”. I choose to live with no regrets because there isn’t a thing we can do about the past. We can lament a missed opportunity for years that can weigh down our hearts like a steel anchor. “If I had only…” has nothing to do with talent; it is simply the result of courage or procrastination.”

Those people – the shoulda coulda woulda folks – are not you and me. We are destined to leave an indelible mark on the world, as long as we have the will to make it happen. We’ll never know what we are truly capable of until we unleash our passion and give ourselves permission to go, do, be creators. I don’t know about you, but when I get to the end, I hope I’ll have more battle scars and fewer regrets. May we seize the day and never, never, ever be a shoulda, coulda, woulda.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

What If This Were Our Last Day or Year?

I have the fondest memories of the last Christmas we had with my husband. Our entire family was snowed in at our home in Tulsa and it made for some of the sweetest times – laughter, frolicking in the snow, and tender times of intimacy in sharing God’s love with each other. Little did we know it would be his last year to celebrate Christmas with us.

Now, I think a lot about “last time” possibilities. I want to be sure my “house” is in order. I’ll admit that I’ll often leave on a trip and I think “Oh, I need to clean those drawers and closets out! I don’t want my family to have to deal with them if I don’t make it back home!” I’ve already got on my “to do” list, sooner than later, to get my will, important documents, bank, investments and other info up-to-date because I want my children to find everything they’ll need if I should “go home” any time soon. On one hand, it sounds silly because I’ve still got a lot of “tread on these tires”, but on the other hand, today could be my last day on this earth. 💥Breaking News Flash💥 It could also be the same for you!

Whew! We've made it through another year. And, while I reminisce with gratitude about my accomplishments and successes, I wonder what could I have done better? What did I do that made a difference in this world this year? Who could I have influenced in a positive way? I’m already thinking with an eternal perspective in mind when it comes to 2019. I’m thinking about how I can influence others. I wonder if, when I see others in my life, it turned out to be the last encounter I might have with them. What is the lasting impression I would want to leave? How would I want him or her to remember me?

Several scenarios come to mind. If I walked out the door of my children's homes and didn't return, what would I want my family to remember as my last words and gestures? If I ran into someone at work or school or church and then never saw that person again, what kind of memory would I want them to retain? In each last encounter, what would I want to be sure to say to my family and friends or even someone I might meet on the street?

None of us knows how much time is allotted to us. These questions have continued to roll around in my spirit. They are a constant reminder that we have to make the most of each moment God gives us to fulfill the two commandments Jesus said were most important: "loving God and loving people". Nothing else matters. In fact, Paul says it makes no difference what we give; if we don't have love, "it profits us nothing" (1 Corinthians 13:3).

If our motives aren’t loving, may we pray for a change of heart. If they are loving, may we take time to tell the person so. Being sure our “last words” with someone are words of healing and true love. That is bound to mean more to him or her than what's inside any gift we might give them. And it's the only thing either one of us can take with us into eternity.

10,000 Reasons

Yesterday morning I woke up singing “Bless the Lord, oh my soul. Oh, my soul. Worship His Holy Name. Sing like never before, oh my soul, I worship Your Holy Name!” That song's title is “10,000 Reasons” by Matt Redman. What a way to wake up – blessing and worshipping God’s Holy Name! Immediately I knew this would be the topic for my post for today.

Among my 10,000 reasons to be thankful, I must share with you what happened shortly after I typed this post at about 8 am yesterday. I heard the garbage truck (Thank you, God, I can hear!)! I thought: “Yikes! I didn’t think they’d come today since the holiday was last week!” I ran out the front door to catch them, but too late! I noticed they hadn’t picked up the other side of the street so I quickly ran and pushed my packed-full-of- Thanksgiving garbage bin to my neighbor's side of the street (Thank you, God, for our wonderful Thanksgiving meals!). But then I thought they’d question two bins, so I quickly got in my car (Thank you, God, for my car!) and drove to let them know! Came back home (Thank you, God, for my home!) and pushed the garage remote and NADA! Thank you, God, that I had my door key in hand. I ran into the house and garage and saw the big chain had fallen from the motor. I quickly called my Home Warranty company (Thank you, God, that I purchased a Home Warranty!) and placed the repair with them and they showed up last night to already have it repaired and working great! Thank you, God, because that means only a $45 repair fee! Now, I have more than 10,000 reasons to "Bless the Lord, oh my soul!"

I’m quite sure that whole scenario was why I woke singing that song because God was prepping me for my sudden-out-of-the-blue trash and garage door encounters.

“Bless the Lord, oh my soul” were King David's words as he was commanding his soul (his will, mind, and emotions) to bless the Lord. He was encouraging himself with what he needed to do to rise above his circumstances. Those words from Psalm 103 were Matt Redman’s inspiration for this song. In that chapter, David listed several reasons why his heart was full of worship for God: He forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems our lives from the pit, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires and gives righteousness and justice.

I googled Matt Redman and this song, and read what he said to explain it. “If you wake up one morning and you cannot think of a reason to bring God some kind of offering of thanks or praise, then you can be sure there's something wrong at your end of the pipeline, and not His. We live beneath an unceasing flow of goodness, kindness, greatness, and holiness, and every day we're given reason after reason why Jesus is so completely and utterly worthy of our highest and best devotion."

I realize we are one week past Thanksgiving today and it would seem that I’ve posted enough about gratitude and thanksgiving, but for “10,000 reasons” and so many more, I was reminded that putting gratitude as my #1 priority, sure keeps us in a gratitude mode -- even when things aren't going the way we had hoped them to go. Gratitude opens the floodgates to so many more reasons to be thankful -- even when a garage door goes haywire! I’m purposing to follow David’s lead in Psalm 103 to talk to my soul more so my "Reasons List" continue to grow in "blessing His Holy Name". How about you?