Being Willing to be Interrupted

It’s been a long, tiring day. You’re almost to the end of it and you just want to chill – flip on the television to escape to another world. Aw! It feels so good to get off your feet when — just like that — the phone rings. The caller ID tells you that it’s that one friend who always seems to have a pressing issue. Do you answer the phone? Or do you let it go to voicemail?

There may be good reasons to disregard the call. It may be that you need to be able to clear your mind and you had reserved this time for quiet prayer and meditation. You just want to steal away with Jesus. After all, who should take priority over Him?

I think you know where I’m going with this. If we purpose to follow Jesus’ lead, we’ll say a quick prayer -- and take the call. Isn’t that what Jesus did? “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So He began teaching them many things.” (Mark 6:34) He was always allowing needy people to interrupt His plans.

Jesus’ plan had been for the disciples to rest after returning from their preaching mission. He wanted them to get away from the crowds and recharge. But when he saw the crowd awaiting them on the shore, “He had compassion on them” and He changed plans. His “time off” became an opportunity to teach the crowd. And everytime -- there were miracles that took place.

The fact is – we are little Jesuses if His light shines brightly in us. First we read that "He is the light of the world" (John 8:12), but He boomeranged that back at us when He said "You are the light of the world." (Matthew 5:14). Like Jesus, we should all get in the habit of choosing compassion. Like Jesus, we should be open to the possibility that some-thing or some-one will come along and disrupt our plans. Jesus' example for us is to stay flexible and open to the Holy Spirit, no matter what we have planned or scheduled for any day. It’s this openness of heart that allowed Jesus to feed the five thousand on His day off, and it’s the same openness that will make us more available to the people around us who need our attention and care.

We all make plans. Our lives are busy, and we often feel annoyed by interruptions. But Jesus wasn’t annoyed. “His heart was moved” with compassion. Our plans should always take second place to God's plans. It can be tempting to deflect interruptions or brush people aside because we want to guard our private time or finish our to-do list. But if we do that, we could end up missing an opportunity to make a difference—even a dramatic one—in someone’s life.

So go ahead, and make your plans! Just don’t be surprised when God interrupts you with an invitation to love. “Holy Spirit, move my heart with Jesus’ compassion so that I can respond with love at any moment.”

Okay! I'm Done. Winter Can Be Over.

Winter is one of my favorite seasons. I look forward to its arrival every year. Cozy fire in the fireplace, wrapping up in a blankie, hot coffee (well, that's any time of the year). The practical truth -- no yard maintenance costs and utility bills go way down. I love the excuse "It's too cold outside to go to the gym!" I think it's somewhat of a grizzly bear's mentality -- time to hibernate!

I still love everything winter has to offer -- but now it's February and I'm done. My all-things-winter mentality is replaced with "Let's get this show, rather Spring, on the road"! I'm ready to get amped up and motivated for my healthier eating and getting this young body moving and grooving. Old things passed away -- behold, all things brand new!

I’d like to say that “old things passed away” for the two "slacker" trees that aren’t aware that autumn came and went. They’re still holding onto their dead leaves. Just like many of us who are holding onto the "dead" things of the past. "Time to let it go!" In spite of their resistance to letting them go, still, on Saturday, my brain was done with staying inside. I headed outside and raked the leaves that still blanketed my yard. Four bags full. I’ll admit. It was refreshing. Neighbors stopped to visit. Lot's of sunshine Vitamin D on me in all of that nature. And, my start in getting this body moving and grooving. I'm even heading out for a morning walk this morning!

My engine is revving up for the glorious time of the year that is soon to come. The cold, dark, somber days of winter are almost over. Soon the dormant earth will give way to new life. Maybe I’m experiencing birthing pangs for the Babe Who was born in the manger to make His appearance on Easter morning -- the celebration and remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice and power over death. Had it not been for Christ’s birth and subsequently His death, and resurrection, we would have no reason to celebrate anything. We would live in darkness forever. But because of His gift to us, we have the promise of new life. Welcome, new life. Welcome, bright Light of the world.

Light of the world, You stepped down into darkness, opened my eyes let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore You. Hope of a life spent with You.
And here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that you're my God
You're altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me.

Would You Be Impeached if You Were President?

Could You Be Impeaced if You Were President?
I'd like to take the credit for this blog today -- meaning, that God had given me this insight. It rang so true for me and I wish I had seen it a couple of days ago when I was defending my President with what he has done for our Country and someone challenged me about him -- in fact, calling him "Satan in the flesh". But, this speaks so much louder to who and whose we are. This is a post from a powerful godly woman, Janet Denison. I hope you get out of it as much as I did:

"I remember seeing the video of President Nixon entering the helicopter and waving at the cameras with his famous two-handed peace sign. It was 1974 and I was a sophomore in high school. I remember when the impeachment proceedings were initiated against President Clinton. It was 1998 and I was trying to steer my two sons away from the ugly descriptions in the television news. My boys were both in elementary school. Last week, I couldn’t help but wonder what my grandkids were hearing. I wondered if my oldest were asking, “Dad, what is impeach?” How would you answer that question?

Impeach is a verb and means “call into question the integrity or validity of (a practice).” The word is used most often in America to “charge (the holder of a public office) with misconduct.” From my limited knowledge of politics, I would ask this question: Who in Washington D.C. isn’t impeachable?

In my memory, integrity has not really been a standard we use to measure our leaders. If that were the case, we wouldn’t have slanderous campaign ads that flood the airwaves and that continue once they are in office—and especially once they campaign for office again. Would we have the problems in Washington today if we had voted for leaders who believed that integrity was a high standard for their campaigns? Can a person of high integrity ever win? Is winning more important than maintaining personal integrity?

It doesn’t matter which teams you root for in this world. Integrity should be a standard we value more than winning. We look for integrity in our preachers, teachers, and medical professionals. We would appreciate integrity in our lawyers, but we demand integrity from the lawyers on the other side of the table. We want integrity in our bankers, but do we require it of our tax accountants? We want the service industries to help us with integrity, but what about the realtor negotiating the sale of our home?

We are angry with the baseball teams that cheat their way to the top. How would we feel if it were our team that had won the trophy? I remember when Tom Brady was suspended for several games after “deflategate.” He won the Super Bowl that year and another two years later. It’s possible, even probable, that deflategate cost his team a title the year Brady was suspended for four games. But, did Brady’s suspension change his sport or just the way footballs are checked on snowy days?

I loved a letter to the Astros franchise that a friend posted on Facebook. He is an avid fan who is greatly disappointed in his team. But, he will still be a fan—if they clean up their standards for winning and return to a place of integrity in their sport. His Facebook post prompted this blog post. Washington DC didn’t change because of Watergate and Brady’s suspension didn’t cause everyone in sports to stop cheating.

If winning matters most, then people will continue to compromise their integrity to win. If God matters most, then people will continue to aim at integrity. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Lost people will always act lost. The real point of this blog post is to ask us: Will Christians act saved? We need to choose to love God most and be called to his purpose, especially this week. Like it or not, Christians are the light in this culture. We tend to get angry at lost people who act lost more than saved people who act lost. We have grace for the saved because, after all, that’s our team.

Americans are all part of the fallen human race and therefore we are all flawed. But there are a lot of us who are also part of God’s eternal family. When King Solomon was commissioning God’s children, he spoke for God, saying, “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

King Solomon was a faithful, strong, and flawed leader. Maybe that’s why God chose him to deliver some of the most important words in Scripture. The key to 2 Chronicles 7:14 is found in the first three words of the verse: “If my people . . . .” The integrity of our culture is not the fault of, nor the responsibility of, the lost. God’s people are supposed to be “the light of the world.” We are supposed to humble ourselves, turn from our mistakes, and pray and seek God’s face.

God’s promise of blessing was not contingent upon the lost people doing the right things; it was contingent upon God’s people doing the right things. Whatever “team” you are on in politics, remember that you are there to love God and serve his purpose. Romans 8:28 is the responsibility of every Christian so that God can redeem all things to his great and perfect purpose.

Will we humble ourselves, pray, and seek God’s face? We are God’s people, and 2 Chronicles 7:14 explains that his blessings are a direct response to our obedience. Christians are the light of the world because the light of the world indwells us. Don’t let the world shove your light under a basket. This is an important time to shine. Humble yourself, seek God’s face, and turn from the wrong words and ways that will be easy to slip into this week. Please God if you want to win.

God can and will redeem anything for his good, if his people are called to his ways. That is our role in the impeachment proceeding.

I Want to be God's Promotional Display

Ever notice how strategically retailers display items in their store to draw us in? It's all about them using psychology to grab us and encourage us to spend more on items we didn't even realize we wanted. Even the height of items matters. Lower items for the kiddos to see and beg for that "must have" cereal and the items that are placed in the middle of the ailse that we can't resist. Or those promotional displays at the ends of aisles. Over time we even start to look at those areas as we pass to see if there is anything we want to buy there.

When we went into the store to pick up just a couple of items, we're now loaded with a cart-full of items and we think we're done shopping when we stand in line to pay and we have one more chance to impulsively buy a package of gum or a magazine, or our child begs for the candy bar they see. It’s all a part of that establishment’s strategy to make us buy more.

I entitled my blog today “I Want to be God's Promotional Display". Like the strategically placed item in the store – I want to be strategically placed that others can’t resist. As followers of Jesus Christ, you and I are called to live exemplary lives that people around us respect and want to be around. Jesus says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

We are called to be the light of Christ to others. We are called to represent Him well -- as we make choices of excellence. We are called to be noticed as others see our good works that bring glory to God. We are called to be His "promotional display"!
The choice is ours. We want to live our lives with excellence and goodness that bring glory to our loving Father.

Here we are just a week away from Christmas Day – and opportunities abound for us to be promoters of God -- His representatives. We can shine brightly in busy stores and wait patiently in check-out lines. We can use that time with our phones -- heads down scrolling through our messages and timeline or talking to someone on it -- totally ignoring others while we wait. Or, we can be promotional displays of God as we wait patiently, purposely smiling, noticing those around us -- like Jesus did with Zaccheus up in the tree, or the blind man begging. We can encourage a mama with an emotional child. We can offer to let someone go ahead of us who has only one or two items and we have a cart-full. We can spread "Joy to the World" wherever we are. May we be light-bearers and LIGHT-sharers as we make choices for how we will live our lives as promotional displays for the goodness and grace of our Lord Jesus. Then, others will be saying "I want some of that!"

Letting Our Christmas Joy Be About the Joy-Giver

Here we are – smack dab in the middle of Christmas time – only 13 more days until the presents are all unwrapped, we’re eating our Christmas breakfast and some of us are singing “Happy Birthday, Jesus”!

When I was a very young child, I was taught, like many children, that Christmas Eve was special because Santa was coming and would leave me my heart's desire. I was told to fall asleep quickly so he would come. On Christmas morning, I bounded out of bed to see what Santa brought me. I loved Santa. After all, he loved me whether I was bad or good AND he left me presents. The most important part of Christmas was Santa and the presents. So, bring on jolly old Santa, adorned in red and white, and, oh, so joyous! I can understand how that notion is what is most attractive to the world. Shiny objects. Christmas trees. Twinkling lights. Reindeer. Mistletoe. Jingle bells.

Then there is the story of baby Jesus. I loved being in the kids' Christmas program at church and singing Christmas songs. My parents were adamant I knew that baby Jesus is the Savior of the world. But honestly, from a child’s perspective, everything about the Christmas story seemed so dingy, gray, brown, and so sad. Little baby Jesus was born in a smelly stable because there was no room at the inn. We sang: “Away in a manger, no crib for a bed” So, where’s the joy in that, God? Then, Herod ordered babies killed. Mary and Joseph fled with Jesus to Egypt for protection. How joyous is that? God knew everything but still let that happen. So, children and adults who don’t know the true meaning of Christmas, find their joy partying it up with the jolly old soul, Santa Claus, and all the other tinsel and glittery attractions of Christmas.

Perhaps that's why the world has trouble with the Christmas Story – because it seems to stop at the smelly stable. People don’t grasp that it was EVERYTHING. Now, that I’m older and wiser and have grown in intimacy with Jesus (now, my go-to for breath and life and peace and joy), I can see clearly where the bright lights should shine. The Santa, though he is a jolly old soul, is simply a temporary joy. Joy isn’t found in temporary things – nor in a season. The joy that brings total fulfillment and satisfaction is only found in the ONE Who came down from heaven’s glories to become a baby (like you and me). He Who was born in that smelly stable is He Who will never leave us or forsake us. Joy, real joy, everlasting joy! It’s time we put the main emphasis on God and thank Him for His indescribable gift. True joy isn't found in anything or anyone but Him.

As Christmas approaches, let's ask the Lord to order our steps to make the MAIN thing -- the Jesus King. May we be on purpose in explaining the Christmas story to our children so they know the true JOY of Christmas is only found in Jesus. Let's prioritize taking time for Him first, then step by step, do what brings Him joy each day – being a blessing to others, filling our hearts and homes with His presence and shining our lights on THE LIGHT of the world.

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" 2 Corinthians 9:15

Amping Up Our “Little” Light Wattage

Here at Children’s Hospital, it’s an early, busy morning for radiology, fractures, and casting. Kids will be kids, and getting fractured and broken bones come with the territory. We see young gymnasts and cheerleaders who take an awkward tumble, athletes who fall the wrong way, and everyday mishaps at home. I love being here and seeing “healing-in-action” by these well-trained and gifted medical team members. I spoke about Ricky, an orthopedic technician, a couple of weeks ago in one of my blogs. Today, he stops by to tell me I was on his mind at 4 a.m. this morning! (Gasp!) “Was it a nightmare?” I asked. He quickly replies: “No, I was thinking about you and your blogs and I want to share some insight I’ve gained."

Ricky goes on to tell me why he purposes to be a light to the children: “As a result of parents talking negatively about their fears and pain from injuries they suffered as children, many of the children I care for have the idea that they, too, should be afraid. I do my best, before I treat them, to take my time to help comfort them before I ever start in with their treatment. I’m also very aware that because of racial divides and prejudices “talk” in families, some children come inbred with preconceived ideas that aren’t true. What parents say, affects children’s thoughts. As a black man, I have to intentionally come across to the patients that I am a kind and caring friend so I take, sometimes, too much time, to deflect their concerns. I just want to be a light that shines brighter than their concerns.” I assure you, he does!

We go into a deeper conversation about the importance of caring, sincerely caring, about everyone we encounter. Instead of people feeling they are only a number, they sense someone cares about them enough to greet them, ask their name and say “How are you doing today?” (and really, really mean it). Mother Teresa said, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." William Shakespeare said, “Eyes are the windows to the soul”, so shouldn’t we look into the eyes of others and desire to reach into their soul (their will, their mind and emotions) to lift them from sadness, defeat, worry and stress and help reverse those emotions to joy, peace, hope and love with some kind words?

I know that I harp a lot on “Letting our little lights shine”, but I wasn’t the original harper. Jesus was. He said, “You are the light of the world, a city on a hill that should not be hidden!” What do lights do? They brighten a room. They cause darkness to flee. Even if it’s a small nightlight, we can still maneuver through an otherwise darkened room with much more freedom.

Maybe you don’t consider yourself to be a spotlight or a fluorescent light (like what is in this area that I work in here at the hospital.) Lord, have mercy! Every wrinkle, freckle, make-up flaw, spots on clothing and hairs on my head -- is magnified! But at the same time, there is no darkness to be found here. I like to think that my bright light is brighter than that bright light. We can start off as a little night light by simply smiling to those we encounter. Before long, we’ll start to amp up the wattage and our light won’t be able to contain itself. It will brighten every corner, every crevice -- every friend or foe -- with God’s bright light.

A Fragrance That Leaves You Wanting More

As I made my way to my second-row seat at church on Sunday, I couldn’t help but notice this exquisite floral masterpiece at the altar. Not only was I taken with the enormity of the arrangement and the vast array of colorful flowers and greenery, but the fragrant aroma of the flowers filled the air. It drew me in as an aromatic garden. I related it to the fragrance of those who exude the fragrance of sweet Holy Spirit Who blesses us with so many appealing "fragrant" gifts: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23) I'm sure you're familiar with that fragrance and even witnessed it in others. You might carry that scent, too.

We hear and talk a lot about being the "light of the world", but shouldn't we also be the "fragrance of the world"? Carrying the fragrance of God wherever we go certainly makes sense.

The Bible tells us this story: "Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume." (John 12:3) Can't you just imagine the aroma that consumed the house and all those who were in the house? What about those who had been in Jesus' presence that day? Don’t you know they carried the scent of the perfume, but they also carried the scent of Jesus' presence on them, too. They were better for it. They wanted to BE BETTER because of it.

What if our lives were a fragrance that attracted people to God? Our fragrance will either attract others to Him or repel them. The sweet scent of the likeness of Christ can be an irresistible pull toward the Savior. When we walk with God, we leave behind a sweet fragrance that can inspire others to follow. So many need to experience that fragrance.....and they will, as we continue to "splash on" His fragrance throughout our days. So....what fragrance are YOU wearing today?

Christmas Lights and the Light of the World

Is it just me, or am I seeing more homes lit up with twinkling Christmas lights this year? Hopefully, it means the Christmas spirit is catching hold of people's hearts and they're desiring their "lights" to shine brightly! I know most people are adding to the festivity of Christmas and don't consider the lights they're displaying to symbolize Christ, the Light of the World, that dispels the darkness. But, nevertheless, that's what this girl thinks. Those light displays, great or small, are dispelling the darkness where they are. My lights don’t qualify for extravagance but they do merit checking the box “Donna lets her little lights shine”!

Whether we are the extravagant, over-the-top Christmas light displayer, or we're like my community where we have just mini-displays, there is good news for us: our homes are still expressing the Christmas spirit. Lights are an important symbol of the meaning of Christmas. Jesus entered this world as the Light of the World to dispel darkness and God got in on the original light show. Just think about the dazzling array of angels who appeared to the shepherds and then the "extravagant" light show of the star over Bethlehem that drew the Wise Men to it. All those fun birth announcements we see today on social media don't hold a candle to THAT birth announcement and LIGHT show!

I like to think that the LIGHT that lives in us is dispelling the darkness in our sphere of influence. In that case, "You light up my life" takes on a whole new meaning to a world that is begging for LIGHT." Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” John 8:12. And, here's the real kicker: Jesus said to us "YOU are the light of the world." Matt 5:14. How's that for a standard to live up to? It sure puts the onus on us to check out our wattage and light output, doesn't it?

Bottom line, the darkness of this world can only be cured by the LIGHT of the ONE who created it: His Light and our Light. I'm thinking that the song "This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine" should be made a Christmas carol, for most certainly, His LIGHT shining through us could be the extravagant, over-the-top Christmas LIGHT display that could make a difference in the lives of those around us here and around our world. So, shine little lights, shine!

It's All About Perspective

Continuing on with my animal-sitting here in Austin, I was taking the 2,000 lb longhorn, Vamanos, his morning meal, consisting of huge grain pellets and lots of hay. He is usually standing at the fence waiting or at least comes trotting if he is a distance away. Yesterday, no sign of Vamanos. I clanged the gate with the chain. Nada. I hollered and yelled for him. Nada. Suddenly, I became alarmed. NEVER had he not shown up for his mealtime. I, cautiously, walked inside the fence and went down a path that leads to a thick treed area, but then Mother Wisdom warned me about getting too far from the gate so I could make a quick exit if he shows up. He seems like a gentle giant, but my good instincts tell me he sees "red" when he sees me!

In a distance, I saw what looked to be horns and a carcass in the field. My heart was beating a mile a minute. I imagined wild animals had attacked him and eaten him up. As I walked closer, I was greatly relieved that it was the remains of a fallen tree looking exactly like what my imagination was telling me. After breathing a sigh of relief, I made my way back to the gate and called some more. I started pondering "Who can I call to go into that pasture and treed area to see if he is okay or hurt or sick?" I thought, "I'll give it an hour (it was 7 am) and then I'll go back and see if he showed up. As I was walking away, meandering up the hill, was Vamanos. I probably had awakened him from one of those mornings deep periods of sleep.

Of course, I would find a post for today out of that morning ordeal. My perspective was imagining the worst possible scenario and my vision saw it just that. Not until I got closer to the false scenario, did I change my perspective.

How many times do we imagine the worst possible thing to happen in our lives instead of getting a reality check? We hear the weather reports and rather than turning to the Creator of the weather, we succumb to fear and anxiety. We come up against some tough times financially, and we see ourselves going bankrupt instead of turning to He Who owns the cattle on a thousand hills (gotta' keep up with my farm analogy). We see a light at the end of the tunnel but it's a train coming to take us out instead of the Light of the World turning things around for us.

Even though our perspective might be skewed and we may not see things clearly, just hold on. Time will pass and we will see it as clearly as God had planned all along. It will be like seeing with new eyes. Seeing things through His planned perspective. ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ {Jeremiah 29:11}

When we let our own limited perspective get in our way, we miss God in the midst. When we dwell on the outcome, we miss what is happening now. He is right there with us. He knows the way. He has the plan all figured out and He knows how it will all come together.

Just as Vamanos came sauntering up for his breakfast instead of being eaten alive as my perspective had made me think.....God will saunter or stroll along for a while, and in His perfectly set time.....we will see Him clearly and we will see the BIG PICTURE He planned all along.

The Twelve Days of Christmas – MERRY CHRISTMAS!

TToday is December 30th – which means it’s the 6th day of Christmas. A few days ago, upon my return home from Austin, I said in my post that I was going to start taking down my Christmas décor the next day. The inspiration came when my Austin Family were heading out of town for several days and they wanted to come home to a back-to-normal atmosphere. It would feel great for them not to face the de-Christmasing of their home upon return. We pitched in and succeeded!

That was my plan, too, until my BFF, Sheila Michie, commented on my post "Enjoy all 12 days of Christmas -- today's only the 4th day!" I checked out what she said, and it was true!! We’re still in the 12 Days of Christmas!! I quickly posted a retraction that I was holding off to savor in the flavors and favors of Christmas until the end of the 12 days. Here is the result of my research:

The "12 Days of Christmas" are the 12 days between Christmas Day, December 25th, the birth of Jesus, and January 6th, Epiphany -- the day Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi (Wise Men) and the revelation of Christ as the Light of the world.

During the 15th to 18th centuries in England, it was a crime to be Catholic and they were prohibited from any practice of their faith by law -- private or public. Anyone caught with religious books or writings would be severely punished -- imprisonment, hanging or a beheaded. The song, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” was written during that time of religious persecution. It was a kind of secret summary and memory tool of the principles of Christian beliefs that could be sung in public without fear of arrest.

In the song, the "true love" mentioned doesn't refer to an earthly lover. It refers to the "True Love" of God the Father, the greatest Giver. The “me” who receives the gift refers to all believers in Christ. Christ is presented as a mother partridge who fakes injury to lure predators from her helpless nestlings, much in memory of the expression of Christ's sadness over the fate of Jerusalem: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me..." Matthew 23:37.

Each line in the song is a code word for a religious truth:

1. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus.

2. The two turtledoves are the Old and New Testaments.

3. Three French hens stand for faith, hope and love.

4. The four calling birds are the four Gospels.

5. The five gold rings recall the Hebrew Torah (Law), or the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament.

6. The six geese a-laying stand for the six days of creation.

7. The seven swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.

8. The eight maids a-milking are the eight Beatitudes.

9. The nine ladies dancing are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.

10. The ten lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments.

11. Eleven pipers piping represent the eleven faithful Apostles.

12. Twelve drummers drumming symbolize the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles Creed.

The Twelve Days of Christmas give us a reason to celebrate and exchange gifts. This old-fashioned approach to gift-giving eventually gave way to today's practice of exchanging gifts on Christmas Day.

So, I'm back to breathing in the "Oh Holy Night" of Christmas for a few more days. I'll bask in the 12 Days of Christmas – savoring the atmosphere as long as I can. I've resisted the urge to run out to the After-Christmas sales. As a matter of fact, the cold weather beckons the fireplace to be blazing, wearing the cozy attire and staying inside to experience THE Presence of Emmanuel -- God with us. I'm having a loving affair with the Lover in the song, and the Partridge in the Pear Tree. I'm journaling, reading, and embracing the moments, while preparing for a new year of serving, loving and giving. I pray that you, too, are experiencing Christmas peace and joy a few more days.

In the words of Paul Harvey…..”and now you know the REST of the STORY!" You’re welcome!

A City on a Hill

While in Stonebriar Mall yesterday, I stopped by one of my favorite boutiques, Altar'd State. Favorite -- not because I've ever bought more than two or three items there, but because of the "feel good" experience I get when I shop there. I see this store being a "city on a hill". Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."

It's mostly a trendy clothing-line store for teenage to middle age women, but this over-middle-age-woman bought an adorable jean jacket yesterday to wear over my "trendy" tops. Everywhere in the store you'll see signs that reflect a positive outlook on life, like...."Be who God meant you to be and you'll set the world on fire", "Pray big", "Perhaps this is the moment for which you were created", "Blessed Life", etc.

I came home and delved into their website and I read their Mission Statement (photo here) and their history. It's one of those entrepreneurial, hard-working and living-the-dream story. BTW, the name "Altar'D State" is a reference to both the altar of God and the altered life of a Christian, and according to the CEO Aaron Walters, "because when you live a Christian life, it is a different life." They have 70 boutiques throughout the U.S.

No sooner had I left Altar'd State, that I walked across the mall and there was a new store I hadn't seen before, 3:16.

Catchy numbers with a message that we see on athletes' faces, so I knew I had to check it out. Does it really mean John 3:16? And, to my absolute delight, actually it does, because the entire store is about spreading the Good News that John 3:16 speaks of: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life." There are signs, jewelry, home decor' and a clothing line that spreads the Good News. Bold evangelizing. Impressive.

Then I thought about Christian Brothers Automotive that I drive by everyday. I wondered if the brothers last name was Christian or if they're defining who they are as followers of Christ! I found out that Mark Carr was discontented with his line of work, so he prayed and asked God to provide him a business. The very next day, while Mark was attending a Sunday School class at his church, a friend from the class told him he was an automotive technician, and asked Mark to help him start an automotive repair shop, and they did. The two men were encouraged by their Sunday school class to call it Christian Brothers Automotive, as they were two brothers in Christ. Today they have 150 franchises in 19 states. Ethical, professional and tremendous customer service are their standards, which speaks volumes about living our Christianity out loud with honor.

Why did I share these businesses with you today? Yes, these businesses are definitely being that "light in the world -- the city on the hill that cannot be hidden" like Jesus spoke of and we pray they be continually blessed for their being so representative of "spreading the good news". But, how about you and I? Maybe we don't have a storefront or a "God Loves You" bumper sticker on our car and we don't wear a "Blessed Life" t-shirt (maybe we should), or we don't have signs all over our home that scream "I am a Christian" (maybe we should), but what about the billboard that we show everyday? That smiling face, that generous heart that gives, or the spokesperson that encourages and lifts up those around them. I'm telling you "spreading the good news" in a world that sure could use good news should be what we're all about. St. Francis put it best: "Preach the Gospel at ALL times, and sometimes, use words."

The Best of Times; the Worst of Times

It was the best of times……being with my family here in Austin over the last several weeks and having my oldest grandson, Braden and sweet wife, Ruth, here over the last several days made it even more special. There was laughter, reminiscing, big brother and little brothers rough-housing, sweet moments when our Bryson asked Ruth to help with his anatomy science work, and she did, building mousetrap cars, great dinners out and in, attending church together, along with serious conversations about the future. Though they plan on waiting for at least two years to start their family, Braden and Ruth talked a lot about the baby they will have one day, and Bryson, rather Uncle Bryson (our 10 year old), announcing that he will be the favorite uncle. LOL! Not one time in all the sweet times together did we talk about the worst of times, in our country, around the world or in any other situation.

I had to look up those words “the best of times and the worst of times” and found that Charles Dicken’s classic work, “A Tale of Two Cities” begins with those words….”It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness...." The French revolution had brought the worst of times and the best of times to both France and England. Dicken’s words were truly descriptive of the mood of the world. In many ways we know what it is to experience the best times in our lives and our world, and at the same time, and in other ways, the worst of times.

Here’s the best news EVER! God’s "Good News" is greater than the world’s bad news. John the Apostle described Christ’s coming as light coming into the darkness, and he said that the darkness could not extinguish it. It could not conquer it, or overpower it. Darkness is simply the absence of light. All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish a single candle. God’s light has come into the world to overcome the darkness, and the darkness is helpless against it. Light is greater than darkness and God’s "Good News" is always greater than the world’s bad news. No comparison!

If we only paid attention to the news or social media, we’d think there was only darkness in the world — only bad news. But if we would meditate on the "best of times" in our lives as well as start our day reading the Good News, our mind would be filled with good and the 6 pm evening bad news could not overcome it. We say with Paul, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57. Here's the promise we have from God: “Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith” 1 John 5:4)

We have to be talking about good news and looking for good news if we are going to find good news. We have to believe that God brings the best of times in the middle of the worst of times. We have to receive the good news into our heart and make it a part of our life.

It's easy to live in the darkness. We can live as though there is no good news — only bad. Like Darth Vader, we go over to the dark side. We can live with anger and negativism. We can give in to pessimism and despair. We can look for the worst, and fail to believe the best. The power of darkness can seem so strong at times. It appears to be all around us. Everyone seems to be giving into it, and we feel overwhelmed and alone. But these are the words of our "BEST OF TIMES" Lord: John 8:12 “Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."

Two teams are playing in this world. One is all about darkness, and the other is all about light. One is all about bad news, and the other is all about good news. We know which one will win, and that's the team I'm on. That is good news.....AND....the best of times!

Christmas Lights and the Light of the World

No shortage of Christmas lights here in Frisco, TX! The homes in my daughter's neighborhood seem to be in competition on who can light up their home and yard the most. I love it! That's been one of my Christmas favorites since I was a little girl. We were always light gazers when we'd drive around neighborhoods to see the lights of Christmas. Occasionally, we'd see a truly spectacular display covering the house and yard and trees and we'd ohh and ahh at the workmanship, plus wondered about the cost of their electric bill at the end of the season. Not everyone gets into Christmas so audaciously, but even lights on a simple tree in the house expresses that wonderful Christmas spirit. I like to think that those lights express the true LIGHT of Christmas that dispels darkness.

Whether we are the extravagant, over-the-top Christmas light displayer, or we simply put a candle in the window of our homes, there is good news for us. Lights are an important symbol of the meaning of Christmas. Jesus entered this world to be the Light in the darkness, and God got in on the original light show. After all, the angels appeared to the shepherds, and whenever angels appear they often have this dazzling array around them. Talk about LIGHT SHOW! And then there was the star over Bethlehem that the wise men were drawn to. "You LIGHT UP MY LIFE" took on a whole new meaning that glorious Christmas night.

I know there are those who don't consider the lights they're putting on their homes to symbolize the Light of the World that dispels the darkness. But, nevertheless, that's what this girl thinks. Those light displays, GREAT or SMALL, are dispelling the darkness where they are......and I like to think that the LIGHT that lives in us is dispelling the darkness in our sphere of influence -- at work, at home, at play, at school, at the restaurant, at the store, at church, at a football game, at a political event. In that case, "YOU light up my life" really does take on a whole new meaning to a world that is begging for LIGHT.

"Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” John 8:12. And, here's the real kicker.....Jesus said to us "YOU are the light of the world....." Matthew 5:14. WOW!! How's that for a standard to live up to? It sure puts onus on us to check out our wattage and our light output, doesn't it?

Bottom line, the darkness of this world can only be cured by the LIGHT of the ONE who created it. LIGHT that comes from HIM; LIGHT that comes from us. I'm thinking that the song "This little light of mine, I'm gonna’ let it shine" should be turned into a Christmas carol....for most certainly, His LIGHT shining through us could be the extravagant, over-the-top Christmas LIGHT display that could make the difference in our world.

For Such a Time As This

Though I'm "out there" when it comes to social media, I'm quite reserved when it comes to my political voice. I have my own opinions but I rarely voice them publicly. That could be seen as a wimpy way out of controversy, or it may mean that I choose to live "above the fray" by recalling my Mama's favorite quote "If you can't say something nice, say nothing at all!" Aligning myself with particular political figures has been a private matter for me -- especially here on FB. I am a professing Christian, so my primary voting guide is the Bible. I do my best not to be driven by the media, politics, personalities, social issues or other perspectives, but I carefully weigh out the "heart of the matter". I weigh out their stances, but I don't know the true hearts of candidates, so when the time comes to vote, I trust that my tightness with God and His Word that says "My sheep know my voice", that I'll hear THAT voice and vote according to what I hear.

So, all that to say I've never "campaigned" for a candidate in a political race because I've never known anyone, that without a shadow of a doubt, was so completely dedicated and committed as a "servant of the people", and was also an individual of integrity, honesty and love for God like Nancy Rothman! Nancy is a trusted friend, confidant and truly compelled to serve God as she serves His people. That's why I've volunteered to be on her Rothman for Tulsa County Clerk campaign team. From my heart, I know it's time to elect the people WE KNOW represent us with Godly principles. Nancy has been serving in the Tulsa County Clerk's office as Chief Deputy County Clerk for the last 3-1/2 years. She knows the position inside and out. She has the experience and dedication to get the job done.

While Nancy and I were having some "campaign discussions" today, a Pastor from our community, that just happened to be there at the same time, told us that he, himself, was joining politics by taking a board position. Why? His comments were "For too long our voices have only been heard in church, and we've kept them there. Isn't it time that we take on positions where we can be the LIGHT that God calls us to?" Matthew 5:14 says "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden." We are that light and we shouldn't hide our light. If we want change, shouldn't we step up and BE THE CHANGE?

We loved that our 2015 Miss Oklahoma, Georgia Frazier, was there in all her beauty and poise, and wearing her crown! Just so happens my sweet daughter-in-love is a former Miss Oklahoma and Miss America, so it was especially dear to me. Seeing that crown, I think of Nancy Rothman as a Queen Esther and Mordicai, her uncle saying to her "You have been called to this kingdom, FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS!" Maybe, WE ALL have been placed on this earth, at this time and this place, to impact our world FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS.

#VoteJune28th

#NancyRothmanforTulsaCountyClerk

#NancyforClerk

Be Like Rudolph. Let Your Light Shine.

In just a few hours, I'll be heading to the airport to fly to Seattle to be with my Washington family. I'll be joining the multitudes that are crowding into airports, shopping malls, restaurants and onto the highways this week of Christmas.

Maybe people are crowding into your home, your schedule, and your plans.  What a great opportunity we have to STAND OUT in the crowds.  Every face in every crowd has either received the gift of "the light of the world" or they haven't. Jesus coming to this earth is that LIGHT. And,  we are that LIGHT, too!  That's what Jesus said, "You are the LIGHT of the world....."  the LIGHT that this world needs right now so very much.   We can be a LIGHT today to everyone we encounter. When the lines are long and the crowds are angry or frustrated, we can be different -- and we can be THE DIFFERENCE MAKER for others. Our smile will be noticed. Our joy will be contagious. Our peace will be coveted. Our kindness will be appreciated. And the Christ of Christmas will be glorified and revealed in our character and demeanor. Let's pray for the opportunity to be that LIGHT today.

Jesus is the light of the world, through us. Let's shine brightly today in every crowd.
#BeTheLight #ThisLightLightOfMine #LetItShine

Give Your Family and Friends "The Perfect Gift for Christmas"

I keep getting email messages that the subject line reads, "Give your family and friends "THE PERFECT GIFT FOR CHRISTMAS".  I was deleting most of those and not even finding out what they meant until yesterday.  THE PERFECT GIFT???  A Gift Card.  And, I thought, yes, gift cards are great because you can buy anything you want.  But, why not just give someone cash?  What's the big deal of the PERFECT GIFT being a Gift Card?  I'm really grateful for any gift that comes to me, but I receive, and have even given, gift cards to stores that just maybe the receiver of the gift card just doesn't shop there.....and then when you get to the store and start looking.....it takes FOREVER to find something there you want to use the gift card for.  PERFECT?  I don't think so.

I think you know where I'm headed with that observation.  THE PERFECT GIFT?  That ONLY PERFECT GIFT we could ever give, is that of HIM, Who is the PERFECT One, Who isn't a tangible "thing", but is the ALL in ALL, BEGINNING and END of joy, comfort, peace, life, love, happiness, and life everlasting.

So how do we give that PERFECT GIFT to others -- by giving ourselves as peacemakers, servants, joy-peace-hope bearers, by being LIGHTS that this world so needs and wants.  Though Jesus is the ultimate, ever-ready, radiant, source of LIGHT that dispels darkness.....He told us in Matthew 5:14-16 "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid.  Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shines to all that are in the house.  Even so let YOUR light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

Your GIFT this season?   YOU and YOUR LIGHT shining brightly so that others will come to know THE PERFECT GIFT -- Jesus Christ!
#ThePerfectGift #LightOfTheWorld

"I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD"

A couple of weeks ago, I heard from a friend who wanted to meet with me because she was very troubled, so we met at a restaurant, and spent about two hours talking about "issues" in her life -- those issues had been going on for many years, and she was consumed with it all and unable to find peace.  She had talked to friends who gave her conflicting advice which brought her even more confusion.  At that meeting I explained my response by using the salt and pepper shakers and a ketchup bottle.  I know God used our meeting that day, and His inspiration, to give me what I should share with those at the Advent by Candlelight events.  I explained it this way by using a small lit votive candle and another one that was unlit.

The unlit one represented the darkness in her life -- the confusion, rejection, disappointment, pain.  And the lit one was her.  I circled the unlit one with the lit one and said "Your world is revolving around the troubles -- and your thoughts are keeping you in the darkness.    And the more you keep your focus there, the more you'll be drawn to the darkness (the unlit candle)."

Then I replaced the unlit candle with the large lit candle.  That large candle represents Jesus.  When we focus on the ONE who said, "I am the LIGHT of the world, whoever follows ME, will NEVER walk in darkess" (John 8:12), then the darkness will diminish.  As we're drawn to spend time with the LIGHT, stay in fellowship with HIM, spending time in His Word, thinking about HIM -- He Who knows everything about everything, the answers we need will come from Him.  The divine set-ups and divine appointments and the "suddenlies" will start providing what we need.  We'll no longer be living in the darkness.

And I share those words with you, today, dear FB friends.  Maybe you are frustrated at the kids -- making yet another mess in the house you just cleaned, maybe you are in need of finances for the "extra" you'll need for this Christmas season, maybe you've received a negative health diagnosis, have relationship issues, have BIG decisions to make, and, now, the Christmas season has added to your stresses.  I encourage you, today, to cozy up to Him, THE LIGHT that shines so brightly and desires to dispel the darkness that is around you.  I promise you, He is the most reliable Counselor, the most indescribable  Prince of Peace and the ultimate source for restoring LIGHT to your world.