Loving and Singing Through the Years
It seems I'm still caught up in this “Love Month”. I was at Whole Foods and over the sound system I heard Kenny Rogers singing "our" song, “Through the Years”. I was somewhat jolted and teared up a little! Of all places to be reminded of my sweetheart was Whole Foods. We had special songs that were “ours” in our earlier years, but when true love didn’t quit through all of life’s ups and downs, this song spoke volumes about two determined people willing to stick it out and realize how sweet the love grows when we don't give up. This song describes us perfectly! I can imagine, for those of you who have been together through thick and thin for many years, can relate to it, too.
I can't remember when you weren't there,
When I didn't care for anyone but you.
I swear we've been through everything there is,
Can't imagine anything we've missed.
Can't imagine anything the two of us can't do.
Through the years. You've never let me down.
You turned my life around.
The sweetest days I've found, I've found with you.
Through the years. I've never been afraid.
I've loved the life we've made.
And I'm so glad I've stayed, right here with you.
Through the years.
I can't remember what I used to do, who I trusted,
Whom I listened to before.
I swear you've taught me everything I know,
Can't imagine needing someone so.
But through the years it seems to me,
I need you more and more.
Through the years, through all the good and bad,
I knew how much we had.
I've always been so glad, to be with you.
Through the years. It's better every day.
You've kissed my tears away. As long as it's okay,
I'll stay with you. Through the years.
Through the years, when everything went wrong,
Together we were strong.
I know that I belonged, right here with you.
Through the years, I never had a doubt,
We'd always work things out
I've learned what love's about, by loving you, through the years.
To love and be loved is life's sweetest treasure. But even more than the earthly love we enjoy, the most beloved relationship we could ever hope to have is our relationship with God. What a beautiful romance I have had with Him…..through the years.
This romance, beyond my Sweetheart’s “great escape to heaven” is the life of beauty, intimacy, and adventure I have with God. In Jeremiah 31:3, He says “I have loved you with an everlasting love”. Talk about a romantic lover. He’s given us the whole world for romance -- the rivers and the meadows, the mountains and the beaches. Flowers, music, a kiss, a sunrise, a sunset, a touch.
There's no "earthly" love like His love. Shhh! I hear Him singing a love song to me.....Zephaniah 3:17 "The LORD your God among you is powerful -- He will save and He will take joyful delight in you. In His love He will renew you with His love; He will celebrate with singing because of you".
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Showing posts with label love month. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love month. Show all posts
Sunday, February 24, 2019
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
The Month of Love Can Be “Bah Humbug”.....if we let it!
Everywhere I look there are reminders: "This is Love Month!". Since my sweetheart is long gone from this side of heaven, I could shut my eyes, allow myself to be pitiful and think "Please March, get here quickly!" But you’ll notice I refuse to go there, so much so that I intentionally post about love this month.
You see, February 14th has been a precious day for me since I was 12 years old. Well, maybe even before that when we decorated shoe boxes for receiving Valentine cards from our schoolmates. Up till February 14th, 1961, the cards I received from boys were slim-pickens. But from 1961 until 2010, Valentine's meant the world to me. My Sweetheart and I had our first "date" on Valentine's (ages 12 & 13) and every year since then, we made it "our" special day. I fully understand, however, why many wish there wasn't so much emphasis on love and lovers -- especially if they don't have a significant other.
But, every year, I purposely decide to defeat those thoughts as soon as February rolls around. Rather than being wimpy, I purpose to be energized, strong and determined. I embrace this whole month and call it a Month of Love -- focusing on giving out love daily, expressing my appreciation for friends, family and ESPECIALLY, my Father God -- the greatest LOVER of all.
I'm sharing my thoughts with you about "Valentine's NOT being Bah Humbug". I checked my heart on it before this month rolled around. And look at how God intercepted my thoughts. These photos are of a Valentine's "Love" brunch given by some precious women from Dwell Church. The homeowner emulates the beauty of being a Martha who serves with excellence and a Mary who worships at the feet of Jesus. I was so grateful to be included in this special celebration that she went way out of her way to show her love to us. Everything was done meticulously with excellence from the "love" signs that greeted us to the handsome servers from the church who welcomed us with a lovely punch, a ticket, and a sweet "love" magnet. Their living area furniture was moved to their bedroom. Can. You. Speak? Reminders of love were everywhere and the brunch was par excellence. Check out that chocolate fountain bar. How blessed I felt when she gave a gorgeous orchid plant to me and another widow. I sensed my sweetheart looking down from heaven and applauding. To top it off, the tickets were for the gorgeous centerpieces filled with candy hearts and roses, and my number was drawn. I tried to give it away for someone else, but they insisted I keep it. Truly I sensed God's favor. He keeps on pouring it on!
I like to think that this sweet day was a gift for turning up the love burner in my month. It was a “give and it shall be given” gift to me. So, I will continue to NOT fall for the "IF ONLY" lie. You know, "IF ONLY my sweetheart was still here, IF ONLY I had a boyfriend, IF ONLY I had a romantic husband." "IF ONLY" can do quite a number on our hearts. That’s why I’m determined to replace my "If onlys" with "I ams". I AM loved by God. I AM so thankful for the beautiful people He has placed in my life. I AM rich in God’s mercy and grace. I AM so happy that I love this LOVE season because I am reminded to amp up my love for God and others. 1 John 4:19 explains it this way "We love because He first loved us."
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Monday, February 11, 2019
Love is an Action Word
My son is a speed reader. He has to be – as the CEO of a large technology company, he has to read and review tons of documents and correspondence on a daily basis and if he wasn’t a speed reader, he’d be bogged down with more paperwork than he could handle. I’ve become a speed reader, too! And there lies the reason why I have to scold myself. I see how easily I can turn my goal of reading my Bible through in one year into cold repetition and an act of regimen instead of reading it like a love letter and intentionally looking for the meaning of God’s love words to me. My Bible is my “go to” place for finding direction on which way to go or what to do. I have so many “go-to” passages and I know so many stories I will often read them and gloss over the words or think there’s nothing new to learn or that I already know it all as it relates to that verse or this chapter.
And it may be the same for you. Yes, we hear God’s words spoken to us when we attend church or a Bible Study, but even those times we may find ourselves speed-reading through familiar words or skipping a section altogether because we “know” it so well. Oh, our enemy is a sly fox and he loves it when we “speed-read” through God’s love messages to us.
I am stirred up about how important it is for NOT speed-reading through the greatest love explanation that was ever penned. That is 1 Corinthians 13. If you’ve ever attended a wedding, I’m sure you heard somewhere in the ceremony those words spoken. If only we practiced what we heard and learned. Would you join me in reading these words as if you’re seeing them for the very first time? Please try!
<3 "Love is patient and kind; does not envy or boast;
isn’t arrogant or rude; doesn’t insist on its own way;
isn’t irritable or resentful; doesn’t rejoice at wrongdoing;
rejoices with the truth; bears all things; believes all things;
hopes all things; endures all things. Love never fails."
{1 Corinthians 13:4-7} <3
Throughout the entire chapter, love is an action word, not emotion. Love is something we do, not feel. It’s a game changer. At all times — and regardless of circumstances — we’re called to love others. And not just others, we’re called to love our enemies {Matthew 5:43-48}! (Gasp!)
How can we love our teenage children when they defy and disobey us? When a friend betrays our confidence? When a co-worker undermines our decisions? When our spouse leaves our marriage and our family in shambles? How can we love then?
The only way we can love in those times is to follow THE WAY and how He loved. We don’t know if Jesus FELT love for the people who failed Him and treated Him horrifically, but we do have a glimpse into HOW He demonstrated His love — "but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” {Romans 5:8}
Maybe someone is really making it difficult for you to love them and it is hard for you to read 1 Corinthians 13 and think “Easy-peasy!” Can I ask you to try something? Please re-read 1 Corinthians 13 and practice the ways you CAN show love to the hurtful people in your life? When you don’t feel love, you can be patient and kind. You can be humble and enduring. I know it isn’t easy, but it is simple.
Who have you been withholding love from because you don’t feel love toward that person? (I can think of a few in my own life.) Thanks be to our Lord who loves us enough, not just to command us to love others but to make a way for us to love people, and in doing so, we love as He loves us.
And it may be the same for you. Yes, we hear God’s words spoken to us when we attend church or a Bible Study, but even those times we may find ourselves speed-reading through familiar words or skipping a section altogether because we “know” it so well. Oh, our enemy is a sly fox and he loves it when we “speed-read” through God’s love messages to us.
I am stirred up about how important it is for NOT speed-reading through the greatest love explanation that was ever penned. That is 1 Corinthians 13. If you’ve ever attended a wedding, I’m sure you heard somewhere in the ceremony those words spoken. If only we practiced what we heard and learned. Would you join me in reading these words as if you’re seeing them for the very first time? Please try!
<3 "Love is patient and kind; does not envy or boast;
isn’t arrogant or rude; doesn’t insist on its own way;
isn’t irritable or resentful; doesn’t rejoice at wrongdoing;
rejoices with the truth; bears all things; believes all things;
hopes all things; endures all things. Love never fails."
{1 Corinthians 13:4-7} <3
Throughout the entire chapter, love is an action word, not emotion. Love is something we do, not feel. It’s a game changer. At all times — and regardless of circumstances — we’re called to love others. And not just others, we’re called to love our enemies {Matthew 5:43-48}! (Gasp!)
How can we love our teenage children when they defy and disobey us? When a friend betrays our confidence? When a co-worker undermines our decisions? When our spouse leaves our marriage and our family in shambles? How can we love then?
The only way we can love in those times is to follow THE WAY and how He loved. We don’t know if Jesus FELT love for the people who failed Him and treated Him horrifically, but we do have a glimpse into HOW He demonstrated His love — "but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” {Romans 5:8}
Maybe someone is really making it difficult for you to love them and it is hard for you to read 1 Corinthians 13 and think “Easy-peasy!” Can I ask you to try something? Please re-read 1 Corinthians 13 and practice the ways you CAN show love to the hurtful people in your life? When you don’t feel love, you can be patient and kind. You can be humble and enduring. I know it isn’t easy, but it is simple.
Who have you been withholding love from because you don’t feel love toward that person? (I can think of a few in my own life.) Thanks be to our Lord who loves us enough, not just to command us to love others but to make a way for us to love people, and in doing so, we love as He loves us.
Thursday, February 7, 2019
What Matters Most is Walking in Love
The Love Month is well underway, love is in the air, and today is my children's 22nd wedding anniversary (see my separate post that honors their love story). I'm on purpose to awaken our senses to not just "talk the talk" but "walk the walk of love".
God IS LOVE and the lesson He wants us to learn on earth is how to love. To say “I love you” can sound like a cliché if our actions don’t measure up to those words. We say “I love you” in the same sentence that we say “I love chocolate cake” and there are times when it seems the one saying those words loves chocolate cake more than us. We say “I love my neighbor” in the same thought as “I wish my neighbor would keep his kids off my lawn”. Rick Warren says: “Learning to love unselfishly is certainly not an easy task. It runs counter to our self-centered nature. That’s why we’re given a lifetime to learn it."
Of course, God wants us to love everyone, but He’s particularly concerned that we learn to love others in His family. Paul wrote: “When we have the opportunity to help anyone, we should do it. But we should give special attention to those who are in the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:10) That’s why it’s so awesome to be in the Family of God. Not because we are a “click” or “club unto ourselves”. It’s because we resemble our Father. We act like Him, talk like Him, walk like Him, forgive like Him and LOVE like Him. That’s why our character, being in His likeness, should speak volumes over those who are outside the Family of God.
Rick Warren asks: "Why does God insist that we give special love and attention to other believers? Why do they get priority in loving? Because God wants His family to be known for its love more than anything else. Jesus said our love for each other – not our doctrinal beliefs – is our greatest witness to the world. He said, 'Your strong love for each other will PROVE TO THE WORLD that you are My disciples.” (John 13:35)
Love isn’t learned from hiding out. We must be around people, even those cranky, grumpy and even frustrating people around us because God's LIGHT of LOVE in us is what the world needs NOW. Walking in love is really what life is all about. It matters most. It takes top priority. So, let’s be LOVE show-offs and go spread some of God's love today.
God IS LOVE and the lesson He wants us to learn on earth is how to love. To say “I love you” can sound like a cliché if our actions don’t measure up to those words. We say “I love you” in the same sentence that we say “I love chocolate cake” and there are times when it seems the one saying those words loves chocolate cake more than us. We say “I love my neighbor” in the same thought as “I wish my neighbor would keep his kids off my lawn”. Rick Warren says: “Learning to love unselfishly is certainly not an easy task. It runs counter to our self-centered nature. That’s why we’re given a lifetime to learn it."
Of course, God wants us to love everyone, but He’s particularly concerned that we learn to love others in His family. Paul wrote: “When we have the opportunity to help anyone, we should do it. But we should give special attention to those who are in the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:10) That’s why it’s so awesome to be in the Family of God. Not because we are a “click” or “club unto ourselves”. It’s because we resemble our Father. We act like Him, talk like Him, walk like Him, forgive like Him and LOVE like Him. That’s why our character, being in His likeness, should speak volumes over those who are outside the Family of God.
Rick Warren asks: "Why does God insist that we give special love and attention to other believers? Why do they get priority in loving? Because God wants His family to be known for its love more than anything else. Jesus said our love for each other – not our doctrinal beliefs – is our greatest witness to the world. He said, 'Your strong love for each other will PROVE TO THE WORLD that you are My disciples.” (John 13:35)
Love isn’t learned from hiding out. We must be around people, even those cranky, grumpy and even frustrating people around us because God's LIGHT of LOVE in us is what the world needs NOW. Walking in love is really what life is all about. It matters most. It takes top priority. So, let’s be LOVE show-offs and go spread some of God's love today.
Friday, February 1, 2019
Welcome February -- It's the LOVE Month!
It’s the LOVE month and I’m especially in my heaven-to-earth love mindset as I’m back in Austin and getting to have a lovefest with my boys. Twelve year-old Bryson, who is the outdoors guy and I spend a lot of time outside. It’s my joy to be his assistant when feeding his many animals. I asked him if he was getting tired of seeing after them. His response “NEVER!” Yesterday we went for a hike through the trails of the acreage and then watched him show my his bow and arrow efficiency in the back acres shooting thrown-out pumpkins. We hung out by the creek while doing his schoolwork in a cozy place out there and at break time – he showed me his skills using his daddy’s BB gun that we bought him when he was Bryson’s age. Be still my heart! Bryson’s daddy still holds onto a childhood memory.
Brennan is my sports guy – baseball and basketball. What a blessing it is to be so close to them to watch many of his games. They won their basketball game last night and my Brennan scored 12 of the winning points. Love is definitely in the air when I get to hang out with them, as with all of my grandchildren.
Of course, when February rolls around, it’s automatic to think of Valentine’s Day and the opportunity to share our love to the one or ones we hold near and dear to our hearts. I’m sending out that love to you, my FB and Blog friends and family. My sister and brother-in-law were married on February 14th. I am always nostalgic during this month because on February 14th, 1961, my boyfriend (and 5 years later, my groom) and I went on our first real boy-girl date, chauffeured by his dad and mom to my church’s youth Valentine's banquet. This month has always been the "Love Month" to me, and though my sweetheart celebrates it in heaven, I still celebrate it here with those I hold dear.
Of course, this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month for all those around us? 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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
So, why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us? They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, 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."
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2 YEARS AGO TODAY
Brennan is my sports guy – baseball and basketball. What a blessing it is to be so close to them to watch many of his games. They won their basketball game last night and my Brennan scored 12 of the winning points. Love is definitely in the air when I get to hang out with them, as with all of my grandchildren.
Of course, when February rolls around, it’s automatic to think of Valentine’s Day and the opportunity to share our love to the one or ones we hold near and dear to our hearts. I’m sending out that love to you, my FB and Blog friends and family. My sister and brother-in-law were married on February 14th. I am always nostalgic during this month because on February 14th, 1961, my boyfriend (and 5 years later, my groom) and I went on our first real boy-girl date, chauffeured by his dad and mom to my church’s youth Valentine's banquet. This month has always been the "Love Month" to me, and though my sweetheart celebrates it in heaven, I still celebrate it here with those I hold dear.
Of course, this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month for all those around us? 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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
So, why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us? They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, 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."
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2 YEARS AGO TODAY
Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Love Means Saying "I'm Sorry"!
My word for today is: APOLOGIZE – to express regret for something one has done wrong; saying “sorry”, asking for forgiveness; asking for pardon
Today is the last day of February, the month I deemed early on as the LOVE month. What a better way to end it than with an appeal for us to live in self-awareness of our words and actions. The saying goes "Time heals all wounds”, but not all. Sometimes a stronger salve than time is needed to restore wholeness and full health to those we may have hurt, intentionally, and even those things that weren’t meant to hurt. Maybe it was just a curt remark or some smack talk that seemed playful at the time, but those little remarks can sting and be hurtful. At the time it seemed so innocent in our eyes, but by the look in their eyes, we know we hurt them. The question is “Do we let it go as playful fun, or are we quick to APOLOGIZE?”
One of my favorite all-time movies was "Love Story" (1970) with Ryan O'Neal (Oliver) and Ali McGraw (Jenny). Oliver blamed himself for keeping Jenny from her music career and when he was apologizing, Jenny's love for him was far greater to her. That's when she said that famous line. “Love means never having to say you're sorry". At that moment in the movie, I was moved to tears, but, in reality, “Jenny” got it all wrong.
Love doesn't mean “never having to say “I’m Sorry”, and it’s sure not a line that God EVER uses. APOLOGIZING and expressing regret for the mistakes we make is the language of love. God's love. In fact, Jesus APOLOGIZED for mankind when He cried out, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."
On this last day of this month of love, I'm driving home the importance of being a lover. The Apostle Paul told us how: "Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). And, when we miss that mark, LOVE means ALWAYS saying "I'm sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me."
In our world of social and political hostilities with all of the rash comments, quick retorts back and forth to each other, this is the time when we, who live above that fray, should be setting the example of mending torn and broken hearts. When we say to our brothers and our sisters, "I'm sorry. Please forgive me," there is hope for healing, restoration, and reconciliation. May we let go of our need to always be right, cast aside our pride and say in words and actions, "I APOLOGIZE! Please forgive me." And, by the way, from our heart when we say "I'm so sorry, Father God, for the mistakes I've made and change my habits so I use my tongue to speak hope and favor upon others", we'll see the greatest example of love ever given when He opens His arms of love to us and says "I forgive you....now go and sin no more."
Today is the last day of February, the month I deemed early on as the LOVE month. What a better way to end it than with an appeal for us to live in self-awareness of our words and actions. The saying goes "Time heals all wounds”, but not all. Sometimes a stronger salve than time is needed to restore wholeness and full health to those we may have hurt, intentionally, and even those things that weren’t meant to hurt. Maybe it was just a curt remark or some smack talk that seemed playful at the time, but those little remarks can sting and be hurtful. At the time it seemed so innocent in our eyes, but by the look in their eyes, we know we hurt them. The question is “Do we let it go as playful fun, or are we quick to APOLOGIZE?”
One of my favorite all-time movies was "Love Story" (1970) with Ryan O'Neal (Oliver) and Ali McGraw (Jenny). Oliver blamed himself for keeping Jenny from her music career and when he was apologizing, Jenny's love for him was far greater to her. That's when she said that famous line. “Love means never having to say you're sorry". At that moment in the movie, I was moved to tears, but, in reality, “Jenny” got it all wrong.
Love doesn't mean “never having to say “I’m Sorry”, and it’s sure not a line that God EVER uses. APOLOGIZING and expressing regret for the mistakes we make is the language of love. God's love. In fact, Jesus APOLOGIZED for mankind when He cried out, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."
On this last day of this month of love, I'm driving home the importance of being a lover. The Apostle Paul told us how: "Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). And, when we miss that mark, LOVE means ALWAYS saying "I'm sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me."
In our world of social and political hostilities with all of the rash comments, quick retorts back and forth to each other, this is the time when we, who live above that fray, should be setting the example of mending torn and broken hearts. When we say to our brothers and our sisters, "I'm sorry. Please forgive me," there is hope for healing, restoration, and reconciliation. May we let go of our need to always be right, cast aside our pride and say in words and actions, "I APOLOGIZE! Please forgive me." And, by the way, from our heart when we say "I'm so sorry, Father God, for the mistakes I've made and change my habits so I use my tongue to speak hope and favor upon others", we'll see the greatest example of love ever given when He opens His arms of love to us and says "I forgive you....now go and sin no more."
Friday, February 2, 2018
FEBRUARY – The Love Month
My Word of the Day is FEBRUARY – defined in Webster’s dictionary as the second month of the year – ordinarily containing 28 days, but with 29 days in leap years. No big deal. How did FEBRUARY make my Word of the Day list? Because I’m adding a definition from Donna’s dictionary – it’s the month of LOVE!
Oh, I know for so many this is just another month of the calendar and, quite frankly, all the hoopla about Valentine’s Day and all that mushy stuff is just not on your radar – but just maybe – it can become the month of love for you, as it is for me.
There are several reasons I don't take this month lightly. On February 14th, 1961, my boy friend (and 5 years later, my groom) and I went on our first real boy-girl date, chauffeured by his dad and mom to my church’s Valentine's Banquet. At long last, at the age of twelve years old, I, OFFICIALLY, had a boy friend! LOL! This month has always been the "Love Month" to me, and though my sweetheart celebrates it in heaven, I still celebrate it here....with those I know and hold dear.
My dear sis-in-law and her husband will celebrate their 43rd wedding anniversary on Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Another love-match made in heaven.
Then on February 14th, 2004, my precious mama got to go to heaven and celebrate Valentine’s Day with my daddy.
Of course this month generates thoughts to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month 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.
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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
“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.
Since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and 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 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 this month, 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."
Oh, I know for so many this is just another month of the calendar and, quite frankly, all the hoopla about Valentine’s Day and all that mushy stuff is just not on your radar – but just maybe – it can become the month of love for you, as it is for me.
There are several reasons I don't take this month lightly. On February 14th, 1961, my boy friend (and 5 years later, my groom) and I went on our first real boy-girl date, chauffeured by his dad and mom to my church’s Valentine's Banquet. At long last, at the age of twelve years old, I, OFFICIALLY, had a boy friend! LOL! This month has always been the "Love Month" to me, and though my sweetheart celebrates it in heaven, I still celebrate it here....with those I know and hold dear.
My dear sis-in-law and her husband will celebrate their 43rd wedding anniversary on Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Another love-match made in heaven.
Then on February 14th, 2004, my precious mama got to go to heaven and celebrate Valentine’s Day with my daddy.
Of course this month generates thoughts to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month 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.
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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
“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.
Since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and 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 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 this month, 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."
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Welcome February -- It's the LOVE Month!
Love is in the air!! I sure don't take this month lightly because on February 14th, 1961, my boy friend (and 5 years later, my groom) and I went on our first real boy-girl date, chauffeured by his dad and mom to a church Valentine's banquet. This month has always been the "Love Month" to me, and though my sweetheart celebrates it in heaven, I still celebrate it here....with all those I know and hold dear.
Of course this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month for all those around us?
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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
So, why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us? They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, 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."
Of course this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we take it up a notch and determine that February is a LOVE month for all those around us?
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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
So, why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us? They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, 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."
Sunday, February 7, 2016
Happy Anniversary, Larry and Staci!
Day 7 of the Month of Love -- Happy 19th Anniversary, Larry Wallace & Staci Wallace
Of course Day 7 of the Love Month would be the celebration of my kids' 19th wedding anniversary. I'm thanking God for them today! 19 years ago we had a wedding celebration of epic proportion. Larry & Staci Wallace were married in a Winter Wonderland (Staci’s dream from a little girl), with carolers singing, amid spruce & fir trees, street lanterns, bridesmaids carrying muffs, cotton batting snow all down the aisle and stage, and a castle in the background that conveyed their hearts that “dreams do come true”. Indeed all the planning and preparations had come together for an amazing production (literally). The only thing remaining, which we had no control over…..but God did, was for there to be REAL snow outside. And, indeed it did snow – just another confirmation of this match made in heaven. Yes, it was a winter wonderland, inside and out.
The pre-service began with carolers in scarves and mittens, singing and leading the congregation in triumphant praise and worship songs. Sharon Daugherty sang "Somewhere It's Snowing", and recorded music of Englebert Humperdinck singing "Winter World of Love" ushered in the candelighters and grandparents.
Larry and Staci had prerecorded a message telling the story of how they met (in a gym) and fell in love. It was hilarious -- to say the least -- especially since Staci had vowed to be the next Mother Teresa. Staci had written and recorded a song called "Jesus is the Reason" that was played while the wedding party entered. The song explained the signficance of how their friendship grew to love and that love was wrapped in purity and unity. Escorted by her proud and loving Daddy, Staci came down the aisle to Natalie Cole singing, "Unforgettable". She was an unforgettable sight to be sure, wearing a glimmering hooded cape over her gorgeous wedding gown, which of itself, was a blessing and dream-come-true. I remember the day we were "dress-looking" and when we saw THE ONE, with a dream-come-true price tag on it, we knew God's faithfulness -- even in the details.
My dear husband, Ron (Staci's Daddy) was so thrilled to speak the Father's blessing over their beautiful union and two pastors, Billy Joe Daugherty and Carlton Pearson, officiated the wedding. Pastor Carlton with his light-hearted sense of humor and Pastor Billy Joe's gift of evangelism that gave the people attending an opportunity to receive Jesus as their personal Savior, made for the perfect "God sent" ceremony. Later Staci and Larry both said the best part of their wedding was knowing that "their day" was about the birth-day of so many who attended who committted their lives to Christ.
Staci seranaded Larry as she sung "I Believe in You and Me". They both shed tears as the words of the song described the way they felt about each other.
Staci and Larry had refrained from kissing until their wedding day because of a covenant Larry made with God five months prior. So needless to say, when the moment came..."Now you may kiss your Bride", the congregation cheered with excitement -- not to mention the two of them, with no holds barred....locked in the biggest and longest KISS ever! LOL! After their wedding, and for many months and years following, they were asked to come to churches and organizations across the country -- where they shared their "purity" love story. Thankfully, their wedding, and the marriage they have to today, has continued to touch young people and old, with the sanctity and beauty of a marriage founded and based on God's love being the #1 priority in their lives.
Larry and Staci, I'm celebrating your lives, your love and all that you have meant to me and the shining light you have been so to so many others. Thank you for the gifts of your love -- my Payton Wallace & Alexia Wallace who are following in your footsteps in their love for Christ and His church. And, thank you for being such beautiful examples of all God gives when He is our FIRST priority! Love you both so much! Happy Anniversary!
Of course Day 7 of the Love Month would be the celebration of my kids' 19th wedding anniversary. I'm thanking God for them today! 19 years ago we had a wedding celebration of epic proportion. Larry & Staci Wallace were married in a Winter Wonderland (Staci’s dream from a little girl), with carolers singing, amid spruce & fir trees, street lanterns, bridesmaids carrying muffs, cotton batting snow all down the aisle and stage, and a castle in the background that conveyed their hearts that “dreams do come true”. Indeed all the planning and preparations had come together for an amazing production (literally). The only thing remaining, which we had no control over…..but God did, was for there to be REAL snow outside. And, indeed it did snow – just another confirmation of this match made in heaven. Yes, it was a winter wonderland, inside and out.
The pre-service began with carolers in scarves and mittens, singing and leading the congregation in triumphant praise and worship songs. Sharon Daugherty sang "Somewhere It's Snowing", and recorded music of Englebert Humperdinck singing "Winter World of Love" ushered in the candelighters and grandparents.
Larry and Staci had prerecorded a message telling the story of how they met (in a gym) and fell in love. It was hilarious -- to say the least -- especially since Staci had vowed to be the next Mother Teresa. Staci had written and recorded a song called "Jesus is the Reason" that was played while the wedding party entered. The song explained the signficance of how their friendship grew to love and that love was wrapped in purity and unity. Escorted by her proud and loving Daddy, Staci came down the aisle to Natalie Cole singing, "Unforgettable". She was an unforgettable sight to be sure, wearing a glimmering hooded cape over her gorgeous wedding gown, which of itself, was a blessing and dream-come-true. I remember the day we were "dress-looking" and when we saw THE ONE, with a dream-come-true price tag on it, we knew God's faithfulness -- even in the details.My dear husband, Ron (Staci's Daddy) was so thrilled to speak the Father's blessing over their beautiful union and two pastors, Billy Joe Daugherty and Carlton Pearson, officiated the wedding. Pastor Carlton with his light-hearted sense of humor and Pastor Billy Joe's gift of evangelism that gave the people attending an opportunity to receive Jesus as their personal Savior, made for the perfect "God sent" ceremony. Later Staci and Larry both said the best part of their wedding was knowing that "their day" was about the birth-day of so many who attended who committted their lives to Christ.
Staci seranaded Larry as she sung "I Believe in You and Me". They both shed tears as the words of the song described the way they felt about each other.
Staci and Larry had refrained from kissing until their wedding day because of a covenant Larry made with God five months prior. So needless to say, when the moment came..."Now you may kiss your Bride", the congregation cheered with excitement -- not to mention the two of them, with no holds barred....locked in the biggest and longest KISS ever! LOL! After their wedding, and for many months and years following, they were asked to come to churches and organizations across the country -- where they shared their "purity" love story. Thankfully, their wedding, and the marriage they have to today, has continued to touch young people and old, with the sanctity and beauty of a marriage founded and based on God's love being the #1 priority in their lives.
Larry and Staci, I'm celebrating your lives, your love and all that you have meant to me and the shining light you have been so to so many others. Thank you for the gifts of your love -- my Payton Wallace & Alexia Wallace who are following in your footsteps in their love for Christ and His church. And, thank you for being such beautiful examples of all God gives when He is our FIRST priority! Love you both so much! Happy Anniversary!Monday, February 1, 2016
Happy February -- Love is in the Air!
My heart be still as I croon over Tom Jones singing "Love is in the air. Love is everywhere I look around! Love is in the air every sight and every sound. And I don't know if I'm being foolish. I don't know if I'm being wise, but it's something that I must believe in. And it's there when I look in your eyes. Love is in the air, in the whisper of the trees. Love is in the air in the thunder of the sea. And I don't know if I'm just dreaming. I don't know if I feel safe, but it's something that I must believe in and it's there when I call out your name. Love is in the air Love is in the air, in the rising of the sun. Love is in the air, when the day is nearly done. And I don't know if you are illusion. Don't know if I see truth, but you are something that I must believe in, and you are there when I reach out for you. Love is in the air......."
I know those words were written for a lover, but they could be talking about the Lover of ALL LOVERS, so I’m singing it to THE LOVER of my soul. Love is in the air – every sight and every sound, the whisper of the trees, the thunder of the sea, the rising of the sun, when the day is done – IT ALL speaks His beautiful, wonderful, indescribable name – the precious name of Jesus – truly the Lover of all Lovers. And to know that love is to share that love.
.
Of course this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we let February be LOVE IS IN THE AIR for all those around us?
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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
Why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us. They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, but ALWAYS!"
I know those words were written for a lover, but they could be talking about the Lover of ALL LOVERS, so I’m singing it to THE LOVER of my soul. Love is in the air – every sight and every sound, the whisper of the trees, the thunder of the sea, the rising of the sun, when the day is done – IT ALL speaks His beautiful, wonderful, indescribable name – the precious name of Jesus – truly the Lover of all Lovers. And to know that love is to share that love.
.
Of course this month is dedicated to lovers and romantic relationships. But why don’t we let February be LOVE IS IN THE AIR for all those around us?
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. There’s nothing more important than letting people know how much they mean to us.
Why not let this be a LOVE month with everyone we encounter? 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. And, if they smile back at us, let’s imagine them saying “I love you” back to us. That silent exchange may cause feelings to emerge that could transform their day AND our day.
So, since February is the month for love, how about we make a commitment to “give our love 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, love us, pray for us, protect us, laugh with us and cry with us. They have shared the magnificent journey of our life with us. Let's purpose to pour on the love this month....and let me start by saying "I LOVE YOU.....my FB friends and family. You mean the world to me! You make my world a better place. 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 this month, but ALWAYS!"
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