Living the Life in Kentucky (and places in between)'copr'.

"Understanding Who Your Friends Are" 111111111111111111111111

2019-07-19T17:39:00.001-04:00

I have been thinking tonight about friends.

We use the term so freely.

As I grow older, I am increasingly aware that true friends are very rare

and a treasure to be found.

There have been times that I have made a 'friend' only to find, that they were not the "lifetime" kind that I had hoped for.

The kind that when your memory searches the pages turned long ago, you find them there in the laughter and tears

slipping in and out of your story.

I think sometimes we count many as friends even when we really shouldn't do that,

to ourselves or to them.

In fact, most of the people that we have called 'friends' are simply acquaintances.

(Case in point; You gotta love Facebook and the loose use of the 'friends list'.)

If I were to whittle my list down to my 'real' friends, I would probably have 3 maybe even 4.

Most of our acquaintances really weren't meant to be 'lifers' any more than we were meant to be 'lifers' friends to them.

It is sad, that sometimes it takes a lifetime to learn the difference.

True friends are often those willful little creatures who refuse to give up, those special beings who will settle with you through the thick and thin, who will call out to you out of the big blue sky, they are often as unexpected as the rainbow in a misty, sun drenched sky.

They are a rare find; that special lifetime friend.

Acquaintances will come and they will go.

Seasons will change and they will pass.

And so will the many

who once called themselves friends.

I have found a secret though,

as I have grown through the years; a secret that I suppose isn't so secret, once realized.

A true friend is more elusive than we ever dare dream.

The sooner we realize this truth, the more content we will become.

We free them and ourselves of the expectation they were never meant to fill.

Once you get this.

You get set free.

So, if you happen upon that rare and special person who proves them self true over time;

that wonderful soul who will not betray nor abandon you in your time of need

then you will know....

You have found the crown jewel of your life.

2019-05-31T13:58:00.001-04:00

Hello friends!!!

Why the silence?

Well.....I was picked up by a publisher and my first book,

“LIVING BEYOND THE FRINGE” is now released.

It is available on Amazon (it is 1-2 month delivery).

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR OWN COPY FOR YOU OR A FRIEND...just send me a note.

This wonderful little page turner is filled with true short stories from my life as a flight attendant and Christian that will draw you closer than you have ever dreamed possible, to your heavenly Father.

To read more and to subscribe; OR TO PURCHASE from here

visit my website for freebies and upcoming book signings.

www.sallymarx.com

The book is $16.99 plus tax

and includes an interactive journal within.

Great for women, men or couples small groups too

as well as Sunday Schools.

5⭐️reviews!!

Getting Published. "Living Beyond the Fringe' (copyrighted)

2019-02-27T08:54:00.001-05:00

I am sitting in a hotel in San Francisco on a layover,
sipping on black coffee that is never hot enough.

Over the last 7 years, on days just like today I have written 100's of blogs. Many of you (men and women) have read faithfully and encouraged me on this journey

It is February 27th, 2019 and I would like to explain my absence from the 'blog'.

Something special has happened in the last year and a half.

I have been 'picked up' by a publisher. Being 'picked up' is a phrase every author longs to hear at some point in their writing career, as it is the open door to becoming a voice to the readers we have longed to reach.

Some write novels, children's books, autobiographies or as in my case devotionals or self help type books. I have always tried to be an active listener who offers hope along the way. I have found life and my true purpose in following Jesus. And it is my hope, as the title indicates, that you too will desire a fullness of life 'beyond the fringe' living that we all have become accustomed to. And that we will move purposefully into the life He has always wanted for us.

Step by step, I invite you grow deeper and live life more fully. Choose now to leave the legacy you have always hoped to leave.

And so today, I announce the upcoming release of my first book; 'LIVING BEYOND the FRINGE'.

Please, stay tuned. I will be releasing the date in the next couple weeks.
In the mean time, please pray that this book will reach many and continue to be touched by His Hand.

“Black Sheep” 2222222222222222222

2017-11-08T08:22:00.000-05:00

“Too Far Gone? Think Again”

If you have ever wondered if you were too broken, too far gone, and too messed up to be of value to God, think again.

Just take one look at the breaking news as found in the opening headlines to the New Testament.

Matthew, (a scoundrel 0f scoundrels among tax collectors) sets the scene with a list of names explaining the lineage of Jesus that could make a sailor blush.

Here are just a few...

Tamar, while posing as a prostitute, slept with her father in law Judah, and became pregnant.

Boaz’s mother was actually a prostitute.

Boaz, (a Hebrew) then married Ruth (a Moabite)

who was off limits.

(Certain groups just did not mix-sound familiar?)

Ruth then became King David’s great grandmother.

It gets even more interesting, with King David.

When he should have been fighting battles, he instead allowed lust for Bathsheba to consume him and ultimately after having her husband murdered, King David and Bathsheba gave birth to King Solomon.

And though King Solomon was wise beyond his years, his descendants many times over were crowned with...’having done evil in the sight of the Lord’..

Of course, there is no doubt that, our goal is to be like Jesus.

Jesus always sets the bar..

But, like our descendants before us, many of us, myself included are from broken and shattered people.

In fact, we too, often carry secret sins that try to stamp our foreheads with a scarlet letter that keeps us in bondage to the old way of thinking.

We think..only good comes from good.

But, the truth is this.

It is only when we lay hold of Jesus, that good comes from good and fortunately for us...

(when Jesus is made King), that good can ultimately come from bad!

The truth is here and it is here to set you free.

In Romans 6:1-2

“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”

When we choose to look deeper, we find relief in the truth of heritage.

The truth is we are ALL broken and have come from brokenness..as was Jesus.

But, whatever secret sin is trying to convince you that you are worthless, ugly and

un-redeemable..

Think again!!!

Thankfully..God takes our brokenness and will radically and sometimes gently redeem and restore us to Himself.

You may ‘think’ you are the black sheep of the family-

that the church building will crash should you enter in-that your past is so bad that it’s too late.

But the truth is we are all blackened sheep from a sordid herd.

Not one of us will escape this life without sins scar and a marred past.

The truth is.. it is never too late.

Not only does God redeem our past..when we choose Him.

His grace sets us on a path marked with freedom.

Luke 9:23

Then he said to them all: "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Whoever!!!!

That’s right, ‘whoever’

Take a lesson from the genealogy in Matthew 1, though it is often read with glassy eyes..remember this latest headline.

“These were very real people, (the black sheep, as some would say) with a very bright future.”

God used all these ‘whoever’s to accomplish His plan.

And HE never changes.

He is just waiting for you to step toward Him.

He will use you too, to make something beautiful.

God uses each of us—to accomplish His plan.

42 generations of brokenness are listed in Matthew 1 - woven together to produce perfection.

But again...

the $64,000 question remains..

Have you have ever wondered if you were too broken,

too far gone,

and too messed up to be of value to God?...

Well, think again.

(Remember Matthew, that scoundrel of a tax collector-the other tax collectors didn’t even like him)

When Jesus said “follow Me!”

Matthew simply got up and FOLLOWED HIM! (Matthew 9)

He followed hard after Jesus!!!

He was relentless.

He wrote these words about the very Jesus who came to set him free and who absolutely promises to do the same for you.

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”

Too far gone?

Think again.

Follow Him.

A black sheep no longer..

Sweet relief.

"ABIDE"

2017-08-24T07:16:00.001-04:00

"Abide" is an Old English word signifying progressively to "await," "remain," "lodge," "sojourn," "dwell,".....

John 10:40
"Then Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days.
There he stayed,...."

Visit in your memory, a place ''in the early days' of 'your' life,
a place where yo

u recall His fingerprints.

Moments in time when His plan became increasingly evident in your life.

Choose this moment to "await," "remain," "lodge," "sojourn," and "dwell,"
.....with HIM.
For He too, journeys there with you.

Abide in Him...

'We Interrupt This Program'

2017-08-14T07:35:00.001-04:00

It was early on a Monday morning on a warm day in August.

Once again, I found myself sitting in a leather bound seat on an airplane.

A smooth and seamless takeoff afforded the majestic view of layers of clouds giving way to a glorious sunrise.

I exhaled. The exhaustion of the previous week began to soak into my memory.

Sometimes laboring into a new day can feel like an endless cycle, unless we intentionally interrupt the thought process.

Our Father tells us simply to take every thought captive.

and bring them to Christ.

As we look out over this new day and new week, we will have endless opportunities to capture the moments.

The aggravations.

The fears.

The worries.

The thoughts.

The smiles.

The hope.

'His mercy is new every morning'

His Word is fresh and anointed.

Breathe in...

Breathe out....

Focus on His Word,

as He whispers to your soul and a new day gives way.

Philippians 4:6-8

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

"Made to Love"

2017-06-27T09:29:00.001-04:00

"Made to Love"

I remember a warm summers night in 2009.

It was June 30th. Bob saw you first. You were darting in and out of traffic at a 12 lane intersection. My heart immediately wanted to rescue you.

We stopped the car twice. Calling for you to come.

Finally you did.

We lifted your 20 lb. little frame into the back of our car and into my heart.

I had no idea the great rescue that was truly happening.

I remember telling our family and friends that we were looking for a home for you.

I told them we were cat people.

My wise and young sage of a niece simply said, "Aunt Sally, everyone's a dog person, they just don't know it'!

It has been 7 years since the 'rescue' and about 7 million pictures later.

Because of you, we have met more people than I ever dreamt possible, my little 45 lb people dog. Because of you, I have some of my best friends ever.

Because of you I realized, that yes...we are cat people and Yes, we are dog people.

But, more than anything, we are a 'grateful people' who have been blessed beyond, with unconditional love from Father's furry little creation, designed for man.

We were created to care for you and we are so blessed to do so.

A great rescue of hearts occurred in a moments notice,

Unconditional love, scooted into my heart.

And I will ever be thankful.

Application:

When is the last time, love took you by surprise?

Have you thanked your Father for these special gifts?

Name them one by one. Commit to spend devoted time, love and attention to each one.

Remember: James 1:17

"Every good and perfect gift is from above,coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Father, Your mercies are new every morning. Your gifts are endless. May I ever be thankful to live with a grateful heart.

And may I especially be thankful for You and the gift of eternity.

May I love those around me, more deeply. For truly-you have made us to love.

"A Mother's Day Tribute Letter"------------------------------

2017-05-11T08:52:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends,

I heard a new phrase this week as I read someone's blog on motherhood.

"Non- mom...."

Women without children.
Hmmmmm.....

Of course, Mother's Day is a time to recognize mothers everywhere.

Selfless devotion, undying love, and fierce protectors are just a few of the phrases that come to mind when I think of my own mother as well as many women that I know.

A sincere appreciation and a thankful love is what I hope to reflect back to all mothers everywhere.

I also hope this post will prove to be a genuine tribute to all women everywhere....

As a woman without biological children, I have been privileged to share in the raising of my nieces and a nephew or two.

I've shared in changing diapers, wiping little faces, kissing bruised knees as well as watching them grow into young ladies and fine young men.

I've had heart to heart conversations and thanked my sister in law countless times for allowing me these moments without feeling the least bit threatened when they would rather rake leaves and do dishes at our house, than their own.

Trying new foods and wearing their seat belts is just two of the many things they tease me about today.
They especially like it when I show them how cool I really am, with my agile use of current slang.

Now picture this hip 50 'something' year old bumping my fist
against yours!!!

"Boom, that's what I'm talking about!"

Truly, they keep us as young as we keep them amused!!

In spite of my attempt at humor I will forever be grateful for love.

For indeed, love is what has brought me to this moment.

A couple of my nieces still, even regularly, come to me with deeper conversations about their lives and their life at home.

In fact, once, I was 3000 miles from home, and I received my first message of one particular Mother's Day.

It was from one of my nieces. She warmed my heart, as I once again felt remembered as her 'mommy Sally'

Her message of love and appreciation was wrapped in a text message, sent to arrive just after midnight. And my eyes filled with tears.

So, as the day unfolds... remember

It is "love" that crests upon the edge of a full heart
that creates motherhood.

I truly believe there is no such thing as a 'non-mom', when love is just bursting inside of you.

Allow your love to wash over the edges of your heart to others within your reach.....

regardless of who you are....

You too, will discover fulfillment, regardless of whether your love was born from your womb or from a heart cresting in love.

Happy Mother's Day to each one, including you.

Love,

Sally Ann

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

I John 4:7

Application: Is there someone who needs your love? Give it freely.

Remember:

It is the love that crests upon the edge of a full heart that creates the truest sense of motherhood, regardless of who you are.

"It Took My Heart"

2017-03-30T15:41:00.001-04:00

A Callery Pear tree sits serenely at the site of the 9/11 attacks. This same tree was found severely damaged in the aftermath. It has since, been nursed back to a vibrant health.
This sweet reminder of life and rebirth is known simply as the "Survivors' Tree."

Recently, I went to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, in lower Manhattan. I became intensely aware yet again of the reality of good vs. evil.
Love over hate.
Life triumphant over death and despair.

Having flown as a flight attendant for several years, I carry in my mind an awareness and discreet vigilance that all flight crews have especially borne in our own way, since that fateful day.

I have never truly re-watched the video of that day. I have not read or listened to the recounting. To be honest, I am not certain what I expected when I made my first visit to this special place.

What I do know is, I was surely not ready for the avalanche of emotion that swelled within my heart as I stepped lightly through the meticulously appointed cavern 70 ft beneath the earth.
I know everyone has something that just sort of gets to them more so than anything else; for me, it was the shell of a window from the American Airlines airplane that was first to hit the North Tower.
It was eerily suspended in the display of the wreckage, poised near twisted metal and a mangled seatbelt along with several other identifiable pieces of the aircraft.

It took my heart, I could have wept aloud.

Instead, I gathered the pieces of my own brokenness, and continued past so many others who had stopped to study, listen and read. I needed just a bit of air.

As I turned a corner, I saw a man in uniform near an exit.
I sat down on the bench close by and finally cried quietly for a few moments. Silent tears fell for the faces and memories and the dreams shattered.
The guard happened to look towards me and offered me a quiet exit.
I asked, 'what lies beyond what I am seeing?'
He said, 'further ahead are more remnants and beyond that is the cross.'
Choosing not to exit, I pushed myself through until the end.

The cross he referred to, I remembered, had miraculously formed at the foundation of the rubbled ashes.

Standing firmly.
Solid metal beams crisscrossing perfectly.
Resolute in Hope.
A sign of life yet to come.
This incredibly formed cross, in fact, is one of the last pieces, you see, just prior to leaving the enclosed exhibit.
Knowing I would come near to the cross had allowed me to continue.

I know full well.. there are literally thousands upon thousands of immediate family and friends whose grief still skips and pools beneath the surface of their new normal.
Some come to grieve while others cannot bear as yet to visit the site.

I left the Memorial knowing hope had indeed triumphed in the end over despair.

After leaving the Memorial and wandering in the city a bit, I decided it was time to head toward my hotel, I knew it was close but not exactly sure where.
I approached one of the many passing by, a gracious lady in business attire in the financial district which is also, just a few blocks from ground zero.
I asked for the general direction of the World Trade Center.
We chatted for a moment and then
she pointed me in the right direction and said bluntly, "I had 76 friends die there that day, I cannot even bring myself to go to the new tower" and then she was gone.

We all grieve separately and sometimes so alone. We visit memories, and memorialize the unforgettable.

What I was feeling,
or the heart wrenching pain that consumes another is not mine to compare.

Grief is often a lonely road.

I had left the Memorial that day knowing two things for certain.

First and foremost; is at the end of our life's journey, if we continue on toward the cross, it is there we will find hope.

Secondly, though my time at the reflecting pools and moments spent in the museum rekindled emotions and allowed me to honor the lost;
I came forward with the quiet significance that not only does
a 'tree grow in Brooklyn',
but settled amongst almost 400 sweet gump and white oak trees,
sits a beautiful Callery Pear tree...
still growing bravely in Manhattan.

"The Battlelines Are Drawn"

2017-03-23T14:08:00.001-04:00

'We bow down, we lay our crowns at the feet of Jesus'...
I can hear the tune playing in my mind. I sometimes have wondered what it meant to lay our crowns at His feet. Tonight it is abundantly clear...

When the phone call came. I was stricken by the suddenness of the news. A friend rushed to the hospital, very ill, very sudden.
We are gathering for prayer tonight. It is all we know to really do. It is the only gift we can offer.
And, it is everything.

The scriptures in Ephesians tell us, there is a battle waging in the heavenly realms.

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
^"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s 'schemes' ".
The word 'schemes' is translated methodia'-which means the 'pursuing of an orderly or technical procedure in the handling of a subject)

^"For our struggle (wrestling or hand to hand combat) is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

We are in the battle.
We are not alone.
We are instructed right at the beginning of this passage as where to take our stance in the battle...look again..
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
That must be our first move!
Choose His strength.

As we read on..
We are reminded to be prepared!
All soldiers are trained to receive instructions and to carry on, without question.

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
       Stand firm then,
                           with the belt of truth buckled around your waist,
                           with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and
                           with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the                            gospel of peace.

In addition to all this,
take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."

So let's get ready to rumble!
We are in a battle, we cannot control.
Instead we follow a fearless leader,
HE!!! has the battle plans drawn..
HE!!! has given us our instructions.
We will execute them.

^"Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."

He has come to set us free. He has placed in this world.
There is a battle waging...
We will not go into this battle wearing a crown. It will only get in the way...

We lay down our crowns (ANYTHING that we have ever held confidence in) and give full confidence instead to the One who can save our soul.

Zechariah 4:6
‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty

I will take my stance in the Lord, bowing before Him the Lord of Hosts,..
It really is all I know to do.
And, it is the only gift I can offer.

And, it is everything.

"Living in the Shadows"

2017-02-12T08:04:00.001-05:00

❤️️Do You Doubt, His ❤️

Have you ever wondered, what is beyond the shadows?

Truth:

There is always light behind shadows.

Always.

Some of us have lived in the shadows for so long, that we have become accustomed to the dusky darkness

Truth and light

lay gloriously beyond the shadowy lives of who we secretly

fear we've become.

If you have been scraping by in a shadowy 'existence'...the truth remains the same.

His light reaches every one!!

Remember;

for a shadow to exist, there MUST be light.

And light my friend,

is far reaching and doesn't pick and choose.

Light illuminates

even the darkest of corners.

with shades of hope.

And Light is incredibly fast!!

It literally travels 186,282 miles per second!

His light and healing is like going back in time to heal the oldest of wounds.

It is no accident that Jesus reminded us Who He is, in a way we can understand.

In John 8:12, He said,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

His light reaches us, no matter who we are, or what we have been through.

He simply says...

"follow Me".

That's it..follow Him!

You will finally begin to see your own truth when His hope and light begins to shine into you.

The plan for who you truly are meant to be, is still unfolding.

Don't let the past define you!!!!!

Take your first step from the shadows.

Step into His light,

You will find your way to Him.

Follow Him.

1 Peter 2:9

"But you (your name goes here❤️️)

are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Do you doubt that He has ever loved you?

It's easy to do, when you live in the shadows.

It is chillingly cold there.

But He knows.

He knows!!!!

He knows and understands that in this sometimes hideously imperfect world you will be wounded.

He completely understands your fear and frustration and confusion.

And He is calling you out of the darkness!!!!!

If you will bring your brokenness before Him,

He will chart a new course for you..He will lead you into the sweetness of life that you dreamt was only for others.

He understands that you fear you are a disappointment to Him.

You are not!!!!

You see, HE sees the finished work in you, even when you cannot.

He is the hope, truth and light beyond the pain.

No matter what has entangled you.

Call His name,

and in an instant and faster than the speed of light,

His healing will begin!!!!

Continue to call His name..

There is always hope,

when and if...

you come before Him honestly.

He steps in to 'your shadowy living' and gently leads you to the fullness of the light.

His light.

His freedom.

He offers redemption.

He is constant, steady and true.

He loves that somewhere inside of you,

you are still seeking Him and His ways....... "

(I mean really, would you have gotten this far, if you weren't 'still' seeking Him?)

As sure as the sun rises and sets...

so too shall you!!!!

You will 'rise' from where you have been.

And you will 'set' with Him in peace.

"All things will be made new."

"I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."

Phillipians 1:6

Application:

Surround yourself with people whom strive to reflect Christ. Surround yourself with those who will not simply tell you what you want to hear, but will instead speak with love what you need to hear.

Make a movement toward healing.

Move from the shadows of your doubting toward the light.

If you need a trusted friend to speak with, I encourage you to seek godly counseling.

Remember:

He is...exactly who He says He is!!!

Jeremiah 31:3

"The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing love"

2017-02-11T00:28:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered, what is beyond a shadow?

Truth:

There is always light behind shadows.

Always.

Some of us have lived in the shadows for so long, that we have become accustomed to the dusky darkness

*Good news:

Truth and light

lay gloriously beyond the shadowy fear

of who we secretly

fear we've become.

*More good news: If you have been scraping by in a shadowy 'existence'...the truth remains the same.

Remember;

for a shadow to exist, there MUST be light.

And light my friend,

is far reaching.

Light illuminates

even the darkest of corners.

with shades of hope.

Light is incredibly fast!!

It literally travels 186,282 miles per second!

It is no accident that Jesus reminded us Who He is, in a way we can understand.

In John 8:12, He said,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

His light reaches us, no matter who we are, or what we have been through.

He simply says..."follow Me".

You begin to see your own truth when His hope and light begins to shine into you.

The plan for who you truly are meant to be, is still unfolding.

Don't let the past define you.

Take your first step from the shadows.

Step into His light,

You will find your way to Him.

1 Peter 2:9

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Do you doubt that He has ever loved you?

It's easy to do, when you live in the shadows.

It is chillingly cold there.

But He knows.

He knows!!!!

He knows and understands that in this sometimes hideously imperfect world you will be wounded.

He completely understands your fear and frustration and confusion.

And He is calling you out of the darkness!!!!!

If you will bring your brokenness before Him,

He will chart a new course for you..He will lead you into the sweetness of life that you dreamt was only for others.

He understands that you fear you are a disappointment to Him.

You are not!!!!

You see, HE sees the finished work in you, even when you cannot.

He is the hope, truth and light beyond the pain.

No matter what has entangled you.

Call His name,

and in an instant and faster than the speed of light,

His healing will begin!!!!

Continue to call on Him.

Position yourself in the light.

There is always hope,

when and if...

you come before Him honestly.

He steps in to 'your shadowy living' and gently leads you to the fullness of the light.

His light.

His freedom.

He offers redemption.

He is constant, steady and true.

He loves that somewhere inside of you,

you are still seeking Him and His ways....... "

(I mean really, would you have gotten this far, if you weren't 'still' seeking Him?)

As sure as the sun rises and sets...

so too shall you!!!!

You will rise from where you have been.

And you will set with Him in peace.

"All things will be made new."

"I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."

Phillipians 1:6

Application:

Surround yourself with people whom strive to reflect Christ. Surround yourself with those who will not simply tell you what you want to hear, but will instead speak with love what you need to hear.

Make a movement toward healing.

Move from the shadows of your doubting toward the light.

If you need a trusted friend to speak with, I encourage you to seek godly counseling.

Remember:

He is...exactly who He says He is.

Jeremiah 31:3

"The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.

"Do You Doubt, He Loves You?"

2017-02-11T00:20:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered, what is beyond a shadow?

Truth:

There is always light behind shadows.

Always.

Some of us have lived in the shadows for so long, that we have become accustomed to the dusky darkness

*Good news:

Truth and light

lay gloriously beyond the shadowy fear

of who we secretly

fear we've become.

*More good news: If you have been scraping by in a shadowy 'existence'...the truth remains the same.

Remember;

for a shadow to exist, there MUST be light.

And light my friend,

is far reaching.

Light illuminates

even the darkest of corners.

with shades of hope.

Light is incredibly fast!!

It literally travels 186,282 miles per second!

It is no accident that Jesus reminded us Who He is, in a way we can understand.

In John 8:12, He said,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

His light reaches us, no matter who we are, or what we have been through.

He simply says..."follow Me".

You begin to see your own truth when His hope and light begins to shine into you.

The plan for who you truly are meant to be, is still unfolding.

Don't let the past define you.

Take your first step from the shadows.

Step into His light,

You will find your way to Him.

1 Peter 2:9

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Do you doubt that He has ever loved you?

It's easy to do, when you live in the shadows.

It is chillingly cold there.

But He knows.

He knows!!!!

He knows and understands that in this sometimes hideously imperfect world you will be wounded.

He completely understands your fear and frustration and confusion.

And He is calling you out of the darkness!!!!!

If you will bring your brokenness before Him,

He will chart a new course for you..He will lead you into the sweetness of life that you dreamt was only for others.

He understands that you fear you are a disappointment to Him.

You are not!!!!

You see, HE sees the finished work in you, even when you cannot.

He is the hope, truth and light beyond the pain.

No matter what has entangled you.

Call His name,

and in an instant and faster than the speed of light,

His healing will begin!!!!

Continue to call on Him.

Position yourself in the light.

There is always hope,

when and if...

you come before Him honestly.

He steps in to 'your shadowy living' and gently leads you to the fullness of the light.

His light.

His freedom.

He offers redemption.

He is constant, steady and true.

He loves that somewhere inside of you,

you are still seeking Him and His ways....... "

(I mean really, would you have gotten this far, if you weren't 'still' seeking Him?)

As sure as the sun rises and sets...

so too shall you!!!!

You will rise from where you have been.

And you will set with Him in peace.

"All things will be made new."

"I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."

Phillipians 1:6

Application:

Surround yourself with people whom strive to reflect Christ. Surround yourself with those who will not simply tell you what you want to hear, but will instead speak with love what you need to hear.

Make a movement toward healing.

Move from the shadows of your doubting toward the light.

If you need a trusted friend to speak with, I encourage you to seek godly counseling.

Remember:

He is...exactly who He says He is.

Jeremiah 31:3

"The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.

"Do You Doubt, He Loves You?"

2017-02-11T00:16:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered, what is beyond a shadow?

Truth:

There is always light behind shadows.

Always.

Some of us have lived in the shadows for so long, that we have become accustomed to the dusky darkness

*Good news:

Truth and light

lay gloriously beyond the shadowy fear

of who we secretly

fear we've become.

*More good news: If you have been scraping by in a shadowy 'existence'...the truth remains the same.

Remember;

for a shadow to exist, there MUST be light.

And light my friend,

is far reaching.

Light illuminates

even the darkest of corners.

with shades of hope.

Light is incredibly fast!!

It literally travels 186,282 miles per second!

It is no accident that Jesus reminded us Who He is, in a way we can understand.

In John 8:12, He said,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

His light reaches us, no matter who we are, or what we have been through.

He simply says..."follow Me".

You begin to see your own truth when His hope and light begins to shine into you.

The plan for who you truly are meant to be, is still unfolding.

Don't let the past define you.

Take your first step from the shadows.

Step into His light,

You will find your way to Him.

1 Peter 2:9

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Do you doubt that He has ever loved you?

It's easy to do, when you live in the shadows.

It is chillingly cold there.

But He knows.

He knows!!!!

He knows and understands that in this sometimes hideously imperfect world you will be wounded.

He completely understands your fear and frustration and confusion.

And He is calling you out of the darkness!!!!!

If you will bring your brokenness before Him,

He will chart a new course for you..He will lead you into the sweetness of life that you dreamt was only for others.

He understands that you fear you are a disappointment to Him.

You are not!!!!

You see, HE sees the finished work in you, even when you cannot.

He is the hope, truth and light beyond the pain.

No matter what has entangled you.

Call His name,

and in an instant and faster than the speed of light,

His healing will begin!!!!

Continue to call on Him.

Position yourself in the light.

There is always hope,

when and if...

you come before Him honestly.

He steps in to 'your shadowy living' and gently leads you to the fullness of the light.

His light.

His freedom.

He offers redemption.

He is constant, steady and true.

He loves that somewhere inside of you,

you are still seeking Him and His ways....... "

(I mean really, would you have gotten this far, if you weren't 'still' seeking Him?)

As sure as the sun rises and sets...

so too shall you!!!!

You will rise from where you have been.

And you will set with Him in peace.

"All things will be made new."

"I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."

Phillipians 1:6

Application:

Surround yourself with people whom strive to reflect Christ. Surround yourself with those who will not simply tell you what you want to hear, but will instead speak with love what you need to hear.

Make a movement toward healing.

Move from the shadows of your doubting toward the light.

If you need a trusted friend to speak with, I encourage you to seek godly counseling.

Remember:

He is...exactly who He says He is.

Jeremiah 31:3

"The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.

"Broken and Longing for Peace"

2017-01-11T15:20:00.005-05:00

Recently, a precious friend challenged me to think deeper.

I had responded with a scripture to another in a public forum.

It was a controversial issue.

Initially, I was trying to avoid argument. I strive so hard to love in truth.

But the question remained.

What does that verse mean?

It deserved an answer.

The issue of abortion always needs bathed in healing love.

How I wish..this did not exist.

But it does. We are broken people living in a broken world.

But, we shall never live without hope.

Here is my response, and I am praying healing for ALL who come across these words.

This is what I wrote regarding Matthew 5:6, when Jesus spoke His Sermon on the Mount.

My dear friend,

I wasn't completely certain, where that verse came from. (It came unbidden more than once)

But, I knew it was Him..and now, it is becoming clearer.

I believe, it was to bring healing.

I've been thinking over the last 24 hours, on the verse, God gave.. why that verse??

I think, and I definitely know that I am full of regrets in my own life and a ton of 'if only's' relentlessly pursue me at times.

But, here it is.

No matter who you are or what you have been through, but some here, (not you or anyone at all in particular have had abortions, though I am sure someone will be led to this) live with that awful pain every day.

They are looking and searching desperately for peace.

I have seen the tears falling, the lowered heads, the 'if only' that will not go away.

I think maybe, just maybe that's why..

That verse was brought to mind, to bring hope to the brokenhearted.

There IS hope..they can live a renewed life.

It is not too late to awaken to a new day and be filled.

To finally be filled with His peace, one life giving drop at a time.

I think the key must be in this verse.

If you decide today that your hunger and thirst will ONLY be filled by Him, then that is the beginning of hope.

It is tempting to try and fill those awful voids, with all but Him.

But, if you begin today, to say,

Jesus, please show me how,

fill me up, like never before.

I am so tired of this ache.

You will be filled.

To become 'filled', begins one step, one tiny drop at a time, when you allow Him to begin the process.

Rest assured.

He is taking care of your 'wee one.'

Until that day, when you see them again.

"Hunger and thirst after righteousness and you shall be filled"

Anyway, after some soul searching, I understand better.

I long to reach out to 'anyone' who may see these words from Matthew 5:6

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled"

You are loved.

You are LOVED.

And you "will be blessed"

https://youtu.be/bbFCp6eh_60

"Travel Lightly"

2017-01-05T21:20:00.000-05:00

As a flight attendant, I see it all the time; people ladled down with luggage.

Tripping over themselves as they struggle, trying to make it to their final destination.

Sadly, I should know better, but I have found myself in the same place,

hoisting my 'stuff',

my 'treasures',

my 'necessities'!!!

down the narrow aisle.

There is much in life that tells us what we "need" in order to get by. Sometimes it's the physical belongings we think we must have.

Sometimes it's a carefully guarded heart that says, I will never trust again.

Either way, we are living a bit burdened.

We know it, but then what?

Ask yourself.

What good is 'knowing' if I never cross over to the threshold of 'doing'?

The Holy Scriptures, which I hold as my litmus for truth is ever so clear. And I recall these words of 'doing'.

"He has shown you oh mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

to act justly,

and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God."

Micah 6:8

We are also reminded in the book of Matthew that the lilies of the field are clothed in splendor.

(not a care in the world)

Then, I remember Jesus, with the weight of the world, pitched on His shoulders,

Never once was it a burden for Him.

He, who traveled ever so lightly had no place to lay His head.

He certainly didn't need a closet filled with tunics and mismatched sandals kicked about.

He, Who was put down upon at every turn had every reason to lash out or to live guarded. Instead, He chose a beautiful life of continual mercy and forgiveness.

He lived simply and with a piercing mission.

Perfectly balanced.

And, He carried forward this mission with grace and dignity, fully aware that in the end His EVERY need would be met.

So, tell me. What are you holding that fills your mind?

Is it physical?

Can some of it be lightened?

(Think..unworn clothing, endless amounts of dishes, a crowded garage?

Whatever His Spirit brings to mind, let Him clean it out and truly be willing to give it up!!)

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

1 Peter 5:7

And of course, in order to truly live in the moment we must go deeper.

Is it spiritual?

(Think grudges, gossip, and an unforgiving heart.

Again, whatever His Spirit brings to mind, let Him clean it out and truly be willing to give it up.)

You cast, He takes.

When you finally choose to travel light, you will then find time in your life for His gentle leading.

And Like Jesus; you will stay true to your mission.

Again, remember;

What is the good of knowing if we never cross over to the threshold of doing.

Go back to Micah 6:8

What was it that He required of you?

Write it out.

Then decide what needs to go and travel on...lightly.

"Feeling Funky"

2016-12-28T11:48:00.001-05:00

There was no way else to describe it.

I was in a 'funk'

I felt discouraged, distracted and just plain funky!!

It was the week between Christmas and the New Year.

And I decided it was to time to get it done!!

So, as I sat at our office desk, I was cleaning out one of the drawers.

Again....Didn't I just do this??

It was cluttered with everything from lose receipts to randomly saved business cards to hair scrunchies and band-aids.

I could have been crowned the Queen of Funk, complete with attitude by the time I finished.

I would love to say that, I came across something that illuminated my world!!

That little something that changed my perspective.

But I didn't.

After the desk drawer, I then cleaned out two more junk drawers in the kitchen.

It 'felt' good to have it done.

And yet truly overwhelming to know there were lots of hidden places in our home, yet to clean.

That's when it hit me, there will always be something to get done.

Always.

Slowly, a story began to surface. I had heard it before. But this time it was ringing out a truth right in the middle of my funk.

It is a true story as accounted in the New Testament, where two sister's spent time with Jesus in the one sister's home.

Luke 10:38-42

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

"Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

I have a sneaking suspicion that Mary had workedherself
into a pretty good funk.

Sometimes, feeling funky, doesn't allow you to see past the 'to do', to the 'to be'.

Instead of worrying over what needs done it is often better to simply 'be'.

Jesus didn't chastise Martha, He acknowledged her and simply reminded her that Mary had chosen the 'better'.

So, let's follow His example then..if the Holiday's are bringing out the funk in you, don't beat yourself up.

Choose the better of the two.

Our feelings come and go,

junk drawers fill and are then sorted.

The funk we sometimes feel can be sorted through too.

First, invite Jesus into your home, your office, your marriage, your singleness or wherever you find yourself.

And then choose Him.

Choose the quiet.

Choose to listen.

There is a time and a place for all things.

When you choose Him first, the rest falls into place.

That funky junk will get cleaned out for good, in more ways than one; but only when we let today

be His day...first.

Thinking:

1. Do you tend to be a Mary or a Martha?

It doesn't matter, if you are a male or female; anyone can fall on either side of these behaviors.

2. Name what distracts you?

These can be tangible (for instance, kids, schedules, work, cleaning) or intangible (attitude, fears, worries)

3. Commit to stop 'doing' and start 'being'.

Pinpoint a time in your day to get alone with Him.

Remember, time spent with Him, creates more time later.

We all have hidden areas that need cleansed.

Don't compare yourself to others.

Spend time with Him first, and He will bring clarity to you and to your every day.

"Chuckles From Heaven" 222222222222222222222

2016-12-16T11:28:00.002-05:00

He spelled her mother's maiden name wrong.

As we read the obituary for his wife, we could see the misspelling.

It was understandable, considering the situation.

Filled with grief, he had chosen the very best photo. A snapshot from a much happier, healthier time.

His words were crafted to reflect a life well lived.

But the spelling, yes...there was that, in an otherwise perfect obituary.

A glaring omission of his in-laws actual family name.

And someone was angry.

Oh, how little they understood.

It was all he could do to bury his wife.

I shook my head.

Sometimes, a little grace is just what we need.

And then came the second announcement, with an invitation to a carefully and lovingly planned memorial by another family member who loved her dearly.

Another misspelled name.

Only this time her last name was in the hot seat.

It wasn't far off, but it was off.

It was Facebook, so with a quick edit; it was fixed.

I smiled to myself, as I remembered who she was.

And I wondered if she was chuckling in heaven.

Knowing my cousin the way she was, reminded me to not get caught up in the small stuff.

She loved to laugh. She loved a good joke.

She would have loved every bit of this extra attention.

Then, she would have gracefully moved on.

In fact, she has!

Because, she had given her heart to her heavenly Father;

she is now a new creature

in Christ.

I thought about the things of this life that we worry over. Moments on this side of the veil that cannot survive without grace.

I am not sure what one can see or not see from heaven. But, I do know if we spend our time consumed with the unnecessary, we will never truly have time to peer into the eternal.

I am certain that heaven is a place of joy and laughter....

and yes...chuckles.

A place where eternity is all that matters and grace is a flowing stream, in which we all can dip our feet.

Application:

What is grace?

Go ahead, do a little homework.

Look it up on google.

Or find it in the dictionary.

(interestingly, the first word I see is elegance)

When is the last time you offered grace to someone?

How do you feel when you receive grace?

Humbled?

Let us go and do likewise...

peer into the eternal....offer grace while you still can.

2 Corinthians 12:9

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

"Beyond the Fringe"

2016-12-03T10:38:00.000-05:00

Many years ago, I went to the beautiful coastal city of 'Emerald Isle' in North Carolina with family.
The sun was warm and the weather inviting. And I was 'oh so content' to sit safely under my colorful umbrella and snap picturesque photos of everyone around me laughing and jumping wildly in the ocean.

Apparently, there was more to be enjoyed and my husband was really wanting me to share in the beauty from a different perspective. He encouraged me to wade into the sheltered inlet.
He assured me the path on the ocean floor was solid enough to get to the area where they had all gathered to play on the raised plateau.

Reluctantly, I agreed.
Secretly, I was excited.
I held onto his hand tightly as we forged ahead, the waves lapping gently sometimes as high as my waist as we entered the area just before the sand bar.
I have never been a big fan of open waters so this was quite a testimony of trust on my part.
We continued.
I could feel the sands shifting beneath my feet.
But I held on to his hand, trusting.
Finally, I could feel solid rock actually beneath me and the water that had been lapping at my waist seemed not so formidable as we stepped up and raised ourselves upon the solid ground.

Suddenly, I was certain the journey through shifting sand was worth it.
Now, it was my turn to laugh and become part of the picture.

To become part of the unfolding story absolutely required me to step out in faith.
It beckoned me to trust someone who had been there before me.
The view from the plateau was awesome and the ground I found myself standing on was solid and sure.

Do you ever find yourself wondering?
Wondering why you cannot seem to get past that deep place, just before the sandbar?

Something will happen, and you find yourself in 'that place' once again.
Kind of stuck in a 'routine' that has you bogged down?

Have you been there?
Are you there now?

Life is like sitting at the edge of the ocean on a sandy beach.
Camera in hand...
The waves roll in and the sand shifts beneath your feet.
Everyone around you is living and laughing.
And you are taking pictures.
Comfortable? Sure.
And, there is a time and a place for that.
But there is also a time to go.

When you are beckoned to change your perspective by someone who knows you
and you know you can trust them.
Go.
Live and enjoy.

Be in someone else's picture.

It is a little startling and we may stumble.
But we are always left with a choice.
To stay or to go when we are being called.

We can focus on the immovable rock beneath the plateau, or we can fear the currents of change.

The serene. The unchanging. The steady. The predictable.....really is wonderful.
But when you throw in a sweet surprise every now and then, the view from there cannot be beat.

If any part of this spoke to you, then just maybe, there is One who is calling you to live beyond the fringe,
He is calling your name and saying, "will you trust Me?. I have been there, Come with Me and live.'

Will you join Him on a journey to that deeper place?
A place where you turn and see that LIVING isn't just for everyone else?
When Jesus said, in the Bible (from John chapter 10 verse 10)

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full".

He meant me.
He means you.

Continue the journey with me as I share different perspectives,
May your road be blessed as you reach for His Hand.

"With Hearts' Pouding"

2016-11-06T10:02:00.001-05:00

"WITH HEARTS POUNDING"

The upcoming election in the USA, has been a driving force for many.
Some have been driven to exasperation..
Others to fear,
And yet....

There are still those who have been driven to their knees.
Seeking the heart of God.

What place do you find yourself?
A place of...
Fear?
Arguing?
Railing at the television?
Angst?
Uncertainty?
Exhaustion?
Resignation?
Or....perhaps like myself,
you have found peace in knowing there is One Who is squarely poised, alive and well in the unknown places.

He is always ahead in the drive. He has arrived and is preparing a future, regardless of the electoral outcome.

In this critical election in the USA, we have been left primarily, with two candidates who apparently fall woefully short of moral values as measured in Holy Scripture.

With tears brimming in our eyes...
we hear of babies pulled mercilessly from the nestled place of safety, near the heart of their mother.
We shake our heads at raunchy language meant to demean.
We fear for the future of our children.
We look at the plight of our country as a whole.
We realize that great nations eventually fall and when they do, they fall from within.

Then we sadly determine to vote toward the lesser of evils.
We try to weigh character upon the scale of innocence shattered.

The scriptures teach that a man shall be known by his fruit.
We examine fruit that has fallen and growing from their trees.
And so we search for truth.
But, I suppose the real question is what do we hold as the litmus for revealing truth?
For myself, I have chosen to hold scripture as my Ebenezer.

I wonder what causes my Father's heart to beat harder when peering into the heart of man?

The scriptures (I Corinthians 13)
teach that when we were children we reasoned and thought as children...and when grown, there comes a time to put away childish things and to reason as a 'man',
It is time to look into the mirror fully, as in face to face,
in order to be fully known.

I find myself longing to know what causes His great Heart to part the heavens, riding on the wings of the chariot to our rescue.

It is time, we research on our own...that which strokes the very heart of God.
What is it, that causes
His magnificent heart to beat stronger, faster?
For whom, does He part the heavens, in order to rescue?

We peer into the prism of time.
We peek at the past.
Kingdoms rising to power.
The epitome of self indulgence.
Then the fall.
Shadowy grayness fills the horizon..
A heart is pounding in the distance.
The hound of heaven is coming to rescue the innocent.

Rise up, while you still can.!!!!

We indeed have been driven somewhere...
But where?
For me, I am led to a place of humility.
To a place of surrender.

It is with a heavy heart that we often fall to our knees.
Yet, is with hope that we rise again.

Regardless of the eventual outcome, there are certain things that we all can know.
Evil kings have risen to power, then stricken and removed;
that will never change.
Things change.
People change.
But, the Lord God!!!!
He stays the same.
He is everlasting.

Throughout the history of this world, leaders have risen to power and reigned for a time.

Some go down in infamy.
While others reign in wisdom.
They are all worth remembering.

If we forget the path upon which we have traveled, we will likely again be driven into the wilderness.

And so the questions remains.
Where have you been driven?
Where do 'you' go from here?
Will you bury your head, wishing it to be over?
Will you rally in support or disgust at the media?
Will you fear?
Will you search the scriptures to find the heart of our Creator?
And....
Will you vote,
with a heart that has been soaked
in prayer.

Will you be willing to be still..
Looking hard into the heavens from bended knee,
surrendered to the God who never changes?
Regardless, of the outcome?

It all begins with a single prayer, with a stroke of your pen.

Show me Oh great Father,
for whom, to cast a vote,
in light of that which breaks,
Your magnificently beating heart.

Oh what a perilous beating of our Father's heart.
Can you hear it?
The pace is quickening and the day is drawing near.

Cast your vote with your heart beating out of your chest
For surely His is..

It pounds for innocence shattered.

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

2 Chronicles 7:14

The scriptures teach that there will come a day, that no man can escape.

You will not stand alone in the polling booth.
But, you will stand alone before Him, with every intention and act laid bare.

"On A Clear Day" (republished respectfully from my original 9/11 blog)

2016-09-10T23:55:00.001-04:00

Few days have gone by where it has not entered our mind...
In our chosen field, we stay in a state of constant preparedness...

We treat every flight with respect..
We remember.
And, even though it may not show on our faces,
we are ready.

For we shall never forget friends and families who have passed though the corridor of time...
Beautiful faces and precious names etched into our hearts for all of eternity..

We remember the day, the clear blue sky,
when you really could, see forever.

We just never dreamed...
On that clear day
We would 'remember'
forever as well...

Remembering reminds each of us,
this is not the end.

When you have faith to believe...
you really can see forever,
when you see "through"
the endless blue skies....

"REMEMBERING YOU"

Dear friend of days gone by,
We shall meet you one day in the sky..
Though unexpected, you silently flew
Through golden gates and brilliant hues..

You arrived in heaven one blissful morn..
To open arms..and freedoms' shore...
Your eyes remembered, twinkle anew...

With the Love of your Savior..He's chosen you...
To receive your inheritance, now never a care

Rest easy my friend, we'll see you there.

-Sally Ann Marx

Please take a few minutes alone to remember...today and always
Click here for inspiration and quiet time...
with...

http://youtu.be/MVmODvc2TNg

Be Ye Glad: written by Glad and sung by Acapella

also feel free to reference my blog when you need encouragement

www.livingthelifeinkentucky.blogspot.com

"An Audience of One"

2016-09-02T11:45:00.001-04:00

"For the word of God is alive and powerful.
It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow.
It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires" Hebrews 4:12

As I stood there, I held my arms out...my palms were up...I was praising in a sanctuary filled with people. I had an audience of One. And that is all that mattered.

In my life, especially in earlier years, I was often concerned with 'what' people thought of me. I think a counselor would say I was 'approval' driven.
It was exhausting.
Later on, and at some point, I didn't care what anyone thought.
It was lonely.
Fortunately, I realized catering to the extremes is just not healthy!

As I have gotten older, I have moved through the extremes and have found a balance and a place of freedom.
Somewhere along the way, I realized that if I allowed God to be my only audience,
the rest would fall into place.

When I surrender...
whether I am praising Him in song or with the music of my everyday walk,
I realize yet again, so much of what I do, is never about me.
When I offer who I am to Him, and simply raise my offering
in sweet abandon to the God of the Universe...
that is precisely the moment it all makes sense.
My audience of One smiles lovingly.
It is refreshing.

Choosing to praise Him and to live in a way that is befitting a King,
is not about outward appearance.
It is instead, always about the surrender of the heart and the leaning into Him.

It is about humbling our hearts before Him.. see (James 4:10)
It is about choosing to take every thought captive and making it obedient to Christ. see (2 Corinthians 10:5)
It is about learning to trust Him, when we can't see which way He is leading. see (Romans 8:28)

We must choose not to fear what others may think when the Holy Spirit moves in us to worship freely, and live a life surrendered.

For it is in that moment, when we respond to the Spirit of the Living God, that we are finally set free.
And it is good.

(revised from my original)

"The Little Journey"

2016-08-24T22:05:00.001-04:00

It has been amazing to watch and simply experience how

God is so personal.

As our precious kitty processed a lengthy illness, we peered closely into her world.

She would rest peacefully at times, never once worrying.

We worried at times but would constantly remind ourselves that no matter what happened, we would try to simply lean into Him.

As she drew closer to eternity, we were comforted with answers to our prayers with signs and wonders.

This is a story that just might change things for you.

During our early morning quiet time, I was talking with my husband. We were remembering the story in the scripture of the sparrows...

and how He always knows about each one, that falls from the sky. (Matthew 10:29)

Not even a moment is lost on Him.

I was comforted knowing this scripture isn't necessarily about sparrows alone, but instead it is beautifully significant toward all of His creation.

For all that HE creates, is indeed "created!!!"

Can you ever really uncreate something once it has existed?

I think not.

"For when he spoke, the world began! It appeared at his command" Psalm 33:9

The Master's touch spans eternity in all directions.

Once created, nothing ever really, ceases to exist.

Later in the morning, I walked through our yard and for the first time ever, since we lived here, I find a bluejay's solitary blue feather laying in the freshly cut green grass.

I notice the beauty, but somehow haven't really

seen with my heart.

I continue on...

A few moments after that at just the right moment, I come across a photo of a wispy white feather, in an article about

how angels are sent with messages of comfort in many different ways.

The point was to pay attention as God ultimately is the One sending them and not to miss the message.

Within the writing itself is a reference to "feathers" and the significance of finding one. The article says it is a sign from God, a sure sign of His faithfulness; His protection.

"He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection." Psalm 91:4

I wonder....

I sense His calm and reassuring presence. And I know I need to go back in our yard.

I need to find the feather!

I feel the urgency,

for now I can see with the eyes of my heart,

I suddenly realize, angels have been sent to do His bidding, to answer my prayers for comfort.

I am amazed.

I can hear the message of the angels sung throughout the scripture...

While always giving glory to Him and never to themselves; 'they have led me back to Him'!!!

The truth that every sparrow and every living creature that has ever lived, whether it be a kitty, a dog or a sparrow,

faces this certain beautiful truth.

And the truth is this;

Not one life ever passes though eternity without His ushering and without His gentle nod of sweet awareness.

This brings me peace.

The fact that He sees ALL who pass through this beautiful prism of time in which we now live,

(Regardless, of which form of life we take)

is blessed relief when our hearts are burdened.

His creatures are ultimately His for safekeeping.

I am thankful He has shared them with us.

He sees.

He knows.

He loves.

And He comforts.

It is often with tears that we bury our beloved pets, and that is the place where we found ourselves on an unseasonably cool day in August.

As my husband found a box, he found it interesting that the box had the words 'the little journey' written across it.

I could only shake my head as tears fell.

A sense of comfort prevailed over our loss.

We bowed our hearts and prayed yet again to the God of all comfort.

At this point, as in any well written story, the finale was unexpected and filled with the amazing and the spectacular.

It is here, when the moment of all moments happened just beyond where we were standing.

My husband, the analytical one.

looks behind us into the sky and just above the trees he sees this.

A white feather is unbelievably floating through the sky, 'wisping' this way and that!

It feels like the scene from a familiar movie.

We stand silently.

We stand mesmerized.

We are in one sense, astonished and yet, not surprised at all as the corners of our mouths turn upward in amazement as we watch this incredibly placed feather now somehow still visible to us in the distance, float peacefully upward and out of sight.

This, my friends is a story for us all.

His never forgotten fallen sparrow,

His creation named CJ. is truly on her little journey..

This is especially a story of how deeply "we" are loved by our heavenly Father and how He answers prayer and shows up at just the right moment when we cry out to Him and seek Him.

(Read Jeremiah 29:11-14a)

His faithfulness settles into my tired heart.

He is, the Great I Am.

His Spirit is alive and well.

Very present

Very connected.

We need only to search for Him with all our heart.

His Spirit blows silently through the sheltering trees.

Through our prayers,

His Spirit is continually summoned

for me

for you....

and for them.

His angels are released

to faithfully attend to us.

And His Spirit rests

upon all of His creation.

As we each recall any and ALL who have gone before us,

may we rest and be comforted in the downy feathers of His protection simply knowing, that all He has given, will be given yet again when we reach the shores of eternity.

Until that time, journey on with the One who knows the Way.

That is really all we knew how to do.

As we watched the details of this unfold, we also understood how easily we could have missed it all, if we hadn't chosen to lean into Him, in the first place.

"Where No One Sees"

2016-08-04T12:46:00.003-04:00

1Peter 3: 3,4

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight."

Isn't it time to focus on beauty that will never fade?

Inside, (where no one sees, but God)

we are given daily opportunities to choose well.

Today, choose...

Love over hate

Discretion over gossip

Joy over envy

Peace over irritation

Patience over selfishness

Kindness over insisting

Goodness over slyness

Gentleness over harshness

Faithfulness over fear

Self control over excess.

And finally

'Own' your mistakes over making excuses.

May your inner garden shine with

unfading beauty.

Even if no one sees, God sees.

Choose well.

"A Child of Surrender"

2016-07-06T14:40:00.000-04:00

They say 'feelings' come and go.

But truth will always remain the same.

It was 6 years ago today that I posted this quote from President Lincoln.

"I have been driven many

times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.

My own wisdom, and that of all about me seemed insufficient for the day."

~Abraham Lincoln

At first glance, it seems that our desire to humble ourselves in surrender is the result of a feeling.

But what I find interesting is that the desire to surrender never changes, when to the end of ourselves we come.

If praying on our knees were only the result of feeling, than there would be no long term effect.

In fact, the 'need' to fall at the feet of my creator God,

is always at the core of who I am.

This place of submission is also the secret to becoming the person you and I have always 'wanted' to be.

There is no other place in this world that centers me and brings me peace, as being on my knees and abandoning my 'wise and learned thoughts'

to His wisdom.

Often, when I fall on my knees before Him, it is because of a 'felt need'.

But today I realized that falling before him never really happens because of a feeling.

It happens because of the need.

Letting God be God is not a feeling that comes and goes, it is the essence of who we can

become.

Today, before you venture one moment further.

Bow before Him and give it up.

Just give it up!!!

Because whatever or whomever has your attention was never really yours to begin with.

And the desire to control will prevent you from becoming His child of surrender.

A place where the opportunities are endless.

Rest easy 'knowing' it is all His.

And your feelings WILL catch up with the truth.

So choose now to hold on to the truth when you're on Your knees.

Where else really..can you go?

9 Psalm 139: 9,10

"If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there,

your hand will guide me,

your right hand will hold me fast."