Open My Ears, Lord

"Be Not Afraid"

2012-02-21T22:50:00.000-08:00

The Empty Tomb stained glass inside the chapel at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton's Church

     "But now, this is what the Lord says--he who created you, O Jacob (fill in your name), he who formed you, O Israel; "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior:" Isaiah 43:1-3 NIV

     "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." Luke 4:18-19 NIV

     I've spent several months imprisoned by fear. It has infiltrated my thoughts, placed bars over my heart, wreaked havoc with my digestive system, and jolted my nerves into a state of high alert with its injections of adrenaline.
    Yet God has been merciful. In the fear, He has met me. He has offered me His love and comfort. He has reached out His hand of faithfulness and said, "Trust Me." At times I've allowed His peace to release me. His rest to wash over me.
   Those moments would often occur in a local chapel where His presence freed me. There before the altar, eyes resting on the Blessed Sacrament, He would meet me in worship and praise. His conscious awareness of my distress and His desire to alleviate it (Webster's definition of compassion) would soothe my fearful heart.
   After crying out to Him, I would open the hymnal to one of my favorite songs. One that would remind me of His comfort and assurance of His presence. Based on Isaiah 43:2-3, this song was written by Bob Dufford, SJ. Being a sojourner in this Arizona desert, this song has comforted me on many barren days.

BE NOT AFRAID

"You shall cross the barren desert,

but you shall not die of thirst.

You shall wander far in safety

Though you do not know the way.

You shall speak your words in foreign lands

And all will understand.

You shall see the face of God and live.

"Be not afraid, I go before you always,

Come, follow Me, and I will give you rest.

"If you pass through raging waters in the sea,

You shall not drown.

If you walk amid the burning flames,

You shall not be burned.

If you stand before the power of hell

And death is at your side,

Know that I am with you through it all.

"Be not afraid, I go before you always,

Come, follow Me, and I will give you rest."

May His peace set us free as we battle the fears hurled at us by the enemy of our souls. In these next 40 days of Lent may we find ourselves filled with His peace.

Thank you all for your prayers, notes, emails, and friendship that have been a tremendous support to me. I praise God every time I think of you.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word Filled Wednesdays at the Internet Cafe

Joys Sprinkled Throughout the Days

2012-02-19T21:55:00.000-08:00

     Searching for His joys throughout the day changes my perspective. I begin to see the blessings in my life and how the Lord is working. Joy refocuses my attention on the beauty the Lord is giving me for the ashes of broken dreams, anxiety, and fear. In these past two weeks, the Lord has poured out blessings in unexpected places. Everywhere, I've seen His hand from celebrating a birthday with a dear friend to a class trip to the "Gen and Mineral Show."

     786) buds on the orange tree that was petrified by frost last year; the promise of fruit in the fall
     787) no buds on the lemon tree; another year to wait as the Lord makes all things beautiful in His time
     788) my student teaching another student how to make math arrays using brightly colored cubes
     789) hugs from my student
     790) working on the science project with my student--his enthusiasm each day as he discovered which liquid rusted the nail the fastest
     791) praying with my supervisor the day before surgery--warm hugs and tears
     792) comforting another co-worker who had received difficult news about a family member

793) a class field trip to the "Gem and Mineral Show"--I supervised 5 of the most delightful and inquisitive children in our class
794) sparkly quartz rocks, dazzling amethyst geodes, lapis, TV rocks, copper, and so many beautiful colors which God has placed on rocks and minerals beneath the surface of our earth

795) celebrating a friend's birthday at a restaurant that was "new" to us.
796) laughter, fun, smiles, special treats

   798) shopping after lunch in girly kitchen "toy" stores
     799) oldest son taking me to school and picking me up for several days while the car was being repaired
     800) oldest offering me comfort on a day in which the anxiety was hard to control~one hand on the steering wheel, the other stroking my back
     801) two cars in the repair shop at once
   802) a job interview for oldest with a computer company, even though he did not get the job
     803) getting pelted with gropple as I dashed from the store to my car~gropple is a mixture of rain and sleet or hail but it is much lighter than hail.. Fun snow days in the desert.
     804) Girl Scout cookies to please the whole family~Thin Mints and Samoas
     805) a text from youngest
     806) a yellow and blue floral print on a Vera Bradley bag shown in an ad. It gave me a cheerful spirit

     807) chatting with a bank employee from a branch of the same bank that I once worked for. So many people we knew in common. Another joyful moment of sharing.
     808) yummy homemade Valentine's cake
     809) grace and strength to make beef and noodle casserole.
     810) friends who continue to support me in prayer

From My Heart to Yours,

Touches of Joy

2012-01-30T22:53:00.000-08:00

Woven through the storm clouds, God threads moments of sunlight. Rays that splinter the darkness, calm the anxious heart, refresh us with rest, and touch our spirits with His Joy. This week the Master's golden threads were interlaced abundantly throughout my life. Praise God for His glorious touches of Joy and His mercies.

763) flowers from a friend to say she cares and that she is praying

764) cards that arrive daily from friends reminding me that I am loved
765) a visit from my friend whose love, encouragement, wisdom and laughter has graced my life for more than 40 years. Sent straight from the Lord at just the right time, I was blessed to have her and her hubby in our home for four days~resting, sharing, breaking bread together, and, of course, shopping~just a little.

      766) learning to submit to hubby all over again. The Lord has given him wisdom I often fail to recognize. Life-giving blessings flow when I let him lead.
     767) comfy throws from the wicker hamper wrapped snugly round friend and me~they say "Old Friends Are the Best"
     777) popcorn shared between friends as we watch a lighthearted movie rented from the grocery store
     778) individual ice cream servings in assorted flavors~one to please every sweet-tooth in the house~Butterfinger was mine
     779) a phone call from youngest before 9 a.m. to just check in and see how his Mom was doing. Heart touched.
     780) a visit from youngest~time to talk a little, not too much~just mostly enjoy each other's company

781) a newborn baby to hold and love~fresh from the heart of God. It provided a mini family reunion on hubby's side with a cousin visiting from Minnesota to see her new granddaughter and daughter and husband who live here. Grandson also joined in the fun and so did older daughter (not pictured below) Joy all around.

Grandson

   782) In Christ, I've found forgiveness~not just for my sins but for my anxieties and lack of trust
     783) In Christ, I'm finding healing that began with a healing service and an anointing
     784) In Christ, I'm finding strength to make it through each new day
   785) Beth Moore Bible Study on James~Mercy Triumphs~such beautiful words!

785) so thankful for the end of day and a peaceful night's rest when it comes

"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support." Psalm 18:16-18 NIV

Thank you all for your prayers and encouragement. It means so much to me and helps me fight the battle.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Multitude Monday and Playdates with God

Learning to Let Go; Still Wanting to Hang On

2012-01-16T19:31:00.000-08:00

      On a mild December afternoon, a sparkle in the yard caught my eye. It seemed to come from the orange tree. And although I knew it was too early for blossoms on the tree, I tip-toed out to the tree with curiosity.
     No blossoms greeted me, but the tree had green, golf-ball sized oranges perched on scattered limbs. I was stunned. I had never seen a blossom in the spring after our frigid winter that nearly killed the fruit trees. How had the fruit grown? I wondered if these apparitions were illusions or if they would become real fruit.
     After grabbing my camera, I pondered the amazing fact that these trees produced leaves let alone fruit after being stripped almost bare by last winter's frost. Brown crinkled leaves left from the brittle days mingle with shiny green ones now.
     Then it became clear as the Lord's thoughts traveled across my mind. What had I done to help produce fruit on this tree except for the basic feeding and watering? Had I caressed the tender branches or gently pressed the new leaves while whispering, "Come on, you'll make it. Please produce some fruit again."? Sure, I had wandered out there frequently in the spring, looking hopefully for blossoms, and returned inside sad to think that at least a hole year would go by before I saw the promise of fruit. For the most part, though, I had let the tree go, growing as fruit trees do. And God had brought the growth!

     The Lord was speaking to my heart. There's someone in my life I have to "let go" and allow God to produce the growth. It seemed so simple in the garden when He spoke to me. But in real life, it is the hardest thing I have ever had to do.
     Like the winter chill that hit our trees, I feel frozen, numb, and stripped of the life I was once knew. Those casual conversations and sharing of heart-felt feelings with my youngest changed to measured words, texts, and allotted visits after he flew the nest last spring.
     At that time, I had to let go of sharing a home and some of his heart with him. This fall he made it clear that he was not returning to college. He was going to pursue the military, and then maybe return to college with all the benefits of a GI bill. Another dream came toppling out of my cozy nest in the trees. It was a dream I had worked so hard with him to accomplish. Fear moved into the empty space. But before I had time to adjust my wings, a young lady captured the rest of his heart. My nest felt out of the barren tree.

     If I could only trust the Lord to take me through this time of feeling frozen and barren to a time where I see growth again--growth in me and hopefully new growth in the relationship with our youngest, I could gracefully let the leaves bloom, illusions of fruit appear, and be renewed for expectant blossoms. But I keep shaking the tree, pleading with it to produce some fruit again. I squeeze the leaves, begging them to promise that next spring they'll bear blossoms.
     And the fear that's come to rest in my nest has sent me twisting and writhing in anxious pains.
     "Be Still and know that I am Lord," I hear. But it's easier said than done when your insides are churning.
     "The Lord is in control," I agree with friends. But my view from the ground is not convincing me.
     I pray all the prayers for our adult children. But in the end, I need the Lord's grace and strength to "let go."
     It is a time of grieving as I try to "let go" and wonder if I'll hear from him again. Silence fills the air.

     "Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you. I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." Psalm 61: 1, 2 NIV

     "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my might rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Psalm 62: 5-8 NIV

     Reaching for Joy in the pain. Ann Voskamp's answer: "The answer to anxiety is the adoration of Christ."

     Thank you, Lord:

    748) for a friend pulling into the parking space facing me at Costco. God's appointment. She was there at just the right time to pray with me.
    749) for a Christian counselor
    750) for the chance to apologize to someone for something misspoken long ago
    751) for decaf coffee purchased by my supervisor because my nerves are not up to caffeine; such thoughtfulness and compassion
    752) for the courage to say, "no"
    753) for the Lord's peace in preparing dinner for youngest and his young lady
    754) for oldest going to the market and purchasing cookies for dessert
    755) for the joy of being with our home group and their prayers for us
    756) for the sound of a text beep that means someone is thinking of me
    757) for the sound of the school bell at the end of the day and the gratefulness that I had strength for the day
    758) for my husband's joyful voice as I came home one day
    759) for resting in hubby's strong and comforting arms
    760) for Chip, our wonder dog, wiggling on his back with legs flailing in the air
    761) for gently falling rain to rock me to sleep at night
    762) for time to read

   As I go through this time, I might not respond to your comments or write very often but know I appreciate your encouragements tremendously and I treasure your prayers.

From My Heart to Yours,

Reaching for the Joy

2012-01-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

     It's been a long time coming. This urge to write. To write through the pain. To write while hoping for change. What to write? How to write it? What could I say that would bless others?
     My fists clenched tightly crushing the beautiful petal I wanted to preserve. The pain so raw, I could not touch it with words. The grasping to control that which was slipping through my fingers.
     When and where would I begin? I tried once before but before the words were on paper, the hope and life were torn away.
     Gradually, the Lord has been putting hope back into my life. Through friends who hug and pray and love and give Godly counsel. Through Hubby, my ever-faithful support. Through God's Word. Through prayer. And through the Presence of the Lord Himself.
     Yesterday, a friend gifted me with a journal titled "Joy Within." She had copied Ann Voskamp's "Take the JOY DARE" for January onto slick glossy photo paper, pasted it on the first page of the book, and wrapped it in cheerful yellow burlap tied with printed ribbon. I could feel the hope and joy begin to soothe the pain. I knew it was time to write~and to write of Joy and Thanksgiving in the midst of trial. Oh, I'll talk of the pain, the change, the Lord's work in me. But I'll focus on His Joy.

"Praise the Lord, my soul;

all my inmost being, praise His holy name.

Praise the Lord, my soul;

and forget not all his benefits--

who forgives all your sins

and heals all your diseases,

who redeems your life from the pit

and crowns you with love and compassion,

who satisfies your desires with good things

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."

Psalm 103:1-5 NIV

Thank you Lord:

736) for the gift of writing and for those who read it

737) for friends who support, encourage, pray, and strengthen

738) for the friend who gifted me with a journal for the JOY DARE

739) for a husband who stands by and loves me through the tears and fears

740) for the full yellow moon in tonight's dark sky, a bright light

741) for eyes that see Your beautiful blue skies again

742) for cousins who bless me with love

743) for Your compassion that desires to deliver each of us from our distress

744) for everyone and every way that You, Lord, reach out to touch my life with healing and hope

745) for oldest's temporary job going so well and the joy he feels

746) for youngest's phone call

747) for the call to dig for JOY, to lift up heart and my prayers with Thanksgiving to You, Oh Lord, who heals, and forgives, and delivers from the pit.

All Praise to You, Mighty Lord

Thank you to all who stopped by with encouraging words even while I was taking a break. You brighten my day.

Check out Ann Voskamp's site, "A Holy Experience," to learn more about the JOY DARE and how giving thanks can change your life. Click here.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word-Filled Wednesday and Multitude Monday (a little late :)

In His Shelter

2011-11-29T20:58:00.001-08:00

Dwelling in His presence, there is strength for today and hope for tomorrow. While resting in Him, I couldn't help but notice the glorious creation He had painted here in the desert. Equipped with only my meager, inexpensive cell phone camera, I snapped away at His majesty as I looked up.

AUTUMN IN ARIZONA

"You have been a refuge for the poor,

a refuge for the needy in his distress,

a shelter from the storm

and a shade from the heat."

Isaiah 25:4a NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word-Filled Wednesdays at the Internet Cafe

Time For A Break

2011-11-20T16:06:00.001-08:00

     With the holidays upon us and issues to sort through in my life, I will be taking a break from blogging.
Thank you to all of my faithful followers who have inspired and encouraged me in this journey of writing. I pray you have blessed days with family and friends through this season. And, maybe, when I return to writing, we can reconnect again.

   Giving thanks to the Lord for:

   724) Coworkers who are friends that celebrated my birthday with gifts and a chocolate frosted cake, joy, and laughter, inviting others to join
     725) Dinner out with the family--upscale Chinese food
     726) Brunch with my special friend at our cozy tea house, flowing with pink linens, floral table toppers, lace and porcelain tea cups
     727) Accomplishing an abundance of Christmas shopping, pushing even through exhaustion
     728) For sweaters and sweatshirts, nippy mornings pointing toward a change of season
     729) For the Book of Ruth full of hope and restoration
     730) For deep-dish pizza
     731) For wise counsel
     732) For friends who rush to meet your needs
   733) For my blogging friends who visit with encouraging comments and added insight to bless all those who stop by
     734) For warm weather comfort food
     735) For evenings with Hubby relaxing on the sofa and watching a favorite show

     The thank you list will be continued. Let's enjoy a cup of tea together to remember the lovely days we've spent together and the hope of more to come in the future.

From My Heart to Yours,

Building A New Life for Others

2011-11-19T21:19:00.001-08:00

   "... I tell you the truth whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:40 NIV

     Last week, our church teamed up with AMOR Ministries and built three houses for families in Mexico. The families who are recipients of the new homes have been identified by a local Christian church as being in desperate need of a new dwelling. While living in leaky, clapboard houses, camper shells, or sheds, the families petition the church for a new home. When the volunteers start mixing the cement, laying the foundation, framing the house, the families pitch in, full of gratitude for their new homes.

     Pastors of local churches interview prospective families, selecting the neediest families based on the following eight criteria:

Current housing situation – Where are they living right now?
Time period – How long has the family been living in these conditions?
Family size – How many people live in the current conditions?
Income – What is the family’s collective income?
Transience – How long has the family lived in the community?
Health – Are there any health problems that having a home would make easier to solve?
Age – Does the family care for very young or very old members?
Resources – Does the family have other resources (e.g. a family member with housing for them in another town)?

Setting Your Heart

2011-11-13T18:42:00.001-08:00

     I snuggled onto our family room sofa to to read my morning devotional. But once I started into Colossians, Chapter 3, I could not stop.

     "Set your hearts on things above,..." I read. The room was quiet and the view outside was cloudy creating a calming spirit in the room. I could see that my heart and mind were not focused on heavenly things but on those of this world--the housework, bills, family issues, work, worry about the future. Change was definitely needed. I made note as I continued reading this chapter which contains some of my favorite verses. Favorite because we chose them as a reading for our wedding.

     "...as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you many have against one another..." I paused. This was hitting home because these words for me were all about how we should treat each other within our family, especially.

     Had I really forgiven my sons for whatever hurt had been sent flying my way? Or had I just put the hurt behind me and continued on with life? Had I forgiven them the way God has forgiven me?

     "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,.." That hit me between the anxious thoughts and episodes of need to control that lately invaded my life. Deep breath as I pinched the the bridge of my nose. I let it settle into my heart for a moment before I read on.

     "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, ..." I thought about yesterday when a friend from church spent her afternoon encouraging and admonishing me in the Lord. Listening to her continuing experiences in parenting two sons, the Scriptures and words the Lord had given her, and how the Lord had worked in various situations filled my heart with hope.

     Back in the family room, I returned to basking in the Lord's presence. Then my eyes fell on a fraction of a verse that I had just skimmed over before. A verse that tied all the rest together drawing a heart to focus on things above.

     "And be thankful." Amazing how just three words could carry so much weight in a chapter entitled "Rules for Holy Living." Everything I had read recently was reminding me to be thankful--even in the unpleasant circumstances. I thought of all the Lord has done for me from salvation to healings in my life. He has filled my life with the love of family and many friends and He was continuing to draw me closer to Him.

     My heart was full, focusing on all the Lord had shown me in the past two days. There was much for which to be thankful and a direction on where to set my heart's longings.

     Scriptures are from Colossians 3:1, 12-13, 15,and 16 NIV

     Giving thanks this week for the Lord's rich blessings and fellowship:

     714) For a Christian friend who cared enough to follow the Lord's tug on her heart and spend time encouraging me while we shared and laughed over coffee and tea.
   715) For quiet time before the Lord, meditating on His word
     716) For hubby and youngest son traveling to Mexico this weekend to build houses with AMOR ministries

     717) For the safety and health of the whole team of workers on the AMOR project
     718) For meeting an old friend unexpectedly at the coffee shop. Warm embraces and promises to see each other soon.
     719) For times this weekend to talk, without interruptions, to oldest son
     720) For phone calls from friends, laughing, sharing, remembering, caring
     721) For a thought-provoking sermon at church this morning--Jesus and the temptations He faced in the desert. God is greater. Just one of many points made.
     722) A promised rainfall that quenched this dry earth and freshened the air
     723) For a warm, cozy evening with the family

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Multitude Mondays and Playdates with God

He Soars on the Wings of the Wind

2011-11-08T21:16:00.000-08:00

     A few clicks of the phone keys as I walk across the cement pathways connecting classrooms on our elementary campus can ignite a charge of unnecessary emotions. The message so urgent to relay, I can't wait until the last bell rings and the kiddos wild with elation dash for their buses. I press send, flip the phone closed, slip its slender case into my pants pocket, and walk into the classroom. Now, I just need a reply, a vibration in my pocket alerting me that the receiving party has acknowledged the urgency and is responding.
     The minutes tick by. The pocket clings quietly and straight to my leg.
     It's time to meet my student. I try to clear my head and focus on the lesson at hand.
     "Let's look at that paper, buddy, and see what you have left to do," the words come out mechanically while my mind is riveted on another message. "Tell me which word from that list in the upper right corner best describes the underlined word in the sentence."
     I look for a moment for him to work alone so that I can turn away and in a discreet move glance at the slender time bomb in my pocket. No words left on the screen. Focus on the lesson as the pulse steps it up a cardio beat.
     The afternoon minutes drag in agony as I tutor my student. My mind jogs between the lessons and the urgency of my message. I cross the campus again, unmindful of the blue sky and tall, green bushy trees stretching their canopy upwards.
     One more trip across the cement pathways, and at last I whisper to the Lord my prayer for the thoughts that hold me tense. Soft dirt, still impressionable from yesterday's rains border the cement, and my heart softens with the hope of a whispered prayer. Why have I put my trust in the charge of an electron when the God who is in charge holds the answers in His hand?

     "In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears....
     "He parted the heavens and came down; dark clouds were under his feet. He mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind,...
     "He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters."
     Psalm 18:6, 9, 10, 16 NIV

     Why do I wait so long to humbly seek His help? Do you ever do the same thing, too?

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word-Filled Wednesdays at the Internet Cafe

A Long-Awaited Answered Prayer

2011-11-06T23:06:00.000-08:00

The sky was a patchwork of puffy, white clouds stitched across a blue background. The air whistled a crisp fall breeze as the children danced around the play equipment and fed the curious animals in a traveling petting zoo.

     Adults dressed in purple shirts wearing warm, easy smiles wrapped their guests in love as all proclaimed the goodness of the Lord. After three long years, a sweet girl with brown ringlets had become the daughter of a very special couple. (And where was my camera--I felt I might have been a little intrusive, so use your best imaginations.)
     An adoption that had taken twists and turns finding the couple with their precious little girl for some of the time and then without her as the courts bounced the toddler between homes. There had to be a surrender, a letting go of the one they desired most. A trusting in God and His wisdom above all of thief hearts' longings.
     Yesterday, the blue-eyed, bright child officially became theirs in a community-wide celebration held in a local park. The festive occasion is designed to legally unite children with families as part of the National Adoption Day coming up next weekend.
     Today, those who had prayed that the Lord's hand would direct the best future for this curly-haired child gathered and rejoiced. Basking under the sunny sky, we all hugged and praised God for His blessings, His lessons, and His working in each one's lives.
     To God be the glory for all He has done. As the couple dedicated their little girls today, this song was sung in church.

Giving thanks to the Lord for:

695) Answered prayers and ringlets flowing in the autumn breeze

696) For times when God answers our prayers in ways different from what we desire--"Even if He doesn't do what we will, His will is still right and His heart is still good and the people of God will not waiver," as Ann Voskamp has said in her post highlighted above.

697) For the opportunity to buy cute "pink and glittery" princess clothes for two of God's precious children

698) For sweet fellowship and "rich conversation" with a friend from the past, not seen often enough

699) For patient and calm wisdom given by my husband

700) For safe flight for oldest

701) For youngest and hubby preparing the tent trailer for a mission trip

702) For all the anguishing thoughts that have made me look deeply into the foundation of my faith

703) For God's revelation, painful but enlightening

704) For God's mighty right hand that upholds me and guides me and protects me

705) For learning to trust that God really is in control, and for being exhausted from trying to be in control and do His job

706) For my friends who uphold me in prayer when I have no strength to pray myself

707) For Christmas shopping begun and salespeople who smile and help you pick out just the right present

708) For spicy smelling candles of pumpkin and cranberry that fill our home with the season's scents

709) For encouraging emails

710) For articles published

711) For rain

712) For crisp autumn weather, wearing sweaters and sweatshirts, bundled up and cozy

713) So grateful for the comfort of a roof over our heads, a soft bed in which to sleep, warm meals on the table and a family to love.

May the Lord bless those who need the basic provisions of life and may we be His instruments in meeting those needs.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Multitude Mondays at Ann Voskamp's

and Playdates with God at Laura's

Tossed About Like Storm-Driven Trees

2011-11-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

     "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control." Proverbs 29:11 NIV

     Like a tree tossed ferociously in a storm is a person consumed by anger. The feelings and thoughts whip one around with hurricane force. The person does not know which way she is bending but words spewed from the mouth in anger are carried on the vicious wind, never to return.

     So much damage can be done and hurtful words hurled about when one is angry and does not seek the Lord's help to control it. Proverbs tells us "A quick-tempered man does foolish things;" (Prov 14.17) and "A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless."(Prov. 14:16)\

     We think that if we can express our thoughts and feelings, we will gain control of the situation. But the situation controls us. We know that what we want to say is right and justified but if we spew out our venom, we will act recklessly, tearing apart relationships, uprooting the planting of love, splintering trust.

     When the churning starts, we need to trust the Lord with our emotions and thoughts. Find a place to cool down. And wait for the Lord's direction on how and what to say.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word-Filled Wednesdays at the Internet Cafe

Quieting the Overwhelming "Whys"

2011-10-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

Questions Need Soul Answers-Psalm 131

     I could feel the depression creep into my skin like an insidious attack of insects looking for a winter home in which to roost. I flipped my head to the other side on my soft pillow, hoping to rub out the feeling of invasion and a Saturday morning filled with dreariness.
     Only the morning's grogginess filled my waking mind at first. But once the invasion began, my contemplation of the day ahead became sullied with thoughts of weariness, a whisper of unworthiness, a flashlight beaming on my failures, and a gut-wrenching lie that my life was empty.
     I wanted to bury my head and go back to sleep. I glanced at the clock and then punched my mattress and pushed myself out of bed.
     This day would begin NOW!
     But, "Why, Lord?" was the question that haunted me. "When will I awake with joy--the joy you promised so long ago? The joy that will last forever regardless of the circumstances?"
     The Lord answered my cry in many ways filled with joy. He sent a friend to say, "Hi" while she was out biking with her husband. I let my husband visit while I hid in the laundry room in my nightgown. Too embarrassed to be seen schlepping around in jammy wear at such a late hour of the morning. I hid. An interesting response considering the morning's meditations. Yet the Lord offered a joyful counter to the thought of "emptiness."
     I wandered upstairs and pushed the start button on my computer, then left to change my clothes and do more chores. I returned to check my email for another extra-sale coupon from Michael's arts and crafts store. But the Lord had a better surprise for me.
     There in my email was a note from Pam@ 2 Encourage. She wrote that my blog was her featured blog of the week. And she designed a most beautiful button to represent my blog. Amazement and joy filled my heart as I read her note through glassy eyes.

     "Lord, You know how to counter the negative thoughts and feelings that come over me, " I wrote in my journal. "You put joy in my heart when I least expect it. How much I need to focus on Your word and not worry about being perfect. Just know I am loved--a love I never earned and one I never have to strive to keep. Thank you for your love."

   The devotional I read today was called, "Why Me?" and it really ministered to my questions for the Lord. He is the Lord, and He knows the circumstances and emotions that we go through in life. He also knows His reason for allowing them. All He requires of us is to trust Him and believe He has the situation under control. I like one of the points made by the writer--we probably wouldn't understand "why" even if the Lord gave us the answer. We just need to quiet our souls in His arms. Keep our hearts humble and concerned only with Him.

     "But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.

     "O Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore." Psalm 131:2-3 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Spiritual Sundays and Scripture and a Snapshot

The Yiddish Meal That Heals All Your Ills

2011-10-28T00:47:00.000-07:00

     Youngest was on a gym court again, challenging a few guys to a basketball game. Nothing out of the ordinary. He played Varsity in high school and was named the "top defender" for a couple of years in a row. Basketball runs in his veins like writing does mine.
     On the court this past week, he was "in the other guy's face" doing what he has always done best--defending the basket. He jumped into the air for a block, like Michael Jordan, I'm sure, but when he landed, it looked more like one of the Harlem Globetrotters. Only he was wincing, not laughing.
     A trip to the urgent care raised the question of what might be happening under the knee. Several X-rays later, the initial diagnosis said there were torn tendons and tissue but no broken bones. Rest, ice, elevate, and taking pain killers were the remedy offered by the doctor.
     Any good mother knows that a patient needs Chicken Noodle Soup as the remedy to heal everything. So, I raced home from work, and two hours later we sat down to a piping hot bowl of homemade soup with King's Hawaiian rolls. Youngest limped back to his car and apartment with Mom's "cure all" in a plastic bowl for the next day.
     The weather had not cooled down enough that day, but there were still happy faces around the table and lots of compliments on the soothing liquid that warmed their insides. So, here's my recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup. The secret ingredient (other than love) is Wyler's chicken granules.

Chicken Noodle Soup

About a 5 lb. broiler-fryer chicken

4-6 carrots, cut into 1/2 inch slices

4-6 celery sticks, also cut into 1/2 inch slices

1/2 of medium onion, sliced

Fresh sprigs of parsley or a couple of generous pinches of dried parsley flakes

2 pinches of dried marjoram leaves (my Mom's secret)

1 pinch of rubbed sage

2 Tablespoons of Wyler's Chicken Granules

2 quarts of water
7 oz. of American Beauty Extra Wide Egg Noodles

Cut up the chicken into parts--two breasts, two legs, two thighs, two wings, and the back. Cut off the tail. Wash thoroughly with cool water, especially the chicken cavity where the blood pools.

Leave the skin on the chicken for the most flavorful soup. Place the cut up chicken in a six-quart pot with the vegetables and cover with water. Then sprinkle on the seasoning.

Heat up the pot until the water boils. If brown residue floats to the top, skim it off but leave the seasoning.

Cook chicken for 45 minutes.

Remove chicken from pot and let it cool on a plate. In the meantime, boil enough water for about 7 oz of noodles. Cook noodles for 7 minutes, drain, and add to chicken soup.

When the chicken is cool enough to handle, tear or cut off pieces about 1 and 1/2 inches to add back into soup pot. Heat everything again for just a few minutes.

Serve with your favorite bread, rolls, or corn muffins--even popovers.

Let it warm your tummy and heal whatever ills you.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Ann Kroeker at Food on Fridays

A Time to Harvest

2011-10-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

Centerpiece on our kitchen table

     Cooler, fall weather whistled through the maple trees on campus today and the smell of a campfire drifted on the air. As I gazed at the blue sky through branches of pine trees in the desert, I felt as if I could get lost in this moment forever. Peace swirled around like fallen leaves and I imagined myself playfully tumbling into a pile of orange and crimson drifts and resting with my face turned skyward.
     Autumn is my favorite season if I give it a chance to settle on me. Cooler temps; time that seems to move slower; scents of pumpkin spice filling the kitchen; warm, cozy family gatherings; soup cooking on the stove; relaxed evenings before the holiday rush--all reasons that endear this season to me. Like a mother hen, I want to gather in my chicks and the nesting urge grows. For a few more days, maybe weeks, I can sneak in precious time with my young men, surrounded by their love before life moves them on.
     Step into our cozy home for a taste of the autumn I love captured through photo snippets.


Autumn spreads a warm light on our corner hutch in the kitchen. Candle lit ONLY for photo effect.

Happy Autumn Faces perched on our counter top

The mantle above our fireplace warms us with Thanksgiving

"And God said, 'Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, ...'" Genesis 1:14 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Drop by Savvy Seasons for their mammoth giveaway this week. Winner will be announced Friday at 5 p.m. Pacific Daylight Savings Time

The Blessings Keep Flowing

2011-10-24T00:57:00.000-07:00

     It's been a while since I have put a number to all the thank yous my heart holds for the Lord. The blessings have overflowed:

     683) the arrival of fall, even if the thermometer still reads 90+ degrees
     684) this autumn season full of promise, bursting forth in harvest; a time to gather, and a time reap what we have sewn
     685) the love of family and friends as we joined in the celebration of one of Life's shining moments
     686) fall break--a time to rest and gather photos for family scrapbooks
     687) flipping through catalogs and shopping for Christmas gifts
     688) oldest making plans to travel out of state for a job interview; watching him make the reservations, research out the best deals, line up the plans, lay out the clothes--it makes me smile while it makes me sad. Still hope he gets a job here.
     689) youngest and hubby hauling out the tent trailer for an upcoming trip. All that went wrong, yet for the most part, we all remained calm. Lost keys, some wood molding removed from the garage, a cable broken while trying to open the pop up. Someone doesn't want us to take this trip.
     690) a time to write again
     691) a new vacuum cleaner that needs to be returned; hopefully a better one on the way
     692) time to catch up on emails
     693) a week of blessings with my student at school
     694) remembering that the Lord is my peace and my stronghold. He is my strong tower and mighty refuge.

"'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'Therefore I have hope in Him'." Lamentations 3:24 New American Standard Bible, 1995

May your week be filled with harvest blessings and eyes open to God working in your life.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with the Gratitude Community at Ann Voskamp's Multitude Mondays

Thinking On the Lovely

2011-10-23T01:29:00.000-07:00

"Whatever is lovely...think about such things"

     "You worry too much," my cousin wrote the words that so aptly describe the workings of my mind. Just a few weeks ago I was held captive by worry as I drove home from work, not an uncommon happening.

     Anxious thoughts crept into my mind and spiked on the Richter scale of patterns zigzagging across the internal screen. As I wound up the road home, the intensity of worrisome scenarios built for the questions with no answers playing on the field of my mind.
     My heart beat raced keeping pace with the mind game as I flipped through pages of ways to control the outcome of what could become the reality of my worst scenario. I was almost to the stop sign when I heard the Lord whisper, "You could just think about something good."
     "Could I really JUST DO THAT?" I wondered. It's always been impossible for me to change the direction of my thoughts without a logical explanation to refute them. But the Lord did not say, "Change the direction of your thoughts." He said, "...just think about something good."
     I breathed in slowly and deeply, slowing the rapid pace of my heart. I looked out the car window and saw the sturdy mountains against the backdrop of a clear, blue sky. Mmmm. The beauty began to seep into every fiber of my being and the peace that passes understanding began to control my thoughts.
     I was amazed. I had never experienced any change in my thinking as dramatic as that before. Just as surprising was the discovery much later that my anxious thoughts were far from the reality of the situation I was stewing over.
     Gradually, I'm learning that the anxious thoughts and racing heart do not always signal a need to take action. Often they signal an overactive nervous system that needs to be infused with peace from good thoughts.

    "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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, whatever is pure, 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." Philippians 4:7,8 NIV

     I actually like the translation in the Amplified for verse 8 better as it elaborates on what could be admirable thinking:

     "...whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and LOVABLE, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things--fix your minds on them." Philippians 4:8 Amplified

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Spiritual Sundays and Scripture and a Snapshot

Magic Cookie Bars

2011-10-22T01:25:00.000-07:00

With only a half hour left of Friday, I'm finally getting around to posting the recipe for the cookie bars that I made last weekend. Our church is the process of raising funds for our annual trip to Mexico where nearly 100 members join forces with AMOR ministries south of the border and build 4 houses for families living in poverty. One of the ways we raise the monies is through our bake sales.
Now baking desserts is a cause I can really get behind--even on my diet (it did not make a dent in pounds lost :) Known as Magic Cookie Bars, the recipe has been slightly adapted by a friend of mine and it tastes even better than the original. You can bake them with or without nuts. Hope your family enjoys them as much as our church family did. Happy munching!

Magic Cookie Bars

* 1 stick of butter (1/2 Cup of butter)

* 2 Cups of Nabisco Honeymaid graham cracker crumbs (Honeymaid have the best flavor)

* 1, 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk (Eagle Brand)

* 1 Cup of Ghirardelli or Hershey semi-sweet chocolate chips

* 1 and 1/3 Cup of flaked coconut

* 1 Cup of pecan chips or chopped walnuts (I did not use any nuts on mine to avoid exposing those with nut allergies to any problems.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. If you are using a glass dish, heat the oven to only 325 degrees.

Melt the butter in a 9x13 baking pan or dish in the oven. When the butter is melted, remove the dish from the oven and set it on a hot pad.

Pour the graham cracker crumbs over the butter, evenly.

Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumbs.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the milk.

Sprinkle the coconut over the whole mixture.

Top the mixture with pecan chips or chopped walnuts, or no nuts at all. Bake for 20-25 minutes, just until lightly golden brown on top. Cool, refrigerate, cut, and enjoy.

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Food on Fridays at Ann Kroeker's

A Chance to Meet IRL

2011-10-16T23:07:00.000-07:00

Sharon and I enjoying a moment at the cafe outside of her church

Last weekend while I was in California, I had the rare privilege of meeting one of my favorite blogging friends IRL, Sharon of Sharon Sharing God. In blogging lingo, IRL means In Real Life. That moment captured all the excitement, fun, sharing, and friendship I had anticipated. As a way to share this moment with our readers, we’ve done a mock interview. We hope it puts you right in the middle of our conversation. So pull up a chair next to us and let that ocean breeze ruffle your hair while we talk.

How did you two meet in Blogland?

Sharon: You know, I can't quite remember what "rabbit hole" led me to Janis' blog. Probably through someone else's blog. Janis, do you remember? I'm having a *senior moment*

Janis: I did a little research and discovered that I made the first comment on your blog back in August of 2010. I probably did find you on someone else's blog and I liked the comment you left well enough to follow you back to your blog and discover more about you.

What drew you to each other's blogs?

Sharon: I was drawn to Janis immediately. First of all, I just happen to think she has a happy face. But, more importantly, her writing displays a tender heart toward the Lord, and a poetic and quiet way of talking about Him. She has always been honest and open and vulnerable. And through her blog, I knew that she had a heartbeat that closely matched mine. Oh, and she loves dogs!! Maybe Chip and Marty brought us together??

Janis: Sharon's sense of humor, her openness, and the depth of thought she puts into each of her posts attracted me to her blog. Her relationship with the Lord and knowledge of His Word amazed me. Also, I was impressed with her credentials--an English major who is a great wordsmith; a mother of two grown sons who is not embarrassed by her age but puts it in her profile along with an acrostic she made up for her stage in life: COLEN--Change of Life Empty Nester. She was the real deal and funny to boot. And that cowboy hat—well, you’ll just have to see it for yourself. And I do LOVE dogs.

A chapel on the church campus where Sharon attends

What kept the communication fresh and ongoing?

Sharon: I think our communication has been greatly enhanced by email. Janis and I have kept in touch that way, and emailing has afforded us a way to be more personal with the details of our lives.

Janis: Sharon's comments on my blog always addressed the topic on which I was writing~and then added more insight. They were meaty comments, not just fluff. In our emails I asked Sharon all kinds of questions about blogging and frequently asked her to pray for our family. I knew she relied on the One who could and would handle all of our needs. Her humorous comments about Marty, her grand-dog, asking if Chip, our dog, was getting enough treats kept it light as well.

Outside seating around the cafe--Note the clear, blue sky

What made the two of you decide to meet In Real Life?

Sharon: Janis was coming to my "neck of the woods" for a graduation celebration for her son. How could we pass up a chance to meet when we were literally only miles apart?!

Janis: I'm originally from California, so when I was visiting friends last April, I happened to be in her backyard without knowing it. When she commented about this on a related blog post, I decided that the next time I would be in her area, I wanted to meet this vibrant, humorous, and Christ-loving person whom I had come to know as "friend."

What were your first impressions of each other after meeting?

Sharon: The first thing that crossed my mind was that I would recognize Janis anywhere - and not just by the way she looks. I recognized her heart. She was exactly what her writing had led me to know. She was sweet and funny, sensitive and caring. I felt like I had known her forever.

Janis: I felt comfortable immediately with Sharon. She met me at the steps of her church, enthusiastically waving me toward her. Sharon was the same sweet, warm, and funny person I've come to know through her writing. Worshiping together was an amazing experience. Sharing our love for the Lord together made this a unique meeting.

What did you talk about?

Sharon: What didn't we talk about?! We talked about our families, our lives. We talked about church, and how important it was to spread the message of Truth in this world. We talked about our dreams for our writing, and our desire to learn what God is leading us to do at this point in our lives. And I think we talked about our delicious salads! (No! Not with our mouths full...)

Janis: Talking with Sharon was like hearing her words come to life. Her voice is softer than I imagined but her gentleness and kind demeanor strengthen her ideas. We talked about a couple of things that tug on our hearts—our prayers for our adult sons in their 20s, and our desire to write about topics that will inspire, encourage, and lead other women into a closer walk with the Lord. I also confessed my age to Sharon. Yes, I'm older.

How has this changed or affected your reading of each other's posts now?

Sharon: Meeting Janis has added shades of meaning to her posts for me. It's hard to explain, but now I can picture her face reacting to the things that happen in her life. I can sense her heart as it responds to new insights that the Lord gives to her. I can hear her laugh, and I can feel her hug.

Janis: I smile as I read her posts. It's like sitting next to her now and having a conversation. It's a deeper level of friendship than we shared as blogging friends. I know what is underneath her words, a deeper meaning or a deeper need perhaps. I see a different picture of Sharon than I did before. She is strong in the Lord but with a quiet and sensitive nature that I may have missed.

Blogger Friends IN REAL LIFE

What did this real-life meeting teach you about the Body of Christ in Blog Land?

Sharon: It taught me that what we're all doing is REAL - it's a ministry - it's a connection that God uses to unite us powerfully together. Our online friendships are deep and meaningful, and God is using the Internet for His purposes.

Janis: That when the Lord is the Lord of our lives, He can use each of us mightily to minister to one another. Many of us have the gift of writing but it is expressed differently and we are walking through different experiences in our individual lives. But as we join together, we become a victorious voice for the Lord.

We hope you have enjoyed what a unique blessing it is to meet a blogging friend In Real Life. We hope this interview has encouraged you to venture out and do the same when it is possible and practical in your lives. Sharon has her post about this meeting over at her place, so please follow her over to: http://sharonsharinggod.blogspot.com/

The refreshing Newport waves

"You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound." Psalm 4:7 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking up with Playdates with God

A New Heart Reaching For the Son

2011-10-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

          I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 11: 19. NIV

     When my mother was in the hospital more than 14 years ago, I listened to this song over and over again. I needed the Lord's heart beating in my heart to endure the months long trial of her illness. I needed to know His closeness, His forgiveness, His restoration, His presence in the darkness. It gave me such hope.
     Within the last month, the tune began playing in my heart. I didn't recognize it at first. I would hum a few bars and try to place it. Then the words came like a flood--a heart like mine. My heart cried out, thirsting for His nearness, His heart to beat in mine, His cleansing, His renewing of my heart.
     May you be blessed as you listen. Even if our hearts are "twisted and broken", He still offers us a "new heart".

Please join me tomorrow, Monday, Oct. 17, for an "In Real Life" experience where I had the opportunity to meet one of my favorite bloggers and friend, Sharon of Sharon Sharing God. You'll feel just like you were there by the ocean with us. Hope to see you then.

From My Heart to Yours,

Joining with Spiritual Sunday and Scripture and a Snapshot

Recording His Benefits

2011-10-12T22:54:00.000-07:00

The orange glow of the sun ball slipped behind the ocean, streaming gold and apricot rays across the Western horizon. We curved across Pacific Coast Highway into the restaurant parking lot just in time to see the sun draw a magnificent close to this special day.
The timing was impeccable as we watched the magic of velvet hues in lavender and sherbet pink layer upon gold and flaming orange. The horizon a reflection of the Master's palette. He had painted the sky for us, a desire of my heart fulfilled.

Shortly family and friends joined us and filled the banquet room, walled in glass from ceiling to beach. The air was electric with love wrapped in hugs and filled with congratulations as we watched in awe the majesty of the Lord's creation.

Oldest and Youngest against the Malibu coastline

Could there be any greater earthly benefit that the love of family and friends? They had driven miles through congested Los Angeles freeways on a Friday night to honor our oldest's accomplishments. Such love is humbling and encouraging all at once. And the Lord's blessing came in His gracious gift of a crystal blue view of rhythmic ocean waves rolling in grace upon grace.

When the evening ended, we had a quiet family day to look forward to on Saturday. Just our young men and us strolling the Newport Beach and Bay. I grabbed my favorite snack, a chocolate-dipped, nut-covered frozen banana on a stick while we walked.
The sun warmed our backs and broke the Farmers' Almanac predictions of a cold and cloudy weekend. Another benefit from the hand of the Lord. Just days earlier, the area had been drenched by rain--a precious gift except for when one is celebrating, longing to see the ocean contrasting the desert from which they came.

We rented a motor boat to tootle around the bay at 5 miles per hour. The guys were not thrilled at first but the faster boats that could speed across ocean waves were not available until late in the day. This mother was grateful as the guys settled in at the wheel and discovered a cool breeze against their faces coupled with the sight of an armada of sailing vessels and a deep sea submersible could be almost as attractive as zipping across the waves.

Hubby who graciously provides our relaxation at the hand of the Lord

Views throughout the bay

The day closed with foot-splashing in the high-tide waves crashing against the shore. The sun sparkled diamonds in the sand and a sandpiper played his own game of racing from the curling waves.

Sun diamonds on the sand

Blessing after blessing to record in my memory bank providing food for my soul. Benefits to remember when the days are spiritually cold and I cannot feel His sun on my back. Benefits to dwell on when Life's trials steal away the daily celebrations that crescendo into a mighty and glorious splash. A splash and celebration that has built up over time. The times and moments of small celebrations and little benefits noticed.


Splashed to the knees in the Newport waves

"Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
"Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." Pslam 103:1,2 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Playdates with God and Faith Barista

Celebrating Life~One Shining Moment

2011-10-04T00:52:00.000-07:00

The bumper sticker tacked up on the laundry room bulletin board draws your eye whenever you exit the house: "Life~What a Beautiful Choice." It's a reminder to all of us who live here that this gift of life which we have been given is a treasure. A treasure we must not take lightly. To each of us, it means something different, and it takes on unique meanings for whatever stage of life in which we find ourselves.
I cannot even remember where I found the bumper sticker but it grabbed my heart fiercely the moment I saw it. "What an excellent way to remind our two adopted sons daily how precious their lives are to us," I thought, "and to the women who chose to give them life."

A week ago we were given a rare opportunity to witness how that "beautiful choice" can result in one of life's shining moments. The older of our two sons graduated from college--at 29 years of age. Black robe rustling, red tassle swaying, our oldest strode to the podium and proudly grasped his degree in Computer Information Technology. It was a long-awaited walk.

Tears rolling, breath quivering, camera clicking, the moment captured in heart and shared with those who had walked the path with us. With "Pomp and Circumstance" counting musical beats for victorious feet, memories clicked with each step. The walk down the aisle short compared to the days and moments between high school and now. Life not always seeming so "beautiful." And for those steps, God-given friends and family who prayed us through that long path.

As I prepared for this time to honor our son, my mind swirled with plans. The cleaning, the scrubbing, the guest list, the recipes for a feast, I walked into our cool and quiet Hallmark store to order invitations. There was the reminder again. "Life's a Celebration." The words at first seem like an intentional heart tugger to pull from your wallet. But as they drifted into my heart I realized that every moment in life is a celebration. Just to live is a reason to rejoice.

There may be few shining moments in one's life, but there are many daily moments to celebrate.The first successful tying of a shoe; the unwanted animal toted home; mini clay hand prints tied with a blue ribbon; an ice cream shared; cookies baked together; their first basketball game; a spoken, "I love you, Mom."
"Life~What a Beautiful Choice" for any moment. A life saved; a life given; a life chosen; a life lived in pain, not ended; a life surrendered to the Giver of all Life.

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" 2 Corinthians 9:13 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Playdates with God

Reflections in Glacial Blue

2011-09-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

Chiseled in chunks of ice

Reflected in turquoise waters

His Majesty is proclaimed.

"Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. Oh Lord, you preserve both man and beast." Psalm 36:6 NIV

"Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary." Psalm 96 NIV

From My Heart to Yours,

There's a "gathering of blue" at 3 from here and there

A Moment of Silent Reflection--Our Visit to Ground Zero

2011-09-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

Photos from our trip to Ground Zero in 2003

It was just two years after 9/11 and the reverence of Ground Zero reverberated in the silence on the lips of passersby. Honor for those who gave their lives to save the lives of thousands. Respect for the hallowed ground where heroes were buried on that day. Prayers for the families left behind. All spoken only by the heart.

     Ten years have passed since terror struck our nation, vengeance exploding through skyscrapers filled with people, hatred poured out on innocent lives and hearts of families. A country numb from shock watched helplessly as the horrifying pictures scrolled endlessly over television screens.
     Then compassion met vengeance. Prayers battled hatred. Response overcame numbness. And people throughout the country moved to meet the needs and heal the wounds of lives scarred by terror.
     In the ten years since 9/11, many more men and women in military uniforms have given their lives in defense of the sacredness of their countrymen's lives. They've fought to preserve the freedoms on which our country was founded, to protect our peace and our families, to give us the opportunity for happiness.

May we always remember the heroes of 9/11, the cause that united our country as one, the battle so many have fought since then, and most importantly the need to pray for our nation. May we return to the truth upon which our country was founded. A freedom rooted in the precepts of the Word of God. Then we will truly be united as one, strong as a nation prepared for any battle, and prayerfully bowed before our God and King.
May the cross-formed beams that stood as a reminder of God's presence in the midst of terror at Ground Zero always remind us of Who holds us together.

The steel beams in the form of a cross was still there in 2003

     "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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV

     "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 NIV

     Remember those heroes and pray.

From My Heart to Yours,

As High As the Heavens

2011-09-07T00:14:00.000-07:00

"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear me." Psalm 103:11 NIV

Staring into the vastness of the celestial blue space above draws me into wonder at the greatness of our God. A God who compares His love to the never ending blue expanse that stretches beyond our sight. Beyond space shuttle journeys. Beyond the stars and planets that dangle suspended as buoyant jewels in this silky blue filament.

He is the God who loves us so much that He would give His own Son's live in payment for our sins. That He would reach out to us and draw us to Himself through nudgings of His Spirit, the power of His Word, the offer of forgiveness when we sin and hurt Him, and the giving of Himself to us in Communion.

Who could resist the God who offers such love and mercy? Who makes us His children. Who provides an eternal dwelling place on the other side of that never ending blue expanse.

But for those who choose to not fear Him, to not walk with Him, to turn away from His love and gift, there is only emptiness: the great abyss instead of celestial happiness: judgment because they have not covered themselves with the only garment that makes us right with God. The garment of God's love drenched in the blood of Jesus.

Where have you seen God's love?

From My Heart to Yours,

Linking with Word-filled Wednesdays at the Internet Cafe