Beyond Sunday Morning

Part Of The Paparazzi

2012-02-12T12:14:00.000-06:00

I clearly remember the gifts I received on my long anticipated 13th birthday. I got my own clock/radio alarm, an ubber-stylish black purse with a cinch top, and a much coveted cassette tape. I remember that day, sitting in my dad's truck. It was parked in the parking lot of the grocery store, as I waited for my mom to come out. I admired my purse as I played my tape over and over. I thought I was the luckiest girl in the world!

Just what was that coveted cassette,you ask?

WHITNEY HOUSTON

WHITNEY

Remember that one? Oh, I do. From those wound strips of brown plastic, songs like "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and "So Emotional", poured from the speakers of my little cassette player. I would go in my room close the door and belt out those songs as if I were Whitney myself. It goes without saying, I was a big Whitney Houston fan and I remember a conversation my sister and I had way back when. We were sitting on the side of the sandbox in our back yard one afternoon talking about what we were going to name our children some day, like all little girls do. I was going to name my daughter none other than Whitney, of course.

Time has proven otherwise of that plan, neither of my daughters were named Whitney, however I have always been interested in the stories I have heard off and on through the years about her life. When I discovered the news of her death, my first thought was, I'm not surprised. My second was, despite all those people, she seems so lonely.

As I watched a few clips of her life, some of them recent, my heart broke for the life that is now gone, much like it broke when the life and death of Priness Diana was so fresh. Followed and chased constantly by cameras bearing flashes, voices at a shout, crowds pressing in, security moving in mass, my heart not only breaks for the life lost but for the lost lives that are chasing.

Paparazzi.

They are everywhere, in the least expected places, attempting to capture a glimpse into the lives of the famous, just so we can know one more thing about them. Extreme measures are taken for one click of a shutter. Lives are risked. Privacy is breached. Money to be had. Many times it has been said that the paparazzi is out of control.

Yes, I agree, they are.

But for what?

Isn't it ironic that those with such mobs in tow, constantly surrounded by others, are often the most lonely?

Why, please tell me, are we not that starved, that hungry, that determined, that willing to risk life and limb for just a glimpse of Jesus? Just to know something about Him to plaster for all the world to see.

Why don't we chase Him in mass, pressing in to the person of Him?

Why don't we set up camp at the next place we know He is going to be, devotedly anticipating His arrival?

If He were here, would we notice?

Would His tenderness and grace make the news?

Would the crowd stalking Him be loud enough, large enough, risky enough to create that paparazzi craze?

When was the last time someone stepped on your foot or elbowed you just trying to get closer to Him? That's the crowd I want to be in. I will risk life and limb.

I want to be part of the paparazzi.

Jesus, may my intrigue for more of You drive my heart to a paparazzi craze. May it drive me to a place of stalking for one more glimpse of Who You are. There is not enough of You within me and I need more. Unsatisfy me with what this world offers and intune my spirit with where You are going to be so that I might meet You there. My life has no purpose without You. I need more than a fan club membership, I need that life that You offered the woman at the well. Let me find myself in a multitude simultaneously pressing in for one touch of your garment. My camera and lense is prepared, my running shoes are shod and primed for the chase, my voice is ready to shout over the crowds. I'm watching, and I know I will see You in a moment - somewhere.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

One Word Wednesday

2012-02-08T07:29:00.000-06:00

It's One Word Wednesday. I'm giving you one word today with a question, your job is to let God do the rest. Before we get to that though, the winner of the Hide It In Your Heart verse frame was Cindy! Congratulations! Cindy, send me an email at beyondsundaymornings@gmail.com and we'll work out the details of getting this to you.

Here's today's word:

God, where would you like to give your input today?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Just A Crush

2012-02-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

I'm guest posting over at Be The Domino today. Feel free to hop on over there to check out my post. Click on my name and you will see it. Be sure to take a peek at the posts from the other team members while you're there!

Here's a tidbit of what you'll read about .......

Can we walk down memory lane for just a minute? Remember your first crush? I sure remember mine, and since my first crush never knew he was my crush, we'll just name him Tommy.

Oh, sure, we were friends, but never more. Some of my fondest memories of him were those where we sat together at lunch. It was Tommy, his best friend, and me. We had the best time "plowing fields" with our forks in our mashed potatoes. His dad was a farmer, so fields were his thing, even if they were made of mashed potatoes, peas, and corn. We both had blue Kangaroo tennis shoes (remember those?) and we kept our milk money in the pockets. Then, in fourth grade Tommy drew my name in the class drawing for Christmas exchanges, and he bought me a horse!

I LOOOOOVED HORSES!

You'll have to click here to read the rest!

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Hide It In Your Heart

2012-01-31T22:22:00.001-06:00

Yes, I know this isn't a "craft" blog - but, I just couldn't help myself with this idea and I just had to share the love with my friends!

Over the weekend, our friends invited our family to their home to enjoy an evening with them. While there, I noticed a picture frame on their desk. It was a simple glass frame with a dry erase marker attached. It had been a gift made for my friend, Camillia, by her sister, Sophie (Hi Sophie!). Now - I had seen other projects where crafty people had used a picture frame to make a snazzy dry erase board, but this one sparked an idea in my mind. Instead of decorative paper in the background behind the glass, she had plain old, ordinary lined notebook paper. It reminded me of an index card.

Instead of a To Do List or a Grocery List written on the glass, Camillia had a verse noted.

The light bulb in my head went off!

I am a big believer in writing scripture that I want to apply to my life on index cards. That way the verse is readily available and I can review it often, eventually these verses become written on my heart.

Duh!!! I could write my verse on the glass and display it prominently so that I see it often, and for bonus - it could be pretty! Once I have it written on my heart, I can erase the glass and start working on a new one.

And you guessed it - I made me one! Here's what I did:

You will need:
-Inexpensive Frame - this one cost $1 and is a 5x7 (you will want to chose one with a fairly thin frame if you want to be able to attach the marker)

-Inexpensive Dry Erase Board with marker attached- this too was $1

-Ribbon

-Scissors

-Marker

-Thin Wire or String

-One Sheet of Wide Ruled Notebook Paper

-Small Piece of Decorative Paper (for tag)

Take the back off of the frame and place it on the notebook paper, making sure that it's straight and trace around it. If your frame came with a generic insert, you can trace that. Be sure to include the cute red line that all notebook paper is famous for! Then cut out the image.

Place the notebook paper in your frame, just like you would a picture, with the red line on the left hand side.

Now you're ready to dress your frame up a little. Cut a piece of ribbon long enough to be wrapped around the end of the picture frame and tied in a knot. Cut a small tag out of colored paper. I wrote the phrase "To Ponder" on my tag. Poke a small hole in the end for your string or wire to feed through.

Pull the ribbon taut around the end of the frame and tie a knot. Be sure to feed your ribbon through the wire or string you used for your tag so that it is attached. Clip the ends of your ribbon to the length you prefer.

Now for the REALLY technical part:

Just yank the marker and its holder off of the dry erase board.

(I told you it was technical.)

And wiggle it onto the side of your frame

and

TADAAAA!

And all I spent on this cute little project was 2 bucks! I took mine to work to put on my desk, and as I was leaving home with it my husband wanted to know where I was going with it. He thought I was making them to sit around the house, not for my desk at work - I think he was a little jealous that I didn't make him one, but he'll never admit it!

You can make this even if you aren't crafty! (I offered hubby the intructions too, but I haven't seen him doing any work yet. Hmm ..Maybe I should breakdown and make him one with a nice pink bow......)

Here's my treat for you - Since it is so important to me that we all hide His word in our hearts, I am going to give one of these away to a lucky commenter. For each person who leaves a comment on today's post by Friday night at 11:59PM, with their favorite memory verse and it's location in the Bible, I will put your name in a drawing for a winner. But - John 3:16 doesn't count cause we all already know that one! ;)

Biggest Blessings,

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

CANNOT

2012-01-28T21:34:00.002-06:00

The night had lingered late, stars were hung brightly in the blanket of dark. Golden curls dangle from the little head propped restfully on the sofa's arm. Lashed eyelids succumb to the weighted downward force, and slumber falls.

Deep restful slumber.

Undisturbed, not a care in the world, peaceful slumber.

I draw back the blanket uncovering the God-given fingers and toes, as I kiss her velvet cheek. The rest is so deep, there is not a stir at the uncovering, nor the kiss.

Mommy arms scoop beneath her knees and around her shoulders raising her to my chest. Still, not a stir.

Arms dangle to the sides, void of effort to grasp for safety. Complete rest, absolute slumber.

The golden curls drape as a curtain swaying from a little neck extended over Mommy's arm.

My feet step softly across the floor making way to her room, as my eyes travel across her features, treasuring this moment of quiet observance of His needlework. I stoop, lowering Heaven's gift to her bed.

Mommy arms withdraw from her little frame. Another kiss is placed as I brush the locks from her flushed cheeks.

I love you. I whisper.

Still never a stir.

Complete rest.

Absolute slumber.

She was totally at rest, she never realized she was in a position of thorough trust as her arms dangled and her head was thrown back. Yes, there have been other times I have picked up my children where they weren't at quite a deep, restful state and the have locked their hands securely around my neck so not to fall.

There have been several times over the years where my husband has unexpectedly whisked me up, my feet leaving the floor, and I have clung for dear life with my arms around his neck.  All the while I yelled - Put me down! You're gonna drop me! Put me down! eyes pinched tight and head buried deep in his shoulder.

I must ask, which image most accurately describes me in the arms of God lately?  Until this past week, I thought it was good to cling to God for dear life, which is what I have always done. However, this imagery taught me that, yes, I cling to Him for dear life and clinging in itself isn't a bad thing, but to be honest my clinging has often been for fear of being dropped. For fear of falling.

I realized I didn't trust Him enough.

I didn't trust Him enough to let His arms be my place of total rest and slumber.   I have never allowed my arms to dangle to the sides without effort to cling for safety. My head never thrown back in complete assurance I would not be dropped.

Why?

I don't know.

He wants me to be at complete rest in His arms, not lacking in assurance of His ability to carry me.

Brimming with promise that He CANNOT drop me.

Not will not.

CANNOT.

It's opposite of who He is.

No matter the uncertainty, no matter the situation, no matter my lack of control in it, He CANNOT drop me.

And I am safe.

Resting in His arms.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Can It Just Be You and Me Today?

2012-01-25T20:20:00.002-06:00

Exchange whispers with God before shouts to the world.

I love when a fresh way of saying something makes a regular old part of my life seem new. Lysa TerKeurst gave those words of advice on her recent Made to Crave webcast and they stuck with me. Someday I want to post those words in our room so that they're the first thing I see each morning.

Whispers - a word so delicate and precious coupled with shouts, a word whose very nature commands attention. Delicate whispers spoken with a Mighty God carry the power to change a strong shout, impacting the world differently. That statement has been a channel allowing for some wonderful God moments for me this week.

Since first hearing this nugget, I have been intentional about putting it into practice. You see, I'm more of a nightowl, as I've mentioned before, and mornings just aren't my thing. Yes, I often share thoughts with Him as I go through my morning routine, but the bulk of my personal prayer and study takes place at night.

No wonder I often feel stretched and stressed the moment I step from the comforts of my home out into the real world, I'm stepping out unprepared. Unarmed. A preschool concept with a masters degree impact on my everyday life. All I need to do is whisper.....

One day this week I reluctantly arose from slumber and went through our morning routine. The next thing I know, I was more than halfway to work and suddenly realized I had exchanged no whispers.

I turned off my radio, repeated the statement in my mind and began whispering to Him. I mentioned a few whispers, and then specifically asked God to heal a particular situation in my life. Immediately I felt His response -

No, Amy, I want to heal YOU.

The answer was so bold within my spirit that immediately tears began to flow, as I said, "Please do, please heal me. Please do." I drove on and just a few moments later I was approaching my stop. Having just felt His voice very real and knowing His presence so near, the last thing I wanted to do was leave the comfort and safety I was in.

I whispered more -

Oh, God, I'm getting ready to get out of this car - and I don't want to - 'cause it's not going to be just You and me any more.... It's going to be You - me - and the rest of the world... But could you make it like it's just you and me some today? Could you do that for me?

Oh, my beloved sisters, He did.

And He did.

And He did.

The morning flew as I scratched thoughts onto scraps of paper as He taught me.

This is where the healing begins.

Just You and me.

Today.

And everyday.

Friends, the great thing about our God is, He doesn't just want to be personal with some of us, He wants to be that personal with ALL of us. Whisper with Him today. Those small whispers I uttered, God used to completely change the shouts I made with the rest of the world for the entire day. I believe the same will happen for you.

It can be just you and Him today, He'll do that for you.

For those of you who were wondering about the answer to I Spy, the answer was - God sees you! Hope you had fun with that little game, you might see it pop up again soon. By the way, thank you to all of you who posted to let us know you had found it, it was really fun for me too!

Biggest Blessings Today and Always,

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

On Patrol

2012-01-23T21:43:00.000-06:00

My daddy says I have a heavy foot, I have no idea what he's talking about. Well, maybe I do, but enough about that.

Nothing gets my attention like topping a hill or rounding a curve and spotting a patrol car, doing what it does best - patrolling! Can a girl get an amen, here?! Yes - you know what I'm talking about, that moment when you let your foot off the gas tap the break while checking your speed. Your stomach drops to the floor board as you gaze into the rear view mirror for the verdict.

You exhale the breath you've been holding as you think to yourself Shew! He didn't catch me....and drive on in cautious safety for the next mile or so, or at least until you think you're all clear.

Then it's back to our old ways.

Or, don'tcha hate it when this happens - you're driving along and something catches your eye in the rear view mirror. You glance to see who's behind you, and much to your surprise, it's a patrol car. You have no idea how long he's been back there, and immediately begin to replay the last few miles in your mind.

Was I speeding?

Did I use my turn signal?

Did I do anything wrong?

You proceed nervously, trying to do everything by-the-book so you don't get pulled over. It feels as if the officer is just waiting for you to mess up.

Those patrol cars are there to catch us! There to catch us messing up. Now before you start telling me that those patrol cars are there to protect us, please know, I totally get that, and I am very thankful for each of them who serve us so bravely. Just follow me for a minute - I think you'll understand what I mean.

Job Chapter 1:6-7 (NLT)

One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. "Where have you come from?" the Lord asked Satan.

Satan answered the Lord, "I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that's going on."

Did you catch that?

He had been patrolling the earth watching everything that was going on.

Job Chapter 2:1-2 (NLT)

One day the members of the heavenly court came again to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. "Where have you come from?" the Lord asked Satan.

Satan answered the Lord, "I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that's going on."

Patrolling everything - again.

Sounds like he does this often, doesn't it?

Yep - and he's waiting to find you in a vulnerable place, with your guard down so he can catch you. He is on your tail, and his radar is pointed right at you. Sure, we've been taught and taught that he prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking to devour, but to think of him as patrolling, gave me a different mental picture. Prowling around like a lion paints him as crazed and scary to me, but patrolling the earth draws a picture of him as sneaky and stealth, in places I least expect, waiting to slap the cuffs on my wrists without thinking twice about it.

Sure, I immediately slow down and check myself when I see a police car, even give myself a pep talk about doing better, make a mental note that I've seen him in this spot more than once so I will be more careful next time. I adjust. I follow traffic laws. Imagine if we reacted in our spiritual lives to the enemy being on patrol like we do when we spot a police car, we would find ourselves in far fewer traps.

Imagine if we turned the tables and had our radar on him.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

One Word Wednesday

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's One Word Wednesday. I'm giving you one word today with a question, your job is to let God do the rest. Here's today's word:

God, how do You want to interrupt me today?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Being The Domino

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, my friends! If you are visiting from Be the Domino, welcome. We're so glad you stopped by.

For the rest of you, I am guest posting for my friend, Whitt Madden today. Click here to read about the team at Be the Domino, click on Meet The Team, and scroll through the different team members. You will see my name on that page, which is where you'll find today's post. God, thru Whitt, is building a wonderful ministry through Be the Domino and I am excited for what is in store for the Kingdom as a result of people being the domino and impacting the lives of each another one by one.

I would love for you to hop over to Whitt's site and check out the great work going on there. I am lucky to have the opportunity to partner with him and the rest of his team to guest post in upcoming months. Stay tuned!

Whitt, his wife Camillia, and family have been wonderful friends and a great encouragement to us as a family and to Todd and I in ministry. It is so encouraging to watch someone really dig in to God and refuse to let go. The past year has been hard for us and they, without realizing it, have been instrumental in encouraging Todd and me. We are blessed for having known them. Whitt and Camillia are a true testimony to the miraculous hand of God moving in two people's lives and they run toward the Father in reckless abandon - together.

Mind if I pray for you and for Be the Domino?

Father, You are a God of the miraculous and no less. Your hand is mighty to save and it is tender to reach down and touch our frail frames. Your hand is full of healing, grace, and abounding in love. And that hand reaches for me. How I long for the day to actually see your hand as it extends for mine as we dance into eternity together. I thank You, God, that You still stir our spirits. I thank You that You are still calling those, like Whitt and his team, in service to your Kingdom. I thank You for the lives that have been and will be touched and changed as a result of Be the Domino. You tell us in your word that your gifts and calling are irrevocable, which explains the passion with which ministries like Be the Domino work and serve. Father renew a passion for You within us all today and remind us of the day we first felt You nudge our hearts. Spirit, stir that up to the surface for us all once again. Be glorified today, God. For You are worthy.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

I Spy

2012-01-13T04:00:00.000-06:00

When McKayla was in preschool, we were in the car one Saturday afternoon. She was all buckled in her booster seat in the back when her sweet little voice said to me, "I spy wif my widdle eye sumpting that is boo." And she chuckled.

I was tickled at her preschool way of pronouncing her words, yes, but I was more tickled that she had learned to play "I Spy". It was something she had learned at preschool that I had no idea about, so it was fun to play it together.

Have you ever played I spy? If you haven't, here's the gist of how we played. The spy picks out something in their surroundings without revealing the identity and only shares the color. The guesser looks around trying to figure out what it is that the spy sees.

Make sense?

Good, cause we're going to play I spy today. We're playing scripture I spy. I spot something in the Bible and you figure out what it is.

Sound fun?

I thought it did.

Here we go -

I spy with my little eye something about our God.

I'll give you a hint. Instead of a color, I'll give you a verse.

I spy with my little eye something about our God and it's in Genesis 16:13.

Now - you look around in Genesis 16:13 and see if you can figure out what it is.

When you do, post a comment letting us know you found it. Don't say what it is so that everybody gets a chance to play, just say something like "I got it!" or "I figured it out."

I'll post the answer in a few days and you can see if you were right!

Have fun - Love you all.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Girls Night Out?

2012-01-11T21:18:00.002-06:00

Some of you have joined me in the bible study book "Becoming More Than A Good Bible Study Girl" and others of you joined me in the study "Made to Crave" both written by Lysa TerKeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries.

I am a big fan of Lysa and Proverbs 31. God has equipped her to teach in a practical and down to earth fashion and God has used her to greatly impact my life. As a matter of fact, you would have never have experienced Beyond Sunday Morning had I not been exposed to Proverbs 31 Ministries and Lysa TerKeurst.

I wanted to let you all know that Lysa TerKeurst is coming to Immanuel Baptist Church in Paducah this month. Click here for details. I already have my ticket and hope you'll go too. What the heck, invite a friend and make it a girl's night out!

See you there!

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

It's About Time

2012-01-07T23:39:00.001-06:00

Ok - I finally signed up for Twitter. I know, I know, get with the program!

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Never Saw It Coming

2012-01-07T21:40:00.000-06:00

It was New Year's Eve, darkness had just reached black as I walked out of the department store. Stepping across the threshold into the evening air, I commented on the parking lot's lack of light. As I gazed to the tops of the poles, many of them were dark, few lights remained aglow. Tall, thick shadows abounded.

And the next thing I know I am flat on the pavement.

Yep.

I fell.

Like a dork.

Trust me, it was not glamorous. Or graceful for that matter.

Funny thing is, I never saw it coming.

Not even a hint.

One moment I was walking along with my family chatting, and the next I was dusting myself off, assessing the damage.

1 Corinthians 10:12 -

If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.

You see, I thought I was fine. I was just enjoying my family, taking in my surroundings when it happened. I did not feel any danger, no sense of caution. I had no idea what was coming. The parking lot was dark, and the shadows were so deep, I had no idea that I was running out of sidewalk and about to fall. I stepped right out into oblivion, what I thought was still beneath me wasn't.

Sometimes that is exactly how the enemy attacks.

When we think we are fine.

When all is well and our guard is down.

It has happened to me many times. One moment I'm think I'm walking along with God, and the next thing I know, I am broken.

Broken because of sin.

Sin I didn't even see coming.

In a trap I didn't even know was there.

My message to you - Be Careful. Keep a guard over your heart. Over your marriage. Over your home. Over your children. Over your family. Over your relationships. And over your church.

Because we have an ememy who wants to destroy you.

If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.

My sister, if you already have fallen, don't feel condemned by this message If you find yourself all sprawled out on the pavement, don't be ashamed. Call out to your Father who loves you so much. He will pick you up and dust you off. He will heal your wounds. He will restore you.

If you let Him.

He loves you.

From one fallen, all sprawled out girl to another, please know, I love you too.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

What One Word?

2012-01-02T12:25:00.000-06:00

I have never been one to make New Year's Resolutions. I don't know why, I've just never really been a fan of them. But - last January when KLOVE began promoting chosing one word to be your theme for the year, I loved that idea. Huge goal like organizing my recipes,cleaning out my closets, losing 50lbs, exercising 5 days a week - no. But one word, I could do.

I mulled over for several days what my "one word" should be. I didn't want this idea to be something that I thought of for January only, I sought a word that I really could carry with me and use for inspiration all year. I wanted God to change me through that one word.

Finally I got it.

Why?

Intentional because there was a recurring theme rising to the surface in my life and it was a bad case of the "I shoulda-coulda-woulda's and oughta's". Life was passing by and I was barely making it through each day, doing what "had to be done" that day and that was it. My intentions were always good, but they rarely happened. When I allow life to dictate, it leaves no room for blessing other people and blessing other people brings such refreshment. By being more intentional about the things I was putting off, I could even allow myself to be more refreshed. It was time to be more intentional and dictate life instead of it dictating me.

Many times throughout 2011, a thought would occur to do something simple like send a card or make a phone call and instead of dismissing the thought to "when I get time" as usual, my word would come to mind.

It was like the Spirit would nudge me and say, "You said you wanted to me more intentional..." Let me just tell ya, don't take the Holy Sprit as an accountability partner unless your serious!;) He means business.

I can honestly say, though I still have a long way to go, looking back, I did live more intentionally in 2011 with God's help.

As I've thought about a new word for 2012, nothing new has came to mind because I don't think God is finished with me in the "intentionality" department. He confirmed that last night as Todd and I were talking. We were discussing issues in ministry and what and where we can do things differently. Long story short, he looked at me and said, "So, we need to be more intentional."

I had never really shared with him my word for last year, it was just something I had shared with God, so when my husband made this statement, it was confirmation that, yes, intentional is still my word for 2012.

Did you have a word for 2011? How did it go? What's your new word for this year?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Unchanging Change

2011-12-29T22:09:00.001-06:00

"This could be the year God changes everything"

When I read this quote at the beginning of 2011, something about it stirred my spirit. I can't say for sure why, but I knew that I knew that I knew that it meant change for me and my family. You probably have noticed I have had this quote on my blog all year, and as it has remained and I have wondered what God was doing the whole time it has been there.

Of course, I assumed that change that would be all warm and fuzzy. Change to make our life easier, more "picture perfect".

Can someone play the annoying buzzer from Family Feud please? Cause I was WAY wrong.

This HAS been a year of change. A year of unsettling, so to speak.

There have lots of valleys and days of uncertainty, but one thing has not been uncertain.

My God.

Yes, I have begged Him to remove and resolve difficult situations over the past year, and He hasn't.

Yes, I've even been angry with Him at times, and He understood.

When life has seemed very confusing on several occasions, He has remained.

Unchanged.

You may remember that I began reading the One Year Chronological Bible in January.

In the midst of this year of change, God's word, His voice and presence through it, have been what has sustained me. Todd began reading it along with me back in the summer and we have both learned so much from the stories of old. Through each day and every page God has taught me more and more about His nature, His love, His sovereignty, His grace. And, yes, I could go on and on, but let's just simply say, He has been my Friend who sticketh closer than a brother.

Sometimes the simplest word has made a verse so very profound.

Because the scriptures are arranged in the order in which they happened (as closely as possible, anyway), it has been like reading more of a story instead of just chapters and verses. The characters have seemed more real and less like characters. I remember feeling heartbreak when David was separated from his dear friend, Johnathan, he loved him so much. I have longed for someone like Nathan the prophet in my life. I awed at the favor bestowed upon Joseph. My heart ached for Moses as he climbed the mountain, knowing it would be his final resting place. As he reached the top, God allowed him a glimpse of the vast land the Israelites would possess - without him. How bittersweet it must have been for him to lead the people for so long, yet not experience it. I could see the disgust in Jesus face at the Pharisees and the love in His eyes when He said, "It is finished."

In the words of Moses, "These instructions are not empty words, they are your life!" Deuteronomy 31:47. His words have been my life.

In fact, we have started an Adult Sunday School Class and this is our "literature". If you are interested in joining our class, we would be honored to have you. I posted an image of the chronological Bible we use, it is the NLT translation. There are several different chronological arrangements out there, and they all differ a little. These are available at www.amazon.com, www.christianbook.com, www.lifeway.com (ahem - where I just happen to know they are on sale at right now), and I'm sure many other places. It is even available for Kindle users. Of course you don't have to have this, you can use your own Bible, but it's so much easier to read along when it is all arranged for you in day by day format without interruptions. Trust me - I'm speaking from experience. If you have any questions feel free to email me at beyondsundaymornings@gmail.com or Todd at todd@gospelmissionworship.com.

His words have been the highlight of my 2011. Although, I am not sad to see 2011 go, I am grateful that He has counted us worthy of the journey and I sure hope to have learned everything He wanted me to learn so that I don't have to repeat this course!

What has 2011 meant to you and yours? Has God brought about change? What have you clung to this year?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

In Excess

2011-12-27T07:37:00.002-06:00

You might think by the title "In Excess" that I am going to talk about the excess of our culture at Christmas time, but that's not it. There is a different excess I want to visit.

There are lots of things I do in excess. Things I do exceedingly.

I complain in excess.

I talk in excess.

Sometimes I dwell on things in excess.

Sometimes I eat in excess.

There are days when I'm exceedingly lazy.

My kids whine in excess.

My kids fight exceedingly.

When my daughters are doing something exceedingly, I want them to just STOP! When someone is doing something exceedingly, it tends to get on our nerves. For example, when a friend is talking exceedingly about a new car or something else for days on end, I just want to say "Get over it! Everybody knows already! Let's move on!"

When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.

Matthew 2:10

The magi had joy in excess.

About Jesus.

And they expressed it.

If we had been around those magi when they spotted the star, we probably would have said something like, "Ok - so it's a star, just chill out!" because of the excess of their excitement.

Their joy about following whatever led them to Jesus was excessive.

Is mine? Not always.

Is yours?
Why don't we have that same excessiveness when it comes to sharing Jesus? We should have exceedingly great joy in knowing we have a Savior and in knowing that there is more to life than what this world offers.

Exceedingly great joy.....there are dying people out there who need to see it.

Let's express it like the magi.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Just One Baby

2011-12-23T11:20:00.000-06:00

Todd and I were married for four years before our oldest, McKayla was born. Even though we planned and prepared for her arrival with great excitement, we had no idea the effect she would have on our life.

Having a child changed how we did everything.

We painted and decorated her room.

We child-proofed our house.

We had showers and parties.

We had to trade cars so the carseat would fit. You should have seen a very pregnant Amy at the car dealership trying to slide behind steering wheels of cars. I am sure it was quite the sight to behold for onlookers! Thank you, God, there are no pictures (that I know of).

And we went to the hospital in labor.

And we went to the hospital in labor.

And we went to the hospital in labor. No this isn't a typo ;)

Then we brought her home.

And she changed how we did everything.

Not in a bad way, but in a it's-time-to-grow-up-and-be-parents-kind-of-way.

She is still part of every moment of our day.

A part of every decision we make.

She influenced us, in a big way.

Just one baby.

Yet, outside of our home and our extended family, she is just one life. She has not impacted the world, so to speak. She has not changed it's course. Although you couldn't have found a more excited mother, she was just one baby born among many that day. In fact, according to babycenter.com, just over 4 million babies are born in the United States each year. That's a lot of babies, but those other 3,999,999 babies born that year didn't necessarily make a huge difference in my life.

But Jesus did.

He was just one baby born on one day, but He has impacted the entire world.

Past world.

Present world.

Future world.

Just one baby.

With a God-sized impact.

Just think about how that One Baby impacts the life of the one reading these words and at the same time impacts the life of someone else on the other side of the globe.

He impacted rulers, governments, nations - and still does.

He impacted families, faiths, communities - and still does.

He impacted eternity - and still does.

Jesus, it's hard to wrap my mind around the far reaching impact You have made on this world and are still making. When I think of my life and the lives far from me it is amazing to think that your hand of grace can reach all the way around the globe so that your influence misses no one. You can whisper to the heart of someone stuck in traffic on a crazy freeway, horns blaring, and at the same time whisper to my heart as I am snug within my home on a little country lane. You have it all in your hand, your impact never stopping. And You never tire, never bore. You just keep impacting. Life after life. Soul after soul. Thank You, Jesus for coming as Just One Baby to change the life of every baby. And thank You, Father, for sending Him.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

One Thing

2011-12-21T11:01:00.000-06:00

I know many of you are probably feeling a little "stretched" right now. Stretched for time, stretched for money, stretched for patience.

And I would dare to say, your spirit is feeling stretched too.

Just stop.

Stop for just a second.

Slam the door on all the junk for a minute and find something, one thing, to praise Him for. Just one thing.

I promise you, based on the nature of Almighty God, it will medicate your situation. It will bring healing to a dry irritated heart like soothing balm.

It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts! Psalms 92:1-5

Father, I stop. I slam the door on everything else and praise you for one thing in this one moment you have given me. I praise You for the stirring I feel within my heart when I look upon a picture of my family. The family that You have given me. That love I feel is so intense, it can come from no one other than You and makes me shudder at the thought of how much the Ancient of Days loves me. Oh God, how can You feel the same when You look down from your throne upon my face? I don't know how your love is so boundless, but You have assured me that it is and for that I am so thankful. One more time your Word proves true to my soul - IT IS GOOD TO PRAISE THE LORD.......Amen

http://www.bellaphotography.smugmug.com/

Now, it's your turn.

Will you stop for just one moment and praise Him for one thing?

Just one.

Or will you continue on doing today your way?

I promise, His way is better.

Post a comment. Make it public! - Tell us what you praise Him for. Praise is contagious.

It makes you feel all giggly inside...........

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Merry Mas

2011-12-06T12:26:00.001-06:00

I read a church sign near my home a few days ago that said something like this:

MERRY MAS

JUST DOESN'T HAVE THE SAME RING WITHOUT CHRIST, DOES IT?

Thinking about the message of the sign as I drove on, I thought how goofy "Merry Mas" sounded, and the more I said it to myself, the more clearly I began to hear something totally different.

I began to hear mess.

M. E. S. S.

A mess.

I don't know about you, but I have enough messes in my life to clean up without creating another one. And a mess is exactly what we're left with when we don't focus on Christ during the Christmas season.
I actually remember getting in trouble from my mom one year when I was little for writing "X-Mas". Of course, I didn't understand the magnitude of it then, but now - I totally get it. The phrase "Keep Christ in Christmas" has been used so much in recent years, that it seems to have little impact, but the concept is vitally important to enjoying and not dreading this time of year.

There is one way to keep Christ in Christmas that is very, very simple. This will require no more time than you are already giving to the season. You are already hearing Christmas music on the radio, in stores, and on television, aren't you? This is really simple - just engage your mind. Let the words of songs like Silent Night penetrate through the to-do lists and the to-buy lists in your mind and seep down into your soul......I might be crying when Silent Night ends, but it's certainly not a bah humbug cry. They are tears of gratitude, tears of worship to the One calms me.

I challenge you to reflect on the words of the old Christmas Hymns and let them draw a picture in your mind of that lowly stable, those quaking shepherds, the glory streaming from Heaven, and the angels singing Alleluia.

What a blessed night.

What are some ways you and your family keep Christ in Christmas?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Complete

2011-11-30T19:53:00.001-06:00

Do the daily trials of life ever leave you feeling like something's missing, like you're incomplete? Do the daily battles leave you feeling like you just don't have it all figured out yet, and maybe never will?

The Apostle Paul's prayer for the Ephesians, my prayer for you, and my prayer for me, an often weary Jesus girl:

When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in Heaven and on Earth. I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, howlong, how high,and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too GREAT to understand fully.

Then

you will be made

C O M P L E T E

with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Ephesians 3:14-19

I just wanna be complete......

And you?

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Not Enough Mary Moments

2011-10-11T07:57:00.001-05:00

Hello, my bloggy peeps!

Are you all familiar with the story of Mary and Martha? If you aren't, I encourage you to take a peek at it.

Luke 10:42
but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.

I want that verse to be said of me.

And, lately, unfortunately, it can't.

I have to tell you something that is very difficult for me to say. I love writing for you. I love posting words of encouragement and giving you challenges from the scripture God has been using to teach me; but, there have been too many Martha moments and not enough Mary moments in my life lately.

So, I am going to take a break and spend some time sitting at His feet. There are lots of things I need to seek Him about, and hope you will understand.

As I sit at His feet, I encourage you to do the same. There is no better place to be. What we learn at His feet will NOT be taken away from us.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

For Those Who Pastor

2011-10-05T07:51:00.002-05:00

As most of you know, I'm a pastor's wife and I can tell you life in ministry, next to parenting, is one of the most difficult and rewarding occupations in the world. I hesitate to use the word "occupation", because, from our side of the fence, it's not an occupation. It's a calling. It's a purpose. It's a drive within that can come from no other place than the throne of God.

You just can't NOT do it. I mean how many other occupations do you see people furthering their education, advancing their degree, and doing it for no more compensation this side of Heaven? Pastors do that. Not for the compensation, but for the opportunity to gain further understanding on how to minister to this hurting, dying world.

October is Pastor Appreciation month, and I don't say that because my husband is a pastor, but because I see the things that those who pastor others endure. I see what they give, and sometimes it costs them more than you can imagine. I see the battles they face. Pastoring puts tension on their marriages, on their children, on their extended families, and on their friendships - but they give anyway.

Your pastor loves you.

God loves you through your pastor.

Some of you who read Beyond Sunday Morning are from the same congregation as I, and many of you who read are not. Over the summer, our congregation felt the pain of losing our pastor. He and his precious wife were called to minister in a new avenue. John and Carla Offutt were called by God to embark on a new ministry called LifeSource Ministries. They have a desire to pastor those who pastor, minister to those who minister, and to refresh local church bodies.

If you love your pastor and appreciate what he does for the Kingdom, make a point to let him know some time this month and be sure to let him know about Life Source Ministries.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Where Are You?

2011-10-03T07:59:00.001-05:00

Where Are You?

A question God asked of Adam and Eve as they hid from them in the garden after they sinned. Our guest speaker last night, Pastor Jim Wright, spoke on the questions God asked of Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 3, and "Where are you?" was the first question God asked.

God knew the answers to the questions He asked them.

He knew where they were.

He knew what they had done.

He knew they felt shame.

And He knew what this was going to cost them.

Genesis 3:8 -

They heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

What breaks my heart to read in this verse is they "hid themselves from the presence of the Lord."

Is that true of you, my friend?

Have you hidden yourself from the presence of the Lord?

Oh, I hope not. Sometimes it happens so illusively we don't even realize we have hidden from the presence of the Lord. If we don't realize where we are, we can't figure out where we are supposed to be.

Can I tell you a simple truth today, and I tell it to you in love,my sister -

Avoiding Him, no matter what area of your life, is the same as hiding from His presence.

Please don't hide from Him.

He loves you.

He already knows.

He hasn't moved.

He hasn't turned His back on you.

Simply turn your back from Him..........

And look into His face.

"Where are You, My child," He says.   Listen with your heart. Can you hear Him?

Don't hide from His presence.

Father, Your presence is welcome in my heart, my mind, and my life today. Whisper those words into my spirit often. May I hear you asking "Where are you?" and come running to your feet. You went looking for Adam and Eve in the garden because You wanted to be with them, and I am no different. You want to be with me.

You want to be with me.

I must ask myself today, "Where AM I?" because sometimes I hide without realizing what I've gotten myself into and if I don't realize where I AM, I can't see where I need to be.

Thank You, God, for simply wanting to be with me. Thank You for enjoying my presence, may I enjoy Yours.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

Secrets From The Sisterhood

2011-09-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a couple of quick recipes for a crazy weeknight that were sent to me by a couple of my friends.

The first one is from Camillia. If your watching your waistline, this one is figure friendly!

Tuna Patties(however many cans of tuna, use the same number of eggs, for about 8 patties, I use 3 cans and 3 eggs)

3 cans tuna
3 eggs
equal parmesan cheese and italian bread crumbs
some seasonings of choice, I use a dash of lemon pepper, paprkia, garlic powder (not much), pepper, season salt, italian seasonings. Any or all of these work.

Mix all together till its stuck together.

Barely cover the bottom of a skillet with oil, and brown on both sides
Total time 10 minutes.

Warm up canned veggies or boxed rice and walah. dinner is served!
(side note...one patty is one weight watchers point)

And since you were so good with your dinner recipe that was quite figure friendly, here's a recipe from Linda for a quick go-to dessert:

Angel Food Dessert
1 large angel food cake ( store bought)
1 large can crushed pineapple with juice
1 small container cool whip
1 large pkg of french vanilla instant pudding.

slice cake into 3 layers and set aside

In mixing bowl, mix pineapple with juice with pudding.
add 1/2 container of cool whip.

Spread 1/2 of mixture on bottom layer of cake, put 2nd layer on and spread other 1/2 of mixture and put 3rd layer on. Keep in Fridge until ready to serve.
This can be made low calorie by using fat free cool whip and sugar free pudding.

Sounds quite yummy to me!

Here's one of my family's favorite things for dinner that's pretty quick and easy:

Divine Burgers
1lb ground beef
1 envelope ranch dressing mix
1 c shredded cheese (the flavor you prefer)

Combine all ingredients. Separate and form into 4 patties and grill. (I use my little George Foreman grill - does anybody else still use theirs????) The cheese makes the edges all yummy and crispy. We eat them without buns, but they are good both ways.

We just may have Divine Burgers for dinner tonight!

If you have something your family likes to eat that can be whipped up in a snap, please post a comment with the how-to or you can send me an email at beyondsundaymornings@gmail.com.

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King

No Such Thing.......

2011-09-28T08:02:00.001-05:00

Before you read any further today, make sure there are no little eyes reading over your shoulder! I know everyone does things differently in their individual families, and I respect that, but I sure don't want to cause any broken hearts by today's post.......So be careful little eyes what you see!

PSST.............................................................Lean in real close......

I need to tell you a secret.......

There is no such thing as the Boogie Man.

There is no such thing as the Easter Bunny.

There is no such thing as the Tooth Fairy.

Nope.

There's no such thing as Santa Claus.

And here's one you might be surprised at.......

There's no such thing as perfect people.

There. I said it. The truth is out.

Now, I know you know that and I know it too, but sometimes I find myself living and thinking as if that statement were true. I really have to be careful where I let my mind go, because if I don't keep tabs on my thinking, the next thing I know I'm comparing Amy's little life, Amy's little circumstances, Amy's little income, Amy's little house, Amy's little car, Amy's little wardrobe, Amy's little husband who recently forgot to pick up a much needed coupon for an important birthday gift (let's don't go there), and Amy's little everything else to what I perceive is true about someone else.

We cannot compare those things.

They are not equal.

No matter how good I think Ms. "X" has it, I don't know her truth.

Let me repeat that.

No matter how good I think Ms. "X" has it, I don't know her truth.

I only know my perception of her.

And my perception is based on my imperfect thinking.

If my thinking is imperfect, then my perception of her must be imperfect too.

Don't forget that Ms. "X" is comparing herself to someone else, possibly even you. Yes, her home may be nicer, her car may be newer, she may have a deeper wallet or a deeper closet, but she may just be watching you, wishing her life were more like yours.

She may be envious of the bond she sees you sharing with your family.

She may be envious of your faith.

She just may not be seeing her life as perfect at all.

Just a thought to pass along to you today....

Don't forget -

There's no such thing as perfect people.

Let me confess something to you, I have an issue with this, and for the past year or so, God has been showing me that for me, comparing myself to someone else is sin. I have to stand on my own as a unique woman created by Him and I cannot be measured by someone else. It's like trying to measure cups with a ruler. It just doesn't work. Maybe He wants you to know that too....

Royal Princess Daughter Of The King